In a world increasingly shaped by climate change, net zero events are emerging as both an ethical imperative and a strategic advantage for forward-thinking brands. As global temperatures rise and environmental concerns dominate public discourse, businesses across all industries face mounting pressure to align with sustainability goals, meet regulatory expectations, and engage audiences in authentic, future-oriented ways.
Net zero events—designed to eliminate or fully offset greenhouse gas emissions—offer a tangible pathway to demonstrate environmental leadership while delivering memorable, emotionally resonant experiences. With frameworks like the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) and the net zero carbon events initiative gaining global traction, the events industry is at a pivotal moment where sustainability and innovation must go hand in hand. For organizations committed to ESG excellence, net zero events present an opportunity to not only reduce carbon footprints but also inspire stakeholders and set new standards in immersive brand storytelling.
1. In-Depth Background: Understanding Net Zero
1.1 What does “Net Zero” mean?
“Net Zero” refers to the balance between the amount of greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere and the amount removed or offset. Achieving net zero means that any remaining emissions after reduction efforts are fully neutralized by carbon removal projects, resulting in a net climate impact of zero. This concept has become the cornerstone of global climate strategies in line with the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C, preferably to 1.5°C.
In the context of net zero events, this principle means that all emissions generated by the planning, production, execution, and aftermath of an event—including travel, energy consumption, materials, catering, and waste—are either avoided, drastically reduced, or fully offset. The events industry, which traditionally relies on high-emission activities such as long-distance travel, temporary installations, and energy-intensive venues, faces an urgent need to adapt its practices to meet this global imperative.
Net zero events differ from “green events” or “carbon-neutral events” in their depth and ambition. While green events may focus on general environmental friendliness and carbon-neutral events typically involve offsetting without systemic reduction, net zero events commit to a holistic decarbonization pathway that prioritizes reduction first and uses offsetting only for unavoidable emissions.
One of the key references for net zero events is the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), which provides businesses and organizations with a clearly defined path to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with climate science. The SBTi’s guidelines emphasize the importance of scope 1 (direct emissions), scope 2 (indirect emissions from purchased energy), and scope 3 (all other indirect emissions, including travel and supply chains).
1.2 The “Net Zero Carbon Events” (NZCE) Initiative
The “Net Zero Carbon Events” initiative, launched in 2021 by the Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC) with the support of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), provides a dedicated roadmap for the global events industry to achieve net zero by 2050. This collaborative platform brings together event organizers, venues, destinations, and service providers who are committed to accelerating the transition to net zero events.
The NZCE initiative aims to:
- Achieve a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across the events industry by 2030.
- Reach full net zero status by 2050.
- Establish common methodologies for measuring, reporting, and reducing emissions.
- Foster knowledge-sharing and innovation across the industry.
For stakeholders who wish to lead the transformation toward net zero events, the comprehensive NZCE roadmap offers a structured approach built around eight key action areas:
- Measurement and Reporting
- Venue Energy Management
- Production and Waste Reduction
- Travel and Accommodation
- Food and Beverage Management
- Logistics and Materials
- Carbon Offsetting
- Communication and Engagement
By addressing each of these areas systematically, organizations can develop event strategies that align with international climate goals and reflect a genuine commitment to net zero events.
More information about the initiative is available here: Net Zero Carbon Events.
1.3 The Net Zero Pledge
The Net Zero Pledge is a voluntary commitment made by organizations that align with the NZCE initiative. By signing the pledge, event industry stakeholders commit to a transparent and science-based transition toward net zero events.
Participants in the pledge agree to:
- Publish a decarbonization pathway aligned with the latest climate science.
- Measure, track, and publicly report emissions across scope 1, 2, and 3.
- Collaborate with partners, suppliers, and clients to drive emissions reductions throughout the value chain.
- Deliver progress updates at least every two years to ensure transparency and accountability.
