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{{more citations needed|date=June 2010}}

'''Sustainable event management''' (also known as '''event greening''') is [[event management]] with particular concern for [[environmental issues|environmental]], economic and [[social issues]].
'''Sustainable event management''' (also known as '''event greening''') is [[event management]] with particular concern for [[environmental issues|environmental]], economic and [[social issues]].


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[[Monitoring and Evaluation|Monitoring and evaluation]] is an essential component of event greening, and should be used to make continuous improvement. A detailed plan needs to be in place to ensure that information is gathered on all aspects of the event – before, during, and also after the event. This ensures that information is available to understand the effects of greening interventions (e.g. to what extent was water used, and how did [[water efficiency|water-saving]] measures reduce water use), as well as the potential improvements to future event-greening initiatives.
[[Monitoring and Evaluation|Monitoring and evaluation]] is an essential component of event greening, and should be used to make continuous improvement. A detailed plan needs to be in place to ensure that information is gathered on all aspects of the event – before, during, and also after the event. This ensures that information is available to understand the effects of greening interventions (e.g. to what extent was water used, and how did [[water efficiency|water-saving]] measures reduce water use), as well as the potential improvements to future event-greening initiatives.


With large events it is best to ensure an independent report, which complies with international standards, such as the [[Global Reporting Initiative]] (GRI).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.efdn.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Event-Organizers-Sector-Disclosures.pdf|publisher=GRI|title=SECTOR DISCLOSURES EVENT ORGANIZERS|date=2012|access-date=2023-05-22}} previously: https://www.globalreporting.org/reporting/sector-guidance/event-organizers/Pages/default.as </ref> The GRI Event Organizers Supplement provides organizations in the sector with a tailored version of GRI's Reporting Guidelines. It includes the original Guidelines, which set out the Reporting Principles, Disclosures on Management Approach and Performance Indicators for economic, environmental and social issues. The Event Organizers Supplement's capture the issues that matter most for event organizers to be reported on:
With large events it is best to ensure an independent report, which complies with international standards, such as the [[Global Reporting Initiative]] (GRI).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.efdn.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Event-Organizers-Sector-Disclosures.pdf|publisher=GRI|title=SECTOR DISCLOSURES EVENT ORGANIZERS|date=2012|access-date=2023-05-22}} previously: https://www.globalreporting.org/reporting/sector-guidance/event-organizers/Pages/default.as</ref> The GRI Event Organizers Supplement provides organizations in the sector with a tailored version of GRI's Reporting Guidelines. It includes the original Guidelines, which set out the Reporting Principles, Disclosures on Management Approach and Performance Indicators for economic, environmental and social issues. The Event Organizers Supplement's capture the issues that matter most for event organizers to be reported on:
* Site selection
* Site selection
* Transport of attendees
* Transport of attendees
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The [[British Standard]] ([http://www.bsigroup.co.uk/en/Assessment-and-Certification-services/Management-systems/Standards-and-Schemes/BS-8901/ BS 8901]) has been developed specifically for the events industry with a purpose of helping the industry to operate in a more sustainable manner. The standard defines the requirements for a sustainability event management system to ensure an enduring and balanced approach to economic activity, environmental responsibility and social progress relating to events.
The [[British Standard]] ([http://www.bsigroup.co.uk/en/Assessment-and-Certification-services/Management-systems/Standards-and-Schemes/BS-8901/ BS 8901]) has been developed specifically for the events industry with a purpose of helping the industry to operate in a more sustainable manner. The standard defines the requirements for a sustainability event management system to ensure an enduring and balanced approach to economic activity, environmental responsibility and social progress relating to events.


It requires organizations to identify and understand the effects that their activities have on the environment, on society and on the economy both within the organization and the wider economy; and put measures in place to minimize the negative effects. These standards will however be replaced by the International Standard ([[ISO 20121]]<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.iso.org/iso/pressrelease.htm?refid=Ref1281 | title=ISO to develop sustainable event standard in run-up to 2012 Olympics }}</ref>) for [[Sustainability management|Sustainability Management]] Systems.
It requires organizations to identify and understand the effects that their activities have on the environment, on society and on the economy both within the organization and the wider economy; and put measures in place to minimize the negative effects. These standards will however be replaced by the International Standard ([[ISO 20121]]<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.iso.org/iso/pressrelease.htm?refid=Ref1281 | title=ISO to develop sustainable event standard in run-up to 2012 Olympics | date=5 January 2010 }}</ref>) for [[Sustainability management|Sustainability Management]] Systems.

