Sustainable events, by design
Sustainability at BluePoint Antwerp
Sustainability is no longer an option; it has become an essential part of many organisations’ strategy, reporting, and brand positioning. At the same time, events must remain efficient, practical, and of the highest quality. That is why sustainability at BluePoint Antwerp is not an additional layer on top of an event, but an integral part of the venue, its infrastructure, and its day-to-day operations.
This commitment to sustainability is reflected in the Green Key certification, which BluePoint Antwerp has held since 2020. This internationally recognised quality label is awarded to organisations that demonstrate a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable business practices.
An integrated approach, from infrastructure to implementation
Sustainability at BluePoint Antwerp is a coherent approach embedded throughout the venue. From spatial design and catering operations to waste management and logistics. The result is an event environment where more sustainable choices become a natural part of the experience.
Sustainability without added complexity
The venue and operation are structured so that sustainable choices do not fall on the shoulders of the organizer, but are integrated into the event along with it.
From design to implementation
Infrastructure, catering, waste management, mobility and materials are all interlinked, so that the impact is addressed not at one stage but across the entire event chain.
Practical and credible
The approach combines operational efficiency with social relevance: organize better, waste less while keeping the user experience high.
Lower environmental impact starts with the location
A large part of an event’s environmental impact is determined long before guests arrive. The location plays a major role. By choosing a venue designed with efficiency in mind, many logistical and energy-related impacts can already be reduced before the event even begins.
Efficiency by design
- One-stop-shop model with fewer external suppliers and transportation
- Own furniture and decoration for fewer logistical movements
- On-site technical infrastructure, without additional installations
Energy management in practice
- Low energy consumption in the main halls
- LED screens and LED lighting as standard
- Phased investment to full LED integration
- No use of generators
- Green energy contract
Water management
- Recovery of rainwater for sanitary applications
- Conscious management of water consumption in maintenance and use
A location that contributes to sustainability
Smart technology reduces travel
Not every event needs to be entirely physical. By engaging in hybrid and digital solutions, impact is structurally reduced without sacrificing event quality or flexibility.
Streaming and hybrid capabilities
The infrastructure in place allows remote participants to connect and speakers to be scheduled more flexibly.
Less travel
When everyone does not have to be physically present, the number of trips and the associated logistical impact decrease.
Flexibility without loss of quality
Digital presence will not be a stopgap solution, but a full part of a contemporary and efficient event model.
Rethinking event catering through a sustainability lens
A significant share of an event’s environmental impact is linked to food and catering.
That is why, at BluePoint Antwerp, we approach catering in close collaboration with our in-house partner White Signature not merely as a service, but as a strategic lever within our overall sustainability strategy.
Local and responsible sourcing
- Local suppliers where possible
- Seasonal products
- Organic and fair trade ingredients
- Sustainable fishing according to MSC or WWF fish guide
Health and ethics
- No use of palm oil
- Focus on healthy, balanced nutrition
What you serve makes the difference
With responsible products, healthier choices, and a well-thought-out menu, catering becomes more than just food. It contributes to lower impact and a stronger overall experience.
Reducing waste through smarter event planning
Food waste is reduced through thoughtful decisions across preparation, presentation and post-event operations. Wherever possible, reusable or biodegradable materials are preferred.
Actively reducing food waste
- No classic buffets, but food stands with portions
- Adjustment of volumes to effective attendance
- Recovery of surplus where possible
- Opportunity for organizers to take residual products
Less disposable, more logic
- Use of reusable tableware
- Minimal use of disposable materials
- If necessary: biodegradable alternatives
Inclusive and flexible for each participant
Sustainability is not only about the environment, but also about people. Therefore, there is a strong commitment to inclusiveness, flexibility and an event experience that naturally incorporates different needs.
Nutrition tailored to real groups
- Adaptation to allergens and dietary preferences
- Respect for religious dietary requirements
- Incorporation of vegetarian and vegan options as standard
Social inclusion
- Supported employment initiatives
- Attention to a functioning that is more accessible and humanly organized
Comfort without added complexity
This approach ensures that each participant is comfortable without the need for the organizer to set up all sorts of parallel processes.
Accessibility and mobility
The impact of an event does not stop at the door. Therefore, even around accessibility and travel, we are committed to solutions that make more sustainable choices feasible and attractive.
Encouraging sustainable mobility
- Location within walking distance of public transport
- Promotion of soft mobility
- Electric charging points
More facilities for cyclists
- Expansion of bicycle parking facilities
- Renovation of showers to encourage bicycle use
Building for the future
Sustainability is not a fixed endpoint, but an ongoing process of improvement. BluePoint Antwerp continues to invest in future-focused solutions while exploring new ways to strengthen and make its sustainability approach more visible, both internally and for clients organising events at the venue.
Investment and research
- Sustainability report for the building
- Possible integration of solar panels
- Research on geothermal systems
- Idea of sharing sustainability reports with clients
Additional initiatives
- Initiatives around biodiversity, such as insect hotels
- Awareness around no-shows to reduce waste
Find out what this means for your event
Want to see specifically how this approach translates to your type of event? Schedule a site visit, discuss your project with our team or find out how we can optimize your event.