The pledge represents more than just a declaration—it is a structured framework for action that positions participating organizations as proactive leaders in the transition to net zero events. By taking this step, businesses can not only reduce environmental impact but also meet the rising expectations of investors, regulators, employees, and customers who increasingly demand credible sustainability commitments.
The full NZCE Roadmap can be accessed here: NZCE Roadmap PDF.
1.4 The Net Zero Conference: A Global Platform for Sustainable Innovation
The Net Zero Conference is one of the world’s leading events dedicated to advancing sustainability, climate action, and carbon-neutral business practices. Bringing together thought leaders, policymakers, innovators, and industry professionals, the conference serves as a global platform to accelerate the transition towards a net-zero future.
At the heart of the Net Zero Conference is a focus on actionable strategies, real-world case studies, and cutting-edge technologies that drive meaningful environmental impact. From keynote presentations on climate science and renewable energy to interactive workshops on sustainable event planning and immersive storytelling, the conference covers a broad spectrum of topics vital to achieving climate neutrality.
Participants benefit from:
- Access to the latest ESG and sustainability frameworks
- Networking with global sustainability pioneers and green tech leaders
- Insights into how immersive technologies such as fulldome projections, AR, and VR can support carbon reduction strategies
- Practical tools for measuring, reporting, and communicating progress on CO₂ reduction goals
The Net Zero Conference exemplifies how knowledge-sharing, innovation, and collaborative action can reshape industries and set new standards for environmental leadership. By participating, brands not only align with global climate goals but also gain valuable expertise to integrate sustainability into their core business strategies.
For businesses committed to sustainable transformation, the Net Zero Conference is an essential touchpoint to inspire action and drive measurable change.
(Net Zero Conference, Foto by Jonastaff, Founder Drew Shoula)
2. Why Net Zero Events Are Essential
2.1 Addressing the Climate Imperative
As the global urgency to tackle climate change intensifies, net zero events have become essential for organizations aiming to future-proof their operations, reputation, and stakeholder relationships. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), limiting global warming to 1.5°C requires rapid, far-reaching, and unprecedented changes in all sectors of society (IPCC Report). The events industry, with its significant carbon footprint, plays a crucial role in this transformation.
Traditional event formats—reliant on long-haul travel, temporary structures, and energy-intensive venues—are increasingly incompatible with environmental targets. Net zero events offer a solution by systematically reducing and offsetting emissions across the entire event lifecycle.
2.2 Responding to Regulatory and ESG Pressures
One of the strongest drivers for net zero events is the evolving regulatory environment. New laws, such as the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) (CSRD Overview), require transparent disclosure of environmental impacts, including emissions from corporate events.
Simultaneously, investors and financial markets increasingly assess companies based on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. By integrating net zero events into their broader sustainability strategies, businesses not only avoid regulatory risks but also gain access to sustainable financing and bolster their ESG ratings (UN Principles for Responsible Investment).
2.3 Meeting Stakeholder Expectations
Public awareness of climate change is at an all-time high. Consumers, partners, and employees expect companies to take meaningful action rather than engage in superficial “greenwashing.” A 2023 Nielsen study found that over 73% of global consumers would change consumption habits to reduce environmental impact (NielsenIQ Study).
Net zero events serve as powerful symbols of corporate responsibility. By visibly reducing emissions, companies can deepen trust, strengthen brand loyalty, and differentiate themselves in competitive markets.
2.4 Financial and Operational Advantages
While the transition to net zero events involves initial investment—such as selecting sustainable venues, adopting energy-efficient technologies, or rethinking logistics—many businesses find that these costs are offset over time. Reducing travel, minimizing resource waste, and streamlining event production can yield considerable financial savings.
Moreover, companies that adopt net zero events often experience increased media coverage, enhanced reputation, and new partnership opportunities. These intangible benefits can significantly boost overall return on investment.
2.5 Driving Innovation in Event Design and Experience
Net zero events are also catalysts for creativity and innovation. By embracing immersive storytelling through technologies like fulldome projections, virtual reality, and hybrid formats, organizations can create high-impact, low-emission experiences.