⚫
== '''Planning A Sustainable Event''' ==
⚫
'''Standards for Sustainable Events'''

⚫
[[ISO 20121]] is an international standard for sustainable event management that provides a framework for organizing events in a sustainable manner. It is designed to help event organizers identify and manage the social, economic, and environmental impacts of their events and to ensure that events are designed and executed in a way that minimizes negative impacts and promotes [[sustainability]]. This international body aims to reduce an event's carbon footprint by minimizing waste generation, conserving energy and water, promoting sustainable transportation, and using environmentally friendly products and materials. The benefits of implementing ISO 20121 and other resources are manifold for event organizers. It allows organizers to improve their event's sustainability performance, reduce costs, enhance reputation, and engage stakeholders in the event's sustainability goals<ref>{{Cite web |title=Complete Guide To Sustainable Events |url=https://eventify.io/blog/guide-to-sustainable-events}}</ref>.

'''Need for Sustainable Events'''

Sustainable event management aims to reduce the event's carbon footprint by minimizing waste generation, [[Energy conservation|conserving energy]] and water, promoting sustainable transportation, and using environmentally friendly products and materials. But why are these outcomes important to the event management industry? The events industry significantly impacts the environment, with large events sometimes generating tons of waste and consuming vast amounts of energy. As awareness of the environmental footprint of events grows, so does the need for sustainable event practices.

'''Negative Environmental Impact of Events'''

To gauge the impact of events on the environment, it's important to understand a pivotal concept - i.e; of a [[carbon footprint]]. A carbon footprint can be defined as the total amount of greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere as a result of human activities, such as driving a car or using electricity. It is usually measured in units of [[Carbon dioxide in Earth's atmosphere|carbon dioxide]] equivalents (CO2e), which allows for comparing different greenhouse gases based on their [[Climate change|Global Warming]] Potential (GWP). Understanding your carbon footprint is essential in the quest of adopting an eco-friendly lifestyle and extending it into the event management space. By comprehending the sources and magnitude of emissions, event managers and organizers can identify areas where improvements can be made and take decisive action to minimize environmental impact. To bring the point to perspective, let's consider an event organised for 500 attendees. The statistical data for such an event on the environmental impact is as follows:

* '''The Average Footprint of the People Present at the Event''': According to the UN Statistical report, an average person can produce 2.5 kg of daily waste, including feces and landfill waste. So, 500 attendees will produce about 1250 kg of waste in a Full-day event.
* '''The Average Resources Waste:''' on Average, 41% of waste can be produced on a full-day event. This includes food, water, electricity, paper, plastic, and cardboard. If half of the things are decomposed and recycled, the waste can be reduced to 25%.
* '''The Average Carbon Footprinting''': The carbon footprinting from transportation, room energy, water, and food. For 500 plus 100 more, including event management, security staff, catering staff, and the speakers and the guests, the event might have produced a carbon print of a whooping 80% to 70%. Air travel may produce 40%, cars 10%, and trains 5%. Electricity and water may produce an additional 30% of waste, and food is accountable for 10% more<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns |url=https://unstats.un.org/sdgs/report/2019/goal-12/}}</ref>.

'''Process To Plan Sustainable Events'''

To mitigate the above impact one can take measures and steps to minimize and eliminate the adverse impact of events on the environment.
===== '''Phase 1: Setting Sustainability Goals''' =====
** Reducing carbon footprint by using [[renewable energy]] sources and minimizing transportation emissions.
** Diverting waste from landfills by implementing a robust [[recycling]] and composting program.
** Supporting local businesses and suppliers to promote economic sustainability and reduce the environmental impact of transportation.
** Promoting social responsibility by ensuring that the event is accessible to people with disabilities and accommodating diverse attendees' needs.
** Incorporating sustainable food and beverage options, such as locally sourced and organic options, and avoiding single-use plastics.
** Minimizing water consumption by using water-efficient fixtures and promoting water conservation practices.
** Engaging and educating attendees about sustainable practices and promoting sustainable behavior change.
** Measuring and reporting on the event's sustainability performance, including tracking energy and water usage, waste diversion rates, and carbon emissions.

