The future of sustainability in the Meetings and Events industry.

As new regulations like the CSRD directive take effect and clients increasingly expect transparency, professionals in the MICE sector are under growing pressure to measure and report their impact through clear, credible event CO2 reporting.

From Scope 3 emissions in events to vendor and venue choices, every detail now plays a role in how companies are evaluated on their environmental responsibility. In this article, we explore what’s driving the shift toward sustainable event planning, how these changes affect you, and how to get ahead—without the need for a complex tech stack. In other words, what the future of sustainability in meetings and events looks like.

Whether you’re preparing for regulatory compliance or simply aiming to lead the sustainability conversation, this is your starting point.

What’s changing?

Starting from 2024, the EU's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) mandated businesses, including those in the MICE sector, to report detailed sustainability data. This directive extends beyond large corporations to medium-sized enterprises, making it a requirement for event organisers, venues, and agencies to integrate sustainability reporting into their processes. Non-compliance could lead to penalties and reputational damage, making preparation crucial.

The timeline for when companies must start reporting varies based on their size and status:

• Large public-interest companies (with over 500 employees) already covered by the NFRD (Non-financial reporting directive) will start reporting in 2025, based on data collected in 2024.
• Other large companies (those meeting at least two of the following criteria: over 250 employees, €40 million in net turnover, or €20 million in total assets) will begin reporting in 2026, based on 2025 data.
• Listed SMEs will start reporting in 2027, but they can opt out until 2028.
• Privately held SMEs will be given the chance to get ahead of future mandatory requirements with voluntary reporting in 2028.

Key sustainability reporting elements include:

• Tracking carbon emissions from travel and event activities.
• Reporting energy and waste management at venues.
• Demonstrating alignment with environmental goals.

Why sustainability is critical for business success.

Sustainability is no longer just about meeting regulatory obligations—it’s about thriving in a market that increasingly values responsible business practices. Companies that integrate sustainability into their core operations are not only future proofing themselves against regulatory risks but are also positioning themselves as leaders in an industry where green credentials are becoming a key differentiator.

Client demand for sustainable practices.

There is a growing trend of clients, especially corporate and government clients, seeking partners who prioritise sustainability. Many organisations now require their event planners, venues, and travel partners to have clear sustainability initiatives in place. By demonstrating a genuine commitment to sustainability, businesses can attract and retain high-value clients who align their values with eco-friendly practices.

Strengthening brand reputation and trust.

A strong commitment to sustainability enhances brand reputation. Consumers and corporate clients alike are becoming more conscious of environmental impacts. A business that can demonstrate a proactive approach to reducing carbon footprints and promoting eco-friendly practices is likely to build stronger relationships and trust with its clients. Being seen as a sustainability leader not only differentiates you from competitors but also fosters long-term loyalty.

Cost savings through efficiency.

Sustainability initiatives often lead to significant cost reductions. Implementing measures such as energy-efficient venues, waste reduction strategies, and eco-friendly transport options can cut costs while benefiting the environment. These savings can be reinvested into other areas of your business, enhancing both operational efficiency and profitability. Sustainability doesn’t just benefit the planet—it improves your bottom line.

Regulatory compliance and futureproofing.

With regulations like the CSRD on the horizon, businesses that are already tracking and managing their environmental impact are well-positioned to comply with these new rules. Being ahead of the curve on sustainability reporting not only prevents last-minute scrambling to meet compliance but also provides opportunities for early adopters to establish themselves as trusted, transparent partners.

Preparing for the future.

As sustainability reporting becomes a regulatory requirement, businesses in the MICE industry need to start preparing now by evaluating their sustainability strategies. The ability to track, report, and optimise environmental data will soon be a baseline expectation. To future-proof your business, begin by:

Investing in technologies that simplify sustainability tracking.

To stay ahead of new sustainability requirements, event organisers and planners must invest in tools that streamline reporting processes. With technology playing a crucial role, tools like Qondor’s sustainability reporting will make it easier to track and manage essential sustainability metrics. These tools will help businesses not only comply with regulations but also provide valuable insights for improving operations.

Partnering with eco-friendly suppliers and venues.

Sustainability isn’t something you can achieve alone—it’s a collaborative effort. Start evaluating your supply chain and partner with venues, suppliers, and contractors who share your commitment to green practices. Working with eco-friendly partners allows you to offer comprehensive sustainable event solutions, enhancing your value proposition and appeal to clients who prioritise environmental responsibility.

Engaging with stakeholders to create a sustainability plan that meets industry expectations.

Sustainability needs to be a strategic priority, not just an operational one. Work with your team to set clear, measurable sustainability goals. This could involve reducing waste by a certain percentage, lowering energy consumption, or committing to a carbon-neutral event strategy. By embedding sustainability into your company’s culture and operations, you can ensure that everyone is aligned with your long-term objectives.

Communicate your sustainability efforts.

Transparency is key. Make sure your clients know about your sustainability initiatives and how they align with their own values. Use sustainability as a selling point, showing that your company is committed to reducing environmental impacts and helping clients do the same. Having clear sustainability goals and demonstrating your achievements will give you a competitive advantage in a market that increasingly values eco-conscious partners.

Conclusion.

As sustainability takes centre stage, the MICE industry faces a transformative opportunity. By embedding sustainability into the heart of operations, businesses can meet new regulatory requirements, improve customer relationships, and future-proof their success. Get ahead of the game by prioritising sustainability today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ).

What is CSRD and how does it impact meetings & events planners?

The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) is an EU regulation requiring companies to report more transparently on their environmental and social impact—including carbon emissions. For event planners, this means clients (especially in Europe) will increasingly expect CO₂ reporting for business travel, venues, accommodation, and food & beverage. Even if you're not directly subject to CSRD, you may still need to support your clients in meeting their own reporting obligations.

How can I report emissions from meetings and events?

You can report emissions by tracking key data points from your event—such as transport modes, travel distances, hotel stays, and catering types—and calculating their carbon impact using recognised methodology. Qondor’s Standalone Sustainability Reporting Tool, powered by Squake, does this automatically for you. It simplifies event CO₂ reporting by letting you generate client-ready reports based on the details you already have.

What are Scope 3 emissions in events?

Scope 3 emissions refer to indirect emissions that occur in your value chain, such as business travel, accommodation, and vendor services—not just emissions from your own operations. In the context of events, this includes attendee travel, hotel stays, catering, logistics, and more. These are often the largest and most complex emissions to track, which is why tools like Qondor help make them visible and actionable.