Congress of the European Society of
Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
ESCMID acknowledges the significant environmental impact that events such as ESCMID Global have on the planet, including strain on resources and energy, as well as the production of waste. To address this, the ESCMID Green Team was established in 2023 to enhance the sustainability practices of the congress and explore new global initiatives that reinforce ESCMID’s mission.
Established in 2023 the ESCMID Green Team Commission is a dedicated commission for promoting sustainability and eco-consciousness within ESCMID and the fields of clinical microbiology and infectious diseases. The team drives sustainability through collaboration, education, advocacy and awareness, resource sharing and reducing the environmental impact of ESCMID activities. You can find more details in the dedicated SOP.
To ensure that ESCMID is aligned with scientifically accepted global sustainability goals, the Society sought independent guidance. As a result, based on the values of ESCMID and in line with its activities, ESCMID’s sustainability priorities align with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals.
ESCMID Global has partnered with WaterAid, an international non-profit organisation committed to working towards a world where everyone has access to clean water, toilets, and hygiene facilities.
WaterAid works alongside communities living in poverty worldwide setting up entire systems that deliver clean water, decent toilets and hygiene education for millions. WaterAid collaborates with local partners to implement sustainable and long-term solutions and work locally, nationally and internationally to influence change on a large scale and empower communities to call on decision-makers to prioritise investments in clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene. Operating in 22 countries, WaterAid has made significant strides since its inception in 1981, reaching close to 30 million people with clean water and 30 million with toilets through its impactful work.
The ESCMID Green Team and Executive Committee understand that full sustainability for ESCMID Global is idealistic but are dedicated to implementing sustainable approaches and creating a more environmentally friendly event. Your participation is key to this effort, and here you can see how ESCMID is taking action and how you can help.
ESCMID is planning measures that aim to reduce the carbon footprint generated by running an event at the magnitude of ESCMID Global and promoting environmental responsibility. Online access, transportation support, sustainable venue, construction and catering while encouraging practical solutions are all major priorities for ESCMID to tackle to bring the congress towards a more environmentally friendly position
All sessions scheduled in Halls 1 - 16 are broadcast in real-time via live streaming. This allows remote participants to engage directly with speakers and moderators while also giving all attendees the option to reduce travel-related emissions.
To reduce CO2 emissions related to transportation, ESCMID promotes eco-friendly travel by offering public transportation tickets for all full registrations valid from 17 – 21 April 2026 in Munich.
ESCMID Global will take place at Messe München, a sustainably certified venue holding the “Energy Efficient Company” eco-label awarded by TÜV SÜD. Since 2020, Messe München has operated exclusively on electricity from renewable sources and is home to one of the world’s largest rooftop photovoltaic systems.
A-Booth in charge of building stands and temporary constructions is active in applying sustainable practices in its business. Additionally, over the years, ESCMID reuses material from previous congresses as much as possible and chooses to use reusable shell scheme system for temporary structures. Find out more information in their sustainability report.
Käfer and Able, the official catering partners, are committed to sustainability at every stage of their operations. Both companies prioritise the use of regional, seasonal, and Fairtrade products, provide reusable tableware, actively minimise food waste, and ensure proper waste separation. They also continue to implement innovative solutions, such as energy-efficient delivery vehicles. A variety of vegan and vegetarian options will be available.
ESCMID aims to raise awareness and foster discussion on the health impacts of climate change, particularly its link to ID and CM. To support this, ESCMID stays committed to integrating climate-related sessions into the ESCMID Global programme.
As an ESCMID Global participant, you have the opportunity to actively contribute to the sustainability of the event. For that, ESCMID has created this simple guide to find out how to participate in our efforts by using your free public transport ticket, bringing your own water bottle, recycling your waste responsibly and attending climate change sessions to learn more and engage in meaningful discussions.
Reduce your CO2 emission while being in Munich by using the free public transport ticket offered with each full registration valid from 17-21 April 2026. The ticket will be directly printed on your badge.
Free fresh water will be available at water stations throughout the venue, and Munich’s tap water is also safe to drink. To reduce plastic waste, no disposable cups will be provided, so bring your reusable bottle to refill. Sponsored durable water bottles can be collected upon request.
To minimise the total unrecycled waste generated by the consequent amount of ESCMID Global participants, recycling bins will be situated at strategic locations in the venue.
Attending sessions on climate change is a great opportunity to get informed about one of the world’s most urgent issues. It is also a chance to start important discussions and explore how everyone can contribute to a more sustainable future.
The ESCMID Green Team wants to hear from you and is glad to receive your ideas on how to improve.