The “global events—local travel” approach, as pioneered by Softmachine (Softmachine Sustainable Events), exemplifies this shift. By hosting simultaneous local events with shared immersive content, brands can reduce international flights while maintaining global reach and consistency.
2.6 The Strategic Necessity of Net Zero Events
In summary, net zero events are not optional—they are essential for any organization seeking to remain competitive, credible, and future-ready in an era defined by environmental accountability. By integrating sustainability into every layer of event planning and delivery, companies can align their values with the demands of the 21st century, contributing to meaningful climate action while reaping strategic, reputational, and financial rewards.
Further guidance and resources on sustainable event practices are available from organizations such as the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative and the United Nations Climate Change.
3. How to Achieve Climate-Neutral Events
3.1 Prioritizing Emissions Avoidance
The first and most critical step towards organizing net zero events is to focus on emissions avoidance. This involves making strategic choices that prevent emissions from being generated in the first place. For instance, organizations can reduce or eliminate long-distance travel by adopting decentralized event formats, where content is shared across multiple local hubs rather than flying attendees to a single central location.
Hybrid or virtual components can also play a crucial role in emissions avoidance. According to a report by the Global Destination Sustainability Movement, events that shift to virtual or hybrid formats can reduce their carbon footprint by up to 94%.
(Softmachine’s ‘Think Global – Act Local’ approach helps avoid unnecessary emissions.)
3.2 Reducing Unavoidable Emissions
Even with the best planning, some emissions may be unavoidable. For net zero events, this means implementing reduction strategies wherever possible. This includes:
- Selecting green-certified venues that use renewable energy sources (LEED Certification).
- Choosing local suppliers and sustainable materials to minimize transport emissions.
- Implementing digital signage and reducing printed materials.
- Offering plant-based catering options, as food choices significantly influence the event’s carbon footprint (WWF Sustainable Catering Guide).
3.3 Measuring and Reporting Carbon Impact
Accurate measurement is essential for the credibility of net zero events. Organizers should use standardized carbon calculators to quantify emissions across all scopes (1, 2, and 3). Organizations such as MyClimate and Carbon Footprint Ltd provide tools and services tailored to event-specific carbon assessments.
Public reporting of emissions results, as promoted by the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative, is a growing expectation and can also support transparent ESG reporting.
3.4 Offsetting Remaining Emissions
Once all feasible reduction measures have been applied, remaining emissions can be neutralized through high-quality carbon offset programs. It is important to select credible projects that meet recognized standards such as Gold Standard (goldstandard.org) or Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) (verra.org).
Offsets should be viewed as a last resort, not as a substitute for meaningful reduction. For truly impactful net zero events, the focus must remain on minimizing emissions at the source.
3.5 Embedding Sustainability into Event Design
Sustainability must be integrated into every phase of event planning—not treated as an afterthought. This includes:
- Developing clear sustainability goals from the outset.
- Engaging suppliers and partners that align with environmental values.
- Training event teams on green practices.
- Communicating sustainability initiatives to attendees to inspire behavior change.
Net zero events are most successful when they create not only an environmental impact but also an educational one, empowering participants to act sustainably beyond the event.
3.6 Leveraging Technology and Innovation
Technology is a key enabler of net zero events. Innovations such as:
- Immersive 360° content and fulldome projections.
- Real-time virtual participation.
- AI-driven personalization of hybrid experiences.
These technologies help reduce physical infrastructure needs while delivering memorable, high-engagement experiences. Pioneers like Softmachine demonstrate how immersive storytelling can be merged with sustainable practices to achieve impactful net zero events.
3.7 Building a Roadmap to Net Zero
To ensure consistency and accountability, organizations should develop a clear sustainability roadmap for their events portfolio. This includes:
- Setting science-based emissions reduction targets.
- Annual evaluation and progress tracking.
- Transparent reporting aligned with global frameworks such as the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) (TCFD Overview).
