Sustainability

Our Commitment to the Environment.

At Blackfriars Priory, we are committed to reducing our impact on the Earth and are continually searching for ways to reduce our carbon footprint year on year. The steps that we are currently taking can be seen below.

Staff Training

Three of our team have recently received their carbon literacy certificates, which come after a two day course on ways to reduce our carbon footprint, both in the workplace and outside. Each member of the team had to take a pledge on steps they will take to introduce new initiatives to help tackle climate change and will continue to implement their learning.

Blackfriars Priory is also in the process of becoming a member of the Sustainable Wedding Alliance, which will enable further staff training and an evaluation of the business.

New Planters

The external areas of Blackfriars Priory now house several new wooden planters, which have been filled with pollinator loved plants to provide an oasis in the urban landscape for bees and butterflies.

Catering

We have recently completed a catering tender to renew and update our partnerships. A large focus during the process was the environmental responsibility demonstrated by each applicant and we have selected the companies who were most able to demonstrate active steps to protect the environment. This includes electric vans in the work fleet, staff car pooling, actively sourcing produce with low food mileage, growing own produce, exciting plant based menus and responsible use of equipment.

The Bar

We stock our bar with local beer, ale, cider and spirits from Gloucester Brewery, which is just a ten minute walk away from Blackfriars Priory. This ensures we are supporting local and that our stock has low mileage.

Due to the nature of the historic venue, we are currently not able to use glassware on the bar for large functions. We are currently working to introduce re-useable polycarbonate plastics and in the meantime, all of our ‘plastics’ are made from plants.

Transport

Due to the convenient city centre location of Blackfriars Priory, we encourage our clients and guests to take advantage of the easily accessible public transport links to reduce car emissions.

Recycling

We recycle all card, plastic and glass waste that is generated by events.

Partners

At Blackfriars Priory, we aim to work with partners who are making strides in sustainability. For example, we are a paying supplier to Rock My Wedding, where every month 10% of our membership fee is donated to trees for life. Each month we receive an update on how many trees have been planted as a direct result of our membership <3

Ideas for Sustainable Events

Check out our blog, where we have articles containing ideas for making your event more sustainable.