How ESG Principles Drive Success and Positive Change in the Meetings & Events Industry

In today’s business landscape, sustainability is no longer just a trend – it’s a necessity. The need to balance environmental responsibility with financial success is pressing, especially in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry. As companies face increasing pressure from clients, stakeholders, and consumers to demonstrate their commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, it’s clear that the future of events is rooted in purpose.

If you’re not leading your clients towards sustainable practices, they may not thank you when headlines start criticising wasteful conferences and outdated practices. Organisations and event planners must now consider how they can create impactful, meaningful experiences that not only drive business success but also benefit the planet.

That’s where Natalie Simmons, an expert in the corporate events sector, comes in. With over 21 years leading the award-winning global MICE brand cievents, Natalie has seen first-hand how embracing ESG principles can transform an organisation’s strategy, create value, and inspire change.

At the PCOA 2024 Conference, Natalie will be leading a thought-provoking and interactive plenary session titled “Creating Impactful Events: Good for Business & Good for the Planet.” This session will focus on how integrating ESG principles into your events can deliver both financial rewards and societal impact. But that’s not all – it’s designed to be hands-on, competitive, and fun.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why ESG is critical for the future of the MICE industry: From tighter climate-related regulations to shifting consumer expectations, ESG is becoming a core consideration for clients. Natalie will explore how integrating sustainability into event planning can meet these demands while creating new opportunities for growth.
• Natalie’s journey from corporate leadership to purpose-driven impact: Learn how Natalie moved from leading a global MICE brand to founding Barefoot Citizens Consulting, a company focused on sustainability, and how she continues to push the boundaries of ESG in the events industry.
• Partnerships that drive change: Discover the power of collaboration through UN Sustainable Development Goal #17 – Partnerships for the Goals – and how working together can amplify your impact.
• Practical, measurable actions: This session isn’t just theory – you’ll leave with practical strategies for integrating sustainability into your events. Through hands-on team challenges, Natalie will guide you in ideating solutions to real-world ESG problems in the events industry.

Get Ready for Some Fun!

This isn’t just another keynote. Natalie’s session is designed to engage, inspire, and get you involved. Attendees will form teams to tackle sustainability challenges, compete for prizes, and collaborate on creative solutions that can be applied directly to your business. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the world of ESG, you’ll leave feeling empowered with actionable insights.

Keep an eye on the PCOA app throughout the session – you’ll get live updates, challenge prompts, and team announcements. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to network with fellow attendees who share your passion for making events that are good for both business and the planet.

Why This Matters Now

As we look ahead to the future of the MICE industry, the events we plan today will define tomorrow. By adopting ESG principles, you’re not only helping to reduce your carbon footprint and make a positive impact on society, but you’re also positioning your organisation as a leader in an industry that’s evolving rapidly.

Sustainability isn’t just about saving the planet – it’s about creating events that are meaningful, engaging, and profitable. And as Natalie will show you, those who take action now will be the ones leading the way.

Join us at PCOA 2024 and learn how to create events that are good for business and good for the planet. Let’s make an impact together!