Embracing Health, Well-Being, and Sustainability in Business Events

As we navigate climate change, diversity and inclusion, and health and well-being, these themes have become increasingly intertwined with all aspects of our lives.

I've had the opportunity to explore these topics through the lens of business events. Our team recently hosted our Signature Event - Innovate Canada, Advanced Manufacturing - in Ontario, Canada's beautiful Waterloo Region. Together, we explored our commitment to sustainability and the importance of incorporating these elements into business events.

I'm happy to share some of the highlights.

Delivering an Unforgettable Experience:

Our team successfully organized Innovate Canada, Advanced Manufacturing, to create a magical experience for all participants. The event attracted senior executives worldwide who are leaders in the advanced manufacturing sector. In addition to fostering connections and knowledge exchange, we strived to go above and beyond by making this our first carbon-neutral event.

One of the thoughtful testimonials shared on LinkedIn by, Anton Seidler :

The warmth, the kindness, the openness and the innovation spirit of all the people met where overwhelming. It didn't feel like a business trip, more like meeting old friends and enjoying a great time together. The innovation ecosystems and the drive makes it a perfect spot for getting things done!

A Sustainable Vision:

Under the guidance of Virginie De Visscher , our Senior Director of Business Events at Destination Canada Business Events | événements d'affaires de Destination Canada , we embraced the vision of sustainability.

Our initiatives aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including the goal of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all. By aiming for carbon neutrality, eliminating single-use plastics, implementing electric vehicle transportation, providing vegetarian meals, and offsetting carbon footprints, we demonstrated the possibilities of creating a small-scale event with a significant impact.

This is more relevant than ever—according to the 2023 GBTA Sustainability Report, 77% of travel buyers prioritize sustainability, yet only 14% feel their company has well-defined sustainability goals. These practices can be scaled to events of any size, proving that sustainability is achievable across the industry.

Embracing Wellness in Events:

The pursuit of well-being goes beyond sustainability; it encompasses various facets of personal and societal health. We recognized the need to integrate wellness components into our signature event. Here are some mindful additions we made:

• Walkable venues: All locations were within a 20-minute walk, encouraging physical activity.
• Health breaks: Scheduled free time and morning walk/run sessions during the event.
• Nutritious meals: We prioritized local, sustainably sourced ingredients for healthy dining options.
• Sustainable snacks: Client hotel rooms were stocked with nutritious snacks in eco-friendly packaging.
• Repurposing decorations: Locally sourced succulents adorned hotel rooms and were repurposed after the event.
• Smoke- and drug-free venues: Activities were held in venues promoting a clean and healthy environment.

Personal Insights on Wellness:

As someone who has travelled extensively throughout my career, I understand the challenges of maintaining healthy habits on the road.

However, recent experiences have taught me the importance of incorporating well-being into business t'ave's and events. Joining colleagues for early morning workouts and opting to walk whenever possible has contributed to my well-being and enhanced the overall experience.

Leading a social 'fun' run at Innovate Canada was a new opportunity for me, but iWe'rened out to be a highlight of the event. We explored Waterloo at a relaxed pace, chatting about work and life along the way.

Our photographer, Ben Johnson even joined in - capturing some great moments.

A Promising Future:

We’re finalizing the sustainability impact report from Innovate Canada, which will serve as a guide for future events and city partners. These insights will help shape sustainable practices and enhance future initiatives. Stay tuned for updates!

As we continue to explore well-being from an individual and corporate perspective, I invite you to share your thoughts and insights.

Have you encountered any gems or travel hacks that would enhance business travels, conferences, and events? Ithey'relove to hear from you and foster a collective movement toward a healthier and more sustainable events industry.

In Conclusion:

Health, well-being, and sustainability are no longer optional in business events—they're essential.

Our experience with Innovate Canada, Advanced Manufacturing, demonstrated the positive impact that mindful choices can have on participants and the environment. By prioritizing wellness and embracing sustainability, we pave the way for a future where business events can serve as platforms for positive change.

Together, we can create memorable, impactful, and sustainable events that inspire and transform lives.