Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre develops Event Emissions Calculator

The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) is committed to minimising the environmental impact of events and to being a responsible industry leader in environmental innovation through providing tools and education to key stakeholders.

Aligned with this commitment, GCCEC has invested in the development of an event emissions calculator that will provide insights and actionable data to the venue and its clients.

The calculation tool, developed by Australian company NetNada, provides an emissions estimate based on GCCEC-specific space and energy usage. The methodology used is only applicable to Australian-based events and the calculation aligns with Greenhouse Gas Protocol.

GCCEC’s Sustainability Advisor Larissa Rose explained "our duty of care is to ensure we are not only being accountable to the operations of GCCEC but empowering our clients to strengthen their knowledge and understanding on the energy, waste and water emissions generated by their events.  The calculator provides a way to access data and compile it in a way to educate and empower greater understanding".

Terry Murphy Executive Manager - Operations commented that GCCEC is proud to be launching the event emissions calculator to clients in tandem with the venue’s 5-year Sustainability Strategy.

Murphy shared “Sustainability is an important responsibility for everyone, and our calculator is a tool that can offer invaluable information to educate our clients and assist with  building greater awareness about the emissions that are generated by events, and finding solutions to reducing these levels.

Afonso Firmo, Co-founder and Director NetNada added "As businesses strive towards net zero ambitions and cater to the increasing demand for environmentally conscious options, the hospitality and event sectors emerge as key players. There's a significant opportunity for companies to put their ambitious strategies into action and attract eco-minded customers by partnering with sustainable venues that provide low emissions and sustainable experiences.”

Since opening in 2004, GCCEC has implemented a raft of initiatives that have resulted in responsible waste management, optimised energy usage and reduced water usage and the achievement of Master certification by EarthCheck. EarthCheck is the world’s leading business advisory group specialising in sustainability and destination management for the travel and tourism industry.

About GCCEC
Located in the heart of Broadbeach, just 500 metres from the beach and walking distance to thousands of accommodation options, GCCEC is Australia’s largest regional convention centre. With a massive main arena, four exhibition halls and a range of meeting rooms catering for up to 6,000 people, GCCEC is a world-class destination of choice for conferences, exhibitions, concerts, trade shows and events. The award-winning venue hosts 150+ events annually, attracting delegates and visitors from around the globe.

Image top: Larissa Rose – Sustainability Advisor discussing calculator outputs with Terry Murphy  Executive Manager Property Operations and Facilities Manager Colin Merrett; image above: Report sample