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Sustainable Events at UVB

Sustainability is not just a buzz word, it’s the way forward for everyone. Here at UVB we take our environmental impact seriously and we work to ensure that each aspect of what we do is as sustainable as we can make it. 

From energy saving motion sensor lighting, no single use plastics and waste management systems, to recycling and repurposing, we are diligent in being environmentally minded in all areas across our venues. 

In January 2026, we were awarded the Gold ECOsmart sustainability accreditation from Greengage Solutions, having previously held the Silver accreditation and we are currently working towards the Platinum level.

Find out more about sustainability at the Library of Birmingham here, and at the Rep here.

Locally Sourced Food and Drink

We source our food and drink supplies from local suppliers, reducing the miles between farm to table wherever possible. Our catering partners Wilson Vale are B CORP certified and they put people and the planet at the heart of everything they do.

Fair trade and Ethically sourced

Our tea, coffee and sugar supplies are always fairtrade and ethically sourced. We work with Paddy & Scott's Coffee who partner directly with growers in Kenya. We also serve a range of vegan, vegetarian and alcohol free options, allowing our guests to make the choice that's right for them. 

Measure your Event's Carbon Footprint

We are able to track our carbon footprint per meeting space, per hour which allows us to help event organisers track their event's carbon emissions. Work with our Operations Team to make your event as sustainable as possible.

In-House AV Team and equipment

We have a dedicated in-house AV Team with a range of equipment which reduces transport and installation costs. We also have multiple options for hosting virtual and hybrid events which gives event organisers the flexiblity they are looking for when looking to reduce travel impact.

Energy Saving Features

Our venues are packed with energy saving features including low energy consumption LED lighting activated by motion sensors, so we only light the rooms that are in use. We have reduced water flow tap and toilet fixtures throughout the venues and rainwater harvesting features in the Library of Birmingham. 

Zero Waste to Landfill

We operate a zero waste to landfill policy. All of our waste is recycled, repurposed or incinerated. We recycle our cooking oil and recycling bins are located throughout our venues for guests' use. 

Eco Conscious Venues

BREEAM Certified

The Library of Birmingham has a BREEAM 'Excellent' rating. Key eco-friendly features include bio-diverse roof gardens, rainwater harvesting, and low-emitting materials.

Repurposing at The Rep

The Rep recycles or repurposes wherever possible, including furniture, set fixtures, wigs and costumes, often using recycled or pre-loved clothing. Rechargeable batteries, water-based paints and low energy LED lighting are the norm.

Plastic Free

UVB is single-use plastic-free. We use refillable glass water bottles, paper straws and compostable food packaging. Our conference pads and pens are made from recycled materials and we recycle all paper, card, glass, cans and plastic waste.

Reducing Food waste

We are dedicated to reducing our food waste, working closely with event organisers to carefully plan our catering quantities. We also partner with Let's Feed Brum to reduce our food waste by donating excess food from our events to help those experiencing homelessness in Birmingham.

“UVB is among the many UK businesses leading the way towards greater sustainability and in offering clients a more eco-conscious choice when it comes to hosting events. We are continually striving towards adopting more sustainable options across everything we do.”

Suzanna Reid Barreiro da Silva, Managing Director at UVB

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