Sustainability Ratings, ESRS Standards & the Future of Event Planning: Interview with Milica Filipović

How did you first hear about Planet Positive Event?

I first heard about Planet Positive Event during Conventa. It caught my attention as a much-needed initiative in the event industry, especially in the context of growing expectations around sustainability.

What made you interested in becoming an internal/external assessor?

As someone actively involved in the MICE and destination branding sectors, I see the assessor role as a meaningful way to drive change from within, and to help event organizers meet and understand the value of sustainability benchmarks. Being an assessor allows me to contribute my expertise and also learn from challenges and innovations.

How do you understand the significance of the ESRS standards?

For event industry, which involves a wide range of stakeholders and environmental footprints, these standards could be a critical step toward and a game changer. They provide unified, transparent framework for reporting on sustainability impacts, risks, and opportunities.

Can you explain how the adoption of ESRS standards will impact your work in the future?

The ESRS standards will require more structured data collection and transparent reporting. This means a stronger emphasis on integrating sustainability into the core of event planning, not just as an add-on. It will also influence partnerships, procurements, and destination selection process.

What features could be added to improve the PPE’s platform value to event organizers? 

Although I haven’t had the chance to try the demo version yet, I believe any platform designed to support sustainable event planning should prioritize usability, clarity, and practical tools. Features like templates for sustainable action plans, and/or case studies from other events could add significant value. Also, offering educational resources or short training models are important for event organizers, to better understand how to implement sustainability in their specific context.

What challenges do you anticipate event organizers facing when aligning with ESRS standards, and how can assessors assist in overcoming them?

Organizers may struggle with the complexity of data collection, understanding materiality, and engaging all stakeholders in sustainable practices. Assessors can assist by providing tailored guidance, and translating technical standards into practical actions. Our role should be to empower, not just evaluate.

How do you see Planet Positive Event helping event organizers align with the ESRS standards?

Planet positive event acts as a bridge between abstract standards and real-world implementation. By breaking down ESRS requirements into clear, event-specific criteria, this platform makes alignment achievable.

How do you envision the future of sustainability practices in the events industry, particularly with tools like Planet Positive Event?

Sustainability will become non-negotiable in event planning. Tools like PPE will be essential – not just for compliance but for competitive advantage, and sustainability tools will be used from early planning stages and integrated into the event’s core narrative.

What do you think are the key trends or innovations that will shape sustainability in event planning over the next few years?

I think that key trends will include data-driven decision-making through sustainability tech, circular economy practices (zero waste, reuse, and rental models), carbon accounting, supplier sustainability ratings, and stronger destination partnerships to share responsibility.

What advice would you give to event organizers just beginning their sustainability journey?

Start small, but start now. Don’t be overwhelmed by complex standards – focus on what matters most for your event and stakeholders. Use tools like Planet positive event to guide your steps, ask for help when needed, and view sustainability as an opportunity to innovate, engage, and leave a positive legacy.