Introduction to sustainable events

This chapter introduces the concept of sustainable events and explains why sustainability has become an essential consideration in contemporary event management. It outlines the evolution of sustainable development and sustainability, tracing their origins from early environmental thought to international frameworks such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The chapter explains the three interconnected pillars of sustainability – economic, environmental and social – and discusses how these principles apply to planned events. It also introduces the positive and negative impacts events can generate, the importance of stakeholder engagement and the growing role of sustainability standards such as ISO 20121. Through examples and practical guidance, the chapter establishes the foundations for understanding how events can be designed and managed to maximise benefits while minimising long-term environmental and social impacts.