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In a world where sustainability is key, the events industry is experiencing a significant shift. What was once an added value has now become a priority. For many associations and corporations, opting for sustainable events is a strategic decision, as they seek not only to reduce their environmental impact but also to project an image aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As someone responsible for attracting international clients, I understand that the commitment to sustainability is a decisive factor in attracting these leads. The key lies in integrating sustainability and decarbonization into a convention center’s strategy and generating value for both clients and the venue.

Large-scale events generate considerable environmental impact, from energy consumption to the carbon footprint derived from transportation. However, this challenge presents an opportunity. Methodologies like CarbonClear Events by Heroica enable convention centers not only to mitigate that impact but also to position themselves as leaders in event decarbonization. This approach directly affects how clients perceive the value of holding their events in a venue committed to sustainability; currently, companies and associations seek more than just modern facilities—they are interested in collaborating with convention centers that share their values.

Leading with sustainability strengthens long-term success.

Attracting Leads with a Sustainable Approach as a Positioning Strategy

Sustainability has become an absolute priority for organizations operating internationally. According to upcoming data to be published by PCMA (Professional Convention Management Association) in its Annual Meetings Industry Survey, three out of five event organizers are including sustainability requirements in their RFPs, as well as other efforts to verify the carbon footprint of their events. Similarly, ICCA (International Congress and Convention Association) has noted that sustainability is not just a trend but an expectation from clients, as 83% of respondents in the “Association Meeting Needs – ICCA 2023 Association Survey” stated they seek suppliers that implement sustainable practices.

As a convention center, it is crucial to understand that attracting leads focused on sustainability is not just a passing trend but a structural change in how clients make decisions. Both associations and international corporations value venues that implement decarbonization practices, efficient waste management, and the use of renewable energy, which also help them project their own environmental responsibility.

This approach not only attracts new clients but also positions the convention center as a leader in the industry, capable of providing sustainable solutions aligned with the current challenges of climate change. Attracting leads from this perspective is not merely about selling a space but about offering added value that aligns with the strategic objectives of clients, enhancing their reputation and facilitating the achievement of their sustainability goals.

Carbon footprints are legacies we can choose to rewrite.

Sustainability and decarbonization are more than just differentiators; they are the result of a necessity in the current market. Convention centers that adopt a comprehensive decarbonization approach not only respond to present demands but also position themselves to lead in the future. The implementation of these strategies strengthens long-term business relationships, contributing to the success of both parties.

Adrian Quesada Malavasi

Account Coordinator

Costa Rica Convention Center

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The success of an event doesn’t end when the lights go out and the doors close. One of the most crucial moments to ensure the quality, relevance, and effectiveness of an event is what happens afterward: collecting and analyzing post-event feedback. This process goes beyond internal impressions or attendance numbers, offering a clear and objective perspective from the attendees’ point of view. Feedback is a strategic tool that allows organizers to identify successes, correct mistakes, and uncover opportunities for improvement and innovation. In an environment where participant experience is key, feedback becomes a competitive advantage that ensures the relevance and sustainability of events in the long term.

Feedback is one of the most accurate ways to assess whether the proposed objectives were met. It’s not just about numbers or counting attendees, but about understanding the quality of the experience. Comments on participant satisfaction, the relevance of content, interaction with speakers, and the overall organization provide a comprehensive evaluation of the impact generated. This information allows for a comparison between the results obtained and the initial expectations, fine-tuning metrics for future editions and gaining a deeper understanding of the event’s performance.

It’s not the number of attendees, but the quality of their experience that defines the impact.

Every event offers a unique opportunity to learn and evolve. Feedback acts as a compass to identify areas for improvement, revealing aspects that may not have met expectations. For example, it may highlight insufficient signage, tight schedules between activities, or dynamics that didn’t achieve the desired impact. Incorporating these lessons ensures that future events are more seamless, efficient, and successful, fostering a constant cycle of continuous improvement.

Asking for attendee feedback not only contributes to internal improvement but also strengthens the connection with participants. By requesting their feedback, organizers convey the message that their opinions are valued and their experience matters. This approach promotes loyalty and increases the likelihood that participants will attend future editions, especially if they notice that their suggestions have been taken into account and implemented. Feedback thus becomes a bridge that strengthens relationships and fosters greater participation, building lasting connections.

