The 64th ICCA Congress in Porto was more than just a gathering of the global business events industry; it was a masterclass in sustainability. Spanning four days and welcoming 1,514 delegates from 81 countries, the Congress achieved a historic milestone: it became a verified Zero Food Waste to Landfill Event.
Across four iconic venues—Alfândega Congress Centre, Coliseum of Porto, Stock Exchange Palace, and Super Bock Arena—the event successfully diverted 1,495 kg of food from landfills, representing 2,990 meals saved and a reduction of 3,737 kg of CO2. This feat was made possible through the dedication of 300+ trained “Food Waste Warriors” and a strategic partnership with local food banks, ReFood and O Coração da Cidade.
The Blueprint for Success: A Three-Pillar Approach
Achieving the “Zero Food Waste to Landfill” Event standard in a complex, multi-venue format required more than just good intentions. It required a rigorous, data-driven framework implemented by The PLEDGE on Food Waste with the expert guidance of Lightblue.
1. Mastering Food Waste Flows & Operations
The backbone of the initiative was the implementation of strict monitoring systems. Over the course of 16 monitored meals, the team worked hand-in-hand with multiple catering companies like Palace Catering and Silva Carvalho Catering to change how food was handled behind the scenes.
Training & Mentorship: Since each venue had different catering staff, we utilized an “on-the-job” training approach. Key personnel were transformed into “Food Waste Warriors,” wearing distinctive badges to signal their commitment.
Smart Kitchen Tactics: Caterers were encouraged to use “circular” recipes—such as vegetable creams made from trimmings and peelings.
Buffet Optimization: We removed trays to discourage over-stacking, limited plate sizes to encourage portion control, and refilled partially empty trays rather than replacing them entirely.
2. Deep Participant Engagement
Sustainability is a collective effort. We didn’t just want delegates to eat; we wanted them to be part of the solution.
Pre-Event Precision: ICCA sent RSVP emails asking for participation confirmation. This allowed for more accurate headcounts, which is the “holy grail” of preventing over-production.
The Power of the Stage: The initiative wasn’t hidden in a brochure. It was introduced by the ICCA CEO and President during the Welcome Ceremony. Recurring status updates were shared throughout the event, keeping the momentum alive.
Clear Communication: Every dish on the buffet line featured accurate descriptions and dietary information, ensuring guests took only what they would actually enjoy.
3. Rescuing the Surplus: 1,495 KG Diverted
Despite the best planning, surplus is often inevitable in large-scale hospitality. The difference at ICCA Porto was where that surplus went.
By partnering with ReFood and O Coração da Cidade, we ensured that high-quality food reached those in need within the Porto community. At the Gala Dinner alone, we optimized consumption by offering additional servings of the main course (Beef Sirloin) rather than letting it go to waste in the kitchen.
The Legacy of Porto
The 64th ICCA Congress has proved that “Zero Food Waste to Landfill” Event verification is not a dream—even for events with over 1,500 attendees across multiple locations. By training 300+ professionals and rescuing nearly 1.5 tons of food, they haven’t just charted a course towards a more sustainable future for the industry; they set the standard for large-scale events worldwide.
Building on a Sustainable Legacy Porto’s achievement was the next step in a journey that began in Abu Dhabi. Read how the 63rd ICCA Congress became the first global event to receive this historic certification and set the stage for our success today. 🔗 Explore the 63rd ICCA Congress
