Conference News hosted its second edition of the CN Sustainability Summit on 7 September at 15Hatfields, London.
The event took place to, not only share best practice among event professionals, but also to measure the industry’s sustainability progress within the last year.
Event agenda
The day began with three panel discussions: the first around Sustainable Travel, with panellists Ben Hoeksma, Chris Thompson, Matt Grey, Lisa Rowland and Danny Pecorelli; the second around Delivering a Green Event with Chrissie Beck, Jemma Peers, Mary Cole, Scott Holman and Jerzy Szozda and the third around Sustainable Venue Selection with Kerrin MacPhie, Johanna Byrane, Nil Sonmez, Joe Harris and Hannah Robinson.
Attendees then had the opportunity to network, have 1:1 meetings and participate in roundtable discussions.
Following lunch, Dale Parmenter, Saskya Liney, Kate Nicholl and Kathryn Richmond explored how event professionals can “cater with a conscience”. Sarah Cox, Faye Priestley, Sarah Yeats, Emmanuelle Clement, Aarron Mcgurk and Ric Porteus then explained how stakeholders can work together and create a more greener future.
The summit closed with an interactive Sustainability Storytelling workshop from human experience agency, Identity.
Commenting on the event, Cameron Roberts, editor, Conference News, said: “This year’s summit was a demonstration of organisers’ commitment to people, planet and profit. It’s so great to see more delegates making their way to the conference, bringing a host of new experiences and learnings.
“I was impressed with the maturity that many delegates demonstrated within the sustainability space. The industry is waking up to the fact that sustainability is a must have, the sentiment from those on-site demonstrates this leap forward in knowledge.”
Collaboration is key
Mary Cole, CEO, Whitespace Group, said: “Whitespace Group is thrilled to have been headline sponsor for this year’s CN Sustainability Summit, to champion a brighter, greener future. It was a pleasure to discuss how we can build sustainability into a business, and share our innovative approach to operational initiatives.
“Our commitment to sustainability goes beyond words; it’s about action. Events like these bring like-minded individuals together, and allow us to transform the way we work: together.”
Johanna Byrane, head of business development, Twickenham Stadium, added: “The summit bought together some new faces and a varied approach to sustainability conversations, with representatives from all aspects of the event industry in attendance keen to enhance their knowledge and share their expertise. The mixed approach of insightful panels, roundtables, 1:1 meetings and plenty of networking opportunities worked really well offering an interactive experience.
“For those who are far into their journey along with companies, and individuals who are just starting to learn more about sustainability in events, the day proved insightful and thought provoking.”
Thanks to our sponsors:
Headline – Whitespace Group and Twickenham Stadium
Content – Immersive AV, Sodexo Live!, event:decision, The Jockey Club Venues, Lime Venue Portfolio, Norman Richmond and Co., Searcys, BMA House and Exclusive Collection.
Registration – You.Smart.Thing.
CN Sustainability Summit 2024
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