Environmental Sustainability at ESC Congress

Towards a sustainable future together

30 000 people. 4 days. Every choice counts.

With over 30,000 participants joining us for four days in Munich, every decision we make shapes our collective impact. At the European Society of Cardiology, we are committed to transparency about our environmental footprint. While travel remains the largest source of emissions, we focus on what we can influence: measurable, local actions during the congress.

Since 2022, we have prioritised sustainability in our operations and venue selection. When thousands of us come together, each choice matters. By working together, we can make a meaningful difference at every event.

The Difference Is in Our Hands

Every onsite decision, what we eat, how we move, what we return, becomes a data point that helps us set a higher standard for future events.

This year, our most impactful initiatives demonstrate how everyday choices add up to measurable change.

Travel with purpose

Last year, 16,954 delegates used the transport tickets.

For the first time ever, in Munich this year, every participant receives a public transport pass with their badge. When 30,000 of us choose trains, trams, or buses over taxis, we reduce vehicle kilometres, emissions, and city congestion in a way that can be measured.

Refill, not discard

Since 2024, 118,000 cups have not been produced. Single-use cups are no longer available at our water stations. By refilling reusable bottles, we save hundreds of thousands of cups from being produced, collected, and processed. If you need a bottle, you can find one at the ESC Shop.

Walk on the proof

Since 2024, we have progressively removed synthetic carpet from our venues, representing 60,000 square metres of material not produced, not transported, and not discarded.

Recycle your badge

Last year, 2,500 badges were returned. Badge materials are fully recyclable, with collection points at every exit.

We encourage all delegates to join us in making this event more sustainable by following these practical sustainability tips.

A Venue That Shares Our Standards

ESC Congress 2026 will be held at Messe München, selected in part for its strong sustainability credentials. Since 2023, we have included venue sustainability criteria in our congress bid process. Here is how this commitment is reflected in practice:

- The building operates on 100% renewable electricity, a transition completed in 2020 that eliminates approximately 6,400 tonnes of carbon emissions each year. Part of this supply comes from one of the world’s largest rooftop photovoltaic systems, in operation since 1998.

- Messe München is easily accessible without a car. Direct, high-frequency public transport connections make it simple for everyone to travel sustainably. Our free transit pass for all participants is a practical benefit, not just a symbolic gesture.

- The venue actively reduces carpet use and waste. Messe München avoids carpeted aisles and has developed waste prevention guidelines for organisers. This complements our own carpet reduction programme, which has eliminated 60,000 square metres of synthetic material since 2024.

- Messe München is committed to achieving net zero by 2050, with its carbon footprint calculated according to the GHG Protocol and a formal reduction plan in development. The venue is a signatory to the Net Zero Carbon Events pledge.

Join Us in Building a Healthier Future

We encourage all delegates to join us in making ESC Congress more sustainable by following our practical tips. Together, through small but meaningful actions, we can reduce our collective environmental impact and help build a healthier future for all.