EUROPEAN DEVELOPMENT DAYS

Reduce your footprint – carbon-free forum

A forum on the scale of European Development Days generates significant greenhouse gases. However, these CO₂ emissions can be offset through a range of schemes investing in energy efficiency.

Human activity inevitably produces greenhouse gases. And like any other human activity, hosting a large-scale event creates its share of CO_2. 

A forum on the scale of EDD involves vast movement of people and equipment, IT infrastructure, catering, building services, etc., which generate some 10 000 metric tonnes of CO₂. The cost of offsetting these emissions – by investing in energy efficiency – is put at some €200 000.

It would be irresponsible to address the world’s development challenges at an international gathering without considering its impact on the environment – especially as global warming could push millions back into the poverty trap and cancel out any progress made towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals.

Carbon offsets are an increasingly popular way for individuals and organisations alike to reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions. After figuring out your contribution to the global warming problem (from driving, flying, etc. – your ‘carbon footprint’), you pay an equivalent amount to projects, such as wind farms or other forms of clean, sustainable energy, thereby helping to reduce overall emissions.

Carbon-offset contributions

Generated emissions can be offset anywhere in the world. Energy-saving projects can also have a positive social impact, which is why the European Development Days recommends buying carbon offsets from organisations funding projects in developing countries.

Exhibitors, sub-event organisers and individual delegates are asked to help offset the European Development Days' carbon footprint by contributing to a carbon-offset scheme of their choice. Schemes that fund projects in developing countries are recommended.