Chess Society Sustainability Charter
TU Dublin Chess Society is committed to supporting sustainability within all its activities, as well as promoting environmental awareness and the responsibilities of being a global citizen. The aim is that this charter will be adopted into the TU Dublin Chess Society Constitution in the next academic year once all society members have been informed about the charter through multiple methods of communication, such as Instagram and Discord, so they can vote once they are fully informed about its goals. The charter will remain available to view through the society's Linktree and Discord at all times once adopted.
This charter will cover a range of areas which are important to TU Dublin’s Sustainable Events Procedure.
Props and Materials
The society strives to use reusable materials and equipment at all events wherever possible. Reusable chess sets, clocks, score sheets, and display materials will be prioritised over disposable alternatives. Digital communication and registration systems will be used instead of printed materials whenever practical.
The society will introduce reusable and recyclable name plates for tournaments, workshops, and social events to reduce paper waste. These name plates will be collected after each event and reused whenever possible.
Prizes and giveaways will be selected with sustainability in mind, avoiding wasteful or single-use items. Overall sustainability will be prioritised at all society activities.
Waste Management and Catering
Waste reduction measures such as the use of reusable cups, cutlery, and serving equipment are encouraged at all society events. The use of single-use products and excessive packaging will be avoided whenever possible.
The society operates a Return Scheme collection system at events, encouraging members to return eligible cans and bottles for recycling. Funds generated through this scheme may be used to support future society activities, purchase refreshments for events such as coffee mornings, or contribute towards sustainable society initiatives.
Clearly labelled recycling and waste disposal facilities will be promoted at all events to encourage responsible waste management among members.
Venue and Transportation
The Chess Society aims to ensure all off-campus venues are accessible through public transport networks. When selecting venues, preference will be given to locations that are within walking distance of campus or easily reachable by public transport.
The society will actively encourage members to use public transport, walking, cycling, or carpooling when attending events. Public transport routes and travel information will be included in event communications where appropriate.
Where possible, online participation options such as virtual chess tournaments, analysis sessions, or workshops will be provided to reduce transport-related emissions.
Goals:
Short-Term
- Introduce reusable and recyclable name plates for tournaments and society events.
- Promote the Return Scheme at all major events and increase member participation in recycling initiatives.
- Encourage sustainable travel by providing public transport information for all off-campus events.
Medium-Term
- Expand the society’s collection of reusable event materials, including chess equipment storage, signage, and tournament resources.
- Develop partnerships with sustainable catering suppliers that focus on waste reduction and environmentally friendly practices.
- Increase awareness of sustainable transport options among members through society communications and event planning.
Long-Term
- Organise regular chess-themed sustainability events, such as eco-friendly tournaments, recycled-material chess workshops, and sustainability-focused charity chess competitions.
- Establish the society as a model for sustainable event management within TU Dublin through continued waste reduction, recycling initiatives, and responsible transport practices.
- Continue expanding sustainability measures as the society grows, regularly reviewing and updating this charter to reflect best practices and member feedback.
Signed
Cari Dunne
HSO of TU Dublin’s Chess Society