London’s strengths
London is committed to a sustainable future. The Mayor of London has laid out plans for the capital to be a net zero carbon, zero pollution city by 2030, as well as a zero-waste city by 2050.
In 2021, London ranked second place in the Schroders European Sustainable Cities Index based on 13 different environmental policies.
Here at London & Partners, we are an active member of the Glasgow Declaration, which aims to accelerate climate action in tourism across the world.
In line with these goals and achievements, London is the ideal city to host sustainable business events – and the London Convention Bureau team can help you put sustainability at the core of your planning.
Learn more about how London & Partners has joined the Race to Zero.
1. Getting here
London Heathrow Airport is the largest user of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in the world, with incentives in place encouraging more airlines to switch to SAF. Similarly, London City Airport is committed to becoming the city's first net zero airport and is ensuring sustainability is the cornerstone of its expansion plans. Additionally, low-carbon rail links to mainland Europe make the city easily accessible.
2. Travel and transport within London
The extensive Tube network, 807 electric and 4,661 hybrid buses, 20 hydrogen-fuelled double-decker vehicles and 4,400 electric taxis all make London a city of sustainable transport options. Recent innovations include London's Elizabeth line, which is more carbon efficient than the rest of the Tube, and the rollout of Uber Green, which allows passengers to book rides in 100% electric vehicles.
3. Green space
London is the world’s first National Park City. At present, 45% of the city is open green space, with plans to increase this to 50% by 2050. The capital is a city for walkers, cyclists and public transport users.
4. Hotels and venues leading the way
The Green Tourism scheme champions the hotels and hospitality venues prioritising sustainability. Its 120+ members include gold award-winning hotel groups and iconic conference centres.
5. Eco-conscious event spaces
Major London events venues, including ExCeL London and Olympia London, are accredited for their commitment to reducing the environmental impact of the events they host.
6. Food waste
London’s caterers can provide locally sourced, sustainable food and drink options for small and large-scale events. Partnerships with redistribution projects and waste-reducing initiatives help to minimise unnecessary excess and expenditure.
7. Sustainable activities
There are several teambuilding options which offer superb team rewards, while being environmentally aware, from building a bike for charity to a Canal Clue Quest delivered by Team Tactics and a whole host of adventurous carbon-neutral activities, delivered by remote hosts from Wildgoose.
Start planning your event
Success stories
The London Convention Bureau can help by:
- Putting you in touch with our Green Tourism scheme partners.
- Suggesting carbon footprint-reducing transport options.
- Offering names of locally sourced, low-impact caterers.
- Advising on hybrid events with virtual elements.
Get in touch
Send us a message and let the team help you host your next sustainable event.