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ISO 20121:2012 Certification | Sustainable Event Management System
ISO 20121:2012 is the internationally recognized standard for Sustainable Event Management, designed to help organizations plan and deliver events that leave a positive legacy while minimizing social, environmental, and economic impacts.
Developed in response to the successful implementation of sustainability practices during the London 2012 Olympic Games, ISO 20121 was built on the foundation of BS 8901. It provides a comprehensive management system framework that helps event organizers integrate sustainability into every stage of event planning and execution.
Whether you’re organizing a small community gathering or a large-scale international event, ISO 20121 enables you to improve resource efficiency, reduce waste, engage stakeholders responsibly, and ensure long-term benefits for the host community and environment.
ISO 20121:2012 Certification – Principles
- Sustainability Across the Event Lifecycle
- Stakeholder Engagement and Community Impact
- Economic Responsibility and Local Support
- Risk Management and Continuous Improvement
- Transparency and Accountability in Decision-Making
- Cultural and Social Inclusion
- Legacy Planning and Positive Impact
ISO 20121:2012 Certification – Benefits
- Reduces Environmental Impact of Events
- Boosts Brand Image Through Sustainability Commitment
- Enhances Stakeholder Trust and Community Relationships
- Improves Operational Efficiency and Cost Management
- Supports Compliance with Green Event Standards
- Encourages Innovation in Sustainable Practices
- Delivers Long-Term Social and Economic Benefits
Why ISO 20121 Certification?
Ensures sustainability throughout event planning and execution
Reduces environmental footprint and waste generation
Builds trust with sponsors, attendees, and local communities
Encourages community participation and stakeholder input
Adds lasting value to the event’s legacy
From music festivals to corporate conferences, ISO 20121 proves your event is planned with purpose, responsibility, and impact.
ISO 9001 Certification (Quality Management System) from Gabriel Registrar
Initial Sustainability Review – Analyze current event planning practices
System Design – Develop a sustainability policy and impact objectives
Implementation – Integrate sustainability into event operations
Internal Assessment – Measure impact and identify improvement areas
Certification Audit – Conducted by Gabriel Registrar
Certification Awarded – Upon successful audit
Continuous Improvement – Annual monitoring and legacy planning
This process transforms event management from traditional planning to a sustainability-driven, strategic approach.
ISO 20121 Certification Cost
Certification cost depends on several key factors:
Event size and complexity
Number of events covered under the system
Level of sustainability integration already in place
Stakeholder and supply chain involvement
Use of internal or external sustainability consultants
Estimated Cost Range:
✔ Small events/teams: $1,000 – $3,500
✔ Mid-size to large events or recurring series: $5,000 – $15,000+While certification requires planning and investment, it delivers substantial returns in credibility, operational savings, sponsor alignment, and long-term community impact. It positions your organization as a leader in responsible event management.
Reasons to Get ISO 20121
Organize environmentally and socially responsible events
Align with corporate sustainability goals and ESG strategies
Meet expectations of eco-conscious attendees and partners
Attract sponsors and media with sustainable credibility
Leave a meaningful legacy while reducing resource consumption
ISO 20121 helps you transform events into platforms for positive change, community engagement, and environmental responsibility.
What is ISO 20121?
ISO 20121 is an international standard for sustainable event management, helping event organizers minimize negative environmental, social, and economic impacts.
Who can apply for ISO 20121?
Event organizers, venues, suppliers, production companies, and any organization involved in event planning and delivery — regardless of size or sector.
How was ISO 20121 developed?
ISO 20121 was inspired by the London 2012 Olympics and evolved from the British Standard BS 8901, designed to support sustainable mega-events and local gatherings alike.
Is ISO 20121 only for large events?
No. ISO 20121 is scalable and can be applied to events of all sizes, including festivals, conferences, exhibitions, and even virtual or hybrid events.
How long does certification take?
Depending on readiness and event complexity, certification typically takes 2 to 6 months, including implementation and audit stages.
ISO 20121 Certification in Dubai
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