Sustainable Swag and Promotional Ideas for Meetings

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for today’s meeting planners, it’s a must. From whittling down food waste to reducing single-use plastics, planners are under more pressure than ever to make thoughtful, eco-conscious choices. That’s why some planners are skipping swag altogether. But for those who still want to offer attendees giveaways and gear, new lower-impact options are available.

Instead of defaulting to another round of branded pens and stress balls, consider these eco-friendly alternatives along with solutions that help repurpose, recycle, or reuse event materials—and show your attendees that you care about the planet. Here’s a roundup of planet-friendly loot they’ll love that will have a lasting impact in all the right ways.

Plant Pencils That Grow Memories

Looking for a giveaway that won’t end up forgotten at the bottom of a desk drawer? Try SproutWorld’s plantable pencils. These unique writing tools can be branded and used like any other pencil, but once they’re too short to sharpen, attendees can plant the stub in soil and grow herbs, vegetables, or flowers. Each pencil comes with a biodegradable capsule containing seeds, making it a gift that keeps on giving. Tip: Include a small planter with the pencils and turn the bundle into a green gifting kit.

Reuse Where You Can

Name badges are a given at meetings and events. But do attendees really need a brand-new lanyard every time? Fairware’s Lanyard Lending Library offers a brilliant solution: clean, reusable lanyards rented out for events.

After each event, the lanyards are professionally laundered, sorted, and made ready for the next group. It’s an easy but effective way to cut down on unnecessary waste, and it often costs less than ordering new lanyards.

Make Backpacks Out of Banners

When an event wraps, leftover banners, signage, and branded materials often end up in the trash. Ecologic Designs offers an alternative: upcycling. The company works with planners to transform old event materials into useful items like bags or accessories, giving them a second incarnation. For example, one company turned its branded banners into branded backpacks, which attendees’ kids were able to use for back to school. It’s a way to close the loop on event waste while offering something functional to future eventgoers.

Give Old Swag New Life

Rather than sending boxes of unused goods to the landfill, SwagCycle connects organizations with a network of nonprofits and recycling partners that can repurpose or recycle them sustainably and affordably. Whether you have extra beach towels, promotional water bottles, or yoga mats, SwagCycle makes it easy to donate, recycle, or repurpose your swag with purpose. Because let’s face it, not every branded tote bag or T-shirt finds a happy home after an event. Tip: Sign up online for a free consultation before your event. SwagCycle can help advise on eco-friendlier product choices from the start.

Harness Solar Power

Relying on renewable energy, solar-powered chargers and power banks have become popular giveaways. These devices often feature sleek designs, have built-in LED flashlights, and are made from recycled or plant-based plastics. In addition to selling solar-powered tech gifts, companies like Gifts for Good give back to nonprofits and social enterprises, creating a virtuous cycle.

Explore Mobile and Digital Solutions

To cut out packaging altogether, some event planners are turning to digital gifts, like e-books, online subscriptions, or charitable donations in lieu of physical items. And what about helping attendees travel to and from their loot-filled events? There’s a free app for that! (Note: Transportation is one of the largest contributors to event-related carbon emissions.) Caroster makes ride-sharing simple for conferences and meetings. Bonus: It’s an easy way to help attendees make more meaningful connections pre- and post-event.

Connect Responsibly With Marriott Bonvoy Events

Looking for even more ideas to make your event greener from start to finish? Check out the Marriott Bonvoy Events Connect Responsibly initiative.

From eco-friendly venues to locally sourced catering options and responsible meeting tips, we’re proud to support planners in creating events that feel good, and do good.