Iconic Grade II listed events venue, Church House, Westminster, is on track to become carbon neutral by the end of 2024, achieving its milestone net zero ambition six years ahead of target.
Committed to operating as a socially and environmentally responsible venue, the conference centre is utilising a range of innovative sustainability measures to refurbish its event spaces. Working only with sustainable suppliers, this has included redecorating rooms with carbon absorbing paint, installing energy efficient spray cork insulation, using desks made of recycled bottle tops, installing waterless urinals, and fitting carbon-saving LED lighting throughout the building.
Embedding sustainability across its operations, Church House is concentrating on five key areas which have the biggest impact on the planet; energy, waste, transport, food and water. As a result of its initiatives to date, 100 per cent of its electricity is now renewable, no waste is sent to landfill, temperature consumption has been reduced by 66 per cent, water consumption has been reduced by 80 per cent, and the venue has achieved Planet Mark certification for its green cleaning practices as well as a Silver Eco Church Award.
Stephanie Maurel, CEO at Church House, Westminster, said: “We’re overjoyed to be on track to reach our net zero target almost half a decade ahead of schedule, especially as a Grade II listed venue. We’ve been determined to show that, with commitment, enthusiasm and ingenuity, historic buildings can play a leading role in creating a thriving and sustainable events industry of the future.
“We’ve always been a people-focussed business with a compassionate outlook and proactive mindset, and our commitment to sustainability is a fundamental part of that; we know these measures reflect our clients’ values, support our local community, and create a healthier working environment for our dedicated team members.”
Alongside a plethora of other initiatives, which include only using certified green energy, the fitting of sensory taps, and using cleaning products which are 94 per cent biodegradable, the multi-purpose venue has partnered with Event Decision to offer clients the ability to track the carbon footprint of their events and receive recommendations for improvements.
A key part of Westminster’s wider efforts to become more environmentally friendly, Church House also plays an active role in supporting the local community by using local and seasonal produce in its menus, and by donating lost property to local clothing charities.
Reinforcing its carbon neutral ambition, this year the venue will be continuing with the use of low carbon paint across the venue and reviewing the impact of sustainability topics on their stakeholders.
To find out more about Church House, Westminster’s sustainability journey, please visit: https://churchhouseconf.co.uk/about-us/sustainability/.
