CHURCH HOUSE WESTMINSTER: A YEAR OF CONTINUED PROGRESS FOLLOWING NET ZERO

One year after becoming a net zero events venue — an achievement reached an impressive five years ahead of target — Church House Westminster continues to build on its sustainability credentials, recording further environmental gains throughout 2025.

The Grade II listed venue, located in the heart of London, has reduced water consumption by 41% since achieving net zero status at the end of 2024. Over the past year alone, its overall carbon footprint has fallen by a further 8%, equating to a reduction of more than 66,000kg CO₂e, while electricity usage has decreased by an additional 7%.

Known for its progressive approach to sustainability, Church House was the first Grade II listed venue to introduce carbon-absorbing paint and has also embraced innovative solutions such as spray cork insulation. In 2025, that momentum has continued, with the venue exploring further energy-saving measures, including re-engineering water and air routes through the building — a change that could reduce boiler usage by up to 15%.

Church House is also a founding signatory of Greengage’s Swap Plastic for Purpose campaign, which aims to eliminate single-use plastic gifts and packaging. As a Platinum EcoSmart venue, it is working towards becoming single-use plastic free, including removing plastic exhibition giveaways, encouraging clients to do the same, and collaborating with suppliers to find alternatives to clingfilm in its kitchens.

Sustainability at Church House extends beyond environmental impact. In 2025, the venue has continued to support local communities by redistributing used coffee grounds for composting and allotments, expanding biodiversity initiatives with the addition of a lavender garden alongside its existing bug hotels, and donating clothing quarterly to homelessness charity The Passage, while also raising awareness of the organisation through on-site communications.

All staff at Church House are now trained in both carbon literacy and neurodiversity. The venue has also appointed dedicated internal champions for menopause, neurodiversity and hidden disabilities. In 2025, its Head of Business Development & Marketing, Marina Papadopoulou, became an approved carbon literacy trainer.

These efforts build on an already robust sustainability programme, which includes low-carbon menus, zero waste to landfill and offering clients the opportunity to measure the carbon impact of their events. In recognition of this work, Church House was awarded Platinum at the 2025 Greengage Sustainability Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Carbon Reduction & Net Zero Progress. The venue was also shortlisted for the Sustainability Award for Venues at the London Venue & Catering Awards 2025 and received a Highly Commended recognition at the C&IT Impact Awards in the Venue within London category.

Commenting on the continued progress, Stephanie Maurel, CEO of Church House Westminster, said:

“Reaching net zero ahead of schedule was never the end of the journey for us — it was the beginning. Over the past year, our team has continued to push boundaries, explore new technologies and deepen our positive impact. From further reducing our carbon footprint and water usage to supporting our community and driving industry-wide change, we’re proud of the progress we’ve made and remain committed to leading by example into 2026 and beyond.”