Hosting an unforgettable event shouldn’t come at the expense of the environment. The hospitality industry has a notable carbon footprint, but with the right planning, it’s possible to create a memorable experience that is both impactful and eco-conscious.
From minimising waste to collaborating with sustainable suppliers, there are many ways to reduce the carbon footprint you have while still delivering an exceptional experience for your guests.
Starting with the Venue
The location of a venue plays a crucial role in determining the environmental impact you will have. For example, a centrally located space, such as Glaziers Hall, gives attendees the chance to opt for less carbon intensive travel options. With the tube, riverboat taxis and bikes all on the doorstep, we can reduce the carbon footprint of an events from the very start.
Setting standards
When selecting a venue, it’s important to enquire about its sustainability practices. Modern, eco-conscious venues should prioritise energy efficiency, from heating and cooling systems to LED lighting and recycling programmes.
Glaziers Hall has implemented various energy-saving measures, along with investment into heat pumps removing historic heating and cooling systems, demonstrating its commitment to environmental responsibility.
Minimising Waste Through Smart Planning
One of the most effective ways to make an event more sustainable is to reduce waste from the outset. Consider replacing traditional printed materials with digital alternatives, from invitations to programmes and signage. This not only reduces paper waste but also allows for last-minute updates without additional printing costs.
What’s more, digital signage looks premium and can add an extra touch that leaves you delegates knowing you have put the time and attention into every detail.
The Power of Local Sourcing
Food miles are not new, but it can be surprising how many companies avoid them. Locally sourced ingredients have become increasingly important over the years. Working with caterers who can access ingredients that are sourced nearby not only reduces environmental impact but often results in fresher produce that enhances the taste and therefore the dining experience.
At Glaziers Hall, careful consideration goes into menu planning alongside our resident catering partner, Life’s Kitchen. By understanding the exact numbers of attendees and dietary requirements well in advance, the team can work with suppliers to order precise quantities, significantly reducing food waste.
Sustainable Celebrations and Decor
When planning larger corporate celebrations, such as awards ceremonies or gala dinners, it’s important to consider the environmental impact of decorations and event dressing, which are often discarded after one-time use. Single-use decorations can contribute significantly to waste, but it’s entirely possible to create eco-friendly décor that integrates your theme.
On the other hand, consider investing in quality decorations that can be repurposed for future events.
Items such as LED lighting, reusable centrepieces, and fabric backdrops can create impressive displays that can be used again or donated to charities that can repurpose them for other uses.
Glaziers Hall recently donated its old fabric graphics from the London Summer Event Show and London Christmas Party Show to a local charity, Story Events. This initiative turns ‘waste’ into materials that are used for education and creative activities. A fantastic idea!
Technology and Energy Efficiency
Modern AV technology can significantly reduce your environmental impact while enhancing attendee’s experience. Virtual participation can reduce travel emissions, while digital apps eliminate the need for printed programs.
Additionally, smart lighting systems that maximise natural light can minimise energy consumption – this is further proof that sustainability and innovation can go hand-in-hand for a seamless event experience.
Measuring and Tracking Success
Understanding the environmental impact of an event will raise questions about where further savings can be made. Event planners should establish clear sustainability goals and metrics from the outset. This might include tracking energy usage, monitoring waste production, and calculating the overall carbon footprint.
A simple way to calculate your event’s environmental impact is:
(Travel impact) + (Energy use impact) + (Waste impact) + (Food impact) = Environmental impact.
A post-event analysis offers valuable insights and can be used to build a test case for future activities.
Creating a Lasting Impression
Sustainable functions don’t just benefit the environment – they can enhance a company’s reputation too. By making sustainability a priority, event planners can create memorable experiences that align with the corporate social responsibility policies and objectives of the companies they are working with.
The key to all of this is preparation and choosing the right partners. Working with venues and suppliers that have a shared commitment to environmental impact and working to achieve net zero ensures that the focus remains clear.
For those planning an event, Glaziers Hall offers various environmentally conscious solutions across its seven versatile spaces. The venue’s central location, natural lighting, and experienced team make it an ideal choice for organisations looking to reduce their environmental impact while delivering exceptional experiences.
To learn more about hosting sustainable events at Glaziers Hall, or to arrange a viewing of the spaces available, please contact our events team who will be happy to discuss how we can support you further to reach your objectives.