Small Steps, Big Impact: Prioritising Sustainable Practices at Cannes Lions 2025
Cannes Lions might be the flagship event for the advertising industry but, as businesses’ sustainability credentials continue to come under the microscope, there’s a growing tension between the need to deliver on environmental commitments and jetting off to the South of France.
Cannes Lions itself is taking bold steps toward sustainability goals, partnering with Ad Net Zero, as well as with non-profits like isla and GreenBee to offset carbon emissions, minimise waste, and improve sustainability across all operations.
The festival has also introduced sustainability reporting for all award entries to encourage participants to outline their CO2 emissions, while the SDG Lions category recognises campaigns that address the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – rewarding those making a positive environmental impact and promoting social good.
So, what can you do to minimise your carbon impact while attending?
It’s worth noting that the most sustainable way to attend Cannes Lions is, of course, not to go at all! Virtual participation or skipping non-essential travel can dramatically reduce your carbon footprint. On the other hand, smart scheduling while attending the event could reduce the need for additional travel at other times throughout the year.
If you are attending in person, this guide offers practical steps to minimise your impact and be part of the festival’s growing sustainability movement.
1. Travel Sustainably: Smart Choices Start Before You Arrive
While attending Cannes Lions in person offers unparalleled networking and business opportunities, it’s important to consider how to minimise the environmental impact of your travel.
Choose Sustainable Transportation: Where possible, opt for public transport, trains, or carpooling, instead of individual flights or taxis. Train travel, particularly in Europe, is a great eco-friendly alternative to flying, and when in Cannes, use local buses, trams, or simply walk or cycle to your events.
Fly Less, or Fly Smarter: If flying is unavoidable, choose direct flights to minimise emissions. Flying economy class rather than business class is another way to reduce your carbon footprint, as larger aircraft with more passengers tend to have a lower per-person carbon footprint. From London or Paris, the train to Cannes takes approximately 8-9 hours but produces significantly less carbon than flying – and gives a fantastic opportunity to get through some of your to-do list uninterrupted.
Offset Your Carbon Emissions: Invest in carbon offsetting initiatives to compensate for the emissions from your travel. Organisations like Gold Standard or Climate Action Reserve offer verified carbon offset programs that fund renewable energy projects or reforestation efforts, helping to neutralise your travel’s environmental impact.
2. Accommodation: Where You Stay Matters
Believe it or not, your choice of accommodation can make a significant difference to your overall environmental impact during the festival.
Choose Eco-Friendly Hotels: Select hotels with sustainability certifications or those that focus on eco-friendly practices. For example, the Hotel Martinez and Radisson Blu have implemented comprehensive sustainability programmes, including energy and water conservation, waste reduction, and the use of local, organic products.
Reduce Energy Consumption: Be mindful of energy usage in your hotel room—turn off lights and air conditioning when not in use, and limit water consumption by reusing towels and taking shorter showers.
3. Waste Reduction: Be Conscious of What You Consume
Large events like Cannes Lions can generate significant waste, but there are ways to help minimise it.
Bring Reusable Items:
- Reusable water bottle
- Tote bag for materials
- Travel coffee cup
Properly Dispose of Waste:
Use designated recycling and compost bins whenever possible, and make sure you dispose of waste in the appropriate bins to help reduce landfill waste and promote recycling.
4. Engage in Sustainable Practices Beyond the Basics
There are plenty of other ways to show your commitment to sustainability at Cannes Lions, beyond just the basics of travel and waste reduction.
Participate in Sustainable Activities: Cannes Lions hosts several sustainability-focused events, including the “Planet Pledge” panel discussions and sustainability workshops at the Festival Hub. Attend these talks, workshops, or networking events that centre on sustainable practices in the creative industry.
Educate Yourself and Advocate for Change: Take the time to learn more about Cannes Lions’ sustainability efforts. The festival’s partnership with Ad Net Zero and commitment to the SDGs shows their focus on driving positive environmental change. By aligning your participation with these initiatives, you can contribute to the broader conversation and advocate for even more sustainable practices within the industry.
Conclusion: Make Mindful Decisions
Cannes Lions is already making significant strides toward a more sustainable future, and now is the time for attendees to follow their lead. By adopting sustainable travel practices, reducing waste, and supporting the festival’s sustainability initiatives, you can make a tangible difference.
What will your sustainability commitment be for Cannes Lions 2025? Share your plans and best practices with your network to inspire others and multiply your impact across the industry.
If you need support in planning your visit to Cannes or would like to meet up at the show, get in touch here.