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Sustainability is an important consideration when planning corporate events, but there are still plenty of misconceptions about what it involves.

From concerns about cost to confusion around recycling, plastics and plant-based catering, some common assumptions can make sustainable event planning seem more complicated than it needs to be.

At 15Hatfields, sustainability has been part of our approach since we opened in 2008. We believe that making more responsible choices should be practical, achievable and compatible with a great event experience.

Here are five common sustainability myths and what event organisers should know.

Myth 1: Sustainability is always expensive

One common misconception is that more sustainable choices automatically mean higher costs.

While some environmental improvements require an initial investment, they can also deliver longer-term operational benefits. Energy-efficient lighting, renewable energy systems, reusable materials and better waste management can all help reduce unnecessary resource consumption.

At 15Hatfields, we've invested in measures including rooftop solar panels, energy-efficient technology and LED lighting as part of our commitment to reducing environmental impact.

For event organisers, sustainability doesn't necessarily mean adding expensive extras. It can start with choosing a venue that already has responsible practices built into its day-to-day operations.

You can read more about how energy-efficient venue choices support more sustainable events.

Myth 2: Biodegradable plastics are always the best option

Terms such as 'biodegradable' and 'compostable' can sound reassuring, but they don't necessarily mean a product is environmentally preferable.

Biodegradable materials can break down under certain conditions, but the process and environmental impact depend on the material and how it is disposed of.

Similarly, compostable packaging may require specific industrial composting conditions and may not be suitable for ordinary recycling collections.

For event organisers, the most important question is whether disposable products are needed in the first place.

At 15Hatfields, we prioritise reusable alternatives and work to avoid single-use plastics throughout our catering operations.

Choosing reusable bottles, tableware and catering materials wherever practical can help reduce unnecessary waste before it is created.

Myth 3: Recycling is enough to make an event sustainable

Recycling plays an important role in responsible waste management, but it isn't a complete solution.

The first priority should be reducing the amount of waste an event generates.

That means reviewing everything from printed materials and promotional giveaways to catering quantities, packaging and disposable products.

At 15Hatfields, we look beyond recycling alone, focusing on reuse, responsible sourcing and preventing unnecessary waste.

Our approach includes refillable water bottles, reusable catering materials and working with specialist waste management partners.

For a closer look at what happens to materials after an event, read our guide to recycling behind the scenes at 15Hatfields.

Myth 4: You have to be vegan to plan a sustainable event

Plant-based catering can help reduce the environmental impact of an event, but choosing more sustainable food doesn't have to mean making every dish vegan.

Offering a greater variety of vegetarian and vegan options, considering seasonal ingredients and reducing avoidable food waste are all practical steps.

At 15Hatfields, 80% of our standard menu options are vegetarian or vegan, and we also offer a dedicated 100% vegan Daily Delegate Rate.

Working with our catering partners, Eden Caterers, we prioritise thoughtful menu planning and more responsible sourcing while making sure guests can enjoy delicious, well-presented food.

For organisers, the key is choosing a catering approach that works for the event, accommodates dietary requirements and avoids unnecessary waste.

Our guide to reducing food waste at corporate events shares more practical advice.

Myth 5: Sustainable events are boring

A sustainable event shouldn't mean compromising on quality, comfort or creativity.

In fact, responsible design choices can give a venue more character.

At 15Hatfields, many of the materials used throughout our venue have their own sustainability story, from coasters made from recycled tyres to cushions created using end-of-line seatbelts and a reception desk made with reclaimed and recycled materials.

These details demonstrate how reuse and thoughtful sourcing can be incorporated into a professional event environment.

Our flexible spaces, AV technology and experienced team also help organisers deliver engaging conferences, meetings, workshops and receptions while making more considered environmental choices.

Sustainability should complement the experience, not limit it.

Making sustainable event planning more straightforward

The most important thing to remember is that sustainability isn't about expecting every decision to be perfect.

It is about understanding the impact of your choices, asking useful questions and working with venues and suppliers that can demonstrate what they're doing.

That includes looking for evidence behind environmental claims, understanding how waste is managed and considering how catering, energy use and materials contribute to an event's footprint.

At 15Hatfields, we offer complimentary post-event carbon reports to help organisers understand estimated emissions across energy, food, beverages, food waste and water.

If you'd like to explore what credible sustainability credentials look like, read our guide to spotting greenwashing when choosing a sustainable event venue.

Planning a more sustainable corporate event?

From responsible catering and energy efficiency to waste reduction and carbon reporting, 15Hatfields helps organisers make more informed choices.

Explore our sustainability approach or speak to our team about planning your next corporate event in central London.

