At VMware, we recognise that all parts of our business have an impact on the world. That’s why we’re committed to creating a better future – to put back more into the environment, society and global economy – than we take. As part of this commitment, we’re striving to be at the forefront of environmental sustainability in our global business practices and operations.
That’s why we walk the talk, from our global commitment to renewable energy, to the order of magnitude our technology delivers in terms of energy and carbon emission reductions in IT.
But we’re only at the start of our journey. In 2016, we established our VMware 2020 vision, which outlines our commitment to innovating for good in three important dimensions:
- Our Products:Creating innovative technology that contributes lasting net-positive value to our customers and our partner ecosystem.
- Our People:Building platforms for a diverse and inclusive environment that enriches lives at work, at home and in the community, while inspiring our people to give more than they take.
- Our Planet:Doing more than our fair share to be at the forefront of environmental sustainability in our global business practices and operations.
Part of that vision included reducing our carbon emissions, something we achieved two years ahead of schedule when we became carbon neutral across all our operations.
Earlier this year, we were delighted to announce that 100 percent of our operations are now powered by renewable energy, again ahead of schedule.
However, we are aware that there is still much more to do, so it’s important we look at every aspect to reduce our impact.
A more sustainable VMworld
That’s why we’re doing our upmost to make VMworld Europe more sustainable this year.
For instance, we’re moving to digital signage and focusing our efforts to be less reliant on paper at the event. Apart from the fact that everything we do is about supporting enterprises to transform with a digital foundation, encouraging the use of the VMworld App means no paper maps, more notifications sent electronically (so less handouts and flyers), and a more intuitive experience. We’re also not handing out new paper notebooks – all part of reducing the production and printing of new paper products.
Single-use plastic is also a major issue. This year, we’re gifting refillable water bottles and placing water coolers around the venue rather than supplying single-use plastic water bottles. We are also eliminating plastic straws and promoting the use of cans and glass where possible, with prominent recycling bins to encourage recycling.
Innovating Locally
While we’re on the theme of recycling, our backpacks this year are made from recycled materials. We know that many people prize their ‘packs but we are also providing the option to donate the backpack to charity instead. We also won’t be including any physical VMware content in the backpack, as all the literature you would likely need will be available on vmware.com.
We’ll be collecting badges and lanyards at the end of the event to be recycled, so once you’ve had your fill of exciting sessions, informative workshops and great networking opportunities, make sure you drop your lanyards in the designated recycling bins on the last day.
There’s also the question of food. Barcelona is famous for its cuisine, and we want to enjoy that while making sure we support the local community. That’s why all food at the event will be locally sourced and in season. We’re also looking into food sharing with the local community to minimise waste.
Reducing emissions where we can
Throw a few thousand people at even a big city like Barcelona and you do increase local carbon emissions. That’s why we’re making an increased effort to encourage the use of public transport and ride sharing where possible. The Fira Barcelona Gran Via is well connected, with three Metro lines (one of which takes you straight to the airport) within a twenty-minute walk.
To support your use of public transport, you’ll be able to receive T10 transport tickets at regististration (good for 10 Metro, bus tram and train journeys in Barcelona’s Zone 1).
One small step on the journey
Ultimately this VMworld is just one step on our long journey to reduce our impact and be a force for good in the world. It’s a continuous process – there’s much more for us to do, and we are committed to seeing it through.
