In recent years, there has been a significant shift in how London’s event spaces approach sustainability. What we want to explore, is how event spaces in London are making changes to be more sustainable.
With growing awareness of environmental issues, venues are taking meaningful steps to reduce the carbon footprint that they have while maintaining the high standards expected by corporate clients. The challenge comes with deciding what makes a venue sustainable, and how prestigious locations in London like Glaziers Hall are leading the green revolution?
What is a Sustainable Venue?
When we talk about an eco-conscious venue, we’re looking at multiple factors that contribute to its sustainability credentials. This includes everything from energy efficiency and waste management to the sourcing of materials and food. A truly sustainable venue demonstrates commitment across all these areas, making it easier for event planners to meet their own environmental targets.
For instance, at Glaziers Hall, our recent £200K investment to replace electric chillers and gas boilers with heat pumps, is just one more step in our journey toward achieving net zero. This comprehensive approach to sustainability helps ensure that every event hosted here contributes to a greener future.
Energy Efficiency and Smart Technology
One of the most important aspects of a sustainable event space is its approach to energy usage. Modern venues are incorporating smart technology to monitor and optimise energy consumption. This includes LED lighting systems, motion sensors, and advanced climate control systems that reduce unnecessary energy use.
The integration of these technologies not only helps reduce environmental impact but also creates a more comfortable environment for delegates. Smart systems can adjust lighting and temperature based on occupancy and time of day, ensuring resources are used efficiently without compromising on guest experience.
Waste Reduction
A key indicator of an eco-friendly space is its waste management strategy. Forward-thinking venues are implementing recycling programs and working with suppliers that share a commitment to sustainability. This extends to catering services, where the focus is on reducing food waste and using biodegradable materials, as well as food miles.
Sustainable Catering Options
The food service industry has a significant environmental impact, and venues with a focus on reducing the impact they have on the environment are addressing this through the catering choices that are made. This includes:
- Partnering with local suppliers to reduce miles and carbon emissions.
- Offering plant-based menu options.
- Using seasonal ingredients.
Location and Transport Links
An often-overlooked aspect of the environmental impact a venue will have is its location and how accessible it is by various modes of transport. Venues situated near public transport links, like Glaziers Hall’s position near London Bridge, help to reduce the carbon footprint of events by making it easier for visitors to choose sustainable travel options.
Digital Integration
While printed materials were once considered essential for corporate events, modern technology has revolutionised how we share information and engage with attendees.
Digital solutions not only support sustainability goals but also enhance the overall event experience. Interactive digital signage, for instance, can transform how delegates navigate a venue. Rather than printing multiple versions of event schedules or room layouts and table plans, digital displays can be updated in real-time to reflect any last-minute changes. This flexibility ensures that everyone has access to the most current information while eliminating paper waste.
The rise of hybrid events has introduced another dimension to sustainable event planning. By incorporating virtual elements, Glaziers Hall can reduce the environmental impact that comes with travelling to a venue while ensuring events remain inclusive.
This dual approach means that delegates abroad or from multiple locations throughout the country that cannot attend in person can still participate fully in the event, accessing presentations and interactive elements through digital platforms.
Looking to the Future
As London continues to lead the way in sustainable business practices, event spaces are evolving to meet new environmental challenges. The venues that will thrive are those that can balance luxury and functionality with genuine commitment to sustainability.
Glaziers Halls’ commitment to sustainability extends to every aspect of its event delivery through its bespoke ‘Green Events’ package. We’re proud to be part of this evolution, continuously updating our practices and facilities to ensure we meet the highest standards of environmental responsibility while delivering exceptional event experiences.
If you’re planning an event and would like to learn more about our sustainable practices and how we can help you achieve your environmental goals, please call our team or visit the contact page on our website. We look forward to showing you around and to answering any questions that you may have.