London 2012 was instrumental in developing the new British Standard for a Sustainable Event Management System (BS 8901) which provides a framework for managing events more sustainably. These guidelines form part of London 2012’s approach to achieve compliance with BS 8901.

Throughout the period leading up to the Games in 2012, there will be numerous events associated with London 2012, including conferences and seminars, roadshows, cultural events and promotional launches. The guidelines will help ensure that London 2012 events between now and Games-time are organised and staged in a sustainable way.

The guidelines set out a simple framework for improving the sustainability of events, focusing on key topic areas which are most relevant to the types of events which will be organised in the lead-up to the Games.

London 2012 will continually review how the guidelines are performing in practice and will release updated editions. The experience gained from their application – and from implementing BS 8901 – will reinforce London 2012’s efforts to deliver a more sustainable Games in 2012.

London 2012 Head of Sustainability, David Stubbs outlined the importance of the guidelines, 'We launched our Sustainability Plans over a year ago now, outlining our overall vision for the Games and since then we have been drilling down into the detail of each different element. Events are a key part of this – between now and 2012, we will be holding any number of events, from press conferences to cultural events and our guidelines will ensure they are arranged and run in the most sustainable way possible. We are fully committed to ensuring that our Games – and everything that happens in the run-up – reaches the highest possible standards in terms of sustainability.'

Anne Hayes, Head of Market Development, Risk and Sustainability BSI British Standards added: 'BSI is delighted London 2012 has published its Sustainability Guidelines for individual corporate and public events and will be using BS 8901 to ensure the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games will be as sustainable as possible. This sets a great example for any organisation wishing to reduce the impact of its events. Events organisers who have used the standard since its publication in 2007 have found it useful in enabling a holistic approach to improving the sustainability of their events, combining environmental, economic and social considerations.'

The Games itself in 2012 – including Test Events, Torch Relay, Opening and Closing Ceremonies – will be subject to the full sustainability management system developed by the London 2012 Organising Committee and therefore go beyond the provision of these guidelines.

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For further information please contact the London 2012 Press Office on +44 (0)203 2012 100 or visit the website at www.london2012.com. Find out the latest from London 2012 HQ on our blog

Notes to editors:

• The London 2012 Sustainability Plan was published in 2007
  The London 2012 Sustainability Update and Report card was published in 2008
  http://www.london2012.com/news/publications/sustainability.php
• For more information on BS 8901 – www.bsigroup.com/BS8901