At the 9th World Bronchiectasis Conference, we are committed to fostering a healthier planet by actively reducing our environmental impact. Inspired by the best practices of previous conferences and in partnership with our venue and suppliers, we pledge to lead by example and ensure this event is as sustainable as possible.
Venue Sustainability
We are proud to partner with venues that are committed to environmental and social responsibility.
The Hannover Congress Centrum (HCC) has integrated sustainability into its operations for many years and is recognized as one of Germany’s leading sustainable congress centres. Its approach combines environmental responsibility, economic sustainability and social engagement across all aspects of venue management. Key initiatives include:
- Energy-efficient building operations and resource management
- Waste reduction and recycling programmes
- Digital solutions to minimize paper consumption
- Sustainable catering with a focus on regional and seasonal products where possible
- Support for environmentally responsible event practices and sustainable mobility
- Long-standing commitment to corporate social responsibility, recognized through multiple sustainability certifications and awards.
For additional information:
Hannover Congress Centrum (HCC): https://www.hcc.de/ueber-uns/csr/
Pre-Event Initiatives
- Virtual Planning: We prioritize video conferencing over travel for planning meetings.
- Minimal Printing: We avoid printed materials wherever possible, opting for digital delivery. When printed material is unavoidable, we will use recycled paper.
- Digital Access: Abstract submissions, registrations, and confirmations are all managed online.
Sustainable Venue Choice
Visit Hannover – Sustainability & Green City
Hannover was selected not only for its excellent accessibility and central location in Germany, but also for its strong positioning as a green and sustainable city. Known for its extensive green spaces, including the Eilenriede city forest and the Maschsee lake area, Hannover offers a high quality of urban life with a strong connection to nature.
The city actively promotes sustainable mobility, walkability, and environmentally conscious urban development, reflecting its long-standing commitment to climate-friendly infrastructure and responsible tourism. Building on its legacy as an EXPO host city, Hannover continues to strengthen its profile as a forward-looking destination where sustainability and innovation are closely linked.
For additional information:
Visit Hannover: https://www.visit-hannover.com/en/Hannoverweb/Hannover-ist-New-Travel
During the Conference
- Hybrid Format: A hybrid conference format enables virtual attendance to reduce the need for international travel.
- Eco-Friendly Badges & Lanyards: Badges are printed on recyclable paper. Lanyards are recyclable and reusable – attendees are encouraged to return them for reuse.
- Catering: Meals and coffee breaks feature local, seasonal, and sustainably sourced food. Compostable takeaway containers will be used where necessary.
- Sustainable Giveaways: Sponsors and exhibitors are encouraged to provide digital materials or useful, sustainable giveaways only.
- The majority of our on-site signage and staging is made from Re-board®, a 100% recyclable and sustainably sourced material
Exhibitor & Industry Partner Guidelines
- Use reusable, recyclable, or modular stand designs.
- Minimize or eliminate PVC and single-use plastic in displays.
- Rethink printed materials – use QR codes and digital collateral.
- Encourage sustainability in all aspects of booth design and visitor engagement.
Attendee Action Points
- Walking or using public transport to the venue where possible.
- Choosing accommodation close to the venue.
- Turning off hotel room lights and electronics when not in use.
- Bringing reusable water bottles, keeping cups and bags.
- Avoiding unnecessary printed materials and disposables.
- Disposing of waste in the appropriate bins and supporting venue recycling efforts.
Food Waste & Reduction
We are committed to minimizing food waste through careful planning and portion management. Lunch boxes are used to help better control quantities and reduce surplus food. We also prioritize responsible sourcing and, where possible, the use of recyclable or compostable packaging to further reduce environmental impact.
Together, we can reduce the environmental footprint of the conference and inspire a broader culture of sustainability across global medical and scientific communities. Let’s make the 9th World Bronchiectasis Conference a benchmark for sustainable medical events.
