ICCA and Destination Canada have unveiled The State of Sustainability in Associations Report, revealing that while global associations increasingly value sustainability, many still struggle to turn commitment into measurable action.
According to the study, 66% of international associations now rate sustainability as very or extremely important, up from 60% in 2023, but consistent implementation remains elusive. Nearly a quarter (24%) still do not calculate their carbon footprint, and 19% outsource measurement rather than building internal expertise.
The report also highlights a “cost paradox”: 63% cite cost as the top barrier to sustainable event planning, yet 46% are willing to pay 5–24% more for sustainable options—suggesting perception, not price, is the true obstacle.
Dr. Senthil Gopinath, CEO of ICCA, said: “Our industry has moved beyond debating whether sustainability matters. The challenge now is transforming aspiration into accountability. This report provides the insight and evidence our community needs to act with purpose and precision.”
Virginie De Visscher, Executive Director, Business Events of Destination Canada, said: “At Destination Canada, we are committed to building a more sustainable business events industry—in Canada and around the world. We’re proud to partner with ICCA on this report, and we hope it empowers associations and destinations alike to turn their sustainability goals into lasting impact.”
The full report is available on iccaworld.org.
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