Sustainable Sporting Spectacle: Hangzhou Asian Games Adopts CBCGDF's Green Meeting Standard

 

In October 2022, the Chun'an venue of the Hangzhou Asian Games adopted the Group Standard of "Green Meeting Standard" (《绿色会议标准》) by China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation (CBCGDF), marking a significant achievement in the quest for a greener Asian Games. The decision to embrace this standard underscores the commitment of the Hangzhou Asian Games to the principles of "greenness, intelligence, thriftiness, and civility," as they strive to not just host an event, but elevate an entire city.

The initiative to implement the Green Action Plan for the Hangzhou Asian Games demonstrates a deep-seated dedication to environmental stewardship. The plan draws heavily from the Green Meeting Standard issued by CBCGDF, an organization renowned for its efforts in biodiversity conservation and green development. This collaborative effort between the Hangzhou Asian Games and CBCGDF highlights the synergy between sporting events and environmental sustainability.

Accordign to the Document released by local government, one of the standout features of these Green Action Plan is the emphasis on green services within the Asian Games venues. Measures such as reducing excessive packaging, plastic products, and disposable items, as well as promoting the use of water-saving cleaning products, underscore a commitment to minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, the adoption of the "borrow instead of buy, rent instead of purchase" principle for equipment in fitness centers, entertainment centers, and other commercial establishments reflects a conscious effort to reduce resource wastage.

Cultural activities during the Asian Games are also set to embrace sustainability, with plans to utilize eco-friendly materials for media village furniture and certain cultural installations, promoting reuse and recycling. Moreover, the implementation of the Green Meeting Standard during conference activities will see a reduction in the use of disposable materials such as flags and balloons, with printed materials transitioning towards electronic formats. Attendees are encouraged to bring their water bottles, further reducing reliance on bottled mineral water.

Beyond these measures, the Green Action Plan encompasses a range of initiatives, including the construction of eco-friendly venues, the development of low-carbon zones, the establishment of biodiversity research hubs, and the provision of green energy in urban areas. These initiatives collectively aim to transform societal production and lifestyle patterns towards sustainability, advancing the ideals of low-carbon circulation and green development, and contributing to the achievement of dual carbon goals.

The Green Meeting Standard, released by CBCGDF in 2021, represents a significant milestone in China's journey towards sustainability. Serving as an upgraded version of the National Group Standard for Green Meetings Index issued in 2019, this standard integrates years of practical experience with the country's dual carbon goals. By promoting green event management, reducing carbon footprints, protecting biodiversity, and fostering climate-friendly practices, the standard seeks to foster a global ecosystem of ecological civilization, building a harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.

Original Chinese report see:

https://www.thepaper.cn/newsDetail_forward_20362608

Article by Laoxia

Translator: Wendy

Editor: Samantha

Contact: v10@cbcgdf.org; +8617319454776

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