Sustainability Statement

The World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) recognizes occupational participation occurs within an environmental context; such contexts can facilitate or hinder engagement in meaningful occupation. As such, occupational therapists cannot ignore the need to protect the environment to promote contexts that nurture human participation and health. The WFOT Congress 2022 will therefore emphasize the theme of sustainability, with a commitment to prioritising mediation of environmental damage from human activity for the sake of health and wellbeing of current and future generations.

WFOT Congress 2022 actions to address this commitment include:

  • Eliminating plastic pockets for name badges
  • Reducing printing where possible, and when needed, choosing recycled paper
  • Providing a Congress app to reduce print material
  • Using electronic signage instead of banners
  • Encouraging exhibitors to use materials that can be recycled
  • Providing water stations so attendees can refill their water bottles
  • Offering virtual registration options which reduce onsite materials and travel

Our Congress venue, the Paris Convention Centre, is working towards better events through a sustainable development plan and biodiversity charter that has resulted in a 50% reduction in carbon emissions between 2008 and 2018. Additionally, the venue diverts up to 70% of all waste away from landfill and is accessible via sustainable transport options, which are utilised by around 80% of visitors. You can learn more about these commitments here https://www.viparis.com/en/developpement-durable

Aligning with the sustainability theme, we encourage Congress attendees to support this WFOT priority by:

  • Printing materials only when it is absolutely essential
  • Walking, using public transportation, or ride sharing rather than driving alone
  • Saving resources such as electricity and water as much as possible
  • Purchasing easily accessible Green and sustainable food and drinks
  • Recycling cans and garbage
  • Participating in opportunities for physical activity that are included in the Congress programme