Connecting the Dots on Greener Events

Schedule

Fri Feb 27 2026 at 08:30 am to 04:30 pm

UTC-05:00

Location

National Arts Centre, Canada Room | Ottawa, ON

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Exploring sustainable event practices that work in the real world
About this Event

ENVIROCENTRE PRESENTS
Connecting the Dots on Greener Events

How can events become more sustainable within the real constraints organizers face? What does it look like to design gatherings that are more efficient, resilient, and community-focused—without adding pressure to already stretched teams and budgets?

Connecting the Dots on Greener Events brings together event organizers, venue managers, suppliers, and community partners for a grounded conversation about practical, achievable approaches to sustainable event design.

Together, we’ll explore how to integrate sustainability into everyday decisions, highlight real-world strategies already making a difference, and open space for honest dialogue about what’s possible today — and what’s emerging for tomorrow.

From reducing waste and coordinating vendors to rethinking energy use, transportation, accessibility, and community impact, this Symposium invites us to examine how sustainability can fit naturally into the events we already run.

Spend the day learning from sector leaders, hearing real examples from peers, and connecting with others shaping the future of events in Ottawa.


Featuring:

  • Presentations from leaders in event design, sustainability, and systems thinking
  • Panels spotlighting real-world, practical approaches from across the event community
  • Interactive discussions that welcome diverse perspectives and lived experience
  • Networking opportunities with organizers, suppliers, and partners across Ottawa

Enjoy a low-carbon (vegetarian) lunch, along with coffee, tea, and snacks available throughout the day.


THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS


Event Photos

Interested in sponsoring this event? We'd love to hear from you! Please email Elyse McCann, Director of Business Development: [email protected].


Need support with ticket costs?
A limited number of subsidized tickets are available. Contact [email protected] for details.


Agenda

🕑: 08:30 AM - 09:00 AM
Networking and Registration
🕑: 09:00 AM - 09:15 AM
Welcome and Introduction to the Day
🕑: 09:15 AM - 09:30 AM
Opening Remarks

Info: Tara Shannon, Executive Director of Ottawa Festivals Network, will provide opening remarks.


🕑: 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Keynote Speaker: Crystal Dreisbach, CEO, Upstream
🕑: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Community-led Discussion Tables
🕑: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Lunch

Info: Sponsored by Ottawa Tourism. A low carbon, vegetarian and vegan lunch will be provided.


🕑: 12:30 PM - 01:15 PM
Panel 1: Green Events Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow

Info: This panel will situate us in the green events industry - key learnings, trends, and innovative new ideas. We will hear from speakers with expertise in hosting events at different scales, from annual community celebrations to mega events and festivals. Panelists will discuss how events have tackled challenges related to waste, transportation, energy, and more. Panelists to be confirmed.


🕑: 01:15 PM - 01:30 PM
Break
🕑: 01:30 PM - 02:15 PM
Keynote Speaker: Kate Johnston, Executive Director, Hillside Music Festival
🕑: 02:15 PM - 03:00 PM
Panel 2: Levers of Change to Support Green Events

Info: Like all industries, today’s event industry is facing numerous competing challenges. Rising costs, tight budgets, high expectations from participants and attendees, and inexperienced or overwhelmed staff. What can decision-makers, stakeholders, and businesses do to support event organizers in hosting high quality events without a high environmental cost? Panelists will share their experiences and practical ideas and innovations to make green events the easiest way forward. Panelists to be confirmed.


🕑: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Community-led Discussion Tables
🕑: 04:00 PM - 04:30 PM
Wrap Up
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Where is it happening?

National Arts Centre, Canada Room, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa, Canada

Event Location & Nearby Stays:

Tickets

CAD 85.74

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