Sustainable Meetings & Events
As one of the world’s leading medical universities, Karolinska Institutet has an important role in contributing to Agenda 2030 and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. To arrange sustainable events is one way to take responsibility for the impact of our activities.
This guide is based on Agenda 2030, the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and KI guidelines for environment and sustainable development. The checklist may be used as a practical tool in planning and organising an event wheras the guide explains the connection to the Global goals.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The 17 SDGs are interlinked and integrate the three dimensions of sustainable development: the economic, social and environmental dimensions. By supporting one goal your actions will have positive impacts on other goals.
Walking, for example, plays an important role in improving health and quality of life. It helps protect and improve the living environment and natural resources, which in turn brings health benefits due to cleaner air, less traffic noise. Walking is highly efficient in its use of urban space and energy. What we eat matters and has an effect on global heating.
Sustainable Event Guide
According to the Swedish Higher Education Act, higher education institutions shall in the course of their operations "promote sustainable development to assure for present and future generations a sound and healthy environment, economic and social welfare, and justice."
Sustainability should be incorporated in the daily operations of KI and thus in arranging, meetings, conferences, seminars and lectures.
The guide may be a help to improve the environmental impact, reduce costs and make sustainability a priority.
What is a sustainable event?
A sustainable event is defined by the UN as an event “designed, organized and implemented in a way that minimizes potential negative impacts and leaves a beneficial legacy for the host community and all involved”.
A sustainable event takes into consideration the energy consumption, how the food is produced, the consumption of goods, transportation, accessability and waste. Raising awareness among employees, students and attendees inspiring change toward greater sustainability is an important part of the event.
Arranging a sustainable event will reflect KI:s mission of being a responsible and sustainable university.
Sustainable meetings and events at KI
Sustainable Event Guide
The Sustainable Event Checklist is divided into different sections which may be useful in making your meeting or event more sustainable.