Our vision for a sustainable future
At RCP London Events, we are committed to sustainability as a core pillar of our operations. Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, and we are determined to lead by example.
Operating in a Grade I listed building presents unique sustainability challenges, from preserving its historic fabric to balancing modern efficiency demands. Despite these constraints, we continuously innovate to reduce our environmental impact.




Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. Our initiatives include:
- Food waste management: using a GPS system, we track and weigh food waste, diverting it to anaerobic digestion or composting. In 2024 alone, we achieved a 20% reduction in food waste through staff awareness and training, and effective utilisation of scraps
- Energy efficiency: we have upgraded electrical systems with sensor lighting and LED replacements, reducing energy consumption significantly
- Coffee recycling: we recycle 3,500 kg of coffee grounds annually into eco-friendly fire logs for our wood-burning pizza oven, reducing CO2 emissions by 70% compared to traditional waste disposal methods
- Water and compost: rainwater harvesting and composting from our Medicinal Garden support sustainable operations
- Vegetable-led menus: we partner with socially responsible catering partner Company of Cooks to promote plant-based dining options, offering inclusive menus that are vegan and gluten-free as standard
Measuring success: making a real difference
With over 500 years of history and an iconic Grade I listed building, RCP London Events demonstrates that sustainability and heritage can coexist. From reducing our carbon footprint to fostering social responsibility, we strive to set a benchmark for the events industry. We invite our clients and partners to join us on this journey to create a greener, more sustainable future.
- 30% reduction in carbon footprint: over the past three years, driven by hybrid working, energy-efficient upgrades, and operational efficiencies
- 80% recycling rate: achieved in 2024, with new waste streams introduced to improve further
- 15% reduction in glass recycling: by switching to in-house filtered water instead of bottled water
- Carbon Trust Standard: we are the first and only royal college to achieve this leading certification for environmental impact reduction
- ISO 14001: a certification for environmental management best practices
- IACC Silver Tier: a recognition for our leadership in sustainable venue practices
- ECOsmart Gold
Through our caterer, Company of Cooks, we apply a local larder philosophy to our F&B offer. The London Larder brings together boutique London-based suppliers – meaning that ingredients and produce within our seasonal menus are sourced from small, independent local suppliers.
All London Larder suppliers also adhere to the Company of Cooks' higher welfare strategy:
- Only British meat and cheese
- MCS (Marine Conservation Society) rated 1, 2, 3 fish
- No fresh produce via airfreight
Some of our most loved suppliers include: La Latteria, Luminary Bakery, Union Coffee, Paul Rhodes Bakery, Cobble Lane Cured, Ellis Wines.
As part of the Royal College of Physicians (RCP), a registered charity, we are deeply committed to giving back to society. When you decide to host your event at RCP London Events, you are doing more than choosing an award-winning venue with premium facilities – you are also supporting the RCP's core mission to deliver high-quality patient care, with all revenue from events going back into supporting this valuable purpose.
We partner directly and indirectly with companies and suppliers that help various communities through charity work.
Some of our initiatives include:
- Through our caterer, Company of Cooks, supporting Well Grounded and Luminary Bakery, empowering disadvantaged individuals through training and employment
- Collaborating with London Zoo
- Promoting the RCP’s Green Physicians Toolkit, encouraging sustainable practices in healthcare
Our venue is designed to ensure inclusivity for all. Key features include step-free access, hearing induction loops, accessible toilets, and designated parking spaces. We also provide tailored support for delegates with specific needs.
We are committed to ensuring the safety of all guests and staff. In response to Martyn’s Law, a UK bill that requires certain premises and events to take steps to reduce the risk of terrorism, we have enhanced our security measures and provided comprehensive staff training to create a safe environment for every event.
Visit our security page to find out more about the measures in place at our venue to keep you safe.
Future goals
Looking ahead, we are:
- Implementing a five-year plan: enhancing building efficiency and reducing operational costs
- Utilising 45 acres of donated farmland: offsetting carbon emissions by planting trees capable of absorbing 550-600 tonnes of CO2 annually
- Operating our venue sustainability task force: continuing the work of our dedicated team to drive sustainability across all operations, with green champions representing every department
- Expanding recycling initiatives: introducing new waste streams and improving staff training to achieve a recycling rate exceeding 80%.