Putting sustainability into practice at ECCB 2026
The SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics is committed to hosting a responsible and forward-looking ECCB 2026 in Geneva.
Our approach
Concrete actions across all aspects of the conference
Speaker Roadshow
Organization with the planet in mind
Sustainability is woven into every aspect of ECCB, from the first planning meeting to the final day. Guided by the SIB EcoImpact Focus Group, we make deliberate choices that reduce our environmental footprint while creating lasting value for our community and host city, Geneva.
Local & accessible
Venues are selected for walkability and access by public transport. Local suppliers are prioritised for catering and technical services wherever possible.
Reduce & reuse
We eliminate single-use plastics, minimize printed materials, and reuse materials such as lanyards and conference bags across events.
Community impact
We aim to create long-term value for participants, the host city of Geneva, and the broader bioinformatics community.
Concrete actions across all aspects of the conference
A set of specific, practical commitments that translate our sustainability ambitions into action across all areas of the conference:
On-site experience
Digital-first conference
All materials are provided digitally. Existing or electronic signage is used, with alternatives available for participants with specific needs.
Waste reduction
Single-use plastics are avoided wherever possible. Participants are encouraged to bring reusable cups and bottles. Conference bags are optional and reused at future events if uncollected.
Eco-friendly badges
Attendee badges are printed on cardboard (recycled paper where possible) eliminating the need for plastic sleeves.
Food & catering
100% Vegetarian lunches
All conference lunches are fully vegetarian. Dinner menus are 80% plant-based, with a meat option available.
Seasonal & local ingredients
Food and beverages are sourced locally and seasonally wherever possible, supporting regional producers and reducing transport-related impact.
Local suppliers
We work with local suppliers for catering and technical services to reduce transport needs and support the regional economy.
Getting to and moving around
Train travel encouraged
We encourage participants to travel to Geneva by train where possible.
Free local transport
Participants staying in a hotel in Geneva receive a complimentary public transport card for the duration of the conference.
Walkable venues
Conference venue has been selected for its proximity to public transit, minimizing the need for taxis or private transport.
Combined events
To reduce the number of separate trips, the SIB Community Day and satellite events from SIB Group Leaders are held alongside the conference, allowing participants to attend multiple events in a single trip to Switzerland.
Speaker Roadshow: combining trips, multiplying impact
Developed by the SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, the Speaker Roadshow enables invited speakers to combine their trip to Switzerland with visits to partner institutions across Swiss universities and research institutes. This reduces travel-related emissions while increasing the scientific reach of ECCB 2026.