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ISO 20121

ISO 20121: Integrating Sustainability at Every Stage of Your Event

ISO 20121: Integrating Sustainability at Every Stage of Your Event

ISO 20121 has many alignments and requirements in common with ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001. 

ISO 20121 requires an organization to define its own objectives for continuous improvement in terms of environmental, economic and social sustainability, and activate a management system that allows them to be achieved.

Why should you consider ISO 20121 for your event and organization?

There are all kinds of events throughout the country and all year long. Events can be all sizes, including sports, music and entertainment, motorsport events, festivals, conventions, amusement parks and more. It’s time to focus on how to make events sustainable through the three dimensions of sustainability and impacts:  Economic, Environmental and Social.  

When not managed well, events can take a heavy toll on resources, the environment and society.

These can include:

  • waste management and circular economy
  • water and energy use
  • carbon emissions
  • health and safety of workers, spectators and suppliers
  • transportation and logistics
  • sustainable and ethical sourcing of goods, food, services, etc.
  • surrounding community and other stakeholders

There is a tool for this: ISO 20121 Event Sustainability Management Systems

ISO 20121:2012 specifies the requirements for the standard and provides guidance on conforming to those requirements. These can apply to any event or event-related activity, organizers of events, venues, and suppliers of goods, food and services for events.

The standard considers all stages of events and supply chains and includes guidelines for relevant monitoring and measuring that reduce the use of resources and costs.

Why ISO 20121 for Sustainable Events?

ISO 20121 offers a clear framework for organizations to create sustainable events, reducing environmental impact and strengthening social responsibility. This standard aligns with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001, helping to manage resources effectively and enhance stakeholder trust. Whether for sports, music, conventions, or festivals, ISO 20121 guides you in achieving economic, environmental, and social goals, ensuring that each event is as sustainable as it is memorable.