How do you handle a client's request for excessive printed materials despite your sustainability guidelines?

I agree that this is an important environmental issue that needs proper dialogue along with a studied understanding of the objectives of the client. A critical factor in finding the right solution, or the right mix, is a clear understanding of the target demographics. For example, getting printed materials to offshore workers at crew change can be the most effective and efficient means of getting information heard and disseminated. In the area of marketing or promotional pitching, very often digital options across social platforms can offer a better solution and bigger bang for the buck. With a wide array of sustainably favorable options available, clients would be willing to explore alternatives once there is compelling data.

It's always important to be honest & clear and provide a solution for the challenge. "Thank you for your request. While we are committed to sustainability and minimizing printed materials, we can explore alternative solutions that align with our eco-friendly practices. For instance, we can provide digital copies or use recycled paper for essential prints. Let's discuss how we can meet your needs while staying true to our sustainability goals." This approach acknowledges the client's needs while reinforcing your commitment to sustainability. ??

Because paper is a completely sustainable and environmentally responsible solution to communication issues I don’t try to change their minds

We could digitize a significant portion of this content, projecting information onto screens while providing QR codes for attendees to access on their mobile devices. This would significantly reduce paper waste and allow people to focus on the speaker without being distracted by excessive handouts.

I would first try to understand where this need is coming from. If they feel that printed materials are clearer, I would first explain that printed materials consume the event's budget and, possibly, that budget could be used for an event app, which would help participants navigate it easier and save information. If they consider that printed materials are easier to keep, I would propose that we could chose a printed material the participant is more likely to keep and only print that.

I don't try to change the minds of our clients, but I do try to offer additional solutions that work BETTER. The reality is that most folks will take a flyer and never look at it again because conferences are overwhelming. So my goal is to have engaging conversations and offer a QR code or (better yet) a direct email sign up for more information. That way, we can work on trust building away from the conference. This allows us to give a flyer as more of a 'last resort' when people don't want to sign up for the email list or get more information.

Alternativas: Ofere?a alternativas sustentáveis que atendam às necessidades do cliente. Isso pode incluir op??es como materiais reciclados, impress?o sob demanda, ou formatos digitais que podem reduzir a quantidade de impress?o necessária.

Educa??o e Sensibiliza??o: Explique gentilmente ao cliente os benefícios da sustentabilidade e como reduzir o desperdício pode impactar positivamente o meio ambiente e a imagem da empresa. Forne?a dados ou exemplos que ilustrem as vantagens de adotar práticas mais ecológicas.