Sustainability will be an essential feature of EGEA conference: whether in the presentations, the discussions or in the organisation itself. Indeed, EGEA steering committee has aimed at including this dimension as much as possible in the practical aspects of the conference, while guaranteeing the experience of the participants. Here are some explanations on how sustainability has guided the organisation of EGEA conference.

From the very beginning of the planning of the event, sustainability criteria were included in the specifications as broadly as possible. Specific requirements were thus stated for catering, travel, inclusiveness among speakers and participants, and sobriety in the use of resources.

WORKING WITH COMMITED COMPANIES

Aprifel selected a professional conference organiser, a conference venue and a caterer certified ISO 20121[1], to help organise the event.
For the other actors of the conference – restaurants, printer etc.- specific charters have specifically been drawn up.

LIMITING TRANSPORTATION NEEDS

Montpellier was chosen to host the conference for its easy access and as it offers alternatives to flying. The city has an international airport and easy connections by train or car from several European countries. Montpellier also offers an extensive public transportation network to reach the city and navigate the downtown area.
The venue is at the heart of Montpellier and opens the possibility of a walking- first congress. It is served by multiple tramway and cycle lanes. Montpellier also offers a wide range of accommodations within a 15-minute walk of the Corum, at all rates.
The choice of venues for the social part of the event was also guided by the desire to encourage soft mobility. Both are less than a 15-minute walk from the conference venue.

A DEDICATED PROCESS TO MAKE THIS COMMITMENT CONCRETE

To make these commitments tangible and verifiable, the EGEA steering committee has updated the indicators defined for EGEA 2023 conference to monitor its commitments. Considering the specific aspects of the conference, some 24 commitments covering 7 sustainability topics have been made and are closely monitored. Evidence are collected by Aprifel and its subcontractors to verify these commitments objectively. A sustainability lead has been appointed in the Aprifel team to oversee this process and keep participants informed on this matter.

EGEA commitments encompasses 7 sustainability topics