Plan a Sustainable Meeting

In recent years, the environmental and social aspects of sustainability have become increasingly important in the planning of conferences and meetings. Visit Skellefteå aims to offer attractive, unique, and sustainable experiences for all. Skellefteå provides excellent conditions for hosting sustainable meetings, and as an organizer, you can make choices that further enhance the sustainability of your event.

Sustainability isn't only about environmental concerns—it also includes social and economic aspects. But what does that mean for those of us working with meetings and events, and how can we create more sustainable gatherings?

Our Tips for a Sustainable Meeting

Sustainability is a holistic philosophy that involves many elements—especially when organizing meetings and conferences. Offering an event with a strong environmental profile that also contributes to local and global community improvement—and perhaps even leaves behind lasting positive change—is the goal of a truly sustainable meeting.

Environmental Sustainability

Most people associate sustainability with environmental protection. Consider the environmental impact of your meeting when choosing transport, food, products, services, and venues.

  • Thank speakers sustainably – with flowers wrapped without plastic or by donating to charity

  • Serve only locally tapped water instead of bottled water

  • Be mindful of all gifts and giveaways – how were they produced?

  • Encourage carpooling and shared transport

Social Sustainability

Social sustainability is just as important as environmental considerations when planning a sustainable meeting.

  • Ensure diversity in panel discussions and speaker lists

  • Offer a sustainable and inclusive food selection – vegetarian, vegan, allergy-friendly, and culturally inclusive options

  • Go digital to reduce printed materials and enable online participation

  • Use digital tools to democratize participation, such as for live polling

Economic Sustainability

In simple terms, economic sustainability means creating long-term financial viability for the place where your meeting is held.

  • Use local products and services whenever possible

Source: Visita

Checklist for Sustainable Meetings

The downloadable checklist compiles insights from past organizers on how to host sustainable meetings and events.
Download the checklist

Sustainability Hub for Events

A collaboration platform created by and for the events industry to help professionals plan and deliver sustainable events. It offers tools, guidelines, and AI-powered resources to reduce carbon footprints, manage resources, and create lasting environmental and social impact.
Read more about Sustainability Hub for Events

Need Help?

Contact us at Skellefteå Convention Bureau if you’d like support in organizing a sustainable meeting in Skellefteå.