By embedding these practices, net zero events can evolve from isolated projects to core business strategies, contributing to long-term sustainability leadership.
Further guidance on how to develop a net zero strategy for events can be found through organizations such as Event Greening Forum and the Sustainable Event Alliance.
4. Immersive Technologies as Enablers of Net Zero Events
4.1 The Role of Immersion in Reducing Environmental Impact
Immersive technologies such as 360° projections, fulldome environments, and extended reality (XR) offer a unique opportunity to reduce the environmental footprint of events while enhancing audience engagement. By shifting from physical setups to digital, sensory-rich experiences, organizations can minimize logistics, transport, and material waste—core factors contributing to the emissions profile of traditional events.
Net zero events can benefit significantly from immersive formats that replace physical displays, elaborate set designs, and printed materials. Instead, high-impact storytelling is delivered through projection mapping, interactive VR, or immersive domes, which can be deployed in local hubs with minimal physical infrastructure.
4.2 The “Global Events—Local Travel” Approach
The “global events—local travel” strategy, exemplified by Softmachine, demonstrates how decentralized immersive events can maintain global brand coherence while drastically reducing emissions. Instead of flying hundreds of attendees to a single destination, the event content is shared simultaneously in local venues, using immersive technologies to create identical, high-quality experiences across multiple geographies.
This model is ideal for:
- Product launches
- Internal conferences
- Customer engagement events
By embracing this decentralized model, companies can achieve true net zero events without compromising on reach or emotional impact.
4.3 Virtual and Hybrid Event Innovations
The acceleration of virtual and hybrid events during the COVID-19 pandemic has laid the groundwork for sustainable transformation in the event sector. Tools such as Hopin, vFairs, and ON24 enable interactive online experiences that replicate key aspects of in-person events while reducing carbon emissions.
Incorporating immersive features such as 3D environments, real-time networking, and digital showrooms into virtual events helps maintain engagement levels, making them an effective pillar of net zero event strategies.
4.4 Enhancing Storytelling with Sustainable Technology
One of the most powerful advantages of immersive technology in net zero events is its capacity for impactful storytelling. Brands can communicate sustainability messages not only through what they say, but through the very medium of the event itself.
Examples include:
- Interactive sustainability journeys inside fulldomes.
- Augmented reality experiences highlighting product lifecycles or carbon footprints.
- Immersive soundscapes reinforcing environmental themes.
Studies by EventMB have shown that immersive content leads to higher retention rates and emotional connection—key factors for delivering purpose-driven messaging.
4.5 Measuring the Digital Footprint
Although immersive and virtual formats significantly reduce emissions, it is essential to measure their own digital carbon footprint. Streaming, cloud computing, and VR applications consume energy and should be powered by renewable sources wherever possible.
Tools such as:
- Carbon Trust
- Greenspector
can help assess and optimize the carbon impact of digital events, ensuring that net zero events remain truly sustainable across all dimensions.
4.6 Conclusion: Technology as a Catalyst for Net Zero Events
Immersive technologies are no longer just “nice-to-have” features—they are becoming central pillars of future-proof, net zero events. By combining technological innovation with strategic sustainability planning, organizations can:
- Achieve significant emissions reductions.
- Deliver powerful, memorable experiences.
- Position themselves as responsible, forward-thinking leaders in their industries.
The transition to immersive net zero events is an opportunity not only to mitigate environmental impact but also to redefine how brands connect with audiences in the digital age.
5. Best Practices and Key Conferences for Net Zero Events
5.1 Learning from Industry Pioneers
To successfully implement net zero events, organizations can draw inspiration from pioneering brands and case studies that have already integrated sustainability into their event strategies. For example, the “Earth Aid Live” concert series, a globally coordinated set of climate-conscious performances, showcases how entertainment and sustainability can go hand in hand (The Guardian).
Similarly, the Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle has become a model venue for environmentally responsible events by achieving zero-waste status, powered by 100% renewable energy (Vox).
