Thread by @BelAIIC

Starting a hybrid panel discussion on sustainability of events with @RaisaMcNab, @MartyFullardUAE, Ana Pleite and Alexandra Hambling, moderated by Louise Jarvis.

"Interpretation is a tool for integration, and integration makes events more sustainable", Ana Pleite, PRIMS Standing Committee.

#PRIMSinDublin is a carbon-neutral event. Emissions have been offset through different measures and programs.

Sustainability shouldn't compromise the quality of the event, and interpreting plays an important role in that, says @RaisaMcNab.

"Events should have a positive impact on the community where they take place", @MartyFullardUAE.

Event planners are looking for accessibility, carbon offsetting and granular knowledge on how providers operate and what their commitments are.

What exactly is a hybrid event? It can be many different things. Sometimes hybrid means organizing two simultaneous events, which can mean less sustainability.

Value creation is just as important as value consumption. An in-person event not organized is income and exposure lost for the local community.
We are so focused on environmental sustainability that we sometimes forget social sustainability. #PRIMSinDublin

We should focus on delivering sustainable interpreting services and meeting the client's needs regardless of the event modality, says @RaisaMcNab.

An ISO standard on remote interpreting is being developed in order to make this solution viable in the long run.

Can we justify interpreters traveling to on-site meetings, given the carbon footprint this entails? We should take into consideration quality, confidentiality, team work and the interpreters' health and wellbeing, says Alexandra Hambling.

Interpreters who fly regularly pollute more than the average person. Can we fly with only a carry-on bag, fly economy or avoid taking a taxi from and to the airport? Can we ask for our hotel room not to be cleaned every day? Let's do everything we can to reduce our emissions.

Ana Pleite: We have an impact on each other. Let's be professional and respectful. Let's try to create a sense of community among interpreters.

Certifications are not only for companies. Individual interpreters can also get certifications of compliance with ISO standards, as explained by @RaisaMcNab.

Once we calculate our CO2 emissions, how can we reduce and offset them? We can plant trees in our local communities, support local environmental protection non-profits, hire local colleagues, or spread the word among our clients and teams and get them to do the same.

There are no one-size-fits-all sustainability solutions. What works in one country may not work in another. Let's work together and share information to find the best options.

SDG 10 aims at reducing inequality. Multilingual events can contribute to increasing inclusion and therefore to reaching that goal.

Sustainability has to be integrated in everything we do, but not at the expense of value. We have to guarantee that we still have the tools needed to provide a quality service.