===== '''Turning Goals Into Executable Plans''' =====
** [[Waste minimisation|Waste reduction]] and management - Sustainable event planners should aim to minimize waste by reducing, reusing, and recycling materials whenever possible and by working with vendors to reduce packaging and single-use items.
** Energy efficiency and conservation - Sustainable event planners should prioritize energy efficiency by using energy-efficient equipment, minimizing energy consumption through smart scheduling and energy management systems, and exploring renewable energy options.
** Sustainable transportation and travel - Event planners should encourage sustainable transportation options such as public transit, [[Carpool|carpooling]], or biking, and consider hosting events in central locations to minimize travel distances.
** Green procurement and sourcing - Planners should prioritize eco-friendly suppliers, products, and services that align with their sustainability goals.
** Sustainable food and beverage choices - Event planners should prioritize local, seasonal, and organic food options, and implement strategies to reduce food waste and single-use plastics.

===== '''Phase 2: Implementation''' =====
** Choosing the Right Venue for an Eco-Friendly Event.
** Sustainable Catering and Food Options.
** Environmentally Responsible Event Materials and Decor.
** [[Sustainable transport|Green Transportation]] and Accommodation Options.
** Waste Management and Recycling Strategies.
** Communicating Your Eco-Friendly Event Initiatives.

===== '''Phase 3: Measuring & Reporting Sustainability''' =====
** There are several ways to measure and report on event sustainability, including:
** '''Waste diversion rates''': Calculate the percentage of waste diverted from landfills through recycling, composting, and other waste reduction efforts.
** '''Energy consumption''': Track energy use during events, from lighting and heating to transportation and equipment usage, and calculate the event's total energy consumption.
** '''Emissions reductions''': Estimate event's greenhouse gas emissions and identify strategies for reducing these emissions, such as promoting sustainable transportation options or using renewable energy sources.
** '''Sustainable procurement metrics''': Evaluate the environmental impact of an event's products and services, including the percentage of eco-friendly materials used, the number of local suppliers, and the amount of organic or fair-trade food served.


⚫
== Steps to Planning A Sustainable Event ==
===== '''Adopting Technology To Enhance Event Sustainability''' =====
⚫
'''Standards for Sustainable Events'''
Digital technology has come a long way with tools and resources that considerably reduce the negative impact of events. Adopting these can help event planners take cost-effective steps towards a greener future.
** Installing Smart lighting and energy management systems
** Adopting Virtual and hybrid event platforms
** Utilising Sustainable Event Management Software
** Installing Green [[Conference app|event apps]]


⚫
Planning a sustainable event with ease requires certain standards or barometers. [[ISO 20121|ISO 202121]] is one such international standard for sustainable event management. This docket provides a strategic framework for planning and executing sustainable events. These standards help organisers better understand the environmental, social and economical impact of events. This helps ensure that all events are organised without causing negative environmental impacts or effecting sustainability. ISO 202121 aims to eliminate the [[carbon footprint]] of events by reducing waste generation, promoting energy conservation, encouraging green and sustainable transportation and using sustainable materials and products. ISO 20121 guidelines are beneficial to event organisers as it allows them to increase sustainability, reduce costs, improve credibility and reputation and engage stakeholders.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Guide To Sustainable Events |url=https://eventify.io/blog/guide-to-sustainable-events}}</ref>
===== '''Conclusion: Sustainable Events in 2023''' =====
Sustainable Events aren't the future but rather the need of the present times. With increasing temperatures across the globe and diverse weather conditions, no steps are small to make large impacts. Sustainable events are executable and easy to organise with the right tools and resources. ''Edited''