Additionally, attendees, collaborators, and suppliers often provide fresh perspectives and creative ideas that can open new possibilities. Through their feedback, organizers can discover innovative approaches that hadn’t been considered before, such as the incorporation of new technologies, more interactive activities, or logistical improvements. These ideas help renew the event experience, surprise attendees, and stand out in an increasingly competitive market, adding value to every new edition.

In corporate or large-scale events, measuring return on investment (ROI) is essential. Attendee feedback helps assess whether the resources invested—such as time, money, and staff—achieved the desired results in terms of satisfaction, brand positioning, or lead generation. The metrics obtained through feedback provide concrete data to justify future investments and demonstrate the event’s value to sponsors and stakeholders, consolidating the organizers’ credibility.

Satisfaction is the visible outcome; feedback is the invisible key to success.

In summary, post-event feedback is much more than a formality; it is a strategic tool that provides critical information on the effectiveness and impact of events. By collecting and analyzing attendee opinions, organizers can refine every aspect of the experience, strengthening both planning and execution. This process fosters a culture of continuous improvement and reinforces relationships with participants, increasing satisfaction and loyalty.

Moreover, feedback opens the door to innovation, enabling organizers to stay ahead and adapt to audience expectations. In a changing and competitive environment, the ability to listen and respond to audience needs is key to ensuring long-term success. Every suggestion taken into account not only improves the quality of the event but also projects a professional and committed image, ensuring that each new edition surpasses the previous one and remains relevant over time.

Diana Ugalde

Event Coordinator

Costa Rica Convention Center

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In a world facing increasingly complex environmental challenges, technology and engineering play a key role in sustainability. In the events industry, where the ecological impact can be significant, the Costa Rica Convention Center (CCCR) has established itself as a leader in adopting sustainable practices that drive efficiency, decarbonization, and environmental respect. Thanks to the implementation of innovative projects and a strong commitment to the CarbonClear Events by Heroica methodology, the CCCR is demonstrating how it is possible to transform the sector toward a greener and more sustainable future.

Engineering and technology are fundamental to this transformation, as they allow the integration of solutions that optimize the center’s operations while simultaneously minimizing the carbon footprint of each event. Through the use of renewable energy, sustainable mobility, and efficient resource management, the CCCR is setting new sustainability standards within the convention industry.

Sustainability is the perfect balance between development and respect for nature.

One of the most notable projects in terms of sustainable engineering is the improvement of the surface of Parking Lot 4, using Bera Gravel Fix, an innovative material that ensures a more resistant and durable infrastructure while actively contributing to carbon footprint reduction. This technology reduces greenhouse gas emissions during construction and also promotes soil permeability, fostering more sustainable water management, a vital resource in the region.

The CCCR’s commitment to clean energy is also evident in the installation of a solar panel system with a capacity of 38.5 kWp, which generates part of the energy used on-site, reducing carbon dioxide emissions—one of the main contributors to climate change. This project, aligned with the country’s decarbonization goals and the CarbonClear methodology, strengthens the CCCR’s role as a leader in promoting renewable energy within the events and convention industry.

In terms of waste management, the CCCR is expanding its collection center, a project designed to improve infrastructure and maximize recycling and material reuse. The acquisition of advanced equipment, such as compactors and glass shredders, represents a significant advancement in recycling efficiency. This focus on advanced waste management is a core element of the CarbonClear methodology, as it reduces the environmental footprint of each event and promotes a circular economy within the venue.

Similarly, in line with the country’s sustainable mobility policies, the CCCR has introduced an electric transport cart to operate within its facilities. This measure eliminates the need for fossil fuels and reinforces the center’s commitment to reducing pollutant emissions. Electric mobility is a key component for sustainable events, as it significantly reduces the environmental impact of transportation, one of the most challenging sectors in terms of decarbonization.

Green engineering transforms every human action into an opportunity to regenerate the planet.

Engineering applied to responsible water management has also been a priority for the CCCR, which has implemented a flow measurement system to monitor and optimize water use. This project contributes not only to reducing water waste but also ensures the efficient management of this scarce resource, aligning with the CarbonClear methodology strategies that seek to reduce environmental impact at every operational stage.

