FESPA achieves ISO certification for sustainable event management

Print Solutions

FESPA has announced that it has achieved ISO 20121:2012 certification for sustainable event management, an internationally recognised standard for implementing an effective and sustainable event management system.

The accreditation given to FESPA solidifies the organisation’s long standing commitment to implement environmental best practices in its own operations, minimise the environmental impact of its events, increase positive community engagement with regard to sustainable manufacturing practices, and motivate print businesses to take concrete steps towards more sustainable operation.

FESPA’s 2025 events in Berlin will be the first in the speciality print sector to be run under the certification, which provides a comprehensive framework for organisers to prioritise sustainability without compromising on quality or success.

To achieve the ISO certification, the organisation implemented an extensive range of policies and procedures to address key, measurable objectives, including: waste reduction, energy efficiency, carbon emissions reduction and stakeholder engagement. These activities and the system were independently audited and verified by the British Standards Institute (BSI) certified awarding body under certificate number SEMS 799937, affirming FESPA’s demonstration of best in class sustainable event management services to its exhibitors and visitors.

FESPA has also led by example by measuring its carbon footprint at its UK based headquarters for three consecutive years without a regulatory obligation and is installing solar panels to generate renewable energy.

Neil Felton, CEO, commented: ‘We are thrilled to have achieved the ISO 20121:2012 certification, which proves our dedication to delivering environmentally responsible events and championing the need for the sectors we represent to make continued progress on sustainability. Our team recognises the importance of operating our events in a manner that delivers exceptional value to our attendees and exhibitors, while also prioritising environmental responsibility and community engagement. We look forward to delivering our 2025 events in accordance with the certified sustainable events management system, and we hope our example inspires our community to look at ways of optimising their sustainability performance.’

As ever, FESPA and its member associations continue to guide and encourage members of its community with the sustainability guides (including three new guides covering sustainability certification schemes; carbon calculation; and glossary of sustainability terms); the Sustainability Spotlight live event feature; providing speakers for seminars and conferences that have already benefitted more than a third of its member associations events and by openly sharing insightful, educational and inspirational content on this topic online.

FESPA remains committed to continuously advancing its sustainability initiatives and improving its event management practices. By integrating sustainability principles into its operations, it aims to inspire positive change across the specialty print community to facilitate a greener, more environmentally conscious future.