Live entertainment & conference venue becomes first in the world to secure commended status from leading industry body
The OVO Hydro has become the first live entertainment and conference venue in the world to receive a Commended status for its Greener Arena accreditation, thanks to its ambitious plan to become net zero by 2030.
Awarded by A Greener Future (AGF), a not-for-profit organisation committed to helping events, festivals and venues around the world become more sustainable, Commended status signifies an arena ahead of the curve on sustainability actions with demonstrable improvements and significant engagement in reducing negative and increasing positive environmental and social impacts.
The certification was achieved following a rigorous assessment involving detailed analysis of transport, energy and power, waste, water usage, local environment, CO2 and food and beverages. Some of the key areas the OVO Hydro scored highly on are:
Travel and transport: a flexible working policy, allowing staff to work from home has led 21% reduction in air travel for business and an increase in staff commuting by public and active transport.
Carbon footprint planning: the SEC, parent company of the OVO Hydro, published a roadmap to show how it will reach net zero by 2030.
Improved procurement: the removal of non-recyclable cups, reduction of single use plastics and the introduction of reusable Stack Cups, along with procurement advice featuring in the venue’s Sustainability Toolkit, ensure the venue’s suppliers are equally as committed to responsible practices.
Governance: Dedicated senior management driving the sustainability strategy along with strict annual reviews and audit processes put in place, mean it’s a top priority.
Food and Beverage: The sustainable event toolkit gives organisers recommendations on reducing food waste and local supplier guidance. There is also a no air freighting policy, healthy food information on menus and progression with low-carbon menus.
Local community: Introduction of apprenticeship schemes in health and safety, IT and project management. An increase in community events and charity initiatives and 2200 young people inspired through work experience, learning journey sessions and educational tours.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: Mandatory training is now in place.
Debbie McWilliams, Managing Director of Strategy and People at the SEC said: “We take our environmental responsibility very seriously and are on an ambitious journey to achieve our net zero 2030 goal. Achieving Commended status for the OVO Hydro shows our plans are working and that our commitment to the sustainability of our business is a top priority. Our team continuously look for innovative ways to lessen our impact on the environment and are incredibly proud to play their part in reducing the impact of live events.”
Lucy Scrase from AGF said: “The OVO Hydro has demonstrated a passionate drive to deliver a greener arena and a focus on improving practices going forwards. Some notable areas of this year’s assessment were Equality & Diversity, Health & Wellbeing and Local Community. Robust company policies have been developed and successfully embedded into the culture of the business. All team members undertake training modules which include EDI training. The arena demonstrated positive engagement with the local community and is creating employment opportunities locally through universities and apprenticeship schemes.”
Everyone at AGF is very grateful for the efforts and achievements of arenas striving for AGF certification and thank the OVO Hydro wholeheartedly for their efforts and actions to make the global live event industry greener.”
James Watts, Head of Sponsorship at OVO, headline sponsor of the Hydro said: “We’re incredibly proud that the OVO Hydro has achieved Commended status as part of their renewed AGF’s Greener Arena accreditation. We’re delighted to partner with a venue that is leading the way within the events industry – demonstrating a deep responsibility to the environment through its sustainable actions and an ambitious roadmap to net zero by 2030. At OVO, we share this commitment, and together with the SEC, we’re creating a future where live entertainment can thrive while safeguarding the planet.”