Roundtable discussion: applying sustainability legislation to events

Abstract

Purpose

Environmental policies and sustainability‐focussed legislation has far‐reaching impacts across a range of aspects. This article attempts to provide a concise overview of four sustainability‐related imperatives, to understand how they apply to event management in practice and the challenges and opportunities these initiatives present within an event industry context.

Design/methodology/approach

Event management professionals were asked to discuss four current sustainability agendas by examining how they could apply legislation applicable to water, waste, energy and big society to their planning and delivery of a client's event.

Findings

An evident lack of knowledge on sustainability legislation was unearthed along with a resistance to learn about a new and seemingly vast subject matter. Core to successfully applying the legislation to their events were relationships with the client, venue and supplier. These were seen as both an opportunity and a hindrance.

Practical implications

The discussion identified practical methods for engaging and educating industry professionals in a way which enables and empowers them rather than overwhelming. It also pointed to changes required of businesses to provide the tools and resource the managers need.

Originality/value

This is a valuable tool for event managers starting out on their sustainability journey.

Citation

Paterson, M. and Ward, S. (2011), "Roundtable discussion: applying sustainability legislation to events", Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes, Vol. 3 No. 3, pp. 203-209. https://doi.org/10.1108/17554211111142167