Greenwashing? No, thank you! – How ‘what when why’ makes events truly sustainable

Greenwashing? No, thank you! – How ‘what when why’ makes events truly sustainable

Carsten Knieriem

Reading time: approx. 5 minutes

Creative agency what when why

The Ludwigsburg-based creative agency what when why is setting new standards in sustainable event planning with a clear focus on the circular economy. It is not just a matter of minimising the environmental footprint, but of using materials and resources as efficiently and sustainably as possible.

The circular economy means not disposing of products at the end of their life cycle, but reusing or recycling them. Even during the planning phase of events, what when why examines: Which materials can be reused? How can waste be reduced? Which supply chains are particularly environmentally friendly?

“What began as an innovation seven years ago is now an integral part of every client discussion,” says Managing Director Carsten Knieriem. Sustainability has long since become an integral part of the agency’s work. By integrating the circular economy, the agency aims to take the issue to a new level – despite the challenges.

Challenges and opportunities

Sustainable event planning is not only creative but also costly. “Customers must be willing to bear the additional costs,” explains Knieriem. Yet interest in environmentally friendly solutions is growing. More and more companies are opting for sustainable events – partly because social responsibility is increasingly in demand.

Furthermore, sustainability is also a decisive factor in employer branding. “We are being asked about our stance on this issue more and more frequently in job interviews,” emphasises Knieriem.

Sustainability and experience combined

For what when why, sustainability and the event experience are not mutually exclusive. On the contrary: the aim is to create events that meet both ecological standards and high standards of experience. “Making events an experience requires a certain amount of effort. However, this must be in harmony with ecological sustainability,” says Knieriem.

The growing awareness of sustainable solutions shows that a shift in thinking is not only necessary but also possible. Clients are increasingly recognising that environmentally friendly events not only protect the environment but also send a strong signal of social responsibility. What when why is therefore pursuing a forward-looking strategy that not only sets new standards in the industry but also reduces the burden on the environment in the long term.


Carsten Knieriem

Written by Carsten Knieriem

Carsten Knieriem is the author of the book *Smarte Events* and has been passionate about designing modern event and communication formats for years. With a keen sense of relevant topics and a clear eye for what matters, he manages to convey complex ideas in a way that is both understandable and captivating. His blend of in-depth knowledge and passionate enthusiasm always brings fresh perspectives to discussions – authentic, practical and inspiring.


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