When we (the Kochi WordPress Meetup Group) started discussing the possibilities of bringing the WordCamp phenomenon to Kochi, one of the most vociferous ideas that was brought to the table, was to ensure that our planned event stays eco friendly. The idea was first proposed by none other than our lead organizer Bigul Malayi, who himself is a proponent of the eco-friendly way of life. Even though some of us were skeptic initially, Bigul’s enthusiasm for the cause was indeed infectious! We were soon convinced of the sheer possibilities that lay ahead of us in pulling all stops to ensure that our event did not harm the environment.
After all, we work on a platform that aims for the public good – by democratizing publishing!
Whether you accept it or not, the planet we live in, is in the throes of danger – due to our own actions. Most of us, knowingly or unknowingly, contribute to the destruction of our own planet through the use of fossil-fuels, by dumping non-disposable waste, among others – thereby hurting our planet, directly. While there are many factors that we do not have control over, there are a few things that we, as individuals, can do to reduce our carbon footprint, and to save the planet through our collective effort.
Often, meetings and conferences play a major role in hampering the environment directly, through several ways like the generation of plastic and food waste in large quantities, for one. There are several things that can be done to prevent the damage to the environment, by taking all the necessary steps in an early stage itself.
We, the organizers of WordCamp Kochi, would like to announce to all of you – our commitment to the environment. We aspire to do whatever we can to reduce the carbon footprint of our event, in as many ways as possible, so that we can do our bit to save Planet Earth. As attendees, we kindly request you to join us in our endeavour.
While we are still working towards making our event as ‘green’ as possible, these are some of the steps that we have decided upon, in our road to an eco-friendly WordCamp:
- Preventing the use of Plastic Materials in all forms.
- If there are any plastic materials involved (like stickers and swag – some of which involve the use of a minimal amount of plastic), we will be making sure that these items may be of reusable/recyclable nature (for instance, pens made of paper).
- Preventing the use of Vinyl Banners (also known colloquially as ‘Flex Boards) for the WordCamp.
As organizers of WordCamp Kochi, we fully understand that the challenge ahead of us is not easy. However, in our bid to conserve the environment – we are ready to take it up with open arms.
Now, we are not alone in our pursuit to bring about an eco-friendly WordCamp! WordCamp North Canton, and WordCamp Brighton have fared exceptionally well in reducing the environmental footprint of their events – something we aspire to emulate and excel at, as well. We also request WordCamp organizers and attendees across the world, to spare a thought for the environment, as you organize your events.
Can’t wait to see you all at WordCamp Kochi, on the 19th of February, 2017 at Udyan Convention Centre!
