BEVA Congress shares ‘planet and user-friendly’ initiatives
Registration and event details will be paperless, instead being stored on the Congress App.
The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) has revealed the new sustainability and accessibility approaches it has introduced for this year’s congress.
The organisation has shared a number of initiatives designed to reduce the event’s environmental impact, while simultaneously making it more inclusive and supportive.
Among BEVA’s new sustainability measures is the use of recycled lanyards, which it hopes will cut down on waste without affecting quality. Registration will also be paperless, with delegate schedules, maps and session information stored on the Congress App.
The venue itself, ICC Birmingham, has received accreditation for environmental management. BEVA has sought to re-use as many materials as possible, including rechargeable batteries, event signage and lighting.
It will also be asking exhibitors to use more sustainable exhibitor stands. Exhibitors are encouraged to use energy-efficient designs, with a Sustainable Stand Award offered to the best ideas.
Additionally, BEVA has sought to make the event more inclusive, with a number of accessibility initiatives.
One of the new additions is a video guided tour, which will released the day before the event. The video will be produced to support delegates who might find big events overwhelming, particularly those who are neurodivergent or experience anxiety.
The video will enable delegates to familiarise themselves with the venue, plan their day, and feel more at ease throughout the event.
The exhibition hall will include a Prayer Room, available to support delegates of all faiths. There will also be a Quiet Place, where delegates can take a breather from the event.
The reception area will be offering sunflower lanyards as a discreet way for people with hidden disabilities to signal they may need time or support. Visitors can also pick up optional pronoun stickers, intended to help delegates show respect for each others’ identities.
Rose Tallon, committee chair, said: “Our plan is to deliver the perfect mix of outstanding learning opportunities, together with a lively exhibition hall and exciting socials against a backdrop of sustainability and inclusivity,
“No matter your age, stage or geographic location Congress is your unmissable annual equine veterinary event.”
Image © BEVA
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