Sustainable and Inclusive Pipeline Technology Conference

At the EITEP Institute, we strive to create an event that not only meets the high expectations of our participants but also minimizes our impact on the environment. We commit to move for a more sustainable and inclusive event, considering the resources required to host the ptc without compromising on quality. With every Pipeline Technology Conference, we continuously refine our approaches and expand our efforts to create a positive impact.
We are grateful for the support of the Senate of Berlin in making ptc more sustainable. The funding provided by their Kongressfonds Berlin makes it easier for us to push ahead with our sustainability concepts.
We are grateful for the support of Restore Subsea in making ptc more sustainable.

Below, we present an overview over the goals and measures planned:

Sustainability Goals and Measures

• Rental Materials and Resource Efficiency:
  Equipment and plants used at the conference are rental items to minimize waste. Where possible, transport is carried out in reusable containers. Where we use cut flowerde, we use seasonal and regional flowers. Paper waste will be reduced by allowing participants to assemble their own conference bags.
• Sustainable Printing:
  All printed materials will use recycled paper (Blue Angel or FSC-certified), and large prints will be designed for reuse, where possible. We also evaluate the necessity and quantity of printed materials before production.
• Upcycled materials:
  Where materials cannot be reused, we look for ways to reuse them. Old banners, for example, are upcycled to conference bags, for example.
• Digital and Reusable Resources:
  Conference papers will be available digitally on the ptc Pipeline Open Knowledge Base post-event. Signage will utilize fixed digital displays when feasible. Roll-ups will be mounted using reusable systems.
• Sustainable Food Practices:
  We will survey dietary preferences and balance ecological criteria (local and seasonal sourcing) with comfort and cost considerations, aiming for approximately 50% seasonal-local products. Overproduction will be minimized through visitor number analysis, and surplus food will be donated, where possible.
• Venue and Energy Efficiency:
  The event will be held at a certified sustainable venue. The Estrel Berlin was awarded the Leader Level of the ‘Sustainable Berlin’ sustainability certification. This means that the Estrel has achieved the highest level of the programme.
• Travel and Carbon Offsetting:
  Participants will be encouraged to offset air travel emissions. The event's carbon footprint will be independently calculated and offset through donations to environmental projects. Our staff travels carbon-neutral by train, where possible. Our websites are operated carbon-neutral, and our office runs on green energy.
• Sustainable Event Planning Guidelines:
  Our planning is guided by the "Guide for the Sustainable Organization of Events" from the German Federal Environmental Agency (BMU).

Inclusion Goals and Measures

• Accessibility and Comfort:
  The venue is fully accessible, with designated spaces for wheelchairs and strollers in all rooms. Signage follows DIN 1450 standards for readability, with clear fonts, appropriate sizes, sufficient contrast, and pictograms to enhance understanding.
• Family-Friendly Environment:
  A quiet room will be available, reducing barriers for women with young children to participate.
• Diverse Dietary Options:
  Food offerings will accommodate various dietary needs and preferences, including halal, alcohol-free, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, and pork-free options, all clearly labeled. Organic food options will be considered where possible.
• Inclusivity in Program Content:
  Parts of the program will explicitly address sustainability topics, particularly relevant to the pipeline sector's focus on reducing greenhouse gases and transitioning to carbon-free media. We also address gender equality in formats created specifically for this purpose.
• Support for Hearing Impairments:
  Sound amplification will be available to ensure good acoustics throughout the conference rooms. Upon request, audio devices will be provided for those with hearing impairments.
• Commitment to Diversity:
  We have signed the "Diversity Charter" and are committed to the values it represents. We aim to build long-term partnerships with all staff, including temporary personnel, based on mutual trust, appreciative communication, and reliability.

By implementing these measures, the Pipeline Technology Conference aims to set a benchmark for sustainable and inclusive events, enhancing both environmental stewardship and participant experience. We look forward to welcoming you to an event that champions these values.