Adelaide Convention Centre has become the first convention centre globally to be awarded EarthCheck’s Master Certification, the highest level of sustainability certification offered by the organisation.
The certification is only available to businesses that have been certified by EarthCheck for 15 or more years – representing a decade and a half of continuous improvement in sustainable operations.
The convention centre became part of EarthCheck’s certification program in 2007.
Adelaide Convention Centre’s general manager, Martin Radcliffe, said the team was “extremely proud” to have achieved Master level certification.
“At Adelaide Convention Centre, sustainability is embedded in everything we do, from our food and design to our practices and our people,” said Radcliffe.
“We’re obsessed with energy and water conservation, responsible sourcing and minimising waste to landfill, and work closely with our clients on sustainable event management, including minimal impact exhibitions, to help reduce their event footprint.
“The convention and event organisers we work with are highly motivated by supporting the environment and local communities, and it’s critical that we continue to go about our business sustainably.
“As part of our commitment to this area, we recently employed a dedicated ESG manager to oversee the delivery and implementation of our sustainability strategy, and I’m enthused where this work can take us in the coming years.”
Adelaide Convention Centre now diverts more than 99 per cent of its waste from landfill and its average scope one and two greenhouse gas emissions – those the centre is directly responsible for and some that are a result of its operations – are 72 per cent lower than the average across Australia’s major convention centres and 60 per cent lower than the next best convention centre in the country.
The convention centre’s drinkable water consumption is also 47 per cent lower than all other Australian convention centres with data available. And since 2018, Adelaide Convention Centre has reduced its energy consumption by 40 per cent, partly through transitioning to LED lighting.
In addition, the venue sources 97 per cent of its fresh produce from within South Australia.
“At a time when sustainability is such a key focus in not only the business events industry but the community at large, it is fantastic to see Adelaide Convention Centre lead the way both nationally and internationally,” said South Australia’s tourism minister Zoe Bettison.
“There are just 29 properties worldwide with EarthCheck Master status, including only one convention centre, which is here in our own backyard.
“For more than 15 years, Adelaide Convention Centre has proudly championed sustainable events and operated at the world’s highest environmental standard.
“Through this commitment, they have not only supported our state’s sustainability, but helped solidify Adelaide as a clean, green event destination, capturing the attention of global event organisers.
“Their work in this area extends beyond just environmental practices to social sustainability, supporting local businesses, community and cultural connections.”
