The 2010 MBA International Case Competition and Sustainability

Last year, the John Molson Sustainable Business Group (JSG) and the MBA International Case Competition (MBA-ICC) joined forces for the first time. This year, the alliance has strengthened with the creation of a formally recognized position on the JSG dedicated to sustainability throughout the Competition. This project aims to frame sustainability as an essential tool for success in the rapidly changing business world. For more information: http://www.jsg-jmsb.ca/

Why hold a Sustainable Event?

Holding sustainable events further demonstrates Concordia’s leadership in sustainable initiatives. By working together we create a ripple effect of change, beyond the boundaries of the competition. Green events are not only environmentally responsible, but they also make social and economic sense.

A Sampling of 2010 Sustainable Initiatives

1. Hotel- Our new venue, the Queen Elizabeth Hotel, is one of the “greenest” hotels in Montreal.
2. Food- Locally sourced and organic food and beverages will be served as much as possible during the competition. Leftover food will be donated to a local charity, and food wastes will be composted.
3. Events- We will use e-tickets for our multiple events through the use of a nametag barcode scanning system. Name tags are printed on 100% post-consumer recycled paper, and the Bio-D holders are made from a material that biodegrades into biomass and hummus in 5 years instead of the usual 400 years.
4. Communications- Printed materials have been reduced, replaced by e-versions on USB keys. FSC certified paper has been used as much as possible for printed materials.
5. Sustainable Development- Kiva is the world’s first person-to-person micro-lending website empowering individuals to lend to entrepreneurs around the globe. The Competition first became involved with Kiva in 2009 when funds raised at the theme party were used to place several Kiva loans. This year, semi-finalists will be awarded with a Kiva starter kit enabling them to each place “Loans that Change lives”. We invite everyone to join our lending team at http://www.kiva.org/team/john_molson_mbaicc. Together we can make an impact and support Kiva's mission of connecting people through lending, for the sake of alleviating poverty.
   

How Can Event Attendees Make a Difference During the Competition?

1. Lug a Mug- During the competition you will be provided with a reusable mug. Remember to bring it with you for beverages in the Hospitality suite.
2. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Rethink- Glass, paper and plastic recycling facilities will be provided throughout the venue. Take a moment to do your part.
3. Name Badges- Post-competition, return the plastic holders and lanyards in the receptacles provided so they can be re-used at future events. Remember to bring them with you to all events as they will act as your e-ticket.
4. Travel- Consider purchasing carbon offsets for your travel to and from the competition. Follow this link for more details: http://www.borealisoffsets.com/offsets

Kelly Laidlaw
2010 VP Sustainability for the JSG

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