Sustainability
Let's be honest – we’re part of an industry that’s a huge contributor to environmental pollution. At Whitespace Group, sustainability isn't just a metric; it's a mindset. Through meticulous measurement and transparent internal reporting, we're not only shaping a greener today but also building a more sustainable tomorrow for all. Since our beginning in 2002, sustainability has been a central component of our business strategy; we’ve been on a green mission, designing and building reusable and recyclable exhibition stands, taking our clients on the journey with us every step of the way.
Quick Facts
Charity Partnerships
% Waste to Landfill
% renewable energy
Mangrove Trees Planted
Sustainability Award Wins
tCo2e saved via waste management efforts this year
Our Commitments
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Emissions Reporting
We have established a comprehensive system to track and transparently communicate our carbon footprint. Through quarterly and annual assessments, we calculate and report our Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. In sync with our broader sustainability objectives, we don't just stop at reporting; we go a step further. Throughout the year, we set strategic targets aligned with our overarching sustainability goals.
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Supply Chain
We have taken firm steps to ensure that our suppliers align with our values and share our dedication to sustainability and ethical conduct. We wholeheartedly believe that maintaining relationships with those who prioritise the environment and modern slavery prevention is not just a choice but an imperative.
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ISO 14001
We are currently working toward our ISO 14001 certification. With our sights set on this internationally recognised standard, we have meticulously established a comprehensive framework of policies and procedures designed to monitor and manage our environmental impact across all facets of our operations.
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Waste Streams
0% of our waste goes to landfill. On average 88% of our waste is recycled and 12% is sent to Energy Recovery but we believe we can do better. We are firm believers in the waste hierarchy and we have researched alternative waste streams such as re-use and donation to reduce the amount of waste produced overall.
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Renewable Energy
Working in a reasonably old building and warehouse definitely has an impact on our energy use. Our energy comes from 100% renewable sources , we have implemented further policies and invested in technologies to improve the energy efficiency of our workplace.
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Staff Engagement
We have appointed a Sustainability and Social Impact Manager and a Sustainability Committee which meets once a quarter to discuss all things ESG, making sure all team members have input.
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Offsetting
We've Gone Blue! When looking into carbon offsetting schemes in 2022 we decided to focus on ‘blue carbon’. Mangroves play a critical role in tropical and subtropical ecosystems, serving as a buffer where land meets sea. They act as coastal guardians, preserving our shorelines, enriching marine biodiversity, and sequestering 5 to 10 times more carbon than terrestrial ecosystems. Sadly, like many tree species, mangroves face threats. It's estimated that about 1% of mangroves are lost annually, endangering coastal communities. That's why we focus our offsetting efforts on Mangrove Restoration via Evertreen
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Recognition
We are truly honored to share that our commitment to sustainability has been recognised with two prestigious industry awards. The first, 'Best Sustainable Stand' award at the World Exhibition Awards, underscores our efforts to make a lasting impression while minimizing our carbon footprint on the global stage. The second, the 'Sustainability' award at the ESSA Awards, celebrates our holistic approach to sustainability that can be seen throughout our entire operation. These awards not only highlight our achievements but also motivate us to continue pushing boundaries and striving for excellence.
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Collaboration
At our core, fostering collaboration and forging meaningful connections within the industry is a cornerstone of our ethos. We have recently become a member of isla, an independent body dedicated to championing sustainability within the events sector. This membership not only underscores our shared values but also amplifies our collective voice in advocating for greener, more responsible practices.
We are also headline sponsors of the highly anticipated CN Sustainability Summit 2023. This summit serves as a platform for industry leaders, innovators, and change-makers to network, exchange insights, and collectively pave the way toward a more sustainable future.
Merton Best Business Awards
We're honoured to have won the Sustainable Impact Award at the Merton Best Business Awards 2023. It means a lot to us to have our efforts recognised by the very community that we are working with and we're going to keep going, trying to make positive changes where it matters most.
Who do we Support?
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Big Blue Ocean Cleanup
The Big Blue Ocean Cleanup stands as a passionate and dedicated charity committed to safeguarding the world's oceans from the pressing threat of pollution. With a focus on marine conservation, BBOC takes proactive strides to clean and protect our vast blue waters. Through impactful initiatives, organised clean-up events, and educational campaigns, the Big Blue Ocean Cleanup rallies communities worldwide to unite against the tide of plastic waste and debris. By raising awareness, fostering responsible habits, and mobilising volunteers, they cultivate a global movement that nurtures the health of our oceans and the intricate ecosystems they support.
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Sustainable Merton
Sustainable Merton is a dynamic and community-driven charity at the forefront of environmental and social change. Rooted in the heart of Merton, this organisation is dedicated to creating a sustainable and resilient future for the local community. Through innovative initiatives, collaborative partnerships, and grassroots efforts, Sustainable Merton tackles pressing environmental issues, promotes eco-friendly practices, and champions sustainable living. The charity empowers the community to take meaningful action, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for the well-being of both people and the planet.
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WWT - London Wetlands Centre
We're proud to be volunteers at our local wetlands and conservation centre. Nestled in the heart of London, the WWT London Wetland Centre is a captivating oasis of nature and wildlife. Spanning over 100 acres, this urban wetland reserve provides a sanctuary for a diverse range of native and migratory birds, waterfowl, and other wildlife species. With its beautiful waterways, lush vegetation, and purpose-built habitats, the centre offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the natural world and discover the wonders of wetland ecosystems.
Check out our Forest!
In 2023 we partnered with Evertreen to restore Mangroves coastline on Kirepwe Island in Kenya.
We chose these projects due to Mangrove’s increased capacity for 5-10x more carbon storage, helping protect against coastal erosion and climate change.
Evertreen's tree planting projects do not only focus on environmental benefits but also on granting stable employment for local communities of farmers involved in the projects.
By planting trees, we are not only contributing to environmental sustainability but also supporting local economies and communities.