Greening your business for the 2012 games

Discover new opportunities to gain the edge over your competitors in preparation for the 2012 Games by attending the “Buying Greener in the South East” conference, The Julie Rose Stadium, Ashford Kent, Tuesday 24 October.

ReMaDe Kent & Medway, a waste and resources market development programme, is hosting the event designed to showcase the latest initiatives to greening supply chains. The aim is to encourage new and existing businesses and local authorities to use recycled materials as an alternative to virgin materials. In doing this, businesses can improve their green credentials in advance of the 2012 Games.

Guest speaker, Shaun McCarthy, Director, Action Sustainability will be presenting the government's national action plan for the UK to be a sustainable procurement leader by 2009. McCarthy will focus on how to realise the benefits of implementing green procurement including reduced bottom line costs and increased competitive edge.

Diana Lock, ReMaDe Kent & Medway's Programme Manager, said: “Businesses all over the South East are seeking ways to get involved with the 2012 Games. Sustainability is a hot topic and we aim to identify the ways businesses in the South East can take steps to green their operations towards becoming more efficient and competitive. This year's event will highlight an exhibition of the latest products made from recycled materials and offers fantastic networking opportunities for potential buyers and suppliers. There are also excursions to Hillreed Homes which demonstrate the benefits of going greener in the construction sector.”

“It's important that businesses are aware of the commercial opportunities presented by the current consumer interest in sustainability and this event will highlight the range of green products and services that exist within the South East.”

Delegates will be able to attend a series of workshops focused on ways to become greener such as green procurement, sustainable construction, new clean technologies and the latest legislation on environmental responsibilities. An exhibition of sustainable and environmental products and services, plus innovative energy saving devices will also feature at the event.

Funded by the SEEDA, the European Union's Interreg IIIa programme, Kent Sustainable Business Partnership and Easibind International, the event will include the opportunity for valuable networking opportunities with UK companies and environmental organisations. The South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) will also be a key contributor by encouraging business development and networking across the South East.

Anyone interested in attending as a delegate or an exhibitor for the “Buying Greener in the South East 2006” event should contact Carol Smith on 08456 444601 or email buying.greener@abacus-ebs.co.uk for more details.