• Integration of the SDGs and the Green Deal: Events should take the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the European Green Deal into account in order to become more environmentally friendly. Above all, incorporating these goals into the event planning process from the outset is crucial. Internally, this knowledge must also be integrated into continuing education programs. A shift in mindset is necessary and can be achieved through transparency and leadership by example from executives.
• CO₂ Reduction: Practical solutions were presented on how sustainable mobility concepts can reduce CO₂ emissions at events. Factors such as the location of the venue and complementary urban mobility options also play a role here. (More on this in the recording)
• Incentives and support for eco-friendly travel: Event venues and destinations should create incentives for participants to use eco-friendly modes of transportation, for example through partnerships with public transit operators, the provision of electric vehicle charging stations, or shared shuttle services. Offering free public transportation can increase the event’s appeal. Walking routes to the event can be made more engaging through interactive stations, thereby enhancing the overall experience. Furthermore, booking an eco-friendly trip should be as simple as possible to encourage the selection of the most environmentally friendly option.
• Consider rush hours and traffic flows: In the interest of sustainable mobility, organizers should schedule their events so that attendees can travel by public transit and, furthermore, should preferentially choose a start time that falls outside of rush hour. Ideally, events should take place at family-friendly times to also accommodate social mobility.
• Accessibility and Inclusion: Event venues should be designed to be “barrier-free (opens in a new tab).” Sustainable mobility concepts must also take into account the needs of people with physical limitations, people with disabilities, older adults, parents with strollers, or business travelers with luggage to ensure comprehensive access. Live transcription tools (opens in a new tab)—such as those offered by our partner Schoko Pro—can help with this and, in the future, may even provide real-time sign language translations using AI. Inclusive events mean respecting differences and individual characteristics and treating people without prejudice. It’s an opportunity to promote diversity.
• The Importance of Networks: Exchanging ideas with industry experts is essential for identifying current trends and best practices and integrating them into your own event planning. The event industry plays a key role in bringing people together and, for example, normalizing inclusion.

These insights underscore the importance of sustainable mobility solutions for the future of the events industry, as well as the need to embed sustainability and mobility as central elements in event planning in order to create future-proof and environmentally friendly events.

CONCLUSION: To design sustainable and inclusive events, it is also crucial to give equal consideration to mobility, knowledge, and accessibility. Clear communication, family-friendly planning, and the use of innovative technologies strengthen a sustainable and inclusive event landscape.