What is ISO 20121:2024?

An event sustainability management system suitable for ensuring events leave a positive legacy.

Originally inspired by The London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, with a revision inspired by Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games ISO 20121:2024 is a standard to enable sustainability to be considered at every decision point in the planning of an event.

This resource has been made possible with the support of the following organisations;

 

 

• How did the ISO 20121 revision happen?

  The Chair of the ISO 20121 working group provided an update on the progress of revision in June 2023.

  If you would like to buy the standard ISO 20121:2024 Event Sustainability Management System, click on the link below which will take you to the BSI website where you can search and make your purchase.

  ACCESS THE BSI WEBINAR

  The ISO/TC 250 web page provides an overview of the standard and its development activity.

• Learn about the opportunity for the global event sector when ISO 20121:2024 launches before the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games

  This content was recorded during the revision period of ISO 20121 in 2023. The ISO/TC 250 web page provides an overview of the standard and its development activity.

  WATCH THE RECORDING HERE

• Are you interested in understanding more about what ISO 20121 means for the future of events and how human engagement happens?

  This 90 minute webinar is a must-watch for:

  • Anyone responsible for delivering events (sport, business or cultural)

  • Part of the supply chain who make events happen

  • Associations whose members represent the event sector

  • National standards bodies ready to contribute to a global sustainability standard

  This content was recorded during the revision period of ISO 20121 in 2023. The ISO/TC 250 web page provides an overview of the standard and its development activity.

  ACCESS THE WEBINAR HERE

• Learn about ISO 20121 and climate change

  There are many resources on the Race to Zero , we would recommend you watch this animation first

  The Race to Zero 5th P (Persuade) Handbook is a practical guide designed to help non-state actors—such as businesses, cities, universities, and NGOs—effectively align their advocacy, policy influence, and stakeholder engagement with ambitious net-zero goals, supporting a just and science-based transition

  Watch this animation to explain more about the 5th P

  https://climatechampions.unfccc.int/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Race-to-Zero-5th-P-Persuade-Handbook.pdf

  Additionally these videos will further help your understanding:

  • Interview with Tessa Vincent and Fiona Pelham on the Race to Zero and ISO 20121

  • How can association events have a positive impact in 2022? - In collaboration with CAFA

  • Interview with Chhaya Kapilashrami UNCCC on ISO20121 and COP

  To join the Race to Zero and receive free resources from the accelerator for events. Click here

• Learn about how human rights considerations can be advanced with ISO 20121:2024

  This 90 minute webinar is a must-watch for:

  • Anyone responsible for delivering events (sport, business or cultural)

  • Anyone part of the supply chain who make events happen

  • Associations whose members represent the event sector

  • National standards bodies ready to contribute to a global sustainability standard

  ACCESS THE WEBINAR

  WATCH THIS ANIMATION ON UNDERSTANDING GUIDANCE FOR HUMAN AND CHILD RIGHTS AND SAFEGUARDING
  
  

• Learn about how SMEs are implementing ISO 20121

  During the revision of ISO 20121:2024 a number of organisations, including small to medium enterprises, involved in the supply chain for Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games trialled the standard and provided case studies.

  Pauline Teyssedre from Galis and Romain Riboud from Paris24 talk about examples of SMEs in action on 20121.

  WATCH THE INTERVIEW HERE

• Watch the BSI launch event of the revised ISO 20121:2024

  • Find out how to improve PR, the capacity to attract a larger audience, and significantly cut costs.

  • Hear from high profile individuals, including from the UNFCCC, IOC and Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

  • Understand what increased focus on climate change will mean for users of ISO 20121.

  • Explore how standards can transform sectors and what this means for the sustainable event industry.

  WATCH THE WEBINAR

  WATCH ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS FROM THE WEBINAR

• Are you ready to implement ISO 20121:2024?

  Positive Impact and BSI have collaborated to create the ISO 20121:2024 from Understanding to Implementation online course.

  International best practices play a vital role in driving any successful sustainability strategy. This comprehensive course provides you with the knowledge, tools, and resources to effectively implement ISO 20121:2024 and showcase your leadership in sustainability.
  
  ACCESS COURSE INFORMATION

  ‘‘We chose the BSI and Positive Impact ISO 20121 Implementation course for its combination of credibility, clear and engaging content, and easily accessible materials. If you’re looking for a course that delivers both impact and value, this is the one! ‘‘ The AEMT

• See best practice in action

  Read about practical actions that other have taken and add your own examples!

  EXPLORE BEST PRACTICE HERE

• Join a global online community of event professionals championing sustainability

  As a Positive Impact Ambassador, you have the opportunity to use your voice to create a sustainable event industry. Positive Impact will collaborate with you so you are the first to receive the most credible resources and opportunities for action.

  Watch this short animation to find out more.

  Sign up here

• Buy the ISO 20121:2024 standard

  Visit the BSI website to purchase the standard

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