We are in a climate crisis right now ; excessive greenhouse gas emissions are causing the earth ’ s temperature to increase leading disastrous consequences . And , yes , emissions from events and the larger travel and tourism industry are contributors to the problem . All our actions and decisions have direct and indirect impacts on the environment and ultimately our communities . When you make your event carbon neutral , you are doing your part and supporting projects that absorb carbon out of the atmosphere .
Explore Edmonton wants to make this a reality for all events because we believe in a carbon neutral future . We offer expert support for event organisers to answer their carbon neutral questions and to ensure we have all the data necessary to achieve a carbon neutral status .
Can you give examples of initiatives Explore Edmonton has planned to contribute to more sustainable events ?
We have had many great accomplishments including our carbon offsetting offerings , supporting the net zero Carbon Events Initiative , being the first city in Western Canada to join the Global Destination Sustainability Movement ( GDSI ), and taking part as a supporter of the Net Zero Carbon Events Initiative .
We are also at the forefront of the single-use item transition in Alberta and , in 2022 , we have started work on more accessible options for events to ditch single-use items and adopt more effective event waste management and waste measurement strategies .
But sustainability is also about looking forward , and having the courage to take the risk , so we now have a dedicated sustainability team at Explore Edmonton to help make our collective sustainability aspirations a reality . This year , we are launching our Responsible Event Program 2.0 , a program that helps event planners hosting their event in Edmonton to leave a lasting environmental or social sustainable impact in the community . Explore Edmonton is committed to being there every step of the way to make sure your event can be successful beyond the conventional measurements of event success and to ensure there is a positive legacy after the doors have closed .
Are your partners supportive of all these initiatives ?
Absolutely . Our two signature and award-winning venues , the Edmonton Convention Centre and the Edmonton EXPO Centre are leading the way when it comes to sustainability ; for example , a multitude of sustainable event offerings at both venues , solar panels on the roof of the Edmonton Convention Centre , and plans to add panels on the EXPO Centre roof in 2022 . We are thrilled to share both of our major event venues will be powered by clean , renewable energy .
We know that a lot of little changes can go a long way , such as choosing paper over plastic , eating local , riding transit when you can , but we got to thinking , what if we went big ? What if we changed how business events operate in Edmonton ? So , our team got to work finding local businesses , venues , farmers , artists , and entrepreneurs who are as passionate about sustainability as we are . Then we stacked our team with sustainability experts who are up to date on the latest research and trends . Now , not only can we help you slash your carbon emissions , but we can also make sure you don ’ t have to compromise quality or your budget for a completely unforgettable , and environmentally sustainable event .
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