The Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) has released its inaugural Impact Report, revealing significant strides in reducing its carbon footprint. Over the past decade, the EICC has achieved a 60% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions, a 41% reduction in electricity and waste production, and a 46% reduction in water usage. This report underscores the EICC’s commitment to sustainability and transparency, highlighting its efforts to promote a more responsible events industry.
Significant Reductions in Carbon Emissions
The EICC’s Impact Report details impressive reductions in carbon emissions over the last decade. Since 2013, the conference centre has cut its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 60%. This achievement is particularly notable given the increase in the number of events hosted at the venue. In 2023 alone, the EICC hosted double the number of events compared to 2013, yet managed to significantly lower its carbon footprint.
These reductions have been achieved through a combination of energy efficiency measures and the adoption of renewable energy sources. The EICC has invested in state-of-the-art technologies to monitor and manage energy consumption, ensuring that its operations are as efficient as possible. Additionally, the centre has transitioned to using renewable energy sources, further reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.
The EICC’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its own operations. The centre actively encourages event organizers and attendees to adopt sustainable practices, providing resources and support to help them reduce their environmental impact. This collaborative approach has been instrumental in achieving the significant reductions detailed in the Impact Report.
Innovative Sustainability Initiatives
The EICC’s sustainability efforts are supported by a range of innovative initiatives. One of the key pillars of the centre’s ‘Step Change’ sustainability programme is the Event Impact Reports. These reports provide detailed data on energy usage, waste generation, and the economic and social impact of events held at the venue. This information enables clients to set data-based targets for future events, promoting continuous improvement in sustainability practices.
Another notable initiative is the ‘Desk to Door’ travel planner, developed in partnership with You.Smart.Thing. This online platform provides personalized low-carbon travel plans for event attendees, encouraging the use of sustainable transport options. Since its launch, 85% of delegates using the platform have opted for sustainable travel methods, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of events held at the EICC.
The EICC also partners with local and national operators committed to net-zero goals. Locally, the centre promotes the use of Edinburgh Trams, Lothian Buses, and Central Taxis, a carbon-neutral taxi company. Nationally, the EICC collaborates with organizations like RSPB Scotland to support initiatives such as peatland restoration, further enhancing its environmental impact.
Commitment to Transparency and Future Goals
Transparency is a cornerstone of the EICC’s sustainability strategy. The Impact Report is a testament to the centre’s dedication to being open about its environmental performance. By publicly disclosing its carbon emissions and other sustainability metrics, the EICC aims to set a benchmark for the events industry and inspire other organizations to follow suit.
Looking ahead, the EICC has set ambitious goals for the future. The centre is committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, a target that will require continued innovation and investment in sustainable practices. The EICC plans to expand its use of renewable energy, further improve energy efficiency, and enhance its waste management systems to achieve this goal.
The EICC’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. The centre has received several awards for its sustainability initiatives, including the Achievement in Sustainability – Meetings & Events category at the Business Travel Awards Europe. These accolades reflect the EICC’s leadership in promoting sustainability within the events industry and its ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship.
