ClimateSeed, Autonomy 2024's decarbonization partner

The Autonomy Mobility World Expo (AMWE) is recognized as the leading global event dedicated to sustainable urban mobility. Every year, it brings together international decision-makers, institutions, NGOs, as well as innovative companies and startups in the sector.

The event has gradually included decarbonization technologies, such as solar energy, battery storage, and autonomous vehicles. Each edition introduces new themes and innovations in sustainable mobility, with conferences and exhibitions addressing the latest trends and challenges in the industry.

In 2024, ClimateSeed was the decarbonization partner of the Autonomy Mobility World Expo (AMWE). In this context, we present to you the results of the greenhouse gas (GHG) assessment of this edition.

Modular stands

80% of stands were modular with reusable wooden structures. Exhibitors with unfinished stands were strongly encouraged to use local suppliers to minimise the transport of materials.

Sustainable catering

Meals were provided by local caterers with vegetarian options and no red meat options. The annual dinner, which was entirely vegetarian, was prepared by an official caterer to optimise the transport of produce.

Selection of sustainable suppliers

Choice of suppliers based on their commitment to sustainability, with strict criteria on materials and sustainable practices. Carpeting was removed from all aisles and its use on stands was minimised.

Encouraging sustainable mobility

Participants were encouraged to opt for sustainable mobility solutions, such as the use of public transport and other sustainable mobility solutions.

Waste and water management

Installation of water fountains to limit the use of plastic and introduction of waste sorting procedures.

Communication on sustainability

A comprehensive campaign promoted sustainable practices via technical guides, the website, social media and on-site displays.

Measuring Autonomy's carbon footprint

Autonomy worked with ClimateSeed to carry out a comprehensive assessment of its GHG emissions at its annual summit, which took place from 20-21 March 2024. The assessment revealed that total GHG emissions for the event were 527 tCO2e. This is equivalent to approximately 220 return flights between Paris and New York, or 1,146 return journeys by car between Paris and Berlin. The result represents an average emission of 0.2 tCO2e per participant.

Carbon accounting categorises GHG emissions from human activities according to defined limits, taking into account time, organisation and function. The GHG Protocol and the BEGES are widely used for this purpose, mainly for organisation-related emissions, but also for event-related GHG assessments.

ClimateSeed has built its framework using these methodologies as a reference, adhering to their principles with regard to scope, calculations and categorisations, while taking into account event-specific data and reporting requirements.

Details of participants

Participant transport is the largest emitting category with 273 tCO₂e, representing 51.7% of the balance sheet total. Of these emissions, the majority come from short journeys of less than 700 km, which make up 63.9% of the total. Medium-sized journeys, covering distances of 700km to 3,700km, account for 20% of emissions. Emissions linked to travel in France amount to 9.2%, compared with a national average of 7%.

Recommendations

Here are ClimateSeed's recommendations for reducing the carbon footprint of future events:

- Encourage environmentally-friendly modes of transport: To reduce emissions linked to participant travel, it's crucial to implement a proactive communication campaign well in advance of the event. This campaign should inform participants about the various public transport options available. It is also advisable to work with local transportation services to offer discounts or benefits to participants who choose environmentally-friendly modes of transport. Clear communication in advance will help maximize the adoption of these sustainable transportation solutions.

- Reduce the carbon impact of suppliers: To minimize the carbon footprint associated with procurement, it is crucial to give preference to local suppliers. By selecting companies located close to the event, this reduces transport distances while supporting the local economy. This approach helps to limit emissions associated with the movement of goods, and promotes more sustainable logistics. It is also advisable to work with partners who share sustainability values and are committed to eco-responsible practices, thus reinforcing the positive impact of the event.

- Adopt a phygital approach: Offer online access to conferences to reduce the need for physical travel.

- Use reusable materials: It is important to continue to favour the use of sustainable, reusable or rented materials.

- Optimising the catering service: Efforts must be made to reduce meat consumption during meals at the event, and to encourage recycling in order to limit the amount of waste sent to landfill sites.

These actions, although varied, are complementary and all aim to reduce the environmental impact of the Autonomy Mobility World Expo (AMWE).

"Calculating the carbon footprint of the Autonomy event was a valuable opportunity to identify the most significant sources of emissions. The partnership with ClimateSeed has enabled us to better understand the habits of attendees and suppliers, and to work with them to reduce the current and future common footprint."

Adeline Larroque

Sustainable Event expert at Autonomy

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Sustainability initiatives at the Autonomy Mobility World Expo 2024 in Paris