Colombia boosts its leadership as a destination for environmentally conscious meetings

In recent years, Colombia has demonstrated a firm commitment to environmental sustainability, consolidating its position as one of the most environmentally conscious Latin American countries. This trend not only responds to a global need but has also become an added value for meetings and events tourism, a growing sector that benefits from a modern and environmentally responsible infrastructure in the country.

Colombia seeks to strengthen environmental awareness.
With 27 convention centers and more than 450 hotels with event facilities, the country offers a solid network for hosting business meetings, conventions, congresses, and incentive trips. This installed capacity is complemented by initiatives that integrate sustainability as a strategic focus. Within the framework of the Paris Agreement, Colombia has adopted policies that seek to reduce the environmental impact of its economic activities, including corporate tourism.

In cities like Bogotá and Cartagena, there are notable spaces that apply sustainability criteria to their operations. One of the most representative examples is the Ágora Bogotá Convention Center, which incorporates a comprehensive solid waste management system, rainwater harvesting, natural ventilation, and energy-saving technologies. Meanwhile, the Cartagena de Indias Convention Center, a pioneer in the use of solar panels in South America, supplies 18% of its electricity demand with clean energy, avoiding the emission of nearly 190 tons of CO₂ per year.

Environmental awareness can lift a country
. This environmental focus has also been a driver of economic growth. In 2017 alone, the economic impact of meeting tourism exceeded $850 million. Bogotá positioned itself as one of the continent's leading cities in terms of the number of events held, surpassing even traditional destinations such as Chicago and Rio de Janeiro. This dynamism is reflected in the strengthening of micro-enterprises and social enterprises linked to events: from educational dance classes to artisanal product tastings, including child nutrition initiatives and the sale of community-based handicrafts.

At the end of 2018, ProColombia reported the holding of 194 events in the country, including congresses, conventions, weddings, and academic, sporting, and corporate gatherings. Events such as the Global Incentive Summit and the A&E Entertainment Latin America Convention demonstrate the international interest in a country that combines operational capacity with environmental awareness, opening up new business opportunities with a positive impact.