Sustainable development
At the Québec City German Christmas Market, sustainable development isn't just a responsibility: it's a value that inspires every one of our actions. Through a clear sustainable development policy and a concrete action plan, our team is committed to reducing its environmental footprint, creating positive social benefits, and proudly supporting the local economy.
"Sustainable development is at the heart of the values of the Québec City German Christmas Market. With the goal of reducing our ecological footprint, these concrete actions solidify our positioning as an eco-responsible event, and we are very proud of it!"
— Olivia Lexhaller, Executive Director of the MNAQ
Highlights from the 2024 edition
- 620 000 visitors welcomed.
- 125 Québec exhibitors, including several from the Capitale-Nationale Region.
- 65 000 reusable cups in circulation and 49 354 washed on site, avoiding nearly 262 kg of plastic.
- 409 kg of organic waste diverted from incineration thanks to purple bags from Québec City.
- 95% of decorative Christmas trees reused in a circular economy (essential oils).
- 3 000 hours of volunteer work provided by more than 160 volunteers.
- Nearly 1 000 children reached by la Caravane du Marché.
- $15 million in economic benefits for the region.
- 30 tons of CO₂ offset by purchasing carbon credits.
- Level 3 of the BNQ 9700-253 standard in responsible event management.
- Biosphere Certification renewed.
Our areas of intervention
Organizational Commitment
Renewal of the Biosphere certification, a guarantee of continuous improvement and credible external recognition.
Nutrition
Promoting local purchasing and healthy eating habits, highlighting Quebec ingredients, expanding vegetarian and alcohol-free options, and redistributing surplus food at the end of the event to reduce waste.
Transportation
Raising visitor awareness about active and public transportation, adopting sustainable mobility practices by the team, calculating and offsetting greenhouse gas emissions, and implementing concrete solutions to reduce them.
Water and Energy
Using electricity to power the sites, optimizing energy-efficient infrastructure, installing fountains and equipment that promote reusable containers, and choosing sustainable materials.
Management of Residual Materials
Reducing single-use items at source, sorting and recycling organic and recyclable materials, using reuse and circular economy solutions, and supporting specialized experts.
Social Practices and Community
Accessibility of sites and activities, free and inclusive programming, involvement of a community of volunteers, and implementation of educational and community initiatives (Caravane du Marché).
Supply and Benefits
Priority given to local, responsible, and socially engaged suppliers, use of reusable and recyclable materials, encouragement of sustainable practices, and support for the regional economy and Quebec's cultural creation.
Recognition
The Québec City German Christmas Market is proud to be among the pioneers of sustainable tourism in Québec City thanks to its Biosphere certification. This international recognition confirms the event's commitment to reducing its ecological footprint and increasing its positive impact on the community. Biosphere certification is not just a crest: it demonstrates a living, measurable, and evolving commitment.
In 2024, the MNAQ consolidated its commitment by obtaining Level 3 of the BNQ 9700-253 standard for responsible event management. This recognition, awarded by the Réseau des femmes en environnement and its CQERR, confirms the strength and seriousness of its eco-responsible approach.
How to contribute as a visitor?
Choose public transit
A simple, affordable, and effective solution to avoid traffic jams and searching for parking, while fighting climate change! To make your travel easier, download and use the RTC mobile apps. The RTC's Real-time Nomade app (Apple Store / Google Play) allows you to get route schedules. The RTC's Nomade Payment app (Apple Store / Google Play) allows you to purchase your tickets.
The MNAQ tracks the emissions generated by the event and is committed to increasing its offsetting year after year through the purchase of carbon credits. Join the movement by offsetting your own travel!
Bring your reusable containers and bags
You'll reduce the use of single-use items and enjoy a delicious mulled wine in your favorite mug!
Forgot your glass or mug? No problem! All the kiosks operated by the Québec City German Christmas have their own reusable cups! To support our sustainable development efforts, donate your deposit via the appropriate recycling bins.
Sort your waste
You'll promote recycling by taking the time to sort your materials carefully. Recycling bins are available, clearly visible, at the various MNAQ sites.
Special thanks
The Québec City German Christmas Market would like to thank its partners in sustainable development :
