Social responsibility is a key pillar of the TCS 2026 Meeting, reflecting a commitment to creating meaningful, inclusive, and sustainable impact within the host community.

By partnering with local businesses, employing eco-conscious practices, and supporting community-based initiatives, the meeting aims to uplift the region economically and socially.

Delegates are encouraged to engage with local culture through curated experiences and are invited to contribute to social outreach efforts, including donations to local charities or participation in community-led projects. This approach not only enhances the delegate experience but also ensures that the benefits of hosting the event extend beyond the venue and into the heart of Cape Town’s diverse communities.

OUR COMMITMENT

We will:

• Procure recycled promotional items from local development enterprises, promoting skills development and job creation and assist with the development of unemployed people: socially, economically, emotionally and spiritually
• Avoid goods that are excessively packaged and will buy in bulk where possible.
• Avoid the use of single-use, disposable products such as polystyrene cups.
• Raise awareness of the impact of carbon emissions and encourage delegates to make a voluntary carbon contribution to fund carbon offsetting.
• Encourage car-sharing for all participants
• Encourage group airport transfers instead of individual transfers.
• Promote the use of public transport and/or cycling
• Provide accommodation options within walking distance from STIAS.
• Only print when necessary and print double-sided on appropriate paper.
• Print on the reverse side of used paper when possible.
• Avoid the use of disposable items; use reusable food-and-beverage containers and cutlery instead of disposable paper cups and plates.
• Provide a water dispenser with reusable glasses, rather than single use water bottles and disposable cups.
• Use only 50% of the lights during build-up and breakdown of events.
• Use natural light, instead of switching on lights in the venue (wherever practical).
• Ensure that all unnecessary equipment (specifically at exhibitions) is switched off overnight.
• Select conference bags and gifts from local suppliers which are durable, reusable and eco-friendly.
• Avoid printing by providing information electronically.
• All registrations will be done electronically.
• Hire local staff wherever possible, and where there is no expertise, train locals to do the work.
• Purchase local products and use local suppliers of goods and services.
• Avoid using goods or practices that are hazardous to human health.