Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in Sustainable Events

The idea of sustainability and diversity may not seem related, but they do have a close association in the world of events. In fact, research shows that companies with diverse leadership are 45% more likely to improve market share and achieve above-average financial performance, which often relates to better environmental and social outcomes.

The link between diversity and sustainability

Diversity in teams has a profound impact on sustainability, as it encourages conversation and understanding between different cultures. A diverse team can help with new ideas and ways of thinking, which can in turn help businesses create strategies that reflect their impact on society and the environment. It’s important to remember that diversity is not a tick-box exercise. It helps individuals to feel valued and respected, which can help to create a safe space for people to participate in conversations around sustainability and innovation. In addition, having people from different backgrounds in their company can provide insight into untapped markets. We live in a diverse world, so it’s important that products and services are relatable to all groups. It can also help with becoming an employer of choice, as diversity helps to identify and reduce discrimination, making the company a trustworthy brand for its customers and employees.

Practical steps for inclusion

In order to be an inclusive events business, you need to ensure that you are incorporating inclusive hiring practices, accessible venue design and diverse speaker panels. 

Inclusive hiring practices

This means ensuring opportunities are fair for candidates of all backgrounds:

1. Ensure your job descriptions are inclusive by using gender-neutral language. Remember to focus on the qualifications needed for the job rather than the traits in a person you are looking for. 
2. Ensure the interview is consistent and fair, with clear scoring for all candidates. You should also be sure to ask your candidates if they need additional support for the interview such as virtual interviews.
3. Use a diverse interview panel from different backgrounds to bring well-rounded perspectives and opinions. 

Accessible venue design

This ensures that your physical event space is accessible to everyone, regardless of their ability.

1. Ensure your entrance and exit have ramps, automatic doors and are accessible to those who use a wheelchair. Pathways should also be clear and wide enough for wheelchair access.
2. Make sure there are lift options that are working next to stairs 
3. Toilets should be easily accessed to all. Always ensure disabled toilets are available, too.
4. Make sure the layout of your event is flexible enough for people with different needs. You could survey your attendees to find out the type of needs you will need to consider. 
5. Ensure you offer assistive listening devices and captions during presentations. You may also want to consider using large-print materials and braille for signage and itineraries.

Diverse speaker panels

Diversity on speaker panels has many benefits. Some of these include deeper discussions and relatable viewpoints from a diverse audience.

1. Look for speakers from underrepresented communities and work to build an authentic relationship with those who share your values. 
2. Ensure there is diversity across different areas such as race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation and expertise.
3. Ensure speakers have what they need to deliver their content, such as sign language interpreters.
4. Try to ensure that you provide content with specific guidelines on how to use inclusive language and respectful dialogue to ensure you get the best interaction between the speaker and audience

A great example of diversity are the TED Countdown events. The event uses renewable energy, zero-waste principles, and eco-friendly venues and encourages speakers from underrepresented communities. The speakers come from diverse backgrounds and share different perspectives on sustainability. Read more here.

Long-term impact of promoting diversity and inclusion in sustainable events

A truly sustainable future involves meaningful participation of all members of a community. In an event, it creates an atmosphere of belonging and connection among participants.

There are social benefits to promoting diversity and inclusion in sustainable events, as it can help to break down any barriers and negative stereotypes, as well as encourage unique perspectives which can aid problem-solving.

There are also environmental benefits to this practice that can help to ensure sustainable changes are made across different communities, which results in wider engagement and supports long-term sustainability goals.

Finally, there are economic advantages to be made as it can help to build trust and relationships with consumers through inclusive practices and brand values.

Conclusion

Promoting diversity in sustainable events can help drive innovation and create lasting social, environmental, and economic benefits. It can help to attract diverse audiences which can create a positive social impact across communities. Event organisers will enhance the overall experience for attendees as well as contribute to the goals of sustainability.