Sustainability
Our Vision
EURETINA recognizes the urgency of the climate crisis and is committed to integrating environmental responsibility into every aspect of our work. We strive to minimize our carbon footprint, reduce waste, and inspire the community of ophthalmologists, researchers, and industry partners to support a healthier planet. Our efforts will align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
Our Values
- Governance: Sustainability criteria are embedded into EURETINA’s strategic planning and decision-making.
- Events: All EURETINA annual congresses and workshops are designed to be as low-carbon-intensive as possible.
- Partnerships: Collaborate with suppliers, venues and sponsors who share EURETINA’s green values.
- Engagement: Empower members and delegates to adopt sustainable practices at home and at work.
Initiatives
To combine our efforts and bring our vision into reality we are proud to announce our cooperation with EyeSustain.
EyeSustain is a global coalition of eye societies, organizations, and ophthalmologists collaborating to make ophthalmic care and surgery more sustainable.
Key Measures for our Congresses
- Travel: Encourage rail travel where feasible.
- Catering: Serve locally sourced, seasonal, predominantly vegetarian menus; donate surplus food per safety guidelines.
- Materials & Printing: Reduce production from the outset, eliminate single-use plastics across all congress materials including catering; use environmentally friendly materials for badges and signage; replace print material with digital.
- Venue Selection: Prioritize facilities powered by renewable energy, with efficient waste management and accessible public transport links.
- Exhibition & Stand Build: Reuse modular stand components; avoid disposable carpeting; request minimal packaging.
- Digital First: Offer hybrid participation, host e-posters, online evaluation, digital programme, QR codes for promotion links, and a mobile congress app.
- Measurement & Reporting: Work with sustainability consultants to calculate greenhouse gas emissions, set annual targets and publish progress.