Christchurch venue achieves carbon-zero milestone in New Zealand

Thursday, March 7, 2024

The Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre has recently been celebrated for attaining Toitū carbonzero certification, signifying a major stride in its dedication to combat climate change. Opening its doors in late 2021, the center set a goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2023, a target it proudly met in 2024.

This accomplishment stems from adhering to the rigorous standards set by Toitū Envirocare, which involve comprehensive measures to measure, manage, and mitigate lifecycle emissions. These measures include the architectural design of the building, employing renewable energy sources, the efficient recovery and reuse of food waste, and implementing a chemical-free e-water system.

Toitū Envirocare, known for its assembly of scientists and business experts, is committed to safeguarding both the ecological and economic future of New Zealand and beyond. General Manager Ross Steele expressed immense pride in the rapid achievements of the convention center, highlighting the international acclaim it has garnered, such as winning the Community and Government Projects category at the 2023 Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards.

Steele pointed out that many of the center’s sustainability efforts are driven by its younger team members, emphasizing a deep-rooted commitment to fostering a durable sustainability legacy.

A notable initiative of the Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre is its local purchasing policy, ensuring that 85% of its supplies are sourced locally, significantly reducing the carbon footprint associated with freight, which constitutes less than one percent of the venue’s total emissions. Steele reflected on the center’s unwavering focus on sustainability from its inception, crediting the scientific approach and support provided by Toitū Envirocare as a pivotal aspect of their journey.

Looking forward, Te Pae Christchurch aims to extend its sustainability ethos to partners and clients, assisting them in achieving their environmental objectives. Steele envisions a collaborative effort to minimize the ecological impact of events hosted at the center, aligning with the public’s continuing preference for in-person meetings and experiences.

As an industry leader, Te Pae Christchurch is committed to innovation and exemplifying best practices in sustainability, ensuring that gatherings are conducted in an environmentally responsible manner.

[Image source: tepae.co.nz]

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