In recent years, sustainability has become a key focus for businesses and organizations across various industries. For the rapidly growing event management sector in Bangladesh, ensuring environmental and social responsibility is increasingly important. ISO 20121:2012 certification provides a globally recognized framework to help organizations manage events in a sustainable manner, minimizing environmental impacts and promoting positive social and economic outcomes.
This blog will explore the significance of ISO 20121:2012 certification in Bangladesh, its benefits, and how organizations can begin the certification journey with B-ADVANCY Certification Limited.
What is ISO 20121:2012 Certification and Why is it Important?
ISO 20121:2012 is an international standard for sustainable event management that provides a framework for organizing events with minimal environmental, social, and economic impacts. This standard helps event organizers embed sustainability into the planning, execution, and evaluation phases of events.
In Bangladesh, where the event management industry is rapidly growing—particularly in sectors like corporate conferences, tourism, cultural events, and sports—adopting sustainable practices is crucial. ISO 20121 certification demonstrates an organization’s commitment to sustainability, helping event organizers meet global expectations, reduce environmental footprints, and contribute positively to local communities.
Key Features of ISO 20121:2012
Sustainable Event Management System (SEMS)
ISO 20121 emphasizes a management system approach to sustainability in events. The standard offers a framework for establishing, implementing, and continually improving a Sustainable Event Management System (SEMS), ensuring that environmental, social, and economic aspects are carefully considered.
Holistic Sustainability
ISO 20121 goes beyond environmental concerns by addressing broader sustainability issues, including community engagement, resource management, and financial performance. It helps organizations deliver events that leave a positive legacy while minimizing any negative impacts.
Integration with Other Standards
ISO 20121 can be integrated with existing management systems, such as ISO 9001 for quality management or ISO 14001 for environmental management. This integration helps event organizers streamline their processes and build a more cohesive management approach.
Stakeholder Engagement
The standard encourages active participation from all stakeholders, including clients, suppliers, and the local community, ensuring that sustainability goals are shared and supported by everyone involved in event planning and delivery.
Benefits of ISO 20121:2012 Certification in Bangladesh
Reduced Environmental Impact
ISO 20121 certification helps event organizers in Bangladesh reduce their environmental footprint by promoting efficient use of resources, waste minimization, and carbon emission reduction. This is particularly important as environmental challenges, such as pollution and resource scarcity, continue to grow.
Social Responsibility and Community Engagement
The certification encourages event planners to engage with local communities, promoting social inclusion and ensuring that events leave a positive impact. In Bangladesh, where community development is a national priority, ISO 20121 supports the organization of socially responsible events.
Financial Efficiency and Risk Management
By adopting sustainable practices, event organizers can reduce operational costs through efficient resource use and risk management. ISO 20121 helps identify and mitigate potential risks, such as reputational damage or financial losses, related to unsustainable event practices.
Enhanced Reputation and Competitive Advantage
In an increasingly eco-conscious world, ISO 20121 certification enhances an organization’s reputation as a leader in sustainability. This competitive edge can help event organizers attract more clients, sponsors, and participants who value responsible business practices.
Compliance with Local and International Regulations
ISO 20121 aligns with global sustainability standards, helping organizations meet international expectations. In Bangladesh, where government policies are increasingly supporting sustainable development, certification ensures compliance with both local regulations and global standards.
Bangladesh’s Policies and Government Support for ISO Certification
In Bangladesh, sustainability has become a national priority, with the government promoting policies that encourage businesses to adopt international standards like ISO 20121. The Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) plays a key role in setting regulatory frameworks and supporting organizations in their journey towards certification.
The government also provides various incentives, including financial support and subsidies, for businesses that pursue ISO certifications. This reflects Bangladesh’s growing commitment to promoting sustainable practices across all industries, including the event management sector.
Steps to Achieve ISO 20121:2012 Certification
Initial Assessment and Gap Analysis
Begin by evaluating your current event management practices against the requirements of ISO 20121:2012. Conduct a gap analysis to identify areas that need improvement, focusing on sustainability in event planning, resource management, and stakeholder engagement.
Develop and Implement a Sustainable Event Management System (SEMS)
Design and implement a SEMS that aligns with ISO 20121’s guidelines. This system should include clear policies, procedures, and objectives for managing sustainability across all stages of event delivery.
Internal Audit and Management Review
Conduct regular internal audits to ensure that your SEMS is effective and meets the certification standards. Management reviews are essential for addressing any issues and driving continuous improvement in sustainable event management.
Select a Certification Body
Choose a reputable certification body, such as B-ADVANCY Certification Limited, to conduct an external audit of your SEMS. Preparing thoroughly for this audit is crucial to achieving ISO 20121 certification. For more information on how to begin your ISO 20121 certification journey, contact B-ADVANCY Certification Limited at bangladesh@b-advancy.com or call +8801612264559.
Achieve Certification and Maintain Continuous Improvement
Upon successful completion of the audit, you will be awarded ISO 20121 certification. Maintaining this certification requires ongoing monitoring, improvement, and adaptation of your SEMS to meet evolving sustainability challenges.
Challenges in Implementing ISO 20121:2012
Complexity of Event Sustainability
Managing the environmental, social, and economic aspects of events can be complex. Organizations need to allocate resources effectively and ensure that their team is trained in sustainable event management practices.
Cost of Certification
While the costs of achieving ISO 20121 certification, including consulting, training, and auditing, may be significant, the long-term benefits—including enhanced reputation, cost savings, and compliance—make it a valuable investment.
Conclusion
ISO 20121:2012 certification offers a comprehensive framework for sustainable event management, helping organizations in Bangladesh deliver environmentally and socially responsible events. With growing demand for sustainability, this certification provides a competitive edge, improves resource efficiency, and supports compliance with local and international regulations. While the certification process may present challenges, the long-term benefits for both businesses and the environment far outweigh the initial efforts.