The ability to integrate sustainable engineering and technological solutions is essential for the future of the events and convention industry. The CCCR, with its strategic approach and adoption of the CarbonClear Events by Heroicamethodology, is proving that it is possible to operate a world-class convention center while protecting the environment. The projects mentioned are concrete examples of how engineering and technology can converge to create a positive impact both in operations and the surrounding environment, consolidating the CCCR as a leader in sustainability.

Christopher Calderón

Project Manager

Costa Rica Convention Center

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Currently, at the Costa Rica Convention Center, there is a growing interest among large companies in organizing sustainable events. However, there is still a long way to go for this commitment to go from an intention to concrete and measurable action.

Often, when we talk about sustainability in events, the focus is on practices like recycling. However, ensuring operational sustainability involves considering new ways to minimize any potential impact. Environmental responsibility requires a comprehensive approach that covers everything from supplier selection to event logistics with actions that neutralize carbon emissions. Therefore, here are key points to consider to move forward on the path to sustainability.

Shared Commitment: Sustainable Suppliers

One of the first critical decisions is to validate and choose suppliers who share our commitment and values around sustainability. By working with suppliers who meet established requirements, companies not only reduce their carbon footprint for their events but also promote a greener supply chain, strengthening their corporate environmental responsibility. It is essential to analyze everything from suppliers of goods used in catering to those providing audiovisual production services. Each supplier should be evaluated not just for their service quality but also for their potential environmental impact when executing events.

The environmental impact of an event does not depend solely on its execution, but on every decision in the supply chain.

Key aspects to validate include Responsible Purchasing Policies, ensuring that suppliers use recyclable, biodegradable, or reusable materials in their products and services. For example, in catering, opting for suppliers who offer menus with locally sourced, organic, and seasonal ingredients can significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with food transportation and production. Additionally, Waste Management policies should be in place, including the reduction, reuse, and recycling of materials. It’s crucial to ask how they manage waste during and after events and ensure they implement methods to minimize waste. Regarding Energy and Emissions, evaluate if they use renewable energy sources and have plans to reduce their carbon emissions. For example, an audiovisual service provider using energy-efficient equipment and electric vehicles for transportation can contribute to event sustainability. Lastly, Supplier Certifications: it is recommended to consider suppliers with recognized sustainability certifications, such as ISO 14001 (environmental management), Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, or Carbon Clear, Carbon Neutral. These certifications indicate a genuine commitment to sustainability.

Added Value in the Selection of Sustainable Suppliers

The location where an event takes place can significantly impact its sustainability. The Costa Rica Convention Center has implemented multiple initiatives that make it a model of sustainability among event venues in the region. Some examples of how it contributes to sustainability goals include:

Eco-Friendly Design and Construction: The CCCR received the Blue Flag Award in the Sustainable Construction category during its construction phase. This achievement was due to the selection of materials and the implementation of construction techniques that minimize environmental impact. Additionally, the building’s design includes bioclimatic architecture, which maximizes energy efficiency by optimizing natural light and ventilation.

Efficient Resource Management: The CCCR has advanced systems for water and energy management. It uses a rainwater harvesting system that is recycled and reused for green area irrigation and general maintenance. Additionally, it implements energy-efficient LED lighting and high-efficiency air conditioning systems, significantly reducing electricity consumption.

Environmental Certifications: These are compliance endorsements. Some examples include the Blue Flag Award, the Sustainable Tourism Certification (CST), and the ongoing effort to obtain ISO 14001 Certification. These certifications demonstrate that the CCCR follows international sustainability standards and practices, showing its commitment to responsible resource management and reducing its carbon footprint.

These certifications and alignment with international standards highlight the Costa Rica Convention Center as an example of sustainability leadership in the event and convention sector. Its comprehensive environmental management approach not only strengthens its reputation as a sustainable event venue but also contributes to positioning Costa Rica as a responsible tourism destination. These types of actions provide added value to the image of the organizing company with green objectives.

Sustainability goes beyond intention; it requires concrete and measurable actions.

Going Beyond the Visible: Neutralizing CO2 Emissions

One of the biggest challenges of any event is managing carbon emissions. These actions focus not only on reducing but also compensating for the carbon emissions generated by the operations carried out during each event.

