Environmental Policy
Acknowledgements
The Green Events Code of Practice offers a set of standards and targets to work toward. We recognise that events vary in type, size, frequency, location and resources – every journey is different, and particularly, smaller and community events need support to make changes, and may not be able to adapt in the same way as others.
There are existing initiatives, frameworks and standards for event sustainability, such as ISO20121, the Race to Zero, and the Net Zero Events Pledge. The Green Events Code of Practice has been designed specifically by and for the UK outdoor festival and live events sector, as a practical step toward establishing standards that are sector-specific and practically implementable. It does not replace these standards, generally accessible by larger organisations.
There are well-established assessment tools and services that can support events to improve their practices, measure carbon footprints, and provide consultancy; such as TRACE, Creative Climate Tools and A Greener Festival. The Green Events Code of Practice is not a ‘certification’ or consultancy service. It is a framework and national standard, which all market operators may choose to align.
Vision for Sustainable Events
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Work with your onsite supplier to reduce fuel use through efficiency savings e.g. better system design or battery use.
Use a grid connection for onsite electricity wherever possible.
Replace diesel with HVO fuel (interim medium-term measure while on a journey toward renewables and grid connection.
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Reduce new materials purchased for creative builds
Increase rate of recycling from drinks packaging
Provide water points and encourage use of reusable bottles
Reduce waste related emissions by using more sustainable alternative materials (paper cups, rPET plastic)
Reuse merchandise items or find sustainable alternatives
Reduce single-use plastic by using reusable cups at the bars
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Reduce general waste by maximising recycling
Reduce artist-related single-use plastics and waste with Green Riders
Implement a Deposit Return Scheme for items such as bottles or cans
Engage audiences with clear initiatives & incentives to reduce waste brought to site and engage in recycling
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Promote car sharing to increase occupancy and reduce the number of cars
Promote low-emissions forms of transport such as public transport, coaches and shuttles from local transport links.
Reduce audience travel distances by prioritising local audiences where possible (e.g., local tickets) local tickets.
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Implement an efficient production delivery schedule to reduce build and derig travel.
Consolidate food deliveries with a centralised ordering system for traders.
Use local storage facilities for equipment, build and design materials.
Implement a strict no idling policy to reduce unnecessary onsite emissions.
Introduce low emissions onsite transport using electric buggies / cargo bikes.
Work with local suppliers and traders to reduce travel distances.
Consolidate food deliveries with a centralised ordering system and/or wholesalers onsite for traders.
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Avoid exclusivity clauses from artist contracts to maximise dates on touring schedules within regions where possible and commercially viable.
Increase programming of local or regional artists to reduce artists travel emissions.
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Move toward plant-based menus
Reduce high impact foods such as red meat and dairy
Reduce the proportion of meat in meals and/or increase the % of vegetarian and vegan food onsite.
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Work with local drink suppliers to reduce travel distances.
Work with sustainable drinks suppliers such as B Corps to reduce impacts of brewing.
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Implement water efficiency measures to reduce water usage.
We’ve Taken the Vision 2030 Climate Pledge for a Sustainable UK Live Events Industry
We are proud to announce that we have signed the Vision 2030 Climate Pledge. We are joining a collective movement working towards a 50% reduction in the UK live event industry's emissions by 2030.
Our commitment to action:
We have committed to working towards 30 practical climate actions as outlined in the recently published Show Must Go On report to help drive the transition toward a more sustainable sector.
These measures span event energy, travel and transport, waste and materials, and food and drink.
The future of live events depends on the actions we take today. We encourage our fellow event organisers to join us in this movement.
Checklist HERE
Climate Transition Plan 2030 for the UK Live Events Industry
Version 8 Jun 2026
