The Acceptance of Climate Adaptation Measures in the Event Industry: A Conceptual and Empirical Overview

Abstract

While recent studies have demonstrated that events are fundamentally climate-sensitive, this seems to not be fully considered in event research or corporate event practice. Thus, this study aims to identify the influencing factors that affect the acceptance of climate adaptation measures among decision-makers in the event industry The analysis was divided into three main parts: First, the existing literature related to climate change in an events context was reviewed. Using fifteen semi-structured interviews, the findings from this review were then critically discussed with stakeholders in Germany involved in event planning. Finally, explicit climate adaptation measures were proposed and discussed. Based on all findings, there appears to be a low level of awareness of and interest in climate adaptation amongst German event industry players. There is an imminent need for further research on climate adaptation and for decision-makers to better prepare for climate change in order to counteract resulting negative impacts.