The ESSA Sustainability Accreditation could be your ticket to increased revenue and reputation as an event supplier.
Let’s face it, this industry is full of impressive suppliers offering exceptional services. With so many fantastic options for event organisers to choose from, suppliers need an edge. In today’s world of Net Zero targets, it’s no surprise then that event organisers are looking for something that sets their chosen supplier apart, and top of the list: a proven commitment to sustainability.
Accreditation is one of the best ways to offer concrete evidence of this to a client, but the problem many suppliers face is that most event industry specific accreditation schemes are aimed at venues. However, the Event Supplier and Services Association (ESSA) offers an accreditation specifically designed for suppliers. It consists of six different tiers which are achieved on a points basis, with your business’s sustainability level being scored out of 100. The tiers start with Certified, encompassing the most basic level of sustainability, and then range through Tiers 1 to 5. The tiers allow more suppliers to access the accreditation, while leaving room for improvement
for those still crafting their sustainability policies.
Here are 12 different areas which are considered and which the score is based upon. ESSA consulted with its own sustainability working group as well as a cross-industry working group to create the areas of consideration, which are:
- Action plan
- Awareness and training
- Modern slavery
- Equality and diversity
- Air quality
- Supporting the community • Staff engagement
- Energy management
- Procurement
- Waste management
- Carbon footprint
There is a remarkable amount of focus on continuous improvement, and as such the accreditation only lasts for a year, and must be renewed annually, allowing you to consistently review your sustainability policies and potentially achieve higher tiers each year. The accreditation goes beyond current ISO standard, allowing you to stay ahead of the curve, and impress clients with your commitment to staying at the forefront of environmental responsibility.
Your event needs to be ticking the green boxes, or you’ll be left behind. Ask your suppliers about getting sustainability accreditation, if they aren’t on board, they should be.