Excel London is accelerating its transition to becoming net zero by bringing its target date forward by five years ahead of legislation – a first for a venue of its size.
London’s largest event venue, totalling 125,000sqm, has now committed to become net zero by 2045 in addition to releasing its Net Zero Transition Plan, also complementing UK Net Zero Week (5-11 July).
In April 2022, Excel became a signatory of the COP26-backed Net Zero Carbon Events Pledge. Now, the venue has launched its roadmap to the revised target date, backed by a series of short and long-term decarbonisation initiatives that address Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.
The transition plan’s targets are also aligned with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) Corporate Net Zero Standard – the only recognised framework for corporate net zero target setting.
Excel has already made significant decarbonisation progress through initiatives such as procuring 100% renewable electricity and transitioning to HVO biodiesel, installing energy-efficient LED digital screens throughout the venue, and operating a zero waste-to-landfill policy for over a decade. The transition plan outlines further renewable energy and resource efficiency initiatives, with a 75% recycling rate target in 2025 and ambitions to transition to fully hybrid or electric fleet by 2030.
In addition to achieving and maintaining carbon neutrality to the internationally recognised PAS 2060 standards since 2022, Excel is also a Planet Mark Certified Business ensuring that its Scope 1, 2 and core Scope 3 carbon emissions data is independently verified.
Excel London CEO, Jeremy Rees commented: “As one of the world’s leading venues, we are fully aware of our responsibility – and unique position – to lead the way in addressing the climate crisis within the events industry, alongside our owners ADNEC Group.
“Our pledge today to become net zero by 2045 demonstrates a binding commitment, which is supported and verified by independent, scientific targets that we are confident in achieving. Excel London has a mission to become the Best Event Destination in the World – to be the best, we must also be the most sustainable, for our customers, our communities and our planet.”
Natalie Sykes one of two dedicated Sustainability Managers at Excel London added: “As outlined in our Net Zero Transition Plan released today, we will now focus on scaling renewable energy and energy efficiency initiatives to reduce our Scope 1 and 2 emissions, as well as reducing Scope 3 emissions by collaborating with our value chain.
“As with many organisations, we recognise that our progress is also closely tied to advancements in technology and infrastructure, particularly in the transition away from gas. That’s why our Net Zero Transition Plan also focuses on working closely with our stakeholders and partners to drive innovations and explore new opportunities for decarbonisation.”
She added: “Excel will now continue to focus on its interim target to reduce Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions by 50% by 2030, followed by long-term targets to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 90% by 2040, and Scope 3 emissions by 90% by 2045.”
To view Excel London’s Net Zero Transition Plan, or for further details on its sustainability, click here.
Excel are also inviting stakeholders to take part in their Materiality Assessment Survey by July 18. This is an opportunity for event professionals to help shape their future priorities on the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues that matter most. To take part click here.
