Planning Events That Are Easy on the Planet

Green is a favorite color on Kiawah Island and we’re not just talking about our lush fairways and maritime forests or hues in the ocean on certain days. We’re passionate about green meetings. Sure, you’ve heard lots about the topic but there’s always something new to know about how to shrink our environmental footprint – and make meetings less costly and complex. Check out the fresh ideas from our ProMeetings team in their green meeting checklist:

Pop the green questions: When you’re initially looking at meeting destinations, ask the sales team to fill you in on their venue’s environmental commitments and certifications. Not sure exactly what to ask? Consider taking Sustainability 101, a quick, self-paced online course offered by the Green Meeting Industry Council. It’s real-life examples and practical exercises will have you talking eco-speak in no time.

Say no to epic waste: Our industry’s eco-score is improving, thanks to now-standard practices like linen reuse programs and water stations instead of bottled water. Dig a little deeper and identify venues with features like bulk dispensing (instead of individually wrapped items) and effective recycling programs. They work. At Kiawah, for example, we recycle everything from apple cores to wine corks. Even shells from our oyster roasts are redistributed to salt marshes around the island.

Naturally, get the bigger picture: All hotels and resorts can positively impact the natural environment around their property. Look for innovative programs such as Audubon Sanctuary Certification for golf courses and resort grounds, green space preservation and maintenance of habitats for wildlife. Discover what it takes to create greener environments and you’ll understand why they’re good for the planet – and for people.

Enjoy local flavors: “Farm-to-table” dining is all about food that’s sourced locally and in tune with the seasons. It brings freshness and flavor to every plate. But local is also eco-friendly because it supports community farmers, reduces fuel consumption to deliver products and eliminates chemical sprays needed to protect produce for long hauls. Kiawah’s chefs can dish on this topic better than we do, so check out what they have to say (and get yourself a delicious recipe too!).

Think eco-friendly fun: Biking, trail walking, paddling, fishing tours and adventures with a naturalist are all exhilarating ways to refresh mind and body and excite your team. After a day of meetings, it’s revitalizing to be out in nature, stretching your muscles and using all your senses while you spot birds and wildlife in their natural habitat – and there’s zero impact on the environment. Check out all the ways our guests have fun in nature on Kiawah.

Kiawah Island’s green meetings combine exceptional value with conference pros who are your “green team” at one of the most beautiful places on the planet. It’s also one of the most productive destinations and a multiple winner of Successful Meeting’s Pinnacle Award and the Premier Recreation Operation Award. In this gorgeous island setting, amenities include five championship golf courses, two tennis complexes and endless recreation. Enjoy it all – and seasonal savings – before summer slips away. Please contact our Director of Group Sales, Marty Couch, and his team at 800.576.1585 about these very special offers:

Sanctuary Summer Special From $395/night on select midweek dates through August 31, 2016.

Villa Summer Special From $255/night on select dates through August 2016.