South Australia's Adelaide Convention Centre has made history by becoming the first convention centre in the world to achieve EarthCheck's prestigious Master Certification, cementing the state's reputation as a sustainable events destination.
For more than 15 years, the Centre has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence in business and environmental sustainability, positioning it as an industry leader as event organisers increasingly focus on sustainability.
EarthCheck, the leading sustainability and destination management consultancy for the travel and tourism sector, has recognised the Adelaide Convention Centre's outstanding performance across a range of social and environmental issues since it joined the EarthCheck programme in 2007.
In the most recent audit, the Centre surpassed best practice by excelling in waste management, potable water conservation, energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions reduction, establishing itself as a top performer in the Australian business events landscape.
Key highlights from the 2022/2023 EarthCheck audit include:
- Achieved a remarkable landfill diversion rate of over 99%, the highest of any convention centre in Australia.
- Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions 72% lower than the Australian convention centre average and 60% lower than the nearest competitor within the Australian region
- Recording potable water consumption 73% lower than the regional average for Australian convention centres and 47% lower than all other convention centres in Australia.
The centre's commitment to innovation is evident in initiatives such as the installation of Adelaide's first WasteMaster, an on-site food and organic waste recycling system, which has processed more than 43 tonnes of organic waste and produced more than 15 tonnes of nutrient-rich fertiliser since its launch in May 2023.
In addition, energy consumption has been reduced by more than 40% since 2018, primarily through the transition to LED lighting, with a target of 100% LED lighting by 2027.
With a focus on local support, 97% of produce is sourced from South Australian suppliers, promoting local flavours and reducing transport emissions. In addition, partnerships have been established with local First Nations producers to grow and supply indigenous ingredients for the venue's Honest Goodness menu.
The Adelaide Convention Centre's unwavering commitment to sustainability sets a new standard for environmental responsibility in the events industry.