Another powerful example comes from the music industry: the iconic band Massive Attack has taken a leadership role in rethinking the carbon footprint of live music tours. Collaborating with researchers from the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research, Massive Attack developed a detailed roadmap to drastically reduce emissions from touring, including changes to travel, venue energy use, and audience engagement (The Guardian). Their approach demonstrates how creative industries can become catalysts for sustainable transformation—a valuable lesson for organizers of all types of net zero events.
(Massive Attack in St. Petersburg, Foto: Платонова Алина, Wikimedia)
These examples provide practical benchmarks for companies looking to embed sustainability at the core of their event planning.
5.2 Building a Community of Practice
Achieving net zero events is not a solitary journey. It requires collaboration across sectors and disciplines. Platforms such as the Sustainable Event Alliance (SEA) and the Event Greening Forum (EGF) foster knowledge-sharing and help event professionals align their strategies with global climate goals.
Joining these communities enables organizations to:
- Exchange sustainability insights.
- Benchmark performance.
- Stay informed about emerging tools and technologies that support net zero events.
5.3 Amplifying Impact Through Communication
Communicating sustainability efforts transparently is vital for the success of net zero events. Attendees, sponsors, and the media are increasingly interested in the environmental impact of events. Clear communication around carbon reduction measures, offsetting choices, and the overall sustainability vision strengthens credibility and brand trust.
Effective communication can include:
- Pre-event messaging about sustainability goals.
- On-site signage and digital displays explaining eco-friendly choices.
- Post-event reports highlighting achievements and next steps.
Resources from the UN Climate Change Communication Toolkit (UNFCCC Toolkit) can support the development of impactful narratives for net zero events.
6. The Softmachine Approach: Sustainable Immersive Events
In the journey towards net zero events, Softmachine offers a distinctive and actionable approach that merges sustainability with immersive storytelling. At the heart of this vision lies the “Global Events – Local Travel” concept, which aims to radically reduce carbon emissions by decentralizing events while maintaining high-quality, emotionally engaging brand experiences.
6.1 The “Global Events – Local Travel” Concept
The principle is simple yet powerful: instead of flying global audiences to a single flagship venue, Softmachine enables brands to deliver simultaneous immersive experiences across multiple local markets using:
- Science centers
- Planetariums
- Mobile dome environments
By activating these existing local infrastructures, companies can cut down significantly on international and domestic flights—one of the largest contributors to event-related emissions.
Learn more: Softmachine Sustainable Events
6.2 Minimizing Travel-Related Emissions
The travel footprint of traditional corporate events, particularly large-scale conferences and product launches, is often immense. By embracing immersive local event formats, brands can:
- Reduce emissions from attendee travel.
- Limit the need for large-scale logistics and freight.
- Support local economies while reducing environmental impact.
6.3 Delivering Premium Immersive Experiences
Softmachine’s immersive event technology, including fulldome cinema and 360° storytelling, allows companies to:
- Present complex messages in a visually captivating way.
- Offer interactive and memorable brand touchpoints.
- Scale experiences globally without scaling emissions.
This ensures that sustainability does not come at the expense of creativity or audience engagement.
6.4 Maintaining Global Consistency Through Shared Content
One of the challenges of decentralized events is maintaining brand and content consistency. Softmachine addresses this by developing shared immersive content that can be deployed across all event locations:
- Uniform messaging and visuals
- Scalable technical deployment
- Tailored moderation for local audiences
This consistency ensures that key narratives and brand values are communicated clearly, while the environmental impact remains minimal.
6.5 A Blueprint for Sustainable Brand Leadership
The Softmachine model offers brands not only a path to reducing their environmental footprint but also an opportunity to:
- Position themselves as sustainability leaders.
- Create impactful narratives that align with ESG objectives.
- Deliver unforgettable experiences that resonate with increasingly eco-conscious audiences.
By choosing immersive, localized, and sustainable event formats, organizations can meet the demands of the climate-conscious era while maximizing both reach and impact.
