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MAKE OR BREAK make
British Standard Institute ’ s ( BSI ) head of global sustainability , Martin Townsend , discusses the future of events and how we them more sustainable he pandemic ’ s impact on the way we live our lives and the way we do business has been colossal . Over this last 18 months we have had to re-consider the status quo and whether the way we ’ ve always done things should be the way we continue to do things .
Sustainability has come a long way since the establishment of environmental regulations in the 1970s . We are now facing an existential crisis and the importance of the topic continues to grow . A recent Harvard survey indicates that more than 90 % of CEOs ( our current leaders ) state that sustainability is essential to their company ’ s success with 88 % of university students ( our future leaders , consumers , and employees ) believing that learning about social and environmental issues in business is a priority .
Transforming a business or operating model is essential to becoming a truly sustainable organisation . This is no truer than in the context of the events industry where we are seeing increased scrutiny about the environmental impact of events . Ensuring events are ethical and sustainable going forward must be a priority for event planners and organisations alike .
Launched in preparation for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games , ISO 20121 Sustainable Events Management has rapidly become the global standard of choice for the events industry .
Earlier this year the UK Government selected BSI to assess the G7 event against BS ISO 20121 Sustainable Events Management and BSI auditors will again be working to assess the COP 26 Summit in Glasgow .
The certification scheme helps organisations set out a framework for tackling priority sustainability risks and opportunities – such as limiting carbon emissions and waste , managing the biodiversity of venues , respecting human rights , achieving a diverse and inclusive workforce , or supporting the local economy by selecting local suppliers .
What to consider
When it comes to making an event more sustainable there are many different elements organisations should consider . These include providing an accessible and inclusive setting for all ; having minimal negative impacts on the environment ; providing a safe and secure atmosphere ; encouraging healthy living ; promoting responsible sourcing ; delivering excellent customer experience ; encouraging more sustainable behaviour ; and leaving a positive legacy .
These considerations and innovative thinking will support event organisers to progress beyond the short-term , cost-cutting mentality . While the immediate future will undoubtedly be challenging , there will be tangible opportunities to embed sustainable practices into the fabric of an organisation .
Companies must strengthen their management practices , systems , and processes , shaping new behaviours and decision-making capabilities to become genuinely sustainable . It is increasingly acknowledged that organisations are more likely to deliver financial value and a lasting positive impact for their people , society , and environment if they take steps to reduce their carbon footprint .
The 2020s are the ‘ make or break ’ decade that will determine if the Paris Agreement can be achieved . As an events industry , what change will you make that will have the most decisive sustainable impact ? CN www . conference-news . co . uk