Sustainability and ecology

Runners in a race

Solihull’s natural environment is one of its greatest features.

We encourage event organisers to embrace the positive impact of holding a sustainable event and have a clear plan on waste management.

A sustainable event is one that:

  • considers the environment
  • works to reduce any negative effect it may have

You can reduce your event's carbon footprint by doing simple things, such as recycling and saving water.

What you should consider

Early planning

  • Consider ecology, biodiversity, and ground conditions from the outset
  • Choose suitable sites and consult landowners and local communities
  • Include wildlife and habitat protection in your plans

Ground protection

  • Use ground matting, trackway, and defined pedestrian routes
  • Control vehicle access and plan for wet weather
  • Prevent soil compaction, erosion, and mud in high‑traffic areas

Trees and vegetation

  • Fence off tree root protection zones
  • Avoid disturbance to vegetation
  • Do not use trees for equipment, lighting, or rigging

Wildlife sensitive lighting and noise

  • Use low‑level, shielded, long‑wavelength lighting where possible
  • Reduce lighting in sensitive areas
  • Schedule sound checks and performances to minimise disturbance

Waste management

  • You are responsible for assessing the risks associated with storage, handling or use of waste and should introduce effective ways to avoid or control these risks
  • All waste must be taken away at the end of your event, and the site must be left clean and tidy
  • You can arrange to link in with local litter picker group for keeping the site clear and/or hire in bins or skips for the collection of rubbish

Specialist advice

  • Consult ecologists, arborists, park rangers, or land managers where appropriate
  • Use professional advice to inform layout and mitigation measures

Communication and awareness

  • Brief staff, contractors, and volunteers on environmental rules
  • Explain the reasons behind restrictions
  • Use