When we talk about sustainability in business, the focus often ends up on production, transport, and suppliers. But today, there is one area that has received much more attention: meetings, conferences, and events. Most of us have sat in meetings in rooms that could have been located anywhere. The same setup, the same catering and surroundings we have seen many times before. But over time, more and more companies have begun to ask themselves the question: "How can we hold meetings in a way that is consistent with the sustainable responsibility we otherwise want to take?"
Meeting culture is changing
It is no longer just a question of location, capacity, and catering. As more companies work strategically with CSR, the choice of meeting rooms has become part of the overall CSR strategy.
In this context, it is important to work more purposefully with ESG: environmental, social, and governance issues. Not only to take more responsibility, but also to create business value and a more structured approach and effort around sustainable choices. An important part of the work involves documenting and creating an overview of the efforts within these factors.
According to a study by OPTIMEET and MeetDanmark on meeting buyers' sustainability requirements, it can be challenging for many companies to navigate what is actually a responsible choice. This is especially true when it comes to meetings, conferences, and events. 73% of buyers believe they are not sufficiently informed about sustainable solutions, and this appears to be the reason why two-thirds of respondents do not set sustainability requirements for every single event. This is despite the fact that eight out of ten companies require sustainability as part of the meeting product.
Attractive surroundings and inviting meeting rooms are no longer enough – more companies are demanding sustainable meeting products
Green Key as a responsible framework
This is where Green Key certification plays an important role. Green Key is not an ESG report in itself, but a recognized certification for tourism businesses (such as Bernstorff Castle) that can support ESG work by providing documentation in connection with planning more sustainable meetings and conferences.
For us at Bernstorff Castle, Green Key represents more than just a formal certification. It is not only about finding the perfect solution, but also about being able to make conscious choices on a transparent basis.
The certification is part of an ongoing ambition to develop a greener profile, where quality, aesthetics, and responsibility go hand in hand. Based on the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, and with a particular focus on Goal 12 on responsible consumption and production, we are working purposefully on initiatives that reduce our environmental footprint in everyday life.
Measures taken with care
Here at Bernstorff Palace, we work with energy-efficient solutions such as smart thermostats and LED lighting, water-saving fixtures, waste sorting, and the use of Swan-labeled cleaning products.
Responsibility in the kitchen is also an integral part of the experience. We work with local and organic produce, serve only seasonal ingredients, and have a conscious focus on reducing food waste. This means less transport, lower CO₂ emissions, and an experience where quality and sustainability support each other.
We believe it provides peace of mind to know that the meetings and your stay do not contribute to unnecessary strain on the environment, while also giving you the opportunity to actively be part of the solution. At Bernstorff Castle, we welcome dialogue and input, so you can make your mark and ensure that your meeting reflects both your values and ambitions.
That is why we see ourselves not only as a venue, but as a strategic partner who helps you translate your sustainable ambitions into concrete choices and strengthen your green profile without compromising on quality, setting, and experience.
Contact us to learn more about our meeting products.
Read our tips for greener meetings.
