Embracing Sustainability
At ICOPA XVI 2026 in Montréal, we are dedicated to integrating sustainable practices that create tangible, measurable results. Sustainability isn’t just an initiative for us—it’s a core value that shapes every aspect of the congress. Our commitment reflects our shared responsibility to protect the future for generations to come, both locally and globally.
With Montréal‘s rich history of innovation and leadership in environmental sustainability, we’ve purposefully planned ICOPA XVI to prioritize green practices at every level. This commitment extends to our organizing team, committees, partners, and delegates, and we invite everyone to join us in this mission to reduce the ecological footprint of the congress while fostering a healthier, more sustainable future for all.
ICOPA and the Sustainable Development Goals
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs, also known as the Global Goals) are 17 goals with 169 targets that all UN Member States have agreed to work towards achieving by the year 2030. They set out a vision for a world free from poverty, hunger and disease.
We at ICOPA want to do our part to promote the achievement of these goals in our own value chain. The SDGs that we support and work towards are:
GOOD HEALTH AND WELL-BEING
What we are doing in 2026:
Advancing the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of parasitic diseases
Supporting the elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs)
Strengthening global preparedness for infectious diseases
QUALITY EDUCATION
What we are doing in 2026:
- Offering state-of-the-art training for researchers and clinicians
- Spreading awareness on early diagnosis and prevention
- Building global capacity in parasitology
INDUSTRY, INNOVATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE
What we are doing in 2026:
New diagnostics, digital surveillance tools, and vaccines
Innovative drug and vector control strategies
Research infrastructures and global collaboration
REDUCED INEQUALITIES
What we are doing in 2026:
- Gender Equality – As part of our commitment to diversity and inclusivity, we are proud to highlight the gender balance of ICOPA 2026. 40% of our committee members are women, and many of our confirmed plenary speakers are female leaders in parasitology. We strive to foster an inclusive, equitable environment for all participants.
- Low-income regions and marginalized communities
- Areas with weak healthcare systems
ICOPA 2026 is committed to: - Promoting equitable access to treatments
- Addressing neglected tropical diseases (NTDs)
- Strengthening health equity in endemic regions
RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION & PRODUCTION
What we are doing in 2026:
- We are committed to reducing our carbon footprint. We have introduced measures to minimize environmental impact, and in line with Kenes Group’s sustainability standards, we aim to offset carbon emissions from the congress.
- All lanyards and badges used during the congress will be recycled and collected after use to ensure minimal waste.
- In an effort to reduce unnecessary waste, we will be using the official congress app for all information—there will be no congress bags, no inserts, and no printed programs.
- The venue for ICOPA XVI, Palais des congrès de Montréal, is committed to eco-responsibility. For more information on the venue’s sustainability initiatives, please visit their Sustainable Development Page.
- Exhibitors can take part in our sustainability efforts by following our guide on sustainable practices. Access the Sustainability Tips & Tricks for Exhibitors for practical guidance on how to minimize your environmental impact during the congress.
