Greener Days – our mission continues
Vision and Mission
At ESGE, recognising our collaborative responsibility to protecting our environment, we are committed to developing and nurturing an evolving sustainability vision throughout all our initiatives. We look to our partners and all stakeholders to support our efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of ESGE Days – together we can achieve so much more.
Initial Steps and Milestones
- In July 2022 ESGE and ESGENA published a Position Statement, Reducing the environmental footprint of gastrointestinal endoscopy, which provided guidance for HCPs working in our medical field.
- ESGE launched a Green Endoscopy Working Group to continue this valuable work.
- Science: Green endoscopy pathways are incorporated throughout the scientific programme at ESGE Days events
- ESGE Days 2023: Carbon Removal Project: 600 indigenous trees were planted on protected land in Ireland to offset 12085.35kg CO2 in collaboration with GrownForest.
- Minimizing the adverse effects of events on our environment and society is both intricate and demanding, therefore we were especially proud that we fulfilled the requirements entitling us to use the Sustainable Meetings Supporter Patch for ESGE Days 2024 by visitBerlin!
- In 2024, 10% of ESGE Days delegates opted to donate to myclimate protection projects. ESGE went on to match their contribution. myclimate protection projects are reducing emissions in developing and emerging countries. The projects meet the highest standards, such as the Gold Standard in the field of energy, or Plan Vivo or VCS in the area of land usage, and contribute to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). myclimate projects not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also contribute to the social, ecological and economic development in the region. Examples of projects supported by myclimate include «Clean Drinking Water for Schools» in Uganda, «Solar Energy for Education and Jobs» in Tanzania, «Small-Scale Farmers Reforest Forests in Uganda», amongst others.
- For ESGE Days 2025 we will be continuing our efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of our event including:
- Minimising distribution of give-aways - No congress bags, flyers,etc.
- Offering 100% vegetarian catering and actively sourcing regional products while minimsing packaging as much as possible
- Maximising the use of digital signage
- Limiting the amount of carpeting laid in the exhibition and public areas
- Promoting sustainable travel to our staff, faculty and delegates including the distirbution of public transport tickets to all delegates and negotiating a special event discount with the train provider Renfe which offers an extensive network of train routes to Barcelona
- Implementing a waste disposal concept at CCIB
- Partnering with service providers with recognised sustainability policies including the CCIB
- Scientific Programme Committee meetings are held online or in conjunction with the annual meeting
- The annual event is a hybrid event offering delegates the option to participate online
Your role as ESGE Delegate
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For ESGE Days 2025, we have once again included the option to donate to selected climate projects via the registration process. As for 2024, ESGE pledges to double every donation made. We hope that many more delegates will make use of this option – it is an easy and small step but its impact will make a difference to lives and the environment.
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Our commitment to a healthier, climate-friendly approach to catering is rooted in our sustainability strategy. To achieve the goals set for the 2025 Congress, we are collaborating closely with the CCIB caterers and will offer a 100% vegetarian menu to our delegates during the conference.
The CCIB is the first Convention Center in Europe to obtain the Food Safety System Certification ISO 22000. Moreover, the CCIB remains highly committed to the environment and their F&B services integrate various sustainable solutions:
- The material used is reusable or disposable, being 100% eco-friendly, biodegradable or compostable.
- The products used are sourced from local and/or national suppliers.
- The cleaning products used in the kitchen are eco-friendly.
- CCIB segregate all waste generated (paper, plastic, glass, metal and organic).
- CCIB donate food surplus from the events that meet the regulations to non-profit associations in the surrounding area.
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The water supply of the city of Barcelona mainly comes from three main sources: underground springs, the Llobregat River, and the Ter River. These water resources undergo a strict treatment process to ensure their quality and safety before reaching homes and businesses. In the past, Barcelona has experienced intermittent water scarcity and, in some cases drought. In response to the water crisis exacerbated by climate change, Barcelona has implemented innovative solutions such as reservoirs, aqueducts, and desalination plants to enhance its water supply.
Currently, there are no water restrictions in place in Barcelona. We aim to review the situation on a regular basis and to keep our delegates informed should any restrictions be implemented.
At ESGE, we want to emphasize the importance of preserving and caring for water and to support our host city in their conservation efforts. Adopting measures for water conservation and efficient use is essential to mitigate the effects of drought and ensure the availability of water for future generations. Small gestures like turning off the tap when not in use, prioritizing the use of the shower, using dual flush toilets, and using a glass for brushing teeth are some of the sustainable practices we can adopt in our daily lives.
At CCIB, we will also install several water stations during ESGE Days 2025. Participants are encouraged to bring reusable bottles and refill them at the dedicated water stations to cut single-use plastic, and to lessen environmental impacts due to reduced production.
Stay hydrated!
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Rail travel to Barcelona is much more sustainable than flying and the rail service in Spain meets some of the highest standards of comfort and hospitality including typical Spanish cuisine on board some routes. There are numerous international and national train services offering routes to Barcelona from other cities. ESGE delegates are entitled to a special discount on their rail bookings with Renfe and information is provided after registration has been completed.
Within Spain
For all below routes, you can check schedules and book tickets on the Renfe website.
- Madrid to Barcelona:
AVE High-Speed Train: Enjoy a speedy journey of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Perfect for those who want to get to the heart of Catalonia in no time. - Zaragoza to Barcelona:
AVE High-Speed Train: This quick trip takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, making it an easy and convenient way to get to Barcelona. - Valencia to Barcelona: Euromed and Talgo Trains: Travel in style for around 3 to 3.5 hours. An excellent option for beach lovers moving from one beautiful coast to another.
- Alicante to Barcelona:
Euromed and Talgo Trains: Sit back and relax for approximately 4.5 to 5 hours on this scenic route along the Mediterranean coast.
From France
Hop on the high-speed TGV (SNCF) from bustling cities like Paris, Lyon, or Marseille straight to Barcelona! Enjoy comfy seats and picturesque views along the way. Check out SNCF for tickets and schedules.
- Madrid to Barcelona:
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We encourage you to use public transport between the main station, El Prat Airport and the CCIB to reduce carbon emission. Detailed information regarding connections to the CCIB can be found here.
While in Barcelona, you can conveniently navigate the city using its extensive metro and bus network. The TMB (Barcelona Metropolitan Transport) app is a useful tool for planning routes and purchasing tickets.
Fancy a cycle? Barcelona is a bike-friendly city and offers 24/7 bike rentals directly from the street. See Donkey Republic for more information. Simply download the app, unlock your bike and explore the city at your own pace.
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The careful separation of waste in the designated bins onsite at CCIB will help us achieve our collective goal of reducing our environmental impact. Please follow the waste management system which is clearly designated with colourful bins positioned throughout the venue.
Together we will always be able to achieve more.
Disclaimer
Please note that third-party links are provided for general informational purposes only. ESGE does not endorse or assume any responsibility for these external sites, information, materials, products, or services and shall not be liable for any damage or loss arising from your use of these websites. ESGE bears no responsibility for the accuracy, legality, or content of the external websites.
