Inspiring Leadership Conference ESG Policy

At the Inspiring Leadership Conference, we are committed to delivering an outstanding delegate experience while making a meaningful contribution to environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical governance. We believe that true leadership extends beyond ideas - it is reflected in how we act, the choices we make, and the legacy we leave.

Our ESG policy sets out our commitments across three key areas: Environmental Responsibility, Social Impact, and Governance Practices.

Environmental Responsibility

We embed sustainability into every aspect of our planning and delivery, working with trusted local partners who share our values.

  • Event Management: We partner with Blackberry Events, a Birmingham-based, ECOsmart-certified event management company committed to sustainable operations.
  • Sustainable Venue: Our host venue, ICC Birmingham, has invested significantly in sustainability - from advanced waste management and energy initiatives to sustainable catering and biodiversity projects, including rooftop and onsite wildlife areas.
  • AV & Production: We work with PSP AV, a Birmingham-based production company with ESSA Sustainability Certification, ensuring responsible audio-visual solutions.
  • Catering: ICC’s in-house catering team prioritises reducing food waste, sourcing responsibly, and supporting local suppliers wherever possible.
  • Local Suppliers: Our exhibition partner, Lion Exhibitions, is a Birmingham-based company, reinforcing our commitment to supporting the local economy and reducing transport-related emissions.
  • Resource Efficiency: We reuse event materials wherever possible - for example, lanyards from past events — to minimise single-use items and waste.

Social Impact

Our responsibility extends beyond the environment. We believe leadership is about contributing positively to society and supporting causes that align with our values.

  • Charity Partnership: Each year, we select and support a charity partner that reflects our mission, raising funds and awareness through conference activities. Our 2026 partner will be featured at the conference and dinner, with opportunities for delegates to engage and contribute.
  • Education Sector Support: As a conference created by and for education leaders, we actively support initiatives that strengthen the wider education community.

Delegate & Exhibitor Engagement

Sustainability is a shared responsibility. We encourage all delegates, sponsors, and exhibitors to play their part by making conscious choices.

  • Sustainable Travel: The ICC is just 13 minutes’ walk from Birmingham New Street Station and close to major bus and tram links. We encourage delegates to choose greener travel options such as public transport, car sharing, or cycling.
  • Responsible Giveaways: Sponsors and exhibitors are encouraged to reduce wasteful promotional items by embracing the circular economy — opting for digital resources, recyclable materials, or practical, reusable items.
  • Exhibition Stand Design: Exhibitors are urged to design stands with longevity in mind — reusing graphics, avoiding date-specific designs, and choosing PVC-free eco-friendly banners that can be recycled.
  • Reusable Bottles: Delegates and exhibitors are encouraged to bring refillable water bottles to use at the venue’s water stations, reducing single-use plastic and energy use associated with disposable catering items.

Governance & Accountability

We are committed to measuring, reporting, and continuously improving the sustainability and social impact of our conference. Our approach includes:

  • Partnering with accredited and certified suppliers.
  • Embedding sustainability criteria into procurement and decision-making.
  • Monitoring our carbon footprint and reducing waste year on year.
  • Transparently communicating our ESG initiatives to delegates, partners, and stakeholders.

Our Commitment

The Inspiring Leadership Conference is more than an event - it is a community built on values of integrity, responsibility, and leadership. By embedding ESG principles into our operations, we strive to set a positive example, inspire others, and ensure that our events truly don’t cost the earth.