Some actions provided by the CCCR include:

1. Energy Efficiency
2. Use of Renewable Energies
3. Waste Reduction
4. Reforestation and Conservation Projects
5. Obtaining Carbon Certificates
6. Charging Stations for Electric Vehicles
7. Connection with Public Transport

Commitment to Action

It is crucial for business leaders and event organizers to understand that sustainability is not just a trend but a necessity. We must commit to being transparent and demonstrating that our actions reflect our words. Adopting a sustainable mindset will not only benefit the environment but also position companies as responsible leaders in their sectors.

Being sustainable in event organization is a challenge that requires commitment and action. It goes far beyond symbolic gestures, encompassing every decision made throughout the process. At the Costa Rica Convention Center, we are committed to providing companies, organizers, and attendees with the support they need to feel proud of leaving a positive and sustainable mark through their actions. Together, we can make each event a step toward a greener future.

Sara Acuña Solano

Account Coordinator

Costa Rica Convention Center

Have you ever wondered what is behind a good plate of food that arrives at your table?

Well, behind a good dinner there are countless factors that are directly related to sustainability. It’s not just about good cooking, but about understanding where the ingredients come from, how they are grown, how they are marketed and how they are prepared.

That is what sustainable gastronomy is all about, preparing food with the awareness that this implies, bearing in mind issues such as waste reduction, rational use of resources, sustainable production, promotion of seasonal products and good understanding between producers and consumers.

Here we tell you what the trends for sustainable events in terms of gastronomy are thought in a sustainable way.

What is sustainable gastronomy?

The origin of sustainable gastronomy comes from the declaration of the United Nations (UN), which states that “sustainable gastronomy refers to the promotion of the natural and cultural diversity of the planet, in addition to the promotion and encouragement of environmentally responsible food consumption”.

Other definitions describe it as the way in which balance is maintained in ecosystems, through sustainable practices in the production and consumption of food, which are also typical of each region to promote the local economy.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) promotes initiatives such as the Creative Cities Network, which shares best practices and collaborations in seven creative fields; the use of clean energy in restaurants (use of gas, electricity, or natural gas instead of coal); and communication to the world about the benefits of sustainable gastronomy.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), for its part, promotes ecological, healthy and sustainable diets in different countries around the world.

As with everything that has to do with sustainability, there are three points that cannot be lost sight of: environmental, social, and economic.

Hence, the importance of sustainable gastronomy lies in practices such as buying local and seasonal, planning menus, minimizing food waste, saving water, recycling, and generating less plastic, and introducing more and more organic products.

When is Sustainable Gastronomy Day celebrated?

It was the United Nations General Assembly that proclaimed June 18 as the International Day of Sustainable Gastronomy with the intention of recognizing gastronomy as a cultural expression of the world’s natural and cultural diversity. This also points to the use of seasonal ingredients and products, as well as the preservation of wildlife and culinary traditions.

In 2022 the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) stated that: “Sustainable gastronomy plays a key role in sustainable development. It promotes agricultural development, food security, nutrition, sustainable food production, responsible consumption, and biodiversity conservation”.

This is an important date for many reasons, such as, for example, the fact that, according to FAO data, one third of all food produced is wasted in the world; or that it is predicted that by 2050 there will be a need to feed nearly 9 billion people in the world.

Not for nothing is it recommended to consume local and sustainably produced food. “Because by buying seasonal products we help local businesses to reduce greenhouse gases and the resources used to transport food,” says the institution.

How to have a sustainable kitchen?

Here are 10 tips to join the good practices of responsible gastronomy, or to demand it in your events to those who hire gastronomic services, if it is the case.

• Save energy:

By cooking with pans and pots of a size proportional to the food you intend to prepare, also using utensils that help to cook faster such as the express cooker.

• Avoid waste:

For this, the ideal is to buy only what is necessary for the week or specific event and use leftover fruit, bread, meat, vegetables to cook other dishes.

• Reduce consumption of meat and fish:

by doing so, you not only contribute to the care of the environment, but it is also healthy. To start with, if you have not made a definite decision to give up these foods, it is recommended to leave them aside once a week.

• Consuming local:

by consuming seasonal products from the same region, you are consuming more nutrients and supporting local agriculture, which contributes to economic growth.

• Substitute the use of plastic:

materials such as clay, wood, aluminium, pewter or glass are better options in the kitchen that actually last longer.

• Reduce and reuse water:

for this, the use of water filters, atomizers for faucets and dishwashers are advised. But if you do not have these elements, at least have the option of reusing water in other domestic tasks.

