In the world of events, the call for sustainability rings loud and clear, and has done so for more than a decade. Our industry’s efforts have undoubtedly been far-reaching and pivotal, yet the conversation is evolving. ESG — Environmental, Social, and Governance — is emerging as the new face of sustainability, broadening the focus beyond the "green" to encompass the "S" and "G" as integral pillars of responsible event planning.
Why ESG Matters in the Events Industry
“The concept of ESG represents a holistic approach to sustainability,” says Jo Austin, Sales Director of Lime Venue Portfolio, who has recently taken on an additional leadership role supporting the Conference & Events area of the business in the sustainability space. With her extensive network and respected position in the events industry, Jo is well-placed to drive meaningful change for Lime Venue Portfolio and the broader sector. She elaborates: “For years, environmental impact has dominated discussions around sustainable events. Initiatives to minimise carbon footprints, manage waste, and prioritise renewable energy sources have set the foundation. However, true sustainability extends beyond environmental considerations.”
Environmental (E): While essential, environmental efforts are only one piece of the puzzle. Event planners are now expected to measure and transparently report on emissions, energy use, and resource consumption.
Social (S): This pillar emphasises the importance of inclusivity, community impact, and social equity. From ensuring accessible venues to supporting local suppliers and fostering diverse audiences, the social dimension of ESG enhances the ethical impact of events.
Governance (G): Governance highlights the need for transparency, ethical decision-making, and accountability. This includes fair contract practices, anti-corruption measures, and equitable treatment of all stakeholders involved in an event.
Better Events: From "Green" to "Great" – A Broader Vision
The shift from traditional sustainability to ESG reflects a broader recognition of what it means to create responsible events. While reducing single-use plastics and minimising waste remain critical, the inclusion of social and governance aspects ensures that events leave a legacy that extends beyond the environment.
“Event organisers can no longer afford to view sustainability as a box-ticking exercise,” adds Jo. “Instead, ESG invites a nuanced approach that aligns with broader business objectives and societal expectations.”
By adopting ESG principles, the UK events industry can:
● Build stronger community ties by prioritising local suppliers and promoting cultural inclusivity.
● Enhance stakeholder trust through ethical governance practices and transparent reporting.
● Create measurable impacts that resonate with attendees, clients, and partners.
Lime Venue Portfolio: Leading the ESG Conversation
Recognising the significance of ESG, Lime Venue Portfolio has adopted a proactive approach by not only creating Jo Austin's new sustainability role but also with a series of groundbreaking data-driven ESG guides. These resources are designed to help event planners seamlessly integrate ESG principles into their operations. Each guide will focus on one letter of the ESG acronym, offering practical tools and unmissable insights for immediate application. The first ‘E’ Guide is available here, with the launch of the ‘S’ Guide following in February 2025. The ‘G’ Guide will land in June. These guides aim to empower event professionals with the knowledge and tools to plan events that are not only sustainable but also equitable and accountable.
Looking Ahead
As the UK events industry evolves, ESG offers a roadmap for creating meaningful, impactful, and simply better experiences. Jo Concludes: “By embracing ESG, the industry can move beyond the “green” narrative, demonstrating that sustainability is about more than just the environment — it’s about creating events that are good for the planet, people, and progress.”
