The LICQual ISO 20121:2024 Event Sustainability Management Systems course is a comprehensive training program designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills required to implement, manage, and audit sustainability practices within the events industry. ISO 20121 is the internationally recognized standard that provides a framework for improving the sustainability of events, whether they are large-scale international conferences, music festivals, sporting events, or smaller community gatherings. The 2024 revision of the standard reflects the growing global emphasis on environmental responsibility, social inclusivity, and economic resilience.
This course introduces learners to the principles of sustainable event management, focusing on how organizations can reduce their environmental footprint, promote social responsibility, and ensure long-term economic viability. Participants will explore the lifecycle of events, from planning and procurement to delivery and post-event evaluation, with a strong emphasis on identifying sustainability risks and opportunities at each stage.A key component of the program is the integration of sustainability into core business strategies. Learners will examine how to engage stakeholders, manage supply chains responsibly, and measure sustainability performance using recognized indicators.
The course also emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability, ensuring that organizations can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability to clients, regulators, and the wider public.In addition to technical knowledge, the course develops auditing competence. Learners will be trained to plan, conduct, and report on audits of event sustainability management systems in line with ISO 19011 guidelines. Through case studies and practical exercises, participants will learn how to identify non-conformities, recommend corrective actions, and drive continual improvement.
To ensure learners are well-prepared for the LICQual ISO 20121:2024 Event Sustainability Management Systems course, applicants are expected to meet certain entry requirements. These requirements balance accessibility with the need to ensure participants can successfully engage with sustainability, management, and auditing content.
- Age Requirement Applicants should normally be 18 years of age or older at the time of enrollment. This ensures learners have the maturity, responsibility, and independent study skills required to succeed in a professional-level program. Event sustainability often involves decision-making that affects multiple stakeholders, requiring a level of maturity and professionalism.
- Educational Background A Level 5 qualification (or equivalent) in business, environmental management, event management, or a related field is recommended. Learners with such a background are better positioned to understand the sustainability, governance, and operational aspects of ISO 20121.
- Work Experience No prior work experience is strictly required, making the course accessible to both recent graduates and career changers. However, learners with exposure to event planning, sustainability initiatives, or quality management may find it easier to connect theory with practice. For instance, an event coordinator who has worked on reducing waste at festivals will quickly relate to the sustainability modules, while a corporate CSR officer may already understand stakeholder engagement.
- English Language Proficiency Since the course is delivered in English, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in both written and spoken English. This ensures learners can fully engage with course materials, technical documentation, and assessments. Evidence of prior study in English, equivalent qualifications, or workplace experience in an English-speaking environment may be accepted.
- Professional Interest Applicants should also demonstrate a genuine interest in sustainability, event management, and auditing practices. This may be reflected in their career aspirations, previous studies, or personal motivation.
These entry requirements are designed to ensure that learners are both capable and motivated to succeed. While the course is accessible to a wide range of applicants, those with a background in event management, sustainability, or auditing will find it especially rewarding.
Mandatory Units
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
Introduction to ISO 20121:2024 and Event Sustainability
Upon completion of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Understand the key principles and concepts of sustainability in event management.
- Explain the significance of ISO 20121:2024 in promoting sustainable event practices.
- Identify the core components of the ISO 20121 standard and their relevance to event sustainability.
- Describe how ISO 20121 supports environmental, social, and economic sustainability in the event industry.
ISO 20121:2024 Standard Requirements and Sustainability Criteria
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Interpret and apply the specific clauses and requirements outlined in ISO 20121:2024.
- Understand the sustainability criteria for event management, including environmental, social, and economic considerations.
- Assess how to integrate these sustainability criteria into event planning and execution.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of sustainability measures in various types of events based on ISO 20121 guidelines.
Lead Auditor Role and ISO Audit Process for Event Sustainability
After completing this unit, learners will be able to:
- Define the responsibilities and role of the lead auditor in ISO 20121:2024 event sustainability audits.
- Plan, conduct, and report on sustainability audits for event management systems.
- Gather and analyze evidence to assess compliance with ISO 20121 standards.
- Provide clear and actionable recommendations for improving sustainability practices in event organizations.
Stakeholder Engagement and Communication in Sustainable Event Management
Upon successful completion of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Identify key stakeholders in sustainable event management, including local communities, suppliers, and regulatory bodies.
- Develop strategies for effective stakeholder engagement and communication.
- Understand the importance of collaboration and transparency in ensuring the sustainability of events.
- Implement communication strategies that enhance stakeholder buy-in and foster responsible event practices.
Risk Management and Continuous Improvement in Event Sustainability
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Identify sustainability-related risks in event management, including environmental, social, and economic factors.
- Apply risk management techniques to mitigate potential negative impacts of events.
- Develop strategies for continuous improvement in sustainability practices across events.
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of risk management actions and continuous improvement initiatives in the context of event sustainability.
Performance Evaluation and Reporting for Event Sustainability Management Systems
After completing this unit, learners will be able to:
- Use performance evaluation tools to measure the effectiveness of sustainability practices in event management.
- Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) to track sustainability goals and outcomes.
- Prepare detailed audit reports that assess event sustainability, identify areas for improvement, and propose corrective actions.
