Understanding the importance of reducing our carbon footprint, we took significant steps to ensure that our gathering was not only impactful but also eco-friendly.
Below are the top 10 actions that we were able to demonstrate at the FSC24 Conference at The Cordis Hotel, Auckland from 3 - 5 September 2024.
The FSC24 Conference venue, the Cordis Hotel was powered entirely by renewable energy sources and featured energy-efficient lighting, heating, and cooling systems.
The wines served at the FSC24 Conference were sourced from local winemakers from Waiheke Island. Speaker gifts were also provided by a local supplier on Waiheke Island, significantly reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation.
Our catering choices at the FSC24 Conference reflected our commitment to sustainability. Locally sourced seasonal, organic ingredients were served reducing the carbon footprint.
Additionally, plant-based meal options were prominently featured, catering to a growing preference for environmentally friendly diets.
The dessert served at the FSC Awards Dinner was crafted using honey from The Cordis Hotel's beehive. This initiative supports local biodiversity and highlights our commitment to sustainable sourcing while contributing to pollination efforts and the rehabilitation of bees in urban areas.
To further our sustainability efforts, we used biodegradable and recyclable materials wherever possible.
Delegate bags were crafted from high quality polyester and jute material and all delegate goodies were reusable. There was no paper-based material included in the delegate bags.
From the outset, we focused on minimising waste production. Digital ticketing and schedules replaced traditional paper-based methods, reducing paper waste significantly.
The use of Velcro fabric banners was seen at the FSC24 Conference by our exhibitors which can be pulled off and re-used for the next event. Recycled plastic panels were used to create counter tops in the expo area.
The coffee cups used were compostable.
As part of our sustainability initiative, we made the conscious decision to replace the traditional printed handbook with a delegate app. This shift not only reduced the use of paper but also allowed us to provide attendees with a more dynamic and interactive experience.
The mobile app offered personalised schedules, and easy access to resources and actions such as ordering coffee, while significantly minimising our environmental impact.
By embracing digital solutions, we were able to align our Conference with our commitment to sustainability, demonstrating that innovation and eco-consciousness can go hand in hand.
The rigid signage at the Conference were printed on recyclable coreflute plastic boards, which are recycled after the event and repurposed into fence posts. This initiative not only reduces waste but also supports a circular economy by giving materials a second life.
All paper items, including lanyard cards, certificates, and menus, were printed on Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) accredited paper, ensuring that they were responsibly sourced.
One of the categories at the FSC Awards honoured Excellence in Sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Practices.
This award recognised organisations that have actively integrated ESG principles into their internal processes or financial services to effectively reduce their global footprint or ESG impact.
We were delighted to congratulate AIA New Zealand for their outstanding achievement. See all the winners of the FSC Awards 2024 here.