Discover how this approach can transform your next event: Softmachine Sustainable Events
6.6 Leveraging Iconic Architectures for Sustainable Impact
An often-overlooked but highly effective aspect of sustainable event design is the use of iconic architectural venues—such as planetariums, historic theaters, and science centers—that already possess a strong aesthetic and symbolic presence. These locations:
- Provide immediate imagery and emotional resonance for audiences without the ecological costs of constructing temporary or bespoke venues.
- Enable powerful brand storytelling by embedding immersive experiences within culturally or architecturally significant spaces.
- Avoid the need for high-emission temporary builds, saving both materials and carbon output.
By creatively reimagining existing iconic venues, brands can achieve maximum experiential impact while aligning with sustainability goals.
7. Conclusion
The transition to sustainable events is no longer optional—it is a business imperative in the face of accelerating climate change, evolving regulations, and shifting stakeholder expectations. Organizations that act now have the chance not only to reduce their environmental impact but also to lead the way in responsible innovation and brand transformation.
Throughout this guide, we have explored how net zero events enable companies to:
- Minimize carbon emissions through strategic design, immersive technologies, and decentralized formats.
- Leverage best practices and global partnerships to align with international sustainability standards.
- Communicate transparently and authentically, building trust with clients, partners, and wider society.
Sustainability and innovation are two sides of the same coin. The use of immersive storytelling, hybrid platforms, and localized experiences demonstrates that environme
FAQ: What are net zero events?
What does “Net Zero Events” mean?
Net zero events refer to events where all greenhouse gas emissions are reduced as much as possible and any unavoidable emissions are fully offset. Net Zero Events aim to achieve climate neutrality in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement, making them a key part of sustainable event strategies.
How do Net Zero Events differ from green or carbon-neutral events?
Net Zero Events go beyond traditional green or carbon-neutral events by focusing first on the reduction of emissions before considering compensation. Unlike events that rely solely on offsetting, Net Zero Events follow a science-based approach to achieve genuine sustainability.
What strategies does SOFTMACHINE recommend for Net Zero Events?
To successfully implement Net Zero Events, SOFTMACHINE recommends using local venues such as planetariums, mobile CO₂-neutral Fulldome domes like the GreenDome, renewable energy solutions, low-emission logistics, and immersive storytelling that aligns with the sustainability goals of Net Zero Events.
What are the business benefits of organizing Net Zero Events?
Net Zero Events help companies enhance their ESG positioning, meet increasing regulatory demands, and strengthen their brand image by demonstrating environmental responsibility. Additionally, Net Zero Events can reduce costs through smarter resource management and create lasting impact through innovative experiences.
How can immersive technologies help achieve Net Zero Events?
Immersive technologies help achieve Net Zero Events by replacing physical materials and reducing travel through VR, AR, and Fulldome experiences. Following a “Think Global, Act Local” approach, Net Zero Events use iconic local venues like planetariums or mobile domes to deliver impactful stories with minimal travel emissions.
What is the difference between a Net Zero Event and the Net Zero Conference?
Net zero events refer to any event designed to reduce and offset greenhouse gas emissions to achieve climate neutrality, regardless of the event’s theme or industry. In contrast, the Net Zero Conference is a specific annual event dedicated to sustainability, climate action, and environmental innovation. While the Net Zero Conference focuses on the content of sustainability, Net Zero Events apply sustainable practices to the way any event is planned, produced, and executed.
How does the “Think Global, Act Local” concept support Net Zero Events?
The “Think Global, Act Local” approach supports Net Zero Events by encouraging organizers to create globally relevant experiences while minimizing environmental impact through local execution. By using iconic regional venues such as planetariums, science centers, and Fulldome theaters, Net Zero Events can avoid unnecessary travel, reduce logistics emissions, and still deliver immersive, high-quality storytelling. This strategy combines sustainability with memorable settings, making Net Zero Events both impactful and environmentally responsible.