The Festival of Sustainable Impact returns to Belfast on 1 October 2026, bringing together business leaders, sustainability practitioners, policymakers and innovators to explore how sustainability is increasingly shaping organisational strategy, investment and long-term resilience.
Now in its fifth year, the all-island event has become a significant fixture in the sustainability calendar, reflecting the growing role sustainability plays in business across Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Delivered by All-Ireland Sustainability (AIS) in partnership with Cushon, the festival will take place at the Europa Hotel and combine a sustainability summit, interactive exhibition and evening awards ceremony.
This year’s theme, “Smarter Business Through Sustainability,” will explore how organisations can use sustainability to reduce costs, strengthen resilience, create long-term value and improve overall performance.
The programme will examine a broad range of topics including sustainable finance, biodiversity, artificial intelligence, manufacturing, tourism, circular economy practices, behavioural change and innovation.
Sessions will also address sustainability reporting, business transformation and the management of Scope 3 emissions.
The festival is expected to attract participants from business, government, academia, consultancies, NGOs and community organisations, creating opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing across sectors.
Speakers from organisations including NIE Networks, Danske Bank and the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland will contribute insights on the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of sustainability.
Alongside keynote sessions and panel discussions, attendees will be able to participate in workshops, networking opportunities and an interactive exhibition showcasing organisations working across the sustainability landscape.
The event will conclude with the Festival of Sustainable Impact Awards, recognising projects, organisations and individuals demonstrating excellence in sustainability.
Entries are currently open across 17 award categories across all sectors, with submissions closing on 7 August 2026.
The Festival of Sustainable Impact 2026 takes place on 1 October at the Europa Hotel, Belfast.
Registration, tickets and further information are available at: https://www.allirelandsustainability.com/what-we-do/awards/
