ISO 20121 is an international standard for sustainable event management, providing a framework to help organisations improve sustainability throughout the event management process. Here are the top 10 things to know about ISO 20121:
1. Purpose and scope
ISO 20121 aims to help organisations involved in event management to become more sustainable. This includes reducing their environmental footprint, supporting social inclusivity, and creating economic benefits.
2. Applicable to all event-related organisations
The standard is relevant not just for event organisers, but also for venues, suppliers, and other stakeholders involved in the event industry.
3. Based on a management systems approach
ISO 20121 uses a management systems framework, similar to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. This involves setting policies, planning, implementing procedures, monitoring, reviewing, and continually improving the system.
4. Key principles
The standard is built around key principles such as transparency, integrity, inclusivity, and stewardship. These principles guide organisations in making decisions that consider social, environmental, and economic impacts.
5. Stakeholder engagement
An important aspect of ISO 20121 is the involvement of stakeholders. The standard encourages organisations to engage with stakeholders to understand their needs and expectations regarding sustainability.
6. Risk management and continual improvement
The standard emphasizes identifying and managing risks and opportunities related to sustainability. Organisations are encouraged to continuously improve their performance by setting measurable objectives and targets.
7. Compliance and legal requirements
ISO 20121 helps organisations ensure that they are aware of and comply with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements, as well as other sustainability-related obligations.
8. Documentation and reporting
Organisations must maintain proper documentation as part of their management system. This includes policies, objectives, action plans, and records of monitoring and evaluation activities. Reporting on sustainability performance is also an important aspect.
9. Certification
Organisations can seek certification for ISO 20121 through accredited certification bodies. This involves an external audit to verify that the organisation meets the standard’s requirements.
10. Global relevance and recognition
ISO 20121 is recognised worldwide and provides a globally applicable standard for sustainable event management. This can enhance an organisation’s reputation and credibility in the international arena.
