Sustainability at Optica Events

Our Commitment to a Greener Future

Optica recognizes the importance of safeguarding our planet for future generations. 

The professional value of networking in person with peers and colleagues is a primary benefit of an Optica Event. However, we also understand that our meetings must be managed conscientiously to minimize their environmental impact. That is why we are dedicated to integrating sustainable practices into every aspect and phase of our events — from selecting a meeting venue to the return freight shipment of equipment.

The Environmental Footprint of this Meeting

Venue Selection

We prioritize event locations with strong commitments to sustainability. Venues are routinely assessed for LEED certification (or equivalent) and host cities for their commitment to renewable energy sources and efficient waste management systems.

• Grand Millennium Auckland has earned the Qualmark Gold Sustainability Award, recognizing its environmental practices through New Zealand’s official tourism quality programme.
• Its parent company, Millennium Hotels and Resorts New Zealand, holds Toitū Carbon Reduce certification for independently measuring and reducing its carbon footprint.
• The hotel focuses on energy efficiency, water conservation, reducing waste and single-use plastics, and supporting local conservation through the Save the Kiwi partnership.

Travel

The selection of an event venue must include consideration of transportation options both to and within the host city. To minimize flight segments, event locations must be served by international airports that offer direct flights from major hubs in Asia, Europe and North America. Optica also assesses the availability and coverage of the host city's mass transit network.

Auckland offers an extensive public transportation network that supports the city’s goal of reducing carbon emissions.

• Electrification of Fleet: Auckland Transport operates fully electric trains and is transitioning its bus fleet to zero-emission vehicles, with electric and hybrid-electric ferries now joining the harbour fleet.
• Encouraging Public Transport: Contactless payment, an integrated network of trains, buses and ferries and the new City Rail Link make it easy for residents and visitors to travel without a car.
• Bike Infrastructure: Expanding cycleways and bike-friendly ferries and trains make cycling a safe and convenient way to get around the city.

Materials

The carbon footprint of an event is heavily impacted by the day-to-day choices made in its operation. Optica Event management follows sustainable meeting practices when possible, and we encourage and influence our partners to do the same. 

• Optica actively works to reduce our carbon footprint through promoting local sourcing for food and materials and offsetting unavoidable emissions through carbon offset programs.
• This congress has prioritized the use of reusable materials whenever possible, from signage and decorations to utensils and serving ware. By minimizing single-use items, we significantly reduce our event's carbon footprint.
• Through online registration, email communications and the event app, we prioritize digital communication channels for event promotion, registration and information, reducing the need for paper materials and minimizing waste.