Greenwashing is an ever-present challenge in business, so there is a demand from both clients and the government for businesses to show evidence that they are making real change. The target set by the UK Government of decarbonising all sectors of our economy by 2050 may seem a distant goal, but we must do our utmost now to make it attainable.
Did you know?
The event industry is responsible for up to 10% of the global greenhouse gas emissions. This calls for large efforts from our industry to reduce our impact.
Green certifications, such as the ECOsmart scheme, push venues and businesses to reach an industry standard and comply with governance. With an abundance of green certifications on offer, it is important to choose one that fits best with your company and is tailored to what you offer.
ECOsmart is the perfect certification for venues and event agencies as we know how best to support you and push for your continual improvement.
Client demand for sustainable certification
Businesses are experiencing an increased demand for sustainable venues from clients as they want to see positive change. In a study by One Trust, the average in-person attendee produces around 170kg of CO2 emissions. The responsibility to reduce this figure lies mainly on venues and agencies to cut down emissions before the event has begun.
Many clients and suppliers will not work with venues that do not fit their sustainability goals. Acquiring a green certification shows clients that the business is putting the right foot forward in its sustainability journey and playing a part in the global push to combat climate change.
Continual improvement with regular auditing
With any certification, businesses must be regularly audited to ensure they are meeting criteria. There is no room for stagnation with green certifications, especially with ECOsmart, as we audit our certified businesses every year to ensure that standards remain high and there is continual progress towards becoming greener. Venues can work their way up our levels from Bronze to Platinum to continue improving and stay a step ahead.
Creating an industry standard
Having a green certification, such as ECOsmart, means businesses become part of a community that builds each other up and shares the experiences of a sustainability journey together. With regular events and opportunities to meet other ECOsmart properties and agencies, Greengage helps bring businesses together and embark on a path to a more sustainable future. Agencies and venues can see that other businesses with the same certification are also doing their bit. This means we are setting the standard as an industry to become more sustainable, creating the new normal.
Support to achieve objectives
Often green certification companies will guide businesses along the way and give them tips on how to become more sustainable. No matter the industry, we all want to see positive change from enterprises, and we all want the best for our planet. With ECOsmart, venues will get expert advice from sustainability consultants on how to achieve green targets, so they are never alone on the green certification journey.
More about ECOsmart
ECOsmart is the leading certification system for hotels, meeting venues, short-stay apartments and pubs with meeting rooms. It is increasingly recognised as the credible and affordable marque that organisations can display to demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability and achievement of recognised standards.
