Going green has taken the corporate world by storm, and many companies are searching for ways to help the environment. While most are thinking big, they may not consider the impact that a 500-person, company-wide managers’ meeting can have on the environment.

“There are so many things that people do automatically, like printing 1,000 handouts, and don’t realize the impact it has,” says Nicole Jachimiak, director of marketing programs and public relations at Swissôtel Chicago. “Making tiny adjustments to these habits can make a world of difference.”

As Swissôtel Chicago works toward green certification, it has made many changes to its internal workings. Here are four tips from the hotel to help companies and meeting planners “go green.”

1 Don’t just recycle paper, reduce usage.
Recycling paper is a great first step, but take it further and use less paper to begin with. Avoid using paper handouts during meetings, as they usually end up in the trash. If possible, provide computers for attendees to type their notes rather than write them.

2 Edible is better.
Centerpieces are a nice touch for sprucing up meeting décor, but flowers create waste. Edible centerpieces are fun and provide a treat for attendees. Try bowls of colorful fruits and candies or cookie bouquets.

3 Think about how paper, plastic—or glass—is used.
Before buying 500 bottles of water or cans of soda, consider serving glasses and pitchers of various beverages. Not only does this cut down on postmeeting waste, it also costs less.

4 Transportation matters.
For meetings that require ground travel, consider renting a bio-diesel motorcoach or hybrid SUVs to transport attendees. This can greatly reduce the carbon footprint and can simplify organization. (Swissôtel Chicago offers 50 percent off their parking fees for a hybrid vehicle.)