DEI: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Is Sustainability. Here’s Why

March 5, 2024

Exclusively sponsored by Honeycomb Strategies.

The United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals, adopted in 2015, “recognize that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth – all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.” If that sounds like all-encompassing, world-changing rhetoric… well, it’s the U.N. That’s their job. 

But it’s our job as sustainability consultants to help our clients ladder up to the U.N.’s lofty goals. And in doing so, we are often challenged to explain why we include diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in our sustainable measurements of events, venues and organizations.

Simply put, environmental progress can’t be made without the input and action of human stakeholders.

Reaching the Most Vulnerable

When organizations are diverse and equitable, there are seats at the table for people who are more affected by outcomes like climate change. “Racially and socioeconomically marginalized communities in the USA have been shown to experience greater impacts from storm and flood events, extreme heat and infectious diseases that are becoming more frequent due to climate change.”When we ensure that decision-makers are representative of a large swath of stakeholders, environmental outcomes are more likely to reach the communities most in need of large-scale action. 

Honeycomb
The U.N. Sustainable Development Goals pair environmental and social considerations into a comprehensive framework.

Constructing Resilient Solutions

Furthermore, when it comes to innovation, different cultural, racial and gender perspectives bring unique insights and ideas to the table, which can lead to more effective and sustainable solutions to complex challenges. “By correlating diversity in leadership with market outcomes as reported by respondents, we learned that companies with… diversity out-innovate and out-perform others. Inclusive decision-making processes that value diverse viewpoints are more likely to result in solutions that are acceptable, effective and sustainable in the long term. 

Representing Stakeholders

By the same token, when decision makers consider DEI in sustainability, they likely reflect the priorities of the many people who comprise their event clients, attendees and exhibitors, sponsors, membership groups and employees. McKinsey conducted a survey in 2021 that revealed “two out of three Americans told us their social values now shape their shopping choices” and these trends amplify in Millennials and Gen Zs, the next generation of event goers with significant purchasing power. Considering DEI in conjunction with sustainability increases the likelihood of attracting new business, retaining current customers and growing brand value authentically. 

Going Beyond Numbers

We encourage and report on DEI metrics in our sustainability consulting because it begins the conversation about how deeply human wellbeing intertwines so many pieces of our existence. In the long run, a numbers approach to diversity isn’t adequate. There are invisible or undisclosed differences that make each of our perspectives unique and valuable. And quotas for certain demographics can easily become dehumanizing and counterproductive. But, for those new to event industry sustainability, we encourage you to weave DEI into your sustainability plans to lay the foundations for the complex intersection of strategies that make up good governance and organizational resilience.

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Partner Voices
  MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.  At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:  Protecting Natural Resources  MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.  Committed to Community  Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.  MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.   Fostering Diversity & Inclusion  To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.  MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.