regeneration in events 2025

‘Regeneration’: the 2025 word of the year in event sustainability

/in

The word of the year for the events sector in 2025 – moving from ‘doing less harm’ to ‘doing more good’.

As we approach 2025, the events sector is embracing a transformative shift in sustainability with 2025 the year we predict ‘regeneration’ will emerge as a defining concept. Unlike traditional sustainability, which focuses on maintaining the status quo, regeneration aims to restore and enhance ecosystems, communities, and economies we affect. This proactive approach is reshaping how events are conceived, planned, and executed, making it our Word of the Year for 2025.

Understanding regeneration in events

Regeneration in the context of events involves creating experiences that not only minimise environmental harm but actively contribute to the restoration and improvement of the local environment and society. This encompasses a range of practices, from ecological restoration projects associated with event venues to initiatives that support local communities and economies. The goal is to leave a positive legacy that extends beyond the event itself, ensuring that the areas touched by these gatherings are better off as a result.

Key principles of regenerative event planning

Ecological enhancement: Implementing measures that restore natural habitats, increase biodiversity, and improve ecosystem services in and around event locations. This could involve planting native species, creating green spaces, or supporting local conservation efforts.

Community engagement: Collaborating with local communities to ensure events meet their needs and contribute to their well-being. This includes sourcing materials and services locally, providing employment opportunities, and respecting cultural heritage.

Circular economy practices: Designing events that minimise waste and promote the reuse and recycling of materials. This involves thoughtful planning to reduce single-use items, implementing comprehensive recycling programmes, and encouraging attendees to participate in waste reduction efforts.

Carbon positivity: Going beyond mere carbon neutrality by implementing strategies that result in a net reduction of atmospheric carbon dioxide. This can be achieved through initiatives such as reforestation projects, investing in renewable energy, and supporting carbon capture technologies.

Education and advocacy: Using events as platforms to raise awareness about regenerative practices and inspire attendees to adopt similar approaches in their personal and professional lives. This can be facilitated through workshops, informative displays, and engaging speakers who are experts in sustainability.

Case studies of regenerative events

Example 1 – large scale: The Paris 2024 Olympics

The organisers of the Paris 2024 Olympics set a new benchmark for low-carbon sporting events by adopting a pre-event carbon budget and aiming to reduce emissions by at least 50% compared to previous Games. Key strategies included utilising 95% existing or temporary stadiums, constructing new builds with less carbon-intensive materials, and adopting renewable energy sources. Transportation efforts featured electric and hydrogen-powered fleets and accessible public transport. Additionally, athletes were encouraged to consume more plant-based, locally sourced food, while medals were made from recycled materials. These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to not only minimising environmental impact but also contributing positively to the host city’s ecological and social landscape.

Example 2 – smaller scale: micebook Ventures 2022, Liverpool UK

micebook is the leading digital hub for #eventprofs worldwide to source destination content, suppliers and inspiration. Running a series of impactful and educational events, including the Ventures series, 2022 saw Liverpool in the UK take centre stage.

A sustainable summit for purpose-driven event industry leaders, themed around the concept of Rebuilding Better. Ventures22 was a platform for event buyers and suppliers to share knowledge and collaborate to make better choices and create more sustainable experiences that have a positive rather than negative impact on our planet. The whole city of Liverpool collaborated to offer event professionals a one-off experience that was not only inspirational  but also included city authorities, local higher-education organisations and students and apprenticeships, cutting-edge building design for better meetings, global authority on events and the environment, corporate social responsibility, event travel and event supply innovation. An event that continues to be discussed amongst a very experienced audience.

Implementing regenerative practices in your events

To embrace our 2025 word of the year, consider the following steps:

Conduct a regenerative impact assessment: Evaluate the potential positive contributions your event can make to the local environment and community. This assessment should identify opportunities for ecological restoration, community engagement, and economic support. event:decision’s Impact: Responsible Event Review is a good starting point.

Collaborate with local stakeholders: Engage with local governments, businesses, and community groups to align your event’s goals with regional sustainability objectives. This collaboration can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes and ensure that your event supports local needs and aspirations. Convention & Visitor Bureaux (CVBs) & Destination Management Companies (DMCs) can support this.

Design for minimal resource consumption: Plan your event to use resources efficiently, prioritising renewable materials and energy sources. This includes selecting venues with sustainable practices, choosing suppliers who share your commitment to regeneration, and implementing energy-saving measures throughout the event.

Promote sustainable transportation: Encourage attendees to use low-impact transportation options, such as public transit, cycling, or carpooling. Providing incentives for sustainable travel can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of your event.

Educate and inspire attendees: Incorporate educational elements that inform participants about regenerative practices and motivate them to adopt similar approaches. This can be achieved through informative sessions, interactive exhibits, and providing resources for further learning.

Measure and report outcomes: Track the regenerative impacts of your event and share the results with stakeholders to demonstrate your commitment and inspire others. Transparent reporting can also help identify areas for improvement in future events.

The future of regeneration in event sustainability

As the concept of regeneration gains traction, it is poised to become a cornerstone of event sustainability strategies worldwide. We see this already for larger global events such as Olympic and Commonwealth games. The jury’s out on some other sporting projects at present.

By adopting regenerative practices, event planners can create experiences that not only entertain and educate but also leave a lasting positive impact on the planet and its inhabitants. This shift represents a profound change in the industry’s approach to sustainability, moving from a mindset of ‘doing less harm’ to one of ‘doing more good’.  ‘Regeneration’ encapsulates the evolving aspirations of our industry as we enter 2025

Eleven predictions for event sustainability in 2025

/in ,

We look forward. Here are our CEO Matt Grey’s predictions for event sustainability in 2025

As the global focus on responsible and sustainable business continues to evolve, the event industry is adapting to new challenges, opportunities, and expectations. In 2025, sustainability will no longer only be something to shout about but a standard expectation in event planning and delivery. Below are my key predictions for event sustainability in the coming year ahead.

