At VETstagram, we believe in the power of social media to connect and empower the veterinary community. But it's not just about virtual connections; we also understand the importance of face-to-face interactions. That's why we made the decision to host VETstagram 2023 as an in-person event. However, we didn't stop there. We wanted to ensure that our event reflects our commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. In this blog post, we'll share our journey of choosing a sustainable venue for VETstagram 2023 and why it matters to us.
Prioritising Sustainability: Learning and Growing
Let's be real – sustainability is a complex and ever-evolving field. We don't claim to be experts, but we're eager to learn and do our best. As we embarked on the venue selection process, we made sustainability a top priority, considering various aspects that align with our values.
A Date with Convenience and Reduced Travel Impact
We wanted to minimize the environmental impact of travel for our attendees. To achieve this, we carefully chose a date for VETstagram 2023 that coincided with the BSAVA (British Small Animal Veterinary Association) congress in Manchester. By selecting a date when many attendees would already be in the area, we aimed to reduce unnecessary travel and promote a more sustainable event.
Choosing a Venue with Sustainability at Its Core
Our dedication to sustainability led us to a venue that places environmental responsibility at the forefront. Here's why we were so excited about our chosen venue's sustainable practices:
1. Gold Accreditation at Greengage Ecosmart: The venue has received Gold Accreditation from Greengage Ecosmart, a leading sustainability consultancy. This recognition underscores their commitment to sustainable practices.
2. Reusable and Recyclable Items: To minimize waste, the venue ensures that only reusable and recyclable items are used in their day delegate packages and other offerings. This conscious effort reduces the environmental footprint of our event.
3. Responsible Sourcing and Plant-Based Food: Our venue prioritizes responsible sourcing of food, opting for local suppliers whenever possible. They also serve more than 50% plant-based meals, reducing the carbon footprint associated with animal agriculture. Any surplus food is offered to those in need, further minimizing waste.
4. Bottled-on-Site Water: The venue takes sustainability to the next level by bottling their still and sparkling water on-site using reusable bottles. This innovative approach saves thousands of glass bottles from waste and transportation, contributing to a greener event.
5. Commitment to Renewable Energy: Our chosen venue is dedicated to using renewable energy sources. They partner with a 100% renewable electricity supplier and continually invest in energy-efficient equipment, aiming to reduce energy consumption and promote sustainability.
6. Accessibility and Public Transport: The venue encourages the use of public transportation, promoting accessibility and reducing individual carbon emissions. Its prime location is within close proximity to major transportation hubs, making it convenient for attendees to reach the event using sustainable modes of transport.
Sustainability is more than just a buzzword for us at VETstagram. It's a core value that guides our decisions, including the selection of a sustainable venue for our 2023 event. By prioritising sustainability, we aim to reduce our environmental impact and inspire positive change within the veterinary events community.
Thanks to all that joined us at VETstagram 2023 and experienced the power of social media in a sustainable and responsible way. Let's continue to come together, connect, and make a difference while leaving a greener footprint on our planet.