Ovation Global DMC, our global destination management services & event organisation, has a network of 67 local offices or strategic destination management company (DMC) partners worldwide, all embracing sustainability as a core value. This translated into integrating social and environmental considerations into their strategy, policies and day-to-day operational practices.

Ovation prioritises selecting partners and suppliers who align with our sustainability goals. This means responsible sourcing and event production, and ensuring partners adhere to our Code of Conduct, which emphasises ethical and sustainable practices.

Our local experts not only create meaningful sustainable experiences, but they can guide our clients in their sustainability journey.

Ovation Global DMC analyses net zero carbon in the events industry

In response to the growing urgency of climate change and environmental concerns, the events industry is recognising its significant carbon footprint due to factors like energy consumption, transportation, waste generation, and venue operations, as well as the need for sustainable practices. Mid-2023, Ovation Global DMC conducted a survey to assess the industry’s stance on net zero carbon events.

Key insights

• Most respondents were event planners, yet only a minority measures their organisation’s carbon footprint comprehensively, with fewer assessing event-specific emissions.
• While there’s a growing trend towards selecting sustainable vendors, only a small percentage mandate such practices.
• Achieving net carbon zero requires a holistic approach, including carbon footprint measurement, sustainable vendor selection, renewable energy adoption, and emission offsetting.

Conclusion

Although the survey indicates that currently, only a small fraction of events worldwide actively focus on reducing carbon emissions, there’s optimism that companies are gradually transitioning towards sustainability in the future.

Ovation Global DMC is committed to contributing to a sustainable future, and encourages collaboration within the events industry.

“Incorporating sustainable practices in destination management services is not just a trend; it’s here to stay. And we DMCs have a crucial role to play in leading the way and making sustainability a mainstay of our business.

We want to continue to help our clients, partners and suppliers embark on that journey, showing that it’s possible to deliver engaging experiences, while minimising our carbon footprint and having a positive impact for local communities.” Rutger Hoorn Vice-President Global Sales & Strategic Partnerships,
Ovation Global DMC and IRF Board of Trustees