- Communicate audit results and sustainability performance to key stakeholders clearly and effectively.
The LICQual ISO 20121:2024 Event Sustainability Management Systems course is designed for professionals who are motivated to create events that are environmentally responsible, socially inclusive, and economically viable. While the program is open to a wide audience, certain groups will benefit most.
Event Managers and Coordinators
- Professionals responsible for planning and delivering events.
- Managers seeking to integrate sustainability into event logistics.
- Coordinators aiming to reduce waste and resource consumption.
- Individuals working in conferences, festivals, or sporting events.
- Professionals tasked with stakeholder engagement during events.
- Event staff aspiring to leadership roles in sustainable event management.
Sustainability and CSR Professionals
- Corporate social responsibility officers managing sustainability programs.
- Sustainability managers in hospitality, tourism, or entertainment sectors.
- Professionals responsible for reporting on environmental and social impact.
- Individuals seeking to align events with organizational sustainability goals.
- Experts aiming to contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
- Professionals committed to building a culture of sustainability.
Internal and External Auditors
- Internal auditors evaluating sustainability practices within organizations.
- External auditors conducting third-party assessments of event systems.
- Professionals seeking to specialize in ISO 20121 auditing.
- Auditors aiming to expand their portfolio beyond ISO 9001 or ISO 14001.
- Individuals interested in leading audit teams for event sustainability.
- Professionals committed to impartial and ethical auditing practices.
Hospitality and Tourism Professionals
- Staff working in hotels, resorts, and venues hosting events.
- Tourism professionals aiming to integrate sustainability into services.
- Venue managers responsible for sustainable operations.
- Professionals seeking to attract eco-conscious clients and audiences.
- Staff aiming to reduce the environmental footprint of hospitality services.
- Individuals aspiring to leadership in sustainable tourism and events.
Consultants and Trainers
- Independent consultants advising organizations on sustainability.
- Trainers delivering ISO-related courses who want to expand expertise.
- Professionals seeking to specialize in event sustainability systems.
- Consultants supporting organizations in certification readiness.
- Advisors helping businesses strengthen governance and ethical practices.
- Trainers preparing the next generation of sustainability professionals.
Career Changers and Aspiring Professionals
- Individuals from related industries seeking new opportunities in sustainability.
- Professionals with auditing experience in other ISO standards.
- Career changers motivated by a commitment to environmental responsibility.
- Learners aiming to enter the event management or sustainability sector.
- Professionals seeking internationally recognized qualifications.
- Individuals aspiring to long-term career growth in sustainable event management.
This course is ideal for learners who are motivated to contribute to sustainable development through the events industry. It provides a pathway for both experienced professionals and newcomers to establish themselves as leaders in sustainable event management.
Completing the LICQual ISO 20121:2024 Event Sustainability Management Systems course opens multiple career and educational pathways. Learners can leverage their new skills to advance professionally, specialize further, or broaden their expertise.
Event Sustainability Leadership
- Work as a sustainability manager in event organizations.
- Lead sustainability initiatives for conferences, festivals, or sporting events.
- Oversee implementation of ISO 20121 across event portfolios.
- Develop sustainability strategies for large-scale international events.
- Engage stakeholders in building sustainable event cultures.
- Gain recognition as a leader in sustainable event management.
Auditing and Compliance Roles
- Work as a certified auditor for ISO 20121 systems.
- Conduct third-party audits for certification bodies.
- Lead internal audit teams within event organizations.
- Provide consultancy on ISO 20121 compliance.
- Develop audit programs for global event organizations.
- Gain recognition as an expert in sustainability auditing.
Advanced Sustainability Training
- Progress to ISO 14001 Management Systems training.
- Explore ISO 26000 Social Responsibility guidance.
- Specialize in carbon footprint measurement and reporting.
- Gain expertise in circular economy practices.
- Attend advanced training in sustainable supply chain management.
- Build a portfolio of multi-standard sustainability expertise.
Consultancy and Independent Practice
- Establish a consultancy specializing in sustainable events.
- Support organizations in preparing for ISO 20121 certification.
- Deliver training programs for event professionals.
- Provide expert advice on reducing environmental impact.
- Develop sustainability frameworks for emerging markets.
- Build a reputation as a trusted
Academic and Research Opportunities
- Contribute to research on sustainable event management.
- Collaborate with universities on sustainability innovations.
- Publish papers on ISO 20121 auditing methodologies.
- Mentor students in event sustainability programs.
- Engage in international conferences on sustainability.
- Influence future revisions of ISO standards.
International Career Opportunities
- Work with multinational corporations hosting global events.
- Join international NGOs focused on sustainability initiatives.
- Collaborate with global certification and accreditation bodies.
- Support governments in strengthening event sustainability frameworks.
- Contribute to international development projects with sustainability goals.
- Build a career with global mobility and recognition.
The LICQual ISO 20121:2024 Event Sustainability Management Systems course is more than a qualification—it is a launchpad for diverse career opportunities. Whether learners aspire to lead sustainability in events, audit compliance, consult independently, or contribute to global sustainability initiatives, this program provides the skills and recognition needed to make a lasting impact.
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