Ottawa Tourism launches Responsible Events Guide
Ottawa Tourism has launched its Responsible Events Guide, a resource designed to help event planners make more sustainable, inclusive, and community-minded choices when hosting meetings and events in Canada’s capital. The guide will be officially showcased during IMEX Frankfurt, 20–22 May.
“This guide reflects Ottawa’s dedication to creating meaningful change within the meetings and events industry,” said Lesley Pincombe, vice-president, business and major events at Ottawa Tourism. “By offering tangible tools and local partnerships, we aim to make it easier for planners to align their events with sustainable values and leave a positive legacy in our city.”
A signatory of the Sustainable Tourism 2030 Pledge, Ottawa Tourism says it developed this guide to inspire organisers at all stages of their sustainability journey. Highlights and recommendation from the Responsible Events Guide include:
A Planning Decision Tree to identify impactful changes throughout the event lifecycle – from signage and delegate kits to catering and décor.
Sustainable menu planning, with guidance on incorporating plant-based options, sourcing local and seasonal ingredients, and tracking meal attendance to minimise food waste. Tips include choosing smaller buffet plates to reduce over-serving and hosting events at venues that support food recovery.
Details on Ottawa’s À la Carte Food Recovery Programme – Canada’s first destination-led food recovery initiative – developed in partnership with La Tablée des Chefs. Planners can host their event at a food recovery partner venue or donate a symbolic ‘fourth course’ to support organisations addressing food insecurity, like The Ottawa Mission and Shepherds of Good Hope.
Accessibility recommendations, including collaborating with partners like Abilities Ottawa and Whimble Care.
Connections to local social impact programmes, such as hosting Indigenous Markets or contributing to community tree-planting and educational initiatives through Forêt Capitale Forest.
Ideas for waste reduction through circular practices – such as letting delegates opt out of receiving swag, using Ottawa’s ‘Lend-a-Lanyard’ programme, and prioritising recyclable signage or digital alternatives.
Design ideas for lower-impact special events, such as replacing cut flowers with live plants that can be donated and choosing upcycled furniture from local suppliers.
A Donations Directory and Group Volunteer Options, helping planners connect with a variety of local charities and community organisations.
Storytelling strategies that help planners communicate their sustainability initiatives before, during, and after the event. From ‘know-before-you-go’ emailers and on-site signage to post-event recaps, the guide helps organisers embed authenticity and transparency into their messaging.
The Responsible Events Guide is available for download at ottawatourism.ca/en/meetings/oh-to-ah
