The UK Government's Net Zero Policy: Challenges for the Live Events Industry

We discuss the biggest hurdles faced by the industry in aligning with the government's net-zero policy

Energy Consumption and Carbon Footprint

The live events industry heavily relies on energy-intensive activities such as lighting, sound, and video technology, set production and of course the movement of crew and equipment. Achieving net-zero emissions will require a fundamental shift in how energy is sourced and consumed during events. Adopting renewable energy sources, investing in energy-efficient technologies, and implementing smarter energy management practices are crucial steps that event specialists must take to reduce their carbon footprint

Travel and Transportation

Live events often involve extensive travel by attendees, presenters, performers, and staff. The carbon emissions resulting from air travel, road transportation, and logistics contribute significantly to the industry's environmental impact. Encouraging sustainable transportation alternatives, such as promoting public transport, carpooling, and incentivizing local accommodation options, can help reduce emissions associated with travel to and from events

Waste Management and Recycling

Large-scale events generate substantial waste, including single-use plastics, food waste, and discarded event materials. Effective waste management strategies, including recycling, composting, and minimizing single-use items, are critical for the live events industry to align with the net-zero policy. Collaboration with waste management companies, educating attendees about responsible waste disposal, and implementing recycling schemes can greatly reduce the environmental impact

Supply Chain and Sustainable Sourcing

The live events industry relies on a vast supply chain for equipment, materials, and services. Implementing sustainable sourcing practices, such as procuring locally produced goods and materials, prioritizing eco-friendly suppliers, and reducing packaging waste, will be vital for achieving net-zero targets. Event organizers should encourage suppliers to adopt sustainable practices and provide clear guidelines for environmentally friendly procurement

The UK government's net-zero policy poses significant challenges for the live events industry. However, by adopting sustainable energy practices, promoting greener transportation options, implementing effective waste management strategies, and prioritizing sustainable sourcing, the industry can overcome these challenges and contribute to a more sustainable future for live events. Technology is changing at a rapid pace and solutions that are not here today will inevitably come on line in the near future that will remedy some of the issues discussed in this article.