So you think you want to run an environmental conservation meeting? Advice on the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune that accompany academic conference planning

Abstract

A key component of academia is the meeting. A conference or symposium is a valuable resource for academics in so many ways. However, despite their value, planning an academic meeting can be difficult, partly because of the nature of academics themselves. Planning an environmental meeting adds an extra layer of difficulty, as special attention must be taken with ensuring that the meeting is as environmentally friendly as possible. This article has been written to give those wanting to plan an academic meeting some advice, with some useful tips and warnings about pitfalls that may be encountered. Issues such as location, transportation, accommodation, catering, promotion, social media, funding, and dealing with problem delegates are covered. Importantly, issues related to reducing the environmental impact of the meeting are discussed. It is hoped that the tips contained within this article will take some of the stress out of organizing an academic meeting for those in the environmental and conservation fields.