A City in a Park – Adelaide Convention CentreIt’s no secret: sustainability has become a pivotal factor for conference planners globally. According to a 2023 survey by Global DMC Partners, 78% of international respondents now incorporate sustainability goals into their meetings, a significant increase from previous years. Similarly, the recent Euromonitor International’s “Voice of the Industry: Sustainability Survey” highlights that 84% of businesses acknowledge the critical importance of climate change, marking a notable increase in climate action initiatives.
These insights underscore the increasing pressure on organisations to adopt sustainable practices, driven by both regulatory demands and consumer expectations. For conference planners, this means choosing destinations and venues that align with these sustainability goals. Good news: Adelaide and Adelaide Convention Centre are here to help.
A Sustainable Destination
Often celebrated as a ‘city in a park,’ Adelaide is encircled by 760 hectares of lush parklands and holds the distinction of being the southern hemisphere’s first National Park city. The city’s ambitious mission to become the world’s first carbon-neutral city underscores its unwavering commitment to sustainability. Adelaide consistently ranks highly in ‘most liveable city’ surveys and, in 2024, it became the fourth Australian city to join the Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS-M)..
The city’s dedication to sustainability is evident in various initiatives that enhance its environmental credentials. Adelaide significantly reduced its carbon footprint by transitioning to renewable energy sources, with 100% of its municipal electricity now generated from wind and solar power. Additionally, it has implemented extensive urban greening projects, increasing green spaces and planting thousands of trees to enhance carbon sequestration. The introduction of energy-efficient public transportation, such as electric buses, trams and improved cycling infrastructure, has further underscored the city’s dedication to reducing emissions.
Damien Kitto, CEO of Business Events Adelaide, argues that simply talking about being eco-conscious is no longer enough, and destinations and venues really need to take action.
“We are aware that sustainability issues are becoming an increasingly important consideration for business event organisers. Delegates visiting Adelaide often refer to our green, walkable city-in-a-park, and whilst we feel this is an advantage over other destinations, we need to actively demonstrate practices that reduce the impact on our planet.”
“Working with a recognised global authority like GDS-M is helping Adelaide to develop action plans to build a solid sustainability strategy. It is good for our profile as we position Adelaide as a destination of choice, but more importantly it is the right thing to do for the future.”
Adelaide Convention Centre: Leading the Way
Adelaide Convention Centre is playing its part to further bolster Adelaide’s reputation as a clean, green sustainable events destination. In September 2023, the ACC became the world’s first convention centre to achieve EarthCheck’s prestigious Master certification, reflecting a 15-year dedication to best practices in sustainability. The Centre’s newly launched ESG strategy, The Green Print, underscores this commitment, focusing on environmental, social, and business sustainability. This comprehensive four-year plan aims to minimize environmental impact, maximize community benefits, and offer practical solutions for clients and guests.
The ACC’s sustainability achievements are impressive. Since 2018, the Centre has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by over 51%. Its latest EarthCheck audit revealed a greater than 99% waste diversion from landfill. Through partnerships with local food rescue organisations, including OzHarvest, Foodbank, and Faithworks, the ACC has donated over 200,000 unused meals since 2008, demonstrating its dedication to social responsibility.
Building on these solid foundations, The Green Print outlines several key areas of focus. The ACC is exploring innovative methods to reduce energy use, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and eliminate waste. This includes transitioning to 100% LED lighting and increasing on-site renewable electricity generation. Sustainable sourcing is another priority, with a commitment to maintaining at least 97% of suppliers from South Australia, ensuring that the Centre’s operations benefit local businesses and highlight the region’s renowned food and beverage production.
The ACC also emphasizes community education and engagement, collaborating with local ventures to build awareness and motivate change. This extends to fostering deeper relationships with First Nations suppliers and local not-for-profit organisations, enhancing social sustainability. The Centre is also adapting to climate change by developing resilience strategies guided by EarthCheck standards, exploring sustainable food production, and supporting biodiversity and ecosystem services growth in South Australia.
Sarah Goldfinch, ACC General Manager says: “Sustainability is embedded in everything we do, from our food and design to our procurement and people. We’re obsessed with energy and water conservation, responsible sourcing and minimizing waste to landfill, and work closely with our clients on sustainable event management to help reduce their event footprint for a better tomorrow.”
“We’re acutely aware that sustainability is a major focus in the business events industry, with growing delegate expectations and event organisers seeking to align with sustainable venues – which is why we’ve doubled down on our commitment to sustainability with the release of our new ESG strategy.”
“The Green Print prioritises areas of most importance to our clients, team and the industry at large, as we work to support client objectives, create lasting legacies, and map our path towards a more sustainable future.”
Wellness Focus in Business Events
In addition to sustainability, the ACC caters to the growing focus on wellness in the business events space. The Centre’s strategic use of outdoor spaces for events leverages its prime location on the Adelaide Riverbank, encouraging clients to integrate morning fitness rituals into their programs. The Centre’s design, featuring wide open foyers filled with natural light and overlooking the River Torrens and surrounding parklands, provides delegates with revitalising spaces during sessions.
The ACC also offers ‘quiet rooms’ for meditation, sensory experiences, prayer, and general wellbeing, along with newly launched sensory pods. The Honest Goodness menu philosophy further enhances the wellness theme. Developed in collaboration with leading nutritional experts, this menu emphasizes minimal intervention foods, reducing processed elements, and focusing on house-made items.
This thoughtful approach to dining ensures delegates feel refreshed and energized, while also showcasing the best of South Australian produce sourced from sustainable environments.
For more details on the ACC’s sustainability efforts, visit www.adelaidecc.com.au