ISO 20121 Sustainable Events Lead Implementer
The ISO 20121 Sustainable Events Lead Implementer program equips professionals with the knowledge and skills to implement and manage a sustainable event management system (SEMS) based on ISO 20121. This internationally recognized standard provides a framework for improving the sustainability of events — from planning to execution — ensuring environmental, social, and economic impacts are effectively managed.
Whether you’re organizing conferences, festivals, sporting events, or corporate meetings, ISO 20121 helps align operations with sustainability principles while enhancing stakeholder engagement, regulatory compliance, and organizational reputation.
Aim of ISO 20121 Sustainable Events Lead Implementer
The aim of the ISO 20121 Sustainable Events Lead Implementer course is to develop the necessary knowledge and practical skills to plan, implement, manage, and improve a Sustainable Event Management System (SEMS) in accordance with the ISO 20121 standard.
This course empowers participants to lead sustainability initiatives in event planning and execution, ensuring that environmental, social, and economic impacts are effectively addressed while aligning with global best practices and stakeholder expectations.
Course Overview
ISO 20121 Sustainable Events Lead Implementer
Educational Background (Preferred):
- A diploma, degree, or equivalent qualification in event management, sustainability, environmental science, business, or a related field.
Professional Experience:
- Recommended: At least 1–2 years of experience in event planning, sustainability initiatives, or management systems.
- Professionals currently working in events, corporate sustainability, compliance, or CSR roles will benefit the most.
Knowledge Requirements:
- Basic understanding of:
- Event management principles
- Sustainability or environmental issues
- Management system frameworks (e.g., ISO standards) – preferred but not mandatory
Language Proficiency:
- Proficiency in the language of instruction (usually English) to ensure full comprehension of course materials and participation in discussions and exercises.
| Course Code | Curriculum Title | Credit | DLH |
|---|---|---|---|
| BUK1971-1 | Introduction to Sustainable Event Management | 3 | 10 |
| BUK1971-2 | Structure and Requirements of ISO 20121 | 3 | 10 |
| BUK1971-3 | Planning a Sustainable Event Management System (SEMS) | 3 | 10 |
| BUK1971-4 | Implementing the SEMS | 3 | 10 |
| BUK1971-5 | Monitoring, Evaluation, and Continuous Improvement | 3 | 10 |
| BUK1971-6 | Certification, Auditing, and Lead Implementation | 3 | 10 |
Module 1: Introduction to Sustainable Event Management
- Overview of sustainability in the events industry
- Understanding the need for sustainable event practices
- Introduction to ISO 20121:2012 standard
- Key terms, definitions, and principles
Module 2: Structure and Requirements of ISO 20121
- Clause-by-clause breakdown of the standard
- Understanding the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle
- Context of the organization and stakeholder engagement
- Leadership and top management commitment
Module 3: Planning a Sustainable Event Management System (SEMS)
- Identifying sustainability issues, risks, and opportunities
- Legal and regulatory requirements
- Setting sustainability objectives and KPIs
- Integrating sustainability into event planning processes
Module 4: Implementing the SEMS
- Developing policies, procedures, and operational controls
- Managing supply chains and procurement sustainably
- Training, awareness, and communication strategies
- Resource management and documentation
Module 5: Monitoring, Evaluation, and Continuous Improvement
- Measuring performance and monitoring indicators
- Internal audits: purpose, planning, and execution
- Management review process
- Non-conformities, corrective actions, and continual improvement
Module 6: Certification, Auditing, and Lead Implementation
- Preparing for ISO 20121 certification
- Role of the Lead Implementer vs. Auditor
- Documentation and evidence requirements
- Case studies and best practices
- Final group exercise or implementation project
- Event Managers & Coordinators
- Sustainability Professionals
- CSR & ESG Practitioners
- Compliance Officers & Quality Managers
- Consultants & Auditors
- Venue Managers & Suppliers
- Students & Graduates
- All Modules within this qualification are assessed internally by the approved training Centre and externally verified by BURRAQ UK. The program uses a criterion-referenced assessment approach to ensure that learners successfully meet all required learning outcomes.
- A Pass in any unit is granted only when the learner submits valid, reliable, and authentic evidence that demonstrates achievement of the assessment criteria. The Assessor is responsible for reviewing this evidence and confirming that the learner has attained the expected standard.