As organisers of the APRU Global Health Conference 2025, we embraced our theme, Towards Planetary Health Equity: A Global Call for Shared Solutions, not only as an intellectual framework but also as a practical commitment. Addressing planetary health equity requires more than dialogue; it requires modelling behaviours and systems that support a healthier, fairer, and more sustainable world.
This year, we intentionally redesigned the conference experience to reduce environmental impact, promote responsible consumption, and demonstrate that academic gatherings can lead by example. The outcome is a clear reflection of our shared responsibility and collective action.
1. Digital Identification: Eliminating Single-Use Plastics
To reduce the environmental burden of disposable materials, we adopted electronic identification via mobile devices, replacing hundreds of plastic lanyards and name tags.
- Carbon saved: 90 kg CO₂e
- Equity impact: promotes accessible, paper-free systems for all participants.
- Planetary health alignment: reduced upstream plastic production and downstream waste.
2. Water Dispensers for a Bottle-Free Conference
Recognising the disproportionate impact of plastic waste on vulnerable communities and ecosystems, we switched from individually bottled water to central water dispensers using paper cups and personal bottles.
- Water served: 1,350 litres
- Carbon saved: 351 kg CO₂e
- Equity impact: reduced waste burden and lower demand for extractive plastic industries.
- Planetary health alignment: reducing single-use plastics supports both environmental and community well-being.
3. Electronic Poster Displays: Knowledge Sharing With Minimal Footprint
To modernise dissemination and reduce waste, all research posters were displayed on electronic screens, replacing printed A0 materials.
- Posters presented: 100
- Carbon saved: 503 kg CO₂e
- Equity impact: equal visibility for all research, including virtual and hybrid presenters.
- Planetary health alignment: less resource use, no waste, and reduced air freight emissions.
4. Pre-Packed Meals to Reduce Food Waste
Food waste contributes to climate change and exacerbates resource inequities. By opting for pre-packed meals, we decreased avoidable surplus while maintaining quality meal service.
- Meals served: 1,350 lunches
- Carbon saved: 459 kg CO₂e
- Additional composting savings: 4 kg CO₂e
- Equity impact: Responsible use of food resources that respects global disparities in food security.
- Planetary health alignment: Lower emissions and reduced methane from waste.
5. Fully Digital Programme and Abstract Books
Instead of distributing printed programme and abstract books, we transitioned entirely to digital materials, reducing paper use and improving accessibility.
- Pages avoided:
- 100-page programme
- 250-page abstract book
- For 420 participants
- Carbon saved: ≈ 832 kg CO₂e
- Equity impact: Ensures equal access to information without cost or waste.
- Planetary health alignment: Conserves natural resources and enhances digital inclusion.
6. Tree Planting for Long-Term Ecological Restoration
In partnership with local environmental organisations, we planted 120 trees to contribute to long-term ecosystem recovery.
- Future sequestration potential: ≈ 24 tonnes CO₂e
- Equity impact: Strengthens local green spaces for communities.
- Planetary health alignment: Supports restoration, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
Total Environmental Impact
Operational carbon emissions avoided (conference measures) ≈ 2.24 tonnes CO₂e
2.24 tonnes of CO₂e is a very meaningful reduction, equivalent to eliminating the emissions of an entire long-haul flight or nearly a year of household electricity for one home.
Future carbon sequestration through tree planting ≈ 24 tonnes CO₂e
These achievements reflect our commitment to hosting a conference that truly advances our theme: building shared solutions that support both people and the planet.
Looking Ahead: Shared Responsibility, Shared Solutions
In pursuing “Towards Planetary Health Equity: A Global Call for Shared Solutions,” we learned that meaningful action requires collaboration across organisers, partners, participants, and service providers. This year’s innovations form a new sustainability baseline for future APRU Global Health Conferences.
Our goal is to continue integrating low-carbon design, digital innovation, and responsible resource management, ensuring that every conference we host is not only academically rigorous but also environmentally just.
Together, we can advance planetary health equity through informed choices that protect ecosystems, reduce emissions, and respect global resource constraints. The APRU Global Health Conference 2025 demonstrates that transformative change is possible, and that we all play a part in shaping a healthier, more sustainable future.
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