Sustainable Venues: What They Are and How to Get Certified

Understanding Sustainable Venues

Sustainable venues are those that prioritise environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic viability in their operations. These venues are characterised by a lower environmental impact, achieved through measures such as energy efficiency, waste reduction, and the use of renewable resources. Additionally, sustainable venues often have a strong focus on supporting local communities, promoting social inclusion, and ensuring fair labour practices.

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The Benefits of Sustainable Venues

The shift towards sustainable venues offers a multitude of benefits for event organisers, who can demonstrate their commitment to eco- and social responsibility, which can in turn enhance their brand reputation. Furthermore, such venues often offer cost-saving opportunities through energy and resource efficiency, ultimately contributing to the overall financial viability of the event.

There are several certifications that can validate the sustainability credentials of a location. Two of the main certifications are outlined below.

ISO 20121 Certification

The ISO 20121 standard is an international management system standard that specifically addresses the sustainability of event-related activities. This certification requires venues to implement a comprehensive management system that addresses environmental, social, and economic aspects of their operations. To achieve ISO 20121 certification, venues must undergo a rigorous assessment process and demonstrate continuous improvement in their sustainability performance.

LEED Certification

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a globally recognised green building certification program that assesses the sustainability of a venue’s design, construction, and operations. Venues that achieve LEED certification have demonstrated their commitment to energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, and the use of environmentally-friendly materials.

The Future of Sustainable Venues

With sustainability becoming a crucial requirement for event planning activities, the demand for ISO 20121 and LEED certified venues is expected to rise, offering numerous benefits and enhancing brand reputation.

Sustainable venues will not only be able to minimize the environmental impact of events but also create a more engaging and meaningful experience for attendees: a winning combination which we recommend to anyone wishing to organize a corporate event.

As the industry continues to evolve, the role of sustainable venues will become increasingly crucial in driving the gatherings of the future. This evolution will likely include the adoption of advanced technologies that support sustainability, such as smart building systems that optimize energy use and IoT devices that monitor resource consumption in real-time. With these advancements, sustainable venues will not only serve as spaces for assemblies but also as showcases for the latest in environmental technology and innovation.

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