With offices in Spain and Chile, EDT Eventos is one of the leading event agencies in the sector, recognized for its extensive experience, diverse project portfolio, and high-profile clients. The agency has played a significant role in shaping the industry, being a member of AEVEA, Madrid Convention Bureau, and the Club for Excellence in Events. Nearly two years ago, EDT became one of the first agencies to receive the ADVANCED certification from Eventsost for sustainable event organization. To mark this anniversary, we interviewed César González Perdiguero, CEO of the EDT Group, to gain insights into his views on the growing role of sustainability in event production and its impact on client-agency relationships.
EVENTSOST: César, how do you think the concept of sustainability has evolved in the event industry in recent years?
CÉSAR GONZÁLEZ PERDIGUERO (CGP): The concern for sustainability in the sector has grown exponentially in recent years. We are all more aware of the challenges we face if we don't address this issue with the seriousness it deserves. However, there is still much work to be done. Sustainability is not yet given the importance it deserves, partly due to the misconception that sustainable events are more expensive.
EVENTSOST: How is sustainability gaining traction among companies in the sector?
CGP: I believe that companies involved in event organization are increasingly aware of the need to prioritize sustainability in their activities. We also see a growing number of clients who are conscious of this issue. The convergence of these factors is driving companies in our sector to incorporate sustainability criteria into their event production.
EVENTSOST: Can the ability to meet clients' sustainability expectations be leveraged as an advantage by event agencies?
CGP: Absolutely. Sustainability has permeated nearly every aspect of social and business life, and there is growing awareness of its importance, which is increasingly valued by clients. However, many companies still do not prioritize sustainability within their business models. This can indeed become a competitive advantage for agencies that embrace sustainability and integrate it into their projects.
EVENTSOST: EDT was one of the first agencies to demonstrate its commitment to sustainability. Why did you decide to incorporate sustainability into your activities and certify it so definitively?
CGP: In recent years, sustainability in events has been a growing trend driven by factors like corporate social responsibility, climate change risks, and the value a sustainable event can provide to the audience. At EDT, we felt it was essential to assume our responsibility as a company and face the challenge of aligning with the principles of sustainable development, something our sector cannot ignore.
EVENTSOST: What does having a certified sustainability management system bring to EDT Eventos?
CGP: It adds value to our company in the eyes of our clients and demonstrates that we have made a firm public commitment to sustainability, a topic that is both prominent and important in society.
EVENTSOST: Sustainability requires reconsidering certain aspects of event management. What do you think is key to becoming more sustainable?
CGP: It is crucial to analyze the characteristics of each event individually to determine how we can achieve the desired level of sustainability. Each project and event is different, and while we strive for success in each one, we always look for ways to make it as sustainable as possible.
EVENTSOST: Does making an event "as sustainable as possible" increase the budget? Is it more expensive to be sustainable?
CGP: It doesn't necessarily have to be more expensive. By making an event more sustainable, we control and reduce resource consumption and rely on local suppliers. This makes our processes more efficient, leading to time and cost savings.
About EDT EVENTOS:
Founded in 1987, EDT Eventos is a Spanish agency specializing in organizing various events, including institutional events, conventions, award ceremonies, press conferences, and shareholder meetings, among others. Its client portfolio includes top-tier companies like Telefónica, Ferrovial, Adidas, Inditex, Banco Santander, BBVA, Endesa, Syngenta, and Ford. Today, EDT is one of the most credible and financially stable companies in the sector.
