European Short Pitch Awarded 'Greener Event 2026 – Commended' Certification

European Short Pitch has officially been certified as a Greener Event 2026 – Commended by A Greener Future (AGF), the leading global certification body for event sustainability. This recognition places ESP among well-managed, environmentally aware events that go beyond expectations to drive positive ecological change. AGF’s assessment highlighted the organisation's clear commitment to sustainable best practices and its ongoing determination to protect the environment.

This achievement reflects ESP’s dedication to embedding sustainable choices into every stage of its annual activities. By adopting a hybrid programme structure: running development workshops entirely online and offering hybrid access to the Coproduction Forum – ESP drastically cuts international flight emissions while simultaneously broadening global reach. When hosting on-site events, ESP selects central, well-connected hubs like Leiden to leverage Europe’s high-speed rail network, while ensuring all venues and accommodation remain within walking distance to eliminate local transport emissions.

Operational sustainability extends directly to the event experience on the ground. ESP prioritises seasonal, vegetarian-default catering sourced from local producers, eliminates single-use tableware, operates via a decentralised remote team, and hosts dedicated educational panels to help emerging filmmakers integrate green practices into their own productions. None of this would be possible without the generous support and enthusiasm of our participants and guests, and Leiden Shorts, whose shared commitment helps bring these environmental goals to life. 

Following this recognition, ESP has been automatically nominated for the International AGF Awards, with finalists set to be announced in early 2027. The official certification will be presented at the Green Events & Innovations Conference in London on 23 February 2027. 

Further details on these ongoing initiatives are available in the full Sustainability & Inclusivity Policy.