1. Responsible event delivery will match sustainability in importance to clients

While sustainability has been a dominant theme, responsible event delivery – a wider focus on ethical practices and social responsibility – will match it in significance from 2025. Clients are increasingly aware of the broader impacts of events, from social equity to community engagement. As a result, the definition of a successful event will shift to balance environmental sustainability with social responsibility. Expect clients to demand comprehensive approaches that measure not just carbon footprints but also the event’s contributions to the local community, jobs, and supply chain integrity.

2. New metrics will emerge to measure impacts

Traditional metrics like carbon footprints will be complemented by tools that measure social impacts. For instance, how does an event contribute to local economies, improve community wellbeing, or foster diversity and inclusion? As organisations seek to better understand the broader implications of their events, we’ll see new benchmarks and methodologies designed to track both quantitative and qualitative impacts. This evolution will be particularly valuable for companies looking to align with corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategies.

3. Carbon tools and reporting will become more sophisticated

By 2025, carbon tracking and reporting technologies will offer a more integrated and accurate picture of event-related emissions. Tools, like our own Track –  which aggregate data from multiple sources, such as travel providers, venues, and F&B, will make it easier to generate comprehensive sustainability reports. Advancements in measuring travel emissions will provide detailed breakdowns of attendee travel footprints, while venue-based metrics will calculate emissions linked to energy use and waste disposal. Improved transparency will enable event planners to set realistic reduction goals and demonstrate progress to stakeholders.

4. Event sustainability will slip down the agenda

Sustainability will no longer dominate headlines in the industry – not because it’s less important, but because it is more mainstream. The hype about “being amazing at sustainability” will give way to a more grounded, practical approach. Sustainability will become a baseline expectation for clients, making it less of a unique selling point and more of a fundamental requirement. Less shouty headlines is a sign of maturity, reflecting our industry’s ability to integrate sustainable practices into everyday operations.

5. Collaboration across client teams will increase efficiency

The alignment of client event teams, procurement departments, and corporate ESG initiatives will lead to greater efficiency and fewer silos. In 2025 and onwards, we’ll see a more joined-up approach to planning, budgeting, and implementing sustainable practices. Cross-functional collaboration will ensure that everyone involved in the event lifecycle – from sourcing suppliers to designing experiences – works toward shared sustainability goals. This alignment will not only streamline operations but also reduce costs and improve outcomes for all stakeholders. But…

6. Greenwashing will persist

Despite progress, greenwashing will remain an issue. The gap between talking about sustainability and actually implementing effective practices will grow as more organisations feel under pressure to appear environmentally and socially aware. Everyone in the industry will need to be vigilant in distinguishing between genuine sustainability efforts and marketing ploys. Transparency, backed by measurable data, will become the gold standard for credibility in the industry.

7. A deeper understanding of the relative impacts of activities will emerge

As some companies complete five or more years of reporting on the environmental effects of their events, a clearer picture of what really drives impact will emerge. This deeper understanding will enable event planners to focus on the most significant areas of impact, such as attendee travel, community engagement, and local supply. By identifying and addressing the key drivers, the industry can implement targeted solutions that deliver meaningful reductions in carbon emissions, resource consumption and the social benefits of their events.

8. Venues will lead in innovation

Venues will continue to push the boundaries of sustainable practices, offering creative solutions to reduce their environmental impact – such as Iconic Luxury Hotels incentivising rail travel for group booking. Further initiatives like these will not only reduce travel emissions but also set a precedent for other venues to follow. Expect to see more innovations as venues strive to differentiate themselves in a competitive market.

9. Political and economic factors will challenge sustainability efforts

Despite fears, the 2024 US election result will have limited direct impact on event sustainability. While new political leadership may influence ESG policies, brands are increasingly aware that their audiences still expect responsible event practices, regardless of a change of government.

However, in the UK, ongoing challenges like the raise in employer National Insurance contributions, budget pressures, and staffing challenges will hit the industry hard, venues and hospitality providers especially. However, just as we have shown resilience through all recent crises, we will adapt once again – albeit with some bruises.

10. New materials and designs will shape expo sustainability

The demand for sustainable exhibition materials will drive innovation in the sector and modular expo frame manufacturers will develop more sophisticated and reusable designs. Materials innovation will not only reduce waste but also provide flexible, cost-effective solutions for exhibitors.

11. Consolidation and consultancy growth will reshape the sector

By 2025, the event sustainability sector will see increased consolidation, with agencies merging or forming strategic partnerships. Recent acquisitions, such as Trivandi’s purchase of The Bulb, signal a trend toward larger entities capable of driving innovation and offering comprehensive services. Simultaneously, smaller consultancies focused on sustainability will continue to emerge and grow, providing specialised expertise to meet the rising demand for guidance on sustainable practices.

As we approach 2025, it’s clear that sustainability in the event industry is evolving and while challenges remain – in greenwashing and external economic pressures – there is a sense of optimism for next year driven by innovation, collaboration, and a deeper understanding of impacts.

For eventprofs, the key to success in 2025 will be learning how to balance ambition with practicality. As I hope my predictions for event sustainability show, by embracing new tools and staying informed about emerging trends, event planners can deliver experiences that are not only memorable but also responsible and sustainable. Progress made so far by our industry offers a solid foundation for continued growth and improvement. By 2025, sustainability will be an integral part of the event industry’s DNA – an expectation, not an exception.