Sustainability

SZCZECIN — The Global Destination Sustainability (GDS) Movement has announced the winners of its 2026 GDS Awards, with this year’s programme placing a strong emphasis on measurable impact, regeneration and long-term destination value. The awards were presented during the GDS Forum and Impact Day in Szczecin, Poland, recognising initiatives and individuals advancing sustainability and positive change across tourism and business events. The 2026 edition featured three categories: Innovation, Impact and the newly introduced Changemaker Award. Fáilte Ireland received the Impact Award, presented in collaboration with #MEET4IMPACT, for its business events impact and legacy programme. The initiative was recognised for its […]

AMSTERDAM — ICCA and EarthCheck have issued guidance warning the global events industry that vague sustainability claims may become a legal risk under new European consumer protection rules. The guidance focuses on the European Union’s Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive, adopted in 2024. From 27 September 2026, the directive will apply across EU member states through national consumer protection laws. It requires environmental claims made to consumers to be specific, substantiated and not misleading. For the events industry, the issue is not limited to European-based organisations. ICCA and EarthCheck said the rules may affect venues, destinations, PCOs, associations […]

Academic institutions are increasingly imposing CO₂ emission budgets—limits on how much carbon dioxide their travel and events-related operations can generate. One example comes from the University of Amsterdam, which aims by 2026 to reduce emissions from official travel by 25% relative to 2019 levels. Because travel—especially air travel—is a major contributor to emissions, these budgets force organisers to rethink who travels, how often, and what format is used. Researchers are now prioritising which conferences deliver the strongest academic, policy, or networking return. Regional or closer-to-home meetings are becoming more attractive, and hybrid or virtual attendance options are increasingly seen as […]