Guide to Sustainable Meetings & Events

When you choose to gather in Kelowna, you're stepping into a community that cares deeply about the land, its people, and doing things differently. This guide is here to help you plan meaningful, low-impact events that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and reflect the spirit of the Okanagan.

Why Sustainability Matters—for You and the Okanagan

Preserve the beauty: Help protect our landscapes and reduce your event's carbon footprint (Climate Action).
Support local: Work with community-minded businesses committed to people and the planet (Decent Work & Economic Growth).
Create connection: Deliver meaningful attendee experiences rooted in care and responsibility (Responsible Consumption & Production).

Planning with Purpose: Sustainable Practices

Connect with Community

Partner with youth programs, food banks, or Indigenous initiatives to support local needs and deepen your event’s impact.

Learn how your event can support Kelowna’s people and communities. From charitable partnerships to on-site vendor showcases, discover ways to deepen your event’s connection to place.

Explore Community Connections

Protect What We Love

Offset carbon emissions and reduce unnecessary travel.
Eliminate plastic—opt for compostable or reusable alternatives.

Work with Local Champions

Choose from Kelowna’s Biosphere Committed Businesses to ensure alignment with global sustainability standards.

Accommodations: Best Western Kelowna, Delta Hotels by Marriott, and others with clean energy practices.
Food & Beverage: Mission Hill, Summerhill, Kelowna Yacht Club, featuring local and organic fare.
Attractions: Okanagan Heritage Museum, Planet Bee, Lakeside Eco Sports.

The Best Western Plus Kelowna Hotel & Suites

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Two Bedroom Lakeview at Delta Grand Okanagan Resort

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First Nations Gallery (Okanagan Heritage Museum)

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(1) Best Western Plus Kelowna Hotel & Suites, (2) Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort, (3) Mission Hill Family Estate, (4) Summerhill Pyramid Winery, (5) Okanagan Heritage Museum

Key Focus Areas for a Sustainable Event

Venue Selection

Does the venue have a published sustainability policy?
Are there clearly marked recycling and composting stations for attendees?
Does the venue implement water and energy-saving measures?

Food & Catering

Prioritize local, seasonal, plant-forward menus.
Use reusable dishware and donate leftovers.

Transportation & Access

Book venues close to accommodations and transit routes.
Promote carpooling, biking, public transit, or shuttles.

Accessibility & Inclusion

Ensure venues are mobility and sensory-friendly.
Feature gender-neutral washrooms and inclusive signage.
Highlight Indigenous-owned or community-driven experiences.

Paper-Free Planning

Opt for digital registration and signage to reduce waste and simplify coordination.
Use screens instead of printed materials.

Share Your Sustainability Story

Communicate your sustainability commitments throughout the attendee journey, on registration pages, in programs, on-site signage, and post-event communications. Encourage attendees to join in, from choosing eco-friendly transport to minimizing waste.

Let’s Make Your Event Meaningful

From finding the right venue to sourcing sustainable suppliers, our team is here to help you bring your values to life.

Your Event. Global Impact. Local Heart.

Planning with purpose in Kelowna means your event supports sustainable growth, local livelihoods, and community well-being, while aligning with global goals.