Case Study: How MaSWA 2025 is Advancing Sustainable Waste management Through Events
Date of Event: May 29–30, 2025
Location: Holiday Inn Hotel & Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, Skopje, North Macedonia
Organiser: Macedonian Solid Waste Association (MaSWA)
Certification: : Planet Positive Event Rating | Final Mark: 3.41 (Certified)
In a field where sustainability is not just a value but a mission, the 6th International Conference of the Macedonian Solid Waste Association (MaSWA) offered a strong example of how environmental goals can be embedded directly into event delivery. Focused on the theme “The Road to Sustainable Waste Management”, the conference brought together 120 professionals, academics, NGOs, and students to share innovations and shape the future of the sector — all while minimizing its own environmental footprint.
A Thoughtfully Designed Green Event
The MaSWA conference was evaluated against leading international standards, including the GHG Protocol, organized under the Planet Positive Event certification system. The event’s mobility accounts for over 73% of emissions. Despite a moderate D-grade for emissions intensity (5.12 kg CO₂e per participant per hour), the event earned a solid final ESG score and clear recognition for its proactive sustainability measures.
Key sustainability measures included:
- Meals were carefully planned based on confirmed registrations to avoid overproduction.
- Leftover food was safely donated, supporting community needs and reducing waste.
- No printed certificates — all were issued digitally.
- The bags were made out of recycled material, the badges were collected for reusing, reusable bottles were given out
- No heating or cooling was used, taking advantage of natural conditions and energy savings.
Social and Regenerative Commitments
Beyond environmental impact, the MaSWA event also embraced social and community values:
- Students were invited to attend for free, supporting youth access to industry networks.
- The event maintained gender balance in its speaker lineup and organising teams.
- Local suppliers were prioritised, generating direct economic benefits for the region.
- The programme included evening networking sessions to build relationships and promote well-being.
- Attendees were introduced to the Planet Positive methodology, promoting awareness and future impact.
The event strongly aligned with multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
A Lasting Legacy
The event left a long-term impact well beyond its two days:
- It reinforced MaSWA’s role as a regional leader in climate-conscious waste management.
- Created opportunities for student engagement and future career pathways.
- Encouraged zero-waste thinking among participants and future event organisers.
- Laid the foundation for ongoing collaboration between municipalities, NGOs, and academic institutions.
Why This Matters
The MaSWA 2025 conference demonstrates that even technical, sector-focused events can be powerful platforms for climate leadership. By incorporating sustainability principles into every level of planning and delivery, the organisers showed what’s possible — and set a strong example for others in the region and beyond.
It’s not just about discussing sustainability — it’s about practicing it, visibly and transparently.
