Why is social sustainability important in the context of event organization and conferences?

Conferences are seen as a fundamental platform for social discourse, which is why it is essential that social sustainability is also a key element in the organisation of events. A sustainable event is not only about the environment but also about creating equal opportunities and promoting inclusion for all people. This ensures that all participants, regardless of their physical abilities or social status, can fully participate in the programme. As well as increasing the diversity of the audience, this strengthens community building and promotes positive social change.

How does accessibility fit into your overall sustainability strategy at Portfolio Conferences?

It was in 2021 when we took the first important and visible step in our sustainability strategy - starting to measure, count and neutralise our unavoidable emissions for all Portfolio conferences. As part of this, we are trying to reduce the carbon footprint of events more and more each year through different practices. This includes mapping, in-depth process planning, and data collection. In addition to environmental considerations, social sustainability, and more specifically accessibility, has been added to the list of what we believe is a prerequisite for a high quality conference that everyone can enjoy, also in 2021. Our event management strategy is based on the principle of ensuring maximum quality, and the same principle is applied in our sustainability strategy, which would not be complete without accessibility.

In your opinion, what are the benefits of accessibility and social sustainability in events, both for attendees and organizers?

From a participant's point of view, accessibility ensures that everyone can attend events on equal terms, and it also promotes a diverse audience or even a diverse range of performers. From an organiser's point of view, it can play a role in enhancing social responsibility, in addition to the quality mentioned above.

Image source: Valter Berecz / Portfolio

How did the cooperation between Portfolio and Access4you begin? What motivated Portfolio to seek an accessibility certificate for its conferences?

The collaboration was born out of the recognition that there is a growing need for social sustainability and inclusion at events, as accessibility is not only an ethical but also a business imperative. My first personal experience with accessibility was in 2020, when one of our speakers asked a few days before the event if the hotel was accessible. My first thought was that of course it was, as there are lifts, are no levels between the rooms, and access to the stage can be achieved with a little preparation. The only flaw in my thinking was the 2-3 steps to the lobby of the hotel, which is a physical obstacle for a wheelchair user or even an invidual with a sprained ankle, but is not noticeable to the outside observer. This realisation has generated the need to provide real (and preferably positive) information to a speaker or participant in the coming years when asked if we are offering a barrier-free venue.

How has the Access4you Certificate impacted the perception of your events among attendees, especially those with accessibility needs?

I think that the Certificate can increase the confidence of people with disabilities when it comes to events. The Certificate is a guarantee that our conferences are truly accessible and inclusive. We already have many things to worry about on a day-to-day basis, at least access to a building should not be one of them. 

What role do you see accessibility playing in the future of event planning and sustainability?

Based on our experiences, accessibility expectations are constantly increasing and organisations need to adapt to these changes if they want to remain competitive. Ensuring accessibility is not only a social responsibility, it also means business benefit that helps events reach a wider audience.

Is there anything you would like to add about your experience with Access4you or about the importance of social sustainability?

Our partnership with Access4you is not just about getting a certificate; it is a shared commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive future. Social sustainability is not a one-off goal, but an ongoing endeavour.