The Venues Collection Leads the Way in Sustainable Transformation

The Venues Collection is redefining sustainability in the hospitality and events sector by proving that heritage and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. With five residential venues, many housed in buildings over a century old, the group is taking decisive steps toward deep decarbonisation, guided by estates manager Martin Lyons. His leadership has been central to implementing innovative solutions while preserving the unique character of each site.

Across the estate, significant technological upgrades have been introduced. Live energy monitoring systems, voltage optimisation, and high-efficiency boilers have improved energy performance across the board. At some venues, these changes have led to a 12% reduction in electricity use and up to a 46% reduction in gas consumption substantial progress in the journey toward net zero.

The group has also installed Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems, generating 540,000 kWh of renewable energy annually on-site. Water-saving measures, including low-flow fixtures and smart management systems, are conserving over 640,000 litres of water each year. Waste management has also been enhanced through on-site composting, turning food, paper, and cardboard into valuable compost while supporting a zero-waste-to-landfill commitment.

A key factor in the success of The Venues Collection’s strategy is the focus on engagement and accountability. Lyons has introduced energy league tables and delivered sustainability workshops for staff across all levels. Each site now benefits from tailored sustainability dashboards and audits, empowering teams to identify opportunities and take ownership of their environmental impact.

These efforts have resulted in tangible outcomes. All venues have achieved Green Meetings ‘Silver’ accreditation, and over the past year, CO₂ emissions have been reduced by 500 tonnes. The group’s Future First Charter continues to guide progress, with initiatives such as carbon-labelled menus, biodiversity strategies, and upcoming solar-powered EV charging stations.

The Venues Collection has positioned itself as a leader in sustainable hospitality, demonstrating how even the most historic properties can play a vital role in the transition to a low-carbon future. By combining forward-thinking infrastructure with a strong internal culture of sustainability, the group is setting a new standard for the events industry.