Green events: towards a definition

What constitutes a green event? Whether a lecture series, a conference, a convention or a trade fair – at all B2B sector events, organizers can take ecological, social and economic aspects of sustainability into account. This applies to use of materials, catering, electricity consumption, location, accommodation and mobility services, among others.
However, in 2024 there is still no clear definition of what qualifies as a green event. The ISO 20121 standard, established in 2012, covers the entire value chain of an event in terms of sustainability. This certification is internationally recognised and can help to communicate that a business is oriented towards sustainability. However, ISO 20121 is due to be overhauled and has been under revision since 2023.

Some event venues in the UK have developed their own standards for sustainable events. Twickenham Stadium, for example, has already begun to implement its 2050 net zero corporate strategy and has significantly reduced operational energy consumption through improving system performance, retrofitting energy efficient solutions, shutting down utilities in unoccupied areas and extensive staff and contractor education.
 

Sustainable events as a trend in event management

For event organizers, sustainability is becoming an increasingly important topic, as it’s now widely viewed as a competitive advantage in the B2B sector. In the UK, we’ve seen the emergence of social enterprises such as Event Cycle, which aim to support event businesses in implementing sustainable solutions.
Market-leading event management company First Event has stated its commitment to creating sustainable practices which will eventually become the norm within the industry. Additionally, the successful SME Expo, now in its second year, proudly advertises itself as “the UK’s first fully accessible, climate-neutral B2B event”.
 


Hints and tips for sustainable B2B events

Anyone who organizes a typical B2B event, such as a trade fair or a trade conference, can contribute to making it a green event. Here’s a rundown of the most important factors:

  • Choice of venue: the space should have a certified environmental management system, such as ISO 14001, implemented by several major event venues including the ICC (International Convention Centre) Birmingham. Ideally, the location should have good energy-saving and water-saving measures, as well as being easily reachable via public transport and cycling.
  • Hybrid offer: digital events reduce emissions and conserve resources. Even if they cannot replace on-site events entirely, events with the option of remote attendance provide an environmentally friendly compromise.
  • Mobility, especially arrival and departure: climate-friendly travel, preferably by train, is one of the biggest levers for the design of a green event. For example, for on-site mobility, a free e-shuttle bus from the train station to the venue could be organized.
  • Accommodation: recommended accommodation with sufficient capacity should be close to the venue and also easily accessible by public transport. Ideally, these should be “green hotels” which are compliant with ecological and social standards.
  • Catering: engaging local suppliers within a short travelling distance saves emissions, and the use of seasonal organic ingredients from the region promotes sustainable agriculture. In general, food and drink should be environmentally friendly.
  • Material and waste management: this includes waste prevention measures such as reusable packaging, the creation of digital programs instead of flyers and other print products, waste separation in general and the implementation of recycling systems for various substances.
  • Electricity consumption and supply: green electricity from renewable energy sources should be used.
  • Social responsibility: the event should be accessible, speakers and presenters should be from diverse backgrounds, and regional providers should be given priority in order to avoid long journeys and support the local economy. It’s also important to ensure that service providers manufacture their products under fair conditions.