Industry not prepared to pay to be green

Events organisers are concerned about the environment but not prepared to pay to be green, new research has revealed.

Almost half felt environmental issues - such as carbon neutral packages - were important factors in influencing a choice of venue.

But only 45% of corporates were willing to pay extra for carbon neutral packages and just 2% were prepared to pay up to £15 more.

The research backs up similar findings of a Caterer poll of hospitality operators for October's Green Month, which found customers want hotels and restaurants to be more environmentally responsible, but many are not prepared to be less wasteful themselves.

More than 70% agreed customers were showing more interest in their commitment to the environment, but 16% said 80% of their guests left lights on, taps running or used towels unnecessarily.

Michael Aldridge, events general manager for Merlin Entertainments Group said the results showed climate change awareness was there, but the 'budget is not'.

"At Madame Tussauds we're transforming the site into a 'green' venue, replacing halogen with LED lighting, a new air conditioning system for 2008 that consumes 40% less energy and we are currently sourcing 'green' energy suppliers," he said.

"Plus anyone undertaking a new contract with us will have to show the same commitment to green issues, such as caterers to keep their food miles down."

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By Helen Gilbert