Towards a Sustainable Event

Green meetings are based on a sustainability framework which balances environmental, economic and social impacts. COMPLEX NETWORKS is working towards having a limited impact on the environment and climate and delivering value to the community. 

These guidelines are provided for attendees, committees and contractors to reduce COMPLEX NETWORKS direct and indirect environmental impacts that occur through its supply chain and partnerships

Our Objectives

 

Key environmental objectives for COMPLEX NETWORKS include:

  • Reducing Energy & Water Consumption
  • Reduce the amount of waste
  • Increasing the quantity of waste recycled
  • Reducing travel environmental impacts
  • Reduce purchase environmental impacts
  • Increasing environmental awareness
  • Drive behavior change

 

Our Actions

The icons of relevant UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) illustrate how our actions contributes to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

They include:

Venue

  • Sustainability is a core priority of the conference. The event is planned and delivered according to environmentally and socially responsible principles.
  • Venues are selected for their accessibility, environmental performance, and commitment to sustainability. They are accessible by public transportation where available, accommodate participants with reduced mobility, and provide clear signage.
  • Venue staff are actively involved in implementing sustainable event management practices.

 

Energy Management

  • Energy consumption is actively monitored and managed throughout the event. Energy-efficient lighting, equipment, and operational practices are prioritized to reduce energy demand, particularly during peak periods.
  • Staff are encouraged to adopt energy-efficient behaviors, and equipment complies with recognized environmental performance standards whenever possible.

 

  • The University of Granada (UGR), through an ambitious institutional strategy, is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and improving energy efficiency through sustainable infrastructure, smart campuses, and the progressive integration of renewable energy sources.
  • Energy-efficient equipment is gradually replacing conventional systems, while sustainable and smart buildings are being developed.
  • These efforts have contributed to the UGR’s strong performance in the GreenMetric ranking. Key initiatives include renewable energy production on campus, green building policies, and a greenhouse gas emissions reduction program.

Water Management

  • Water use is monitored and managed to reduce overall consumption. Water-efficient equipment and responsible practices are implemented throughout the event, and both staff and attendees are encouraged to adopt water-saving behaviors.

 

  • The University of Granada (UGR) applies a comprehensive water management strategy covering the entire water cycle, from consumption to wastewater treatment.
  • It promotes water efficiency through technical measures such as efficient equipment, rainwater harvesting, water reuse and recycling, treated water use, laboratory recirculation systems, and discharge control.
  • The UGR also monitors its water footprint and infrastructure performance to reduce consumption and pollution while supporting circular economy principles. These actions are reinforced by awareness campaigns such as “Sin agua no hay vida” and training initiatives for students and staff.

Food and Drinking Water

  • Catering services prioritize sustainable suppliers and environmentally responsible sourcing practices.
  • Seasonal products and locally sourced ingredients are favored where possible.
  • Menus are designed with sustainability in mind, including vegetarian and vegan options, while animal-based products are selected based on environmental considerations.
  • Products transported by air or produced under energy-intensive conditions are avoided whenever possible.
  • Reusable crockery, cutlery, and glassware are preferred. Buffet management practices aim to reduce food waste.
  • Surplus food is redistributed through appropriate channels whenever feasible.
  • Water dispensers are made available to encourage the use of reusable bottles, and single-use plastic bottles are avoided.
  • Food labeling includes clear allergen information to ensure transparency and safety.

Waste Management & Recycling

  • Waste prevention is prioritized to reduce waste generation at source.
  • Waste is monitored and managed throughout the event, with sorting systems in place to maximize recycling and recovery.
  • Clear signage supports proper waste separation by attendees and staff, while food waste is managed responsibly through redistribution where possible and appropriate recovery solutions.

 

  • The University of Granada (UGR) applies a circular approach to waste management by combining operational practices with research and innovation.
  • Waste prevention, reduction, selective sorting, recycling, and the treatment of organic, inorganic, hazardous, and wastewater streams are supported by dedicated collection systems and campus-wide reduction programs for paper and plastics.
  • Research activities advance waste valorization, biomass and plastics recovery, high-value material recycling, and landfill management, reinforcing the UGR’s commitment to circular economy principles.

Accommodation

Local Transportation

  • Attendees are encouraged to use low-carbon and sustainable transportation options when traveling to and from the event, as well as during your stay.
  • Public transportation, shared mobility solutions, and active travel options (such as walking or cycling) are promoted whenever feasible.
  • Attendees are also encouraged to assess and, where possible, offset the carbon emissions associated with their travel:

 

Paper Use

  • Efforts are made to significantly reduce paper consumption. Printed materials are avoided whenever possible, and when necessary, they are produced using recycled and eco-certified materials.
  • To reduce paper consumption COMPLEX NETWORKS:
    • Use digital event management systems.
    • Send documents electronically.
    • Make use of the conference website.
    • Display information on screens at the venue.
    • Use QR codes to display the conference program.
  • Attendees are encouraged to rely on digital formats and to avoid distributing printed materials.

Conference Swag & Giveaways

  • Conference giveaways are minimized to reduce unnecessary consumption. When provided, items are selected based on environmental and social responsibility criteria.
  • Preference is given to sustainably produced goods, certified products, and items made from environmentally friendly materials.
  • Food-based gifts are selected based on seasonal availability and responsible sourcing practices.

Eco-Friendly Purchasing Policy

  • All purchases are carefully assessed to ensure they are necessary for the successful delivery of the event.
  • Priority is given to reusing equipment available on site.
  • Procurement practices favor environmentally responsible suppliers and products. Preference is given to reusable, recyclable, and returnable goods, and the use of disposable items is minimized and monitored.

Dissemination of Information

  • A dedicated sustainability lead oversees the implementation and monitoring of sustainability measures. This role includes supporting staff, suppliers, and attendees, and ensuring awareness of sustainability initiatives.
  • Sustainability actions and outcomes are communicated through appropriate channels, and feedback mechanisms are in place to evaluate performance and identify opportunities for improvement.
  • Digital communication is prioritized, with key information made accessible online. Attendees are encouraged to rely on electronic formats for all conference material.

Positive Local Impact

  • The conference aims to generate a positive social and economic impact.
  • Local stakeholders are engaged where possible, including suppliers, service providers, and community members, including the volunteers.
  • Priority is given to local sourcing when it meets quality and sustainability standards.
  • Surplus materials and resources are redistributed or donated whenever feasible.
  • The event promotes inclusivity and accessibility for all participants and operates under a or Code of Conduct that ensures a respectful and equitable environment.