One of the south’s biggest business conferences and expos dedicated entirely to green growth is set to return to Basingstoke for a second year.
Companies and organisations keen to build greater sustainability into their operations are invited to the free showcase, Unlocking Hampshire’s Green Potential 2024.
It is being delivered by Hampshire Chamber of Commerce and not-for-profit business and community organisation Destination Basingstoke.
The aim is to highlight practical steps that decision makers can take to champion green skills and cut their carbon footprint as part of company ESG (environmental, social and governance) goals.
Open to all sizes of business from all sectors, #UHGP2024 will bring together leading experts for a series of talks, panel debates, question and answer sessions and advice on funding for green initiatives.
Alongside will be a ‘green expo’ featuring businesses that either offer sustainable solutions to their customers or have already built green investments into their operations.
Ross McNally, Hampshire Chamber’s Chief Executive and Executive Chairman, said the event’s strapline of ‘People, planet, profit, the new business mantra’ is more pertinent than ever.
Ross said: “This is all about helping firms on their sustainability journey at a time when concerns over climate change are heightening rapidly.
“It is an ideal opportunity to help businesses find the essential skills and tools they need to realise their green potential.
“Building on the huge success of our 2023 event, we will once again highlight innovative solutions, share expert first-hand advice and knowledge and look to make positive change happen collectively.”
Headline sponsors are environmental solutions provider Suez, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and Basingstoke-headquartered TrustMark, the government-endorsed quality scheme for tradespeople which has a strong focus on energy efficiency and sustainability.
George Pearce, Head of Sales at Suez, said: “Local businesses in Hampshire play a crucial role in contributing to the region’s sustainable future.
“That’s why we are proud to sponsor this event supporting businesses of all sizes while they realise their green potential.”
Leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Cllr Paul Harvey said: “Going greener is, put simply, just good business and this event will support local people to come together to share ideas and explore opportunities for how they can make their companies more sustainable.
“Beyond just cutting carbon, this could see businesses enjoy a variety of other benefits as well, including helping them to stand out to increasingly eco-conscious consumers, attract and keep talented staff, save money and increase their profits too.”
Keynote speaker is Dr. Wendy Buckley, Director and Co-founder of Carbon Footprint Ltd and Chair of the Sustainability Business Network.
Other presentations will be given by representatives of companies including Not Just Travel, Save Energy and Yellow Interiors.
Mark Jones, Partnerships Manager at Destination Basingstoke, said: “Destination Basingstoke is delighted to again be partnering with Hampshire Chamber of Commerce to deliver Unlocking Hampshire’s Green Potential 2024.
“We are looking forward to following in the successful footsteps of last year’s event and are delighted to have a great line-up of exhibitors and expert speakers.”
Barry Smith, joint event organiser, said: “Unlocking Hampshire’s Green Potential is one of the most important events of the year.
“Companies’ CSR (corporate social responsibility), best practice and a responsible supply chain are more important than ever before.
“The event will again bring businesses together who are keen to champion greater sustainability and employ green values in their operations.”
Unlocking Hampshire’s Green Potential 2024 takes place at the Apollo Hotel, Basingstoke, on Thursday 7 November 2024 between 9am and 1pm.
For more information, including how to register or book a stand, visit the event page on this website.