Sustainability is an important consideration when planning corporate events, but there are still plenty of misconceptions about what it involves.

From concerns about cost to confusion around recycling, plastics and plant-based catering, some common assumptions can make sustainable event planning seem more complicated than it needs to be.

At 15Hatfields, sustainability has been part of our approach since we opened in 2008. We believe that making more responsible choices should be practical, achievable and compatible with a great event experience.

Here are five common sustainability myths and what event organisers should know.

Myth 1: Sustainability is always expensive

One common misconception is that more sustainable choices automatically mean higher costs.

While some environmental improvements require an initial investment, they can also deliver longer-term operational benefits. Energy-efficient lighting, renewable energy systems, reusable materials and better waste management can all help reduce unnecessary resource consumption.

At 15Hatfields, we've invested in measures including rooftop solar panels, energy-efficient technology and LED lighting as part of our commitment to reducing environmental impact.

For event organisers, sustainability doesn't necessarily mean adding expensive extras. It can start with choosing a venue that already has responsible practices built into its day-to-day operations.

You can read more about how energy-efficient venue choices support more sustainable events.

Myth 2: Biodegradable plastics are always the best option

Terms such as 'biodegradable' and 'compostable' can sound reassuring, but they don't necessarily mean a product is environmentally preferable.

Biodegradable materials can break down under certain conditions, but the process and environmental impact depend on the material and how it is disposed of.

Similarly, compostable packaging may require specific industrial composting conditions and may not be suitable for ordinary recycling collections.

For event organisers, the most important question is whether disposable products are needed in the first place.

At 15Hatfields, we prioritise reusable alternatives and work to avoid single-use plastics throughout our catering operations.

Choosing reusable bottles, tableware and catering materials wherever practical can help reduce unnecessary waste before it is created.

Myth 3: Recycling is enough to make an event sustainable

Recycling plays an important role in responsible waste management, but it isn't a complete solution.

The first priority should be reducing the amount of waste an event generates.

That means reviewing everything from printed materials and promotional giveaways to catering quantities, packaging and disposable products.

At 15Hatfields, we look beyond recycling alone, focusing on reuse, responsible sourcing and preventing unnecessary waste.

Our approach includes refillable water bottles, reusable catering materials and working with specialist waste management partners.

For a closer look at what happens to materials after an event, read our guide to recycling behind the scenes at 15Hatfields.

Myth 4: You have to be vegan to plan a sustainable event

Plant-based catering can help reduce the environmental impact of an event, but choosing more sustainable food doesn't have to mean making every dish vegan.

Offering a greater variety of vegetarian and vegan options, considering seasonal ingredients and reducing avoidable food waste are all practical steps.

At 15Hatfields, 80% of our standard menu options are vegetarian or vegan, and we also offer a dedicated 100% vegan Daily Delegate Rate.

Working with our catering partners, Eden Caterers, we prioritise thoughtful menu planning and more responsible sourcing while making sure guests can enjoy delicious, well-presented food.

For organisers, the key is choosing a catering approach that works for the event, accommodates dietary requirements and avoids unnecessary waste.

Our guide to reducing food waste at corporate events shares more practical advice.

Myth 5: Sustainable events are boring

A sustainable event shouldn't mean compromising on quality, comfort or creativity.

In fact, responsible design choices can give a venue more character.

At 15Hatfields, many of the materials used throughout our venue have their own sustainability story, from coasters made from recycled tyres to cushions created using end-of-line seatbelts and a reception desk made with reclaimed and recycled materials.

These details demonstrate how reuse and thoughtful sourcing can be incorporated into a professional event environment.

Our flexible spaces, AV technology and experienced team also help organisers deliver engaging conferences, meetings, workshops and receptions while making more considered environmental choices.

Sustainability should complement the experience, not limit it.

Making sustainable event planning more straightforward

The most important thing to remember is that sustainability isn't about expecting every decision to be perfect.

It is about understanding the impact of your choices, asking useful questions and working with venues and suppliers that can demonstrate what they're doing.

That includes looking for evidence behind environmental claims, understanding how waste is managed and considering how catering, energy use and materials contribute to an event's footprint.

At 15Hatfields, we offer complimentary post-event carbon reports to help organisers understand estimated emissions across energy, food, beverages, food waste and water.

If you'd like to explore what credible sustainability credentials look like, read our guide to spotting greenwashing when choosing a sustainable event venue.

Planning a more sustainable corporate event?

From responsible catering and energy efficiency to waste reduction and carbon reporting, 15Hatfields helps organisers make more informed choices.

Explore our sustainability approach or speak to our team about planning your next corporate event in central London.