Extreme weather episodes are having an increasing impact on events. Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/ชัยธวัช ผาผง
The weather can be hard to predict at the best of times, but it’s something event organisers are having to be increasingly mindful of. In 2024 alone, the Asia-Pacific region experienced devastating floods, cold snaps and strong typhoons. How are these extreme weather episodes affecting event destination and venue choices and to what extent does this weigh upon the destination decision-making process?
Hadrian Tsang, senior business development manager at CWT Meetings & Events, says planners are increasingly factoring in the risk of extreme and unpredictable weather events when selecting destinations for their events. This shift is not only about ensuring the safety and well-being of attendees, but also about minimising potential financial losses and logistical challenges.
“There is a growing preference for destinations that are perceived to be less vulnerable to climate-related disruptions, and clients are prioritising venues that have robust infrastructure and contingency plans in place to handle such incidents,” he says. “Destinations and venues that demonstrate resilience and sustainability, such as having flood management systems or energy-efficient operations, are becoming more attractive.”
“There is a growing preference for destinations that are perceived to be less vulnerable to climate-related disruptions, and clients are prioritising venues that have robust infrastructure and contingency plans in place to handle such incidents.”
Hadrian Tsang, senior business development manager, CWT Meetings & Events
Tsang adds that planners are also incorporating risk assessments for natural disasters into their decision-making processes, ensuring the safety and accessibility of the event. CWT Meetings & Events works with partners such as International SOS to provide its clients with access to a comprehensive suite of risk management, safety and security solutions for their events.
As well as considering climate risks, Tsang says that clients are also factoring in the environmental impact of their events, opting for destinations with sustainable tourism practices and lower carbon footprints. The reputational risk associated with hosting events in environmentally-sensitive areas has also become a consideration.
For Atika Rosli, chief and founder at Beyond Events Asia, the impact of climate change has made destination and venue selection more complex.
“We’ve seen clients reconsider hosting outdoor events in regions like Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh City during the monsoon season due to the risk of flooding,” she says. “Similarly, typhoon seasons in the Philippines and coastal parts of Vietnam are prompting planners to either avoid these destinations during peak periods or ensure venues have strong contingency measures in place. On the other hand, destinations like Singapore, with its well-managed urban infrastructure and indoor venue options, have become increasingly appealing.”
“[The unpredictability of weather] has pushed us to integrate hybrid formats or indoor options more frequently into event designs,”
Atika Rosli, chief and founder, Beyond Events Asia
Rosli has noted a shift toward cooler or climate-controlled destinations. For example, cities like Tokyo and Kyoto in spring or autumn have become increasingly popular for their pleasant weather, making outdoor activities and cultural experiences more enjoyable. At the same time, regions in southeast Asia with access to cooler highlands, such as Chiang Mai in Thailand or Cameron Highlands in Malaysia, are being looked on favourably because of their more temperate climates.
The unpredictability of weather remains a concern, even in traditionally stable seasons. “This has pushed us to integrate hybrid formats or indoor options more frequently into event designs,” adds Rosli.
Lorela Chia, founding president of the Malaysia Association of Sustainable Supply Chain & Innovation (MASSCI), says it isn’t about cutting corners; it's about realising that some destinations, no matter how beautiful or popular, simply aren’t equipped to handle the changing climate. And the risks, both in terms of safety and business continuity, are no longer worth the gamble.
"Cooler destinations are now the new trend. As temperatures climb, the demand for temperate climates is growing.”
Lorela Chia, founding president, Malaysia Association of Sustainable Supply Chain & Innovation
“Cooler destinations are now the new trend. As temperatures climb, the demand for temperate climates is growing,” she says. “Countries like Denmark, the Czech Republic, and parts of Ireland are experiencing a surge in tourism, thanks in part to their more moderate weather and commitment to sustainability. These destinations not only offer relief from the heat but also align perfectly with the growing demand for eco-friendly venues.”
Venues in these cooler climates also tend to have a smaller carbon footprint, use renewable energy, and promote greener practices – factors that are playing a significant role in the decision-making process. The message, says Chia, is clear: sustainability, both in terms of the environment and the long-term viability of the destination, matters.
“The impact of climate change on event planning is not just a passing concern – it’s reshaping the industry,” adds Chia. “It’s crucial for both clients and organisers to recognise the role they play in creating resilient, sustainable events. From selecting climate-conscious destinations to implementing green practices, we have the opportunity to lead by example.”