• Prefer cloth napkins:

cloth napkins do not generate waste as paper ones do. There is also the option of having biodegradable paper napkins.

• Minimize the use of household appliances:

if possible, the idea is to prepare that do not involve the use of electrical appliances and thus reduce electricity consumption.

• Have your own vegetable garden:

it is possible to make a home vegetable garden with different food waste. To do so, all that is required is a container with a layer of straw, garden waste, food waste and watering with water.

• Do not throw the oil in the dishwasher:

this can greatly contaminate the water or cause clogging in the pipes. Leftover oil can be put to other uses.

Sustainable gastronomy at the Costa Rica Convention Center

According to a study by the University of Costa Rica, in this country efforts to develop this type of gastronomy were concerted in the National Plan for Sustainable and Healthy Costa Rican Gastronomy created in 2014.

Two years later, this university, through the School of Nutrition, adhered to said plan and promotes it in conjunction with the Costa Rican Chamber of Restaurants and 50 other organizations in this country.

“In recent times, the importance of linking people’s food practices with culture, the environment and sustainability has become evident, hence a more comprehensive view of gastronomy as a set of knowledge and practices aimed at deepening the ingredients or food resources, their maximum use, preparation techniques, moments of consumption and nutrition,” says Patricia Sedó Masis, M.Sc. nutritionist of this institution.

And undoubtedly, tourism in Costa Rica promotes local and economic development, as well as sustainable gastronomic practices that are already part of our culture.

More and more restaurants, bars, lodging services and event venues are applying the good practices of sustainable gastronomy, by using local ingredients in their menus, making fresher food combinations, buying from local farmers, among other issues.

This is the case of the Costa Rica Convention Center, a place accredited as a Safe Kitchen that uses one hundred percent natural products, innovative local and international techniques for the preparation and presentation of its dishes, and a first-class kitchen.

In this place, both organizers and guests will live a memorable experience that is designed from the design of the menu, through a wide variety of options, to the experience of a commitment to sustainability that is breathed with every bite.

As part of the organizational principles at the CCCR we ensure the correct use and treatment of waste generated in each of the events.

Since its opening, the CCCR adheres to the National Recycling Strategy that consists of the separation and labelling of solid waste. It is hand in hand with social organizations such as Yo Hago El Cambio that makes possible an alliance that provides a service of treatment and recycling of materials such as plastic, glass, paper, cardboard, and electronics in our facilities.

From January to June 2018, a total of 1924.5 kilos of recyclable material was treated: in detail:

425 kilos of organics (23.49% food); 171.5 kilos and 0.5 kilos of packaging (8.91% plastic and 0.03% Tetra pack, respectively); 6 kilos of aluminium (0.31% cans); 854 kilos of paper and cardboard (44.40% cardboard tied in bales); 440 kilos of glass (22.86% bottles).

Guided tours: unique experiences for our visitors

The CCCR has opened its doors and developed unique experiences for our visitors to learn about our areas and share information about the main sustainable features of the Center.

Recently we had visits from students from schools and universities such as Colegio de Bagaces, Universidad Nacional, Universidad Técnica Nacional, and Universidad de Costa Rica, with whom we shared a guided tour showing the benefits of the site.

Seeking to achieve quality and an eco-friendly performance with the environment, the Costa Rica Convention Center has set out to guarantee maximum sustainability in the development of each of its events.

The CCCR has custom-designed spaces and a bioclimatic architecture that seeks primarily to protect and make the best use of available resources, in order to offer the best experience to customers.

Spaces that take advantage of natural lighting, sunlight diffusers and adequate management of rainwater for irrigation are part of the bioclimatic architectural proposal that encloses the facility.

In addition, a large green area surrounded by lush vegetation that helps purify the air and reduce static electricity, makes the Center a natural place with unique Costa Rican beauty.

In addition to the above and with the intention of offering a system that allows the use of renewable energy, the CCCR has in each area internal and external LED lighting; water treatment plant with a capacity of 400 m³ of water per day; faucets with automatic closing, by mechanical means or by motion sensors, for maximum use of water resources.

In addition, reflective roofs, walls, and sunshades that mitigate solar heating and allow air conditioning equipment to work at the lowest possible level; high-tech air conditioning with energy-saving systems that operate in specific areas; motion sensors to turn lights on and off; and solid and liquid waste management, among others.