2. Sustainable events

A special thanks to Frank Abbeloos from AA Docks for sharing his knowledge and his active participation during the green venues workshop.

AA Docks IS

BUILT WITH RESPECT FOR NATURE USING ECO-FRIENDLY TECHNOLOGY.

The building’s thermal insulation has a value lower than 0.3K. Effective insulation results in less energy consumption and lower CO2 emissions.
The energy is extracted from the groundwater that is pumped up from 50 meters deep and is used to heat and/or cool every room independently via underfloor heating/cooling systems.
The pumping and energy conversion is powered solely by green energy.

In addition to optimal humidity control, every room benefits from CO2 extraction and ventilation with fresh, purified air. Fresh air supply is essential for body and soul.

The sanitary wastewater is purified in the percolation reed bed. The purified water then floods the basin at the entrance of AA Dock’s before draining off towards the roots of the young beech trees planted alongside the building. This is a self-sufficient wastewater treatment system, with no wastewater drainage into the sewage network. Meanwhile, the reed plants also produce O2.

(More info www.aadocks.be)

Want to optimise the sustainability of your business event management?

Tips & tricks

Choose an event manager with a sustainable approach to event management, eco-responsible catering production and socially responsible human resources management.

Motivate employees, partners and vendors to adopt a sustainable attitude.

Choose an appropriate eco-responsible venue (close to public transport, with an eco-responsible energy policy, etc.).

Reduce negative impacts of the event, especially on the environment:

Want to choose the most sustainable venue for your business event?

Tips & tricks
Selecting a sustainable venue is not easy.

No certified label exists yet in Belgium. The best way is to choose a venue showing evidence of a sustainable approach.

Define clear objectives and set your priorities:

  • Central location
  • Accessible by public transportation
  • Favour a sustainable venue or event concept

Check if there is a clear sustainability policy and/or a person in charge of sustainability in the selected venue.
Request evidence: a written chart is a clear indication that the managing team of the venue is concerned and active.

Venue equipment:

  • Favour a pre-equipped venue with audio-video installation, electrical power, heating system
  • Use preferably tables and chairs that are already installed in the venue (avoiding additional transport).

Want to optimise the sustainability of catering during your business event?

Tips & tricks
for choosing and challenging your catering supplier

Selecting an eco-responsible catering supplier with a sustainable approach is not easy. No certified label exists yet. The best way is to choose a catering provider showing evidence of a sustainable approach in production and in human resources.

Check if there is a clear sustainability policy and/or a person in charge of sustainability.

  • Request evidence: a clear process description or written chart is a clear indication that this catering supplier is concerned and active.

Check if waste is sorted and ask about the waste collection process.

  • Look for separate containers for food & vegetable waste, PMD and paper, as well as treatment of grease and wastewater.
  • Are there waste reduction programmes in the workshop and at events?
  • How is recycling and composting organised?

Want to optimise the sustainability of your business incentive  or team building event?

Tips & tricks

Choose a supplier with a sustainable approach to business incentives and team building.

Incorporate the sustainable development theme into the incentive as a common thread.

Opt for one high quality event instead of two lesser events.

Activities:

  • Opt for CO2 neutral activities: walking, bike, Segway, etc.
  • Consider wellness and balancing activities.
  • Consider integrating your event into your corporate sponsorship programme.
  • Consider social or charitable activities (e.g. Marolles area, retirement home, orphanages, etc.) with a real and sustainable added value for underprivileged people or organisations.

Green Attitude : sustainable key points

1. Use of recycled paper for all communication
2. Biodegradable corn-based material
3. Water based ink for printing logo on the packaging, recycled packaging, flyers on recycled paper …
4. Recycled packaging
5. Waste sorting for all the production process : from production to restaurants
6. Restaurants & production 100 % Green Electricty
7. Our lunches are delivered in large wicker baskets reusable or in large wooden trays also reusable
8. Vegetables & products are guaranteed from Belgium, there are obvious exceptions. In these cases, it guarantees the maximum from near Belgium
9. Each car is delivered one day tour to limit its negative impact on the environment.