We recognise the importance of reducing our carbon footprint, promoting environmental sustainability, and driving positive change within the events industry. Our Sustainability Policy outlines our approach to creating sustainable events, minimising waste, and encouraging responsible practices among clients, suppliers, and stakeholders.
Scope
This policy applies to all events organised by SEHTA and covers the planning, execution, and post-event activities, with a focus on minimising the environmental impact and promoting social and economic sustainability.
Objectives
- Reduce Carbon Footprint: Minimise the environmental impact of transportation, energy use, and event materials
- Waste Reduction: Implement strategies for reducing, reusing, and recycling materials
- Sustainable Sourcing: Source products, services, and materials from environmentally responsible suppliers
- Promote Sustainability to Clients: Encourage clients to adopt sustainable practices and provide guidance on eco-friendly event options
- Community Engagement: Support local communities and businesses in the event process
Sustainable Event Practices
- Transportation & Travel: Minimise transportation emissions by encouraging the use of public transport, carpooling, and low-emission vehicles for both event attendees and staff
- Venue Selection: Choose venues that have a commitment to sustainability, including those that use energy-efficient lighting, renewable energy, and sustainable building practices
- Catering: Work with caterers who provide locally sourced, seasonal, and sustainably produced food and drink options. Offer vegetarian, vegan, and plant-based alternatives
- Waste Management: Implement waste segregation at events, aiming for zero waste to landfill. Where possible, use biodegradable, recyclable, or reusable materials, and ensure efficient waste disposal
- Paperless Communication: Utilise digital invitations, ticketing, and event materials (e.g., apps, websites, etc.) to reduce paper waste
- Event Materials: Reuse and recycle decor items, signage, and promotional materials. If items are not reusable, ensure they are recycled or donated
Supplier Engagement
- Sustainable Procurement: Ensure that all suppliers and contractors meet our sustainability criteria, including environmental policies and practices. Where possible, partner with local suppliers to reduce transportation-related emissions.
- Eco-friendly Products: Prioritise the use of sustainable, recyclable, or reusable products in event design and production, including decorations, furniture, and promotional materials.
Energy & Resource Efficiency
- Energy Use: Minimise energy consumption by using energy-efficient lighting and equipment, and by promoting the use of renewable energy sources at events.
- Water Usage: Implement water-saving measures, including reducing water waste and encouraging the use of refillable water bottles.
Monitoring
- Continuous Improvement: Review our sustainability performance regularly and adapt our practices to improve our environmental impact.
Staff Training & Development
- Employee Engagement: Provide regular training to staff on sustainable event practices and encourage their active participation in sustainability initiatives.
- Stakeholder Education: Educate clients, suppliers, and attendees on the importance of sustainability and how they can contribute to greener events.
Compliance
SEHTA will comply with all relevant UK legislation and industry standards related to sustainability, including environmental regulations, waste management laws, and corporate social responsibility guidelines.
Commitment to Sustainable Growth
We strive to create long-term value for our clients, stakeholders, and the communities we serve, by incorporating sustainable practices in every aspect of our business operations. We will continue to evolve and innovate in our approach to sustainability, working towards a greener and more responsible future for the events industry.
