GP Sri Lanka ‘26 – Sustainability Plan

GP Sri Lanka ‘26 – Sustainability Plan

Making GP Sri Lanka ’26 a Sustainable Conference

The College of General Practitioners of Sri Lanka (CGPSL) is firmly committed to promoting planetary health and sustainable development. In alignment with this mission, the GP Sri Lanka 2026 Steering Committee has adopted the WONCA Planetary Health Equitable and Sustainable Events Policy to reduce the conference’s carbon footprint and ensure it is a truly green event.

The newly formed Planetary Health and Sustainability Committee of the CGPSL leads and oversees the implementation of environmentally responsible practices throughout GP Sri Lanka ’26.

Our goal is to foster environmentally responsible behaviour and raise awareness of the critical link between a healthy planet and healthy people – among family doctors in Sri Lanka and international colleagues alike.

Our Sustainable and Planet-Friendly Initiatives

Conference Materials

We aim to minimise paper use and create a largely paperless conference environment:

  • Paperless registration desk
  • Eco-friendly, recyclable paper wristbands instead of plastic badges and lanyards
  • Reusable, locally sourced cloth conference bags for all attendees
  • No printed programmes or signage -accessible via website and digital displays
  • Fully digital abstract book, CPD certificates, and posters
  • Minimal, eco-conscious event decorations
  • Exhibitors encouraged to limit printed materials and use QR codes or digital platforms

Food & Beverages

We are promoting healthier and more sustainable dietary practices:

  • No red meat will be served
  • A wide range of vegetarian options will be available
  • No fizzy drinks or alcohol
  • Use of reusable crockery, cups, and glasses – no single-use plastics
  • Refillable glass water bottles provided – no plastic 
  • Measures to minimise food waste, alongside participant awareness initiatives
  • Strict waste segregation protocols implemented by the venue

Reducing Travel Footprint

We aim to reduce emissions associated with travel and logistics:

  • Abstract and oration submissions conducted entirely online
  • Fully digital registration and payment processes
  • Selection of a venue accessible by public transport

Promoting Sustainability

We aim to actively engage and inspire participants:

  • A dedicated “Green Stall” showcasing planetary health and sustainability initiatives
  • A photo exhibition (including photographic and AI-generated posters) themed “Planetary Health and Primary Care” to raise awareness and inspire reflection
  • Special sessions on planetary health and physician well-being
  • Sustainable and meaningful tokens of appreciation for speakers

Post-Conference Evaluation

We are committed to accountability and continuous improvement:

  • A sustainability audit will be conducted following the conference
  • Key insights and lessons learned will be shared through a post-conference publication

How You Can Contribute

We invite all delegates to support our sustainability efforts by:

  • Choosing eco-friendly or shared/group travel options whenever possible
  • Using the digital programme instead of printing materials
  • Taking only the amount of food you can consume to minimize waste
  • Following the venue’s waste segregation guidelines