Recent research by scholars from MIT, Purdue University, and Yale University sheds light on practical steps to reduce the environmental footprint of virtual meetings. Turning off your camera during a videoconference can slash the environmental impact by 96%. Depending on the service, one hour of streaming or videoconferencing can emit between 150 and 1,000g of carbon dioxide. For perspective, a car produces about 8,887g of CO2 from burning one gallon of gasoline. Additionally, that hour of videoconferencing requires 2-12 liters of water and a land area roughly the size of an iPad Mini.
“We are excited to host the 2024 E+E Leader Solutions Summit virtually, providing a platform for global collaboration and innovation in sustainability,” said Jessica Hunt, Co-Owner at E+E Leader. “Through this eco-friendly approach, we aim to inspire positive environmental action while minimizing our carbon footprint.”
An in-person conference with 1,000 participants can result in over 1.2 million lbs. CO2 emissions, primarily due to air travel, land transportation, and food waste. In contrast, a virtual or hybrid event could yield emissions as minimal as 7,699 lbs of CO2. Beyond reducing carbon emissions, virtual conferences facilitate greater inclusivity by enabling participation from low and middle-income countries, thereby fostering a more diverse and equitable exchange of ideas.
To minimize the environmental impact of virtual events, several recommendations emerge:
Beyond its commitment to sustainability, the 2024 E+E Leader Solutions Summit boasts an array of captivating sessions and opportunities for engagement:
By embracing these recommendations, events like the 2024 E+E Leader Solutions Summit can advance sustainability goals and serve as catalysts for positive change in the virtual realm.
Who is speaking at #EESummit24? Head on over to the Summit Page and find out!
