The third annual Sustainability in Public Services Conference and Exhibition, was the most successful yet. With over 350 attendees, 216 organisations represented, 15 speakers, 26 exhibition stands - it exceeded all expectations!
There was a lot to discuss, from the launch of the Green Ministers Report, to activities post WSSD. Jonathon Porritt, Chairman of the SDC, gave an invigorating speech at the end of the day, whilst Rt Hon Michael Meacher MP (Minister for the Environment) opened the conference with Ruth Frommer (Director, European Commission) giving an international perspective.
By incorporating DEFRA's own EMAS conference, the day had a steady focus on this new european standard, with detailed analysis and comparison to ISO14001 in an interactive debate after lunch. Speakers from LRQA, ODPM, Environment Agency, and the European Commission livened up the subject matter and stimulated the audience's imagination. Other subjects covered included the new NHS environmental strategy, waste and recycling, and corporate social responsibility.
The Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre proved to be a fitting new home for the SIPS conference, with excellent catering by Leiths and gorgeous views over Westminster. The exhibition was again a hit, illustrating the significant interest in companies embracing sustainable development, and on the forecourt of the Centre, the Alter Project exhibited some of their LPG and solar powered vehicles to the delight of both delegates and passers by!
