To mark this day, Conference News takes a closer look at the sustainability initiatives implemented by UK venues, their commitments, and the progress they have made so far. It’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on both the achievements and the work still needed to drive real change and reach the Net Zero 2050 target.
Farnborough International
Across the UK, venues are increasingly setting ambitious sustainability targets, with many firmly on the path to achieving net zero. Leading the charge is Farnborough International, whose ‘Destination Zero’ strategy focuses on reducing emissions through renewable and efficient energy, reducing, reusing and recycling waste, and partnering with leading sustainable suppliers. The venue sends zero waste to landfill and its 1.2MW solar array now generates over 30% of its annual electricity needs.
Excel London
Another major player is Excel London, which is committed to cutting its carbon emissions by 50% by 2030 and reaching net zero by 2050. Excel has operated on 100% renewable electricity for over a decade and sends zero waste to landfill. Innovative initiatives like housing one of the UK’s largest wormeries to process organic waste underline Excel’s creative approach to sustainability.
SEC Glasgow
Scottish Event Campus (SEC) Glasgow has made sustainability a core part of its operations, aiming to achieve net zero by 2030. Following its role as host of COP26, SEC has intensified efforts, now sourcing 100% of its electricity from renewables and implementing the ISO 20121 sustainable event management system. It has mapped its journey towards net zero across five key areas: climate, governance, partnership, people, and resources.
Manchester Central
In Manchester, Manchester Central has pledged to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The venue is a signatory of the Net Zero Carbon Events Pledge and has launched its ‘Our Central Future’ sustainability strategy, covering key focus areas such as reducing environmental impact, enhancing community involvement, and encouraging greener business practices.
NEC Birmingham
The NEC Birmingham has been a leader in sustainable venue management, targeting carbon neutrality by 2040. Impressively, the NEC has achieved zero waste to landfill since 2012 and recently joined The Climate Pledge to accelerate its efforts toward net zero. The group is also investing in biodiversity initiatives across its 440-acre campus, further demonstrating its broad environmental commitment.
Olympia London
Meanwhile, Olympia London is undergoing a major redevelopment designed with sustainability at its heart. Already powered by 100% renewable energy and recycling 98% of its waste, Olympia is working toward achieving net zero by 2050. Notably, energy consumption at the venue has been cut by 50% thanks to upgraded building management systems.
ICC Wales
In Wales, ICC Wales has focused on blending sustainability with its natural environment. The venue sources all electricity from renewable suppliers, has achieved 100% waste diversion from landfill, and has planted over 15,000 trees and shrubs to promote local biodiversity. Sustainability runs through its food and beverage services too, with strong commitments to sourcing local Welsh produce.
QEII London
The QEII Centre London has embedded sustainability across its operations, hosting events such as Sustainability LIVE Net Zero and pushing best practice among organisers with its green event checklists. The centre’s sustainability initiatives focus on promoting environmental awareness, energy efficiency, and low-waste event delivery.
ACC Liverpool
Finally, ACC Liverpool has set a bold target to achieve net zero by 2030. Having already achieved carbon neutral status in 2023, ACC Liverpool has introduced air-source heat pumps, LED lighting upgrades, and measures that have led to a 12% reduction in its carbon footprint. It continues to push forward with a sustainability strategy that aligns with the city’s broader climate goals.
These venues have shown commitment towards achieving Net Zero by 2050 and they don’t only talk about sustainability, they show it and they prove it every day, not only this Earth Day.
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