Delegates were actively encouraged to contribute to sustainability efforts during the congress. WCD2023 introduced “25 Green Nudges”, a set of actionable steps that attendees could take to minimise their environmental impact. Delegates were encouraged
to embrace digital platforms, such as the Congress mobile application, as a means to reduce paper wastage; bring their own bottles to refill water at dispensers; and opt for walking or public transportation, such as trains or buses, whenever feasible.
In collaboration with Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre, one of the congress venues, the organisers took great care in crafting a sustainable menu for delegates that embraced eco-friendly packaging. To minimise food wastage,
any leftover food and beverage items were repurposed to generate renewable energy or donated to local charities.
Eco-friendly allies unite for sustainability
The running of WCD2023 was rooted in its commitment to green principles, and the deliberate choice of Gardens by the Bay for the event’s social evening showcased this dedication.
Adrian Kong, Senior Assistant Director (Events Venue Sales) at Gardens by the Bay, emphasises that the venue not only serves as a space rooted in sustainability for events but also as an attraction in the downtown area, making it an ideal choice for business event planners from around the world. Photo Credit: M&C AsiaMoreover, Gardens by the Bay stands as an outstanding model of sustainable design and operations. Adrian Kong, Senior Assistant Director (Events Venue Sales) at Gardens by the Bay highlights that the majority of the 18 Supertrees are equipped with solar
panels, illuminating their captivating light displays at night. Additionally, a biomass boiler efficiently converts horticultural waste into fuel, ensuring the domes provide visitors with comfortable temperatures.
“We are a living example
of a City in Nature concept that allows delegates to enjoy not just the venue’s facilities, but also the beauty of the gardens itself,” says Kong.
Nature-inspired performances were part of the captivating programme line-up during WCD2023’s Social Evening at Gardens by the Bay. Photo Credit: WCD2023The WCD Social Evening, held at Flower Field Hall within Gardens by the Bay’s Flower Dome, was specially curated to minimise environmental impact while offering delegates an enjoyable experience. Food stalls were set up around the space, showcasing an
array of dishes served with eco-friendly cutlery.
After the dinner, delegates were invited to venture into the outdoor setting of Gardens by the Bay. The Supertree Grove, an iconic feature of the Gardens, served as the backdrop for a mesmerising
light show complete with solar-powered drones that mapped out the story of WCD and the impact the congress has on the world.
The spectacular drone show at The Supertree Grove unfolded with drones forming pictures in the night sky, narrating the WCD story, and honouring Singapore as the host destination. Photo Credit: M&C Asia“The solar powered drone show at Gardens by the Bay is a sustainable choice. The entire show requires nothing for setup, using only music and colours of the trees to tell a powerful story that lingers,” says Criscuolo.
Lasting impact beyond the event
But sustainability doesn’t end with the conclusion of an event. To ensure positive impact and meaningful outcomes beyond the event itself, WCD2023 supported Singapore’s OneMillionTrees movement – an initiative that aims to plant a million trees nationwide
over the next decade, in line with the Singapore Green Plan 2030’s City in Nature vision. WCD2023 initiated a fundraising campaign with the Garden City Fund to offset the event's environmental impact and leave a positive legacy.
Corporate entities can actively participate in Singapore's OneMillionTrees movement by joining the Plant-A-Tree programme, a fundraising initiative under the Garden City Fund. Photo Credit: NParksDuring the congress, WCD partnered with L'Oréal and the International League of Dermatological Societies to present the fourth edition of the International Award for Social Responsibility in Dermatology to recognise individuals or organisations dedicated
to enhancing skin health in under-resourced areas. Five laureates received a €20,000 award for each project to support further funding. Additionally, scholarships were also provided to delegates from resource-constrained countries, enabling their
attendance at the global meeting and facilitating their knowledge enhancement.
“We will leave a legacy to the city as a way of managing a successful sustainable event with public-private collaboration,” adds Criscuolo.
Forging a sustainable future together
The 25th World Congress of Dermatology in Singapore, exemplifies how a large-scale congress can successfully incorporate green initiatives.
Collaboration and careful selection of partners are key to hosting successful sustainable events.
Discover
more about hosting sustainable events in Singapore here.
This article is sponsored by Singapore Tourism Board