See also
== See also ==
* [[Event management]]
* [[Event management]]
* [[Greenwashing]]
* [[Greenwashing]]
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== External links ==
== External links ==
* [http://www.bsigroup.co.uk/en/Assessment-and-Certification-services/Management-systems/Standards-and-Schemes/BS-8901/ ISO 20121 Sustainable Event Management] at the British Standards Institution
* [http://www.bsigroup.co.uk/en/Assessment-and-Certification-services/Management-systems/Standards-and-Schemes/BS-8901/ ISO 20121 Sustainable Event Management] at the British Standards Institution
* [http://sustainable-event-alliance.org Sustainable Event Alliance]
* {{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20110402181139/http://sustainable-event-alliance.org/ Sustainable Event Alliance]}}
* [http://www.greeneventbook.com Sustainable Event Management: A Practical Guide]
* [http://www.greeneventbook.com Sustainable Event Management: A Practical Guide]


Latest revision as of 20:21, 21 December 2024

Sustainable event management (also known as event greening) is event management with particular concern for environmental, economic and social issues.

Sustainability in event management incorporates socially and environmentally responsible decision making into the planning, organisation and implementation of, and participation in, an event. It involves including sustainable development principles and practices in all levels of event organisation, and aims to ensure that an event is hosted responsibly. It represents the total package of interventions at an event, and needs to be done in an integrated manner. Event greening should start at the inception of the project, and should involve all the key role players, such as clients, organisers, venues, sub-contractors and suppliers.

Sport events

[edit]
Main article: Green sport event

Event greening is however not only limited to sports events, and other examples include the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD), Johannesburg 2002, and UNFCCC 15th Conference of the Parties (COP15) held in Copenhagen in 2010.

Monitoring and evaluation

[edit]

Monitoring and evaluation is an essential component of event greening, and should be used to make continuous improvement. A detailed plan needs to be in place to ensure that information is gathered on all aspects of the event – before, during, and also after the event. This ensures that information is available to understand the effects of greening interventions (e.g. to what extent was water used, and how did water-saving measures reduce water use), as well as the potential improvements to future event-greening initiatives.

With large events it is best to ensure an independent report, which complies with international standards, such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI).[1] The GRI Event Organizers Supplement provides organizations in the sector with a tailored version of GRI's Reporting Guidelines. It includes the original Guidelines, which set out the Reporting Principles, Disclosures on Management Approach and Performance Indicators for economic, environmental and social issues. The Event Organizers Supplement's capture the issues that matter most for event organizers to be reported on:

  • Site selection
  • Transport of attendees
  • Recruiting and training of the event workforce, participants and volunteers
  • Sourcing of materials, supplies and services
  • Managing impacts on communities, natural environments, and local and global economies.
  • Planning and managing potential legacies
  • Accessibility of an event

Germany's giz gives a similar lists of the fields of activity which must be organized and monitored:[2]

The British Standard (BS 8901) has been developed specifically for the events industry with a purpose of helping the industry to operate in a more sustainable manner. The standard defines the requirements for a sustainability event management system to ensure an enduring and balanced approach to economic activity, environmental responsibility and social progress relating to events.

It requires organizations to identify and understand the effects that their activities have on the environment, on society and on the economy both within the organization and the wider economy; and put measures in place to minimize the negative effects. These standards will however be replaced by the International Standard (ISO 20121[3]) for Sustainability Management Systems.

Steps to Planning A Sustainable Event

[edit]

Standards for Sustainable Events

Planning a sustainable event with ease requires certain standards or barometers. ISO 202121 is one such international standard for sustainable event management. This docket provides a strategic framework for planning and executing sustainable events. These standards help organisers better understand the environmental, social and economical impact of events. This helps ensure that all events are organised without causing negative environmental impacts or effecting sustainability. ISO 202121 aims to eliminate the carbon footprint of events by reducing waste generation, promoting energy conservation, encouraging green and sustainable transportation and using sustainable materials and products. ISO 20121 guidelines are beneficial to event organisers as it allows them to increase sustainability, reduce costs, improve credibility and reputation and engage stakeholders.[4]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "SECTOR DISCLOSURES EVENT ORGANIZERS" (PDF). GRI. 2012. Retrieved 2023-05-22. previously: https://www.globalreporting.org/reporting/sector-guidance/event-organizers/Pages/default.as
  2. ^ "Guide – Sustainable Event Management" (PDF). giz. 2018. Retrieved 2023-05-22.
  3. ^ "ISO to develop sustainable event standard in run-up to 2012 Olympics". 5 January 2010.
  4. ^ "Guide To Sustainable Events".
[edit]
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