Sustainable Development

We are committed to ensuring the festival is as sustainable as possible. Here are some of the steps we have taken:

  • We have a carbon offsetting / balancing policy for the Festival of Sustainable Business, where a contribution of £1 per person attending is made to certified carbon offset or carbon balancing projects. This includes initiatives such as tree planting, renewable energy projects, or community-led sustainability efforts.

  • We encourage participants and staff to use sustainable travel options such as public transport, cycling, car-sharing, or walking. We will provide information on local public transportation routes and cycling facilities in event communications.

  • We are exploring how we can implement circular economy principles into our event planning and delivery.

  • We are collecting data to understand the carbon footprint of the Festival.

  • An exhibition guide will be available online, with sustainably printed copies for accessibility produced.

  • We encourage exhibitors and sponsors to use sustainable printing for their on-site materials.

  • We are encouraging attendees to connect with each other using LinkedIn QR codes rather than business cards.

  • The Festival team will be transporting event resources via an electric van.

  • The venue is fully wheelchair accessible and has signage/stewards to guide wheelchair users.

  • Gender neutral toilets are available.

We have selected a venue that prioritizes sustainability. Here are some of the measures Bristol Beacon have taken:

  • Bristol Beacon is committed to becoming the UK's first net zero concert hall by 2030, reflecting its dedication to environmental sustainability. The venue has undertaken significant measures to achieve this goal, including:

  • Between 2018 and 2023, Bristol Beacon underwent a £132 million transformation to modernize its facilities and enhance sustainability. The refurbishment included the installation of 348 solar panels, which now supply approximately 12% of the venue's electricity needs.

  • The venue has transitioned to electric vehicles for its operations and has collaborated with sustainability consultants to identify and reduce greenhouse gas emissions across its activities.

  • As the chosen caterer for Bristol Beacon, Greyson's are committed to reaching net zero, verified by ISO-accredited auditors. Their approach includes sourcing 90% fresh, seasonal foods from local and carbon-neutral farms, reducing food waste through composting and charity partnerships, and earning recognition as ‘the most sustainable caterer in the UK’ by Slow Food UK for five consecutive years.

  • Bristol Beacon actively engages with artists, audiences, and the broader community to promote positive climate action, leveraging its platform to inspire environmental responsibility.