While we all know that delivering sustainable events reduces the impact we have on the planet, are practical considerations creating a challenge for event planners between what’s right and what’s possible?
According to the IBTM World Trends Report 2025, rising costs and tighter deadlines are making it harder to prioritise sustainability, even as expectations from clients and attendees continue to grow.
The Main Barriers
A recent survey in the ICE Annual Benchmarking Research Report, as presented in the IBTM World Trends Report 2025, highlighted some clear challenges:
- 2% of respondents said cost is a limiting factor
- 4% of respondents mentioned a lack of resources
- 6% of respondents reported a lack of knowledge
These pressures risk slowing the progress the events industry has made in recent years, particularly when sustainability is seen as an added complexity rather than part of the planning process.
The Role of the Venue
One of the simplest ways to reduce an event’s environmental impact is by choosing the right venue.
A centrally located space like Glaziers Hall makes lower-carbon travel more accessible, with the tube, river taxi and cycle routes all within easy reach.
This reduces travel emissions before the event even begins. What’s more, just a two-minute walk from London Bridge, those attending events at Glaziers Hall can simply walk across the road and down the steps.
Energy and Efficiency
Behind the scenes, venues can have a significant impact on sustainability.
At Glaziers Hall, ongoing investment in heat pumps, LED lighting and energy-efficient systems helps reduce energy use across the building.
The use of digital signage and modern AV equipment also limits the need for printed materials, without compromising on the experience that is delivered to guests.
Reducing Waste Through Smart Planning
Careful planning plays a major role in waste reduction.
Digital innovations, programmes and signage help minimise paper use and allow flexibility closer to the event date.
Catering is another key area to reduce waste.
Working closely with our resident catering partner, Life’s Kitchen, menus are planned around accurate guest numbers and dietary requirements.
Life’s Kitchen also sources ingredients from local suppliers, reducing food miles and ensuring that produce is seasonal and fresh.
Reuse and Responsible Choices
Single-use décor is often unavoidable, but it doesn’t have to be the default.
Reusable lighting, fabrics and event dressing can be used across multiple events.
What’s more, Glaziers Hall has also previously donated old fabric graphics from shows to Story Events, ensuring materials are reused for education and creative activities rather than being wasted.
Making Sustainability Easier
For organisers working to tight deadlines and budgets, sustainability can feel like another challenge to manage.
At Glaziers Hall, much of this work is built into the way the venue operates, helping clients deliver responsible corporate functions without the added pressure.
Plan Your Event at Glaziers Hall
If you’re planning an event and want sustainability to be part of the process right from the very beginning, Glaziers Hall offers seven unique spaces to deliver one unforgettable experience, supported by an experienced team and long-term environmental initiatives.
Contact our team on 020 7402 3300 or sales@glaziershall.co.uk to find out how we can support your next event.
To read the full findings from the IBTM World Trends Report 2025, you can download the report here.