Event carbon footprint

The event carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions generated, directly or indirectly, as a result of organising and attending an event such as a conference, festival, sports competition or corporate meeting. Measuring and managing it is essential to reduce climate impact and run more sustainable events.

Why measure the carbon footprint of events?

• Identify hotspots: knowing where emissions come from lets you target the most effective improvements.
• Corporate responsibility: organisers and sponsors demonstrate a tangible sustainability commitment.
• Cost optimisation: tracking emissions often reveals inefficiencies in energy and logistics.
• Credible communication: measured (and, where relevant, offset) events convey transparency rather than greenwashing.

Main sources of event emissions

• Attendee travel: air travel, cars and public transport, usually the single largest source.
• Logistics and build: freight transport and energy for stages, marquees and stands.
• Accommodation: energy used in hotels and lodging.
• Catering: food production, transport and food waste.
• Materials and merchandise: printed matter, banners and giveaways.
• On-site energy: lighting, sound and climate control.

How the footprint is calculated

1. Collect data: energy use, supplier information and travel distances.
2. Apply emission factors: for example kg CO₂e per kWh or per kilometre.
3. Classify by scope: sort emissions into Scope 1, Scope 2 and Scope 3 following the GHG Protocol.
4. Analyse and report: identify hotspots and present results in a clear report.

Reduction strategies

• Sustainable venues: choose energy-efficient sites well served by public transport.
• Sustainable mobility: encourage carpooling, cycling or rail travel.
• Low-carbon catering: favour plant-based and locally sourced menus.
• Waste prevention: apply circular economy practices and recycling or composting.
• Digitalisation: replace printed materials with digital communication.

Offsetting residual emissions

When emissions cannot be eliminated, organisers can offset them by purchasing carbon credits from projects such as reforestation, renewable energy or carbon sequestration. Credits should be verified under recognised standards such as the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) or the Gold Standard. Offsetting should complement, not replace, genuine reductions.

Standards and certifications

• ISO 20121:2024: the international standard for event sustainability management systems.
• GHG Protocol: the standard methodology for quantifying the carbon footprint.
• EMAS or ISO 14001: environmental management systems that can support event logistics.
• UNFCCC sustainable events guidance: good practice for conferences and large gatherings.

Sustainably run events minimise environmental impact while strengthening reputation and engaging audiences. At Manglai we help organisations measure their carbon footprint and prepare their sustainability reporting. Discover how Manglai can help you.