The global events industry is gradually moving beyond traditional sustainability practices towards a more regenerative approach, where events minimise their negative impact on the environment while actively contributing to the restoration and revitalisation of ecosystems.
This shift was addressed by two industry leaders from the Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS-Movement) during an ICCA Congress 2024 session last week.
Bella Shahsuvaryan, changemaker, GDS-Movement, used Coldplay concerts as an example of regenerative events. She related how the band paused touring in 2019 until it found a way to make its concerts more sustainable. On its website, Coldplay lists its regenerative efforts that are part of its Music of the Spheres World Tour, ranging from planting trees per concert goer, to providing power bikes and kinetic dance floors to power the band’s performance every night.
“Such regenerative events are about more than just sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint. They’re about creating a positive impact on both the environment and local communities,” Shahsuvaryan pointed out.
Guy Bigwood, CEO and chief changemaker, GDS-Movement, added: “We’ve seen a growing demand for regenerative events, where people are looking for events that minimise their environmental impact and contribute to positive change through legacy.”
Characteristics of regenerative events include prioritising the well-being of local communities and contributing to social development through job creation, skills training, and charitable initiatives; ensuring that all products and services used in the event are sourced ethically and sustainably; and adopting practices that minimise waste and promote resource reuse, reducing the event’s overall environmental footprint.
“By embracing regenerative principles, event organisers can not only minimise their environmental impact but also contribute to the restoration of our planet and the well-being of future generations,” commented Shahsuvaryan.
