The AIMS Green initiative began in the 11th edition of our congress, aiming to make it more sustainable. Furthermore, we also keep in mind the importance of raising our participants’ awareness about environmental issues. In this edition, we will adapt the AIMS Green initiative to the new format of our congress, in every way possible.
AIM TO REDUCE WASTE
AIMS Green
AIM TO CHANGE
Green Tips
1
Do not put the fridge and freezer near the stove, as they use more energy to compensate for the temperature gain.
2
Use your plastic bag! Each portuguese citizen used about 499 plastic bags in 2012. Although we use them, on average, only 12 minutes, they requeire more than 1,000 years to degrade. Whe compared to a plastic bag a cotton one can have a bigger production ecologigical footprint. You have to reuse it 131 times.
In Edgington, T. (2019) “Plastic or paper: which one is greener?”, BBC News
3
Water or money: what should I save?
Before taking a shower, we wait, on average, 1 minute, for the water to get hot. In that time, ~ 8 L of water go to waste. If is a daily practice, it can represent almost 3,000 L of water, per year.
Solution: Put a bucket in the shower while you’re waiting for the water to warm up and use it later for cooking, watering your plants, flushing the toilet.
In Residential End Uses of Water (2016). Water Research Foundation
Our commitment for this year
In 2026, AIMS Green strengthens its environmental mission by focusing on one clear goal: reducing and compensating the carbon footprint of the AIMS Meeting.
This year, we are committed to carbon compensation and to actively lowering our CO₂ impact. For every euro raised through AIMS Green initiatives, one tree will be planted, contributing directly to environmental restoration and climate action.
How does it work?
The funds for carbon compensation will be raised through two main actions during the congress:
Reusable cup system
All participants will receive a reusable cup upon arrival, subject to a small deposit.
If a participant chooses not to return the cup, the deposit will be allocated to our carbon compensation fund.
AIMS Green Stand
During coffee breaks and lunch, a dedicated AIMS Green stand will be available where participants can:
- Make a voluntary donation
- Take part in small sustainability challenges or activities
- Win an eco-friendly prize
All donations collected at the Green Stand will contribute directly to the tree-planting initiative.
From small actions to real impact
These simple gestures, returning a cup or making a small donation, will be transformed into long-term environmental action.
By linking everyday choices to tangible outcomes, AIMS Green turns sustainability into a shared responsibility:
- Fewer disposable materials;
- Lower CO₂ emissions;
- More trees planted;
- A greener future for our community.
One euro. One tree. One step closer to a more sustainable congress.