December 4th 2024

A BestCities Global Alliance Case Study: European Respiratory Society International Congress

Discover how the European Respiratory Society (ERS) and European Lung Foundation (ELF) transformed their annual congress into a global platform for advancing lung health awareness, advocating for policy change, and fostering sustainability. With over 20,000 attendees annually, the ERS International Congress is a shining example of how events can create lasting legacies. Dive into this inspiring case study to explore their journey, impactful initiatives, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

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Driving Awareness Through the “Healthy Lungs for Life” Campaign

At the heart of the European Respiratory Society and European Lung Foundation‘s impact is the Healthy Lungs for Life (HLfL) campaign, launched at the ERS Congress in Madrid in 2019. This global public health initiative raises awareness of lung health through events, educational materials, and advocacy efforts. The campaign empowers local communities, patient groups, and policymakers worldwide to champion lung health through localized initiatives.

Recognized with the prestigious Incredible Impacts Award, HLfL has since grown into a flagship movement for respiratory health. Its influence extends far beyond the Congress, with the campaign catalyzing legislative victories, such as clean air policy advancements in Milan, and fostering international collaborations to amplify its message.

Sustainability: Pioneering a Greener Future

ERS has embraced sustainability as a core pillar of its Congress operations. Through innovative measures, they’ve significantly reduced the environmental footprint of their events. Key initiatives include:

  • Eliminating Single-Use Plastics: By discontinuing printed programs and plastic items, ERS has set a standard for waste reduction.
  • Promoting Conscious Travel: Policies encourage attendees to choose environmentally friendly travel options.
  • Supporting Climate Protection Projects: Congress attendees are invited to contribute to climate initiatives such as efficient cookstove projects in Burundi and the Himalayas, with ERS doubling all donations.

By embedding sustainability into its DNA, the ERS Congress serves as a model for environmentally responsible event planning, aligned with UN SDG Goal 13.

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Building Partnerships for Greater Impact

Collaboration has been a cornerstone of ERS and ELF’s success. During the pandemic, the organizations strengthened ties with like-minded partners to advance their mission. A notable partnership with the Clean Air Fund amplified their advocacy efforts for clean air legislation, while collaboration with C40 Cities expanded their influence in urban policy initiatives worldwide.

This network of partnerships ensures the HLfL campaign remains a dynamic force for change, with its reach extending beyond the Congress to impact local and global health policies.

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Advocacy in Action: Influencing Policy for Cleaner Air

The ERS and ELF’s advocacy efforts have delivered tangible results. In Milan, during the 2023 Congress, the HLfL campaign played a pivotal role in supporting a clean air vote in the European Parliament. By organizing a press conference with city leaders and providing advocacy tools for Congress delegates, ERS empowered participants to become champions for clean air in their own communities. This effort underscored how impactful events can drive political change and improve public health.

A girl breathes into a device while seated at a table with a man and another girl, who is observing. A hand sanitizer bottle and a form are also on the table.

Inclusion: Empowering Voices and Building Communities

ERS and ELF are dedicated to fostering inclusion in the respiratory health community. Recent efforts have included:

  • Advancing Women in Respiratory Medicine: Dedicated sessions, networking opportunities, and awards initiatives have increased visibility and support for women in the field.
  • Youth Engagement: A groundbreaking youth program, led by a 16-year-old chair, has brought fresh perspectives and energy to the Congress.
  • Amplifying Patient Voices: Patient representatives now participate in over 20 Congress sessions, ensuring their insights shape the scientific narrative.

These initiatives, aligned with UN SDG Goal 5, reflect a commitment to diversifying the community and ensuring all stakeholders have a voice in shaping the future of respiratory health.

A woman performs a lung function test using a spirometer under the guidance of another woman wearing glasses and a white T-shirt.

A Lasting Legacy: Inspiring Change Globally

The ERS Congress has demonstrated how mission-driven events can create enduring legacies. The HLfL campaign is now a cornerstone of the Congress’s mission, incorporated into the event’s RFP and supported by European Commission funding. Its focus has expanded to include school programs in Hungary, Portugal, and Poland, extending its impact to future generations.

By prioritizing sustainability, advocacy, and inclusivity, ERS and ELF have created a blueprint for events that leave meaningful, long-lasting impacts.

Download the Case Study and Watch the Video

Curious to learn more about the ERS and ELF’s remarkable legacy journey? Download the full case study for an in-depth look at their transformative initiatives to hear directly from the people behind this incredible story.

A group photo of people outdoors at the European Respiratory Society International Congress, with a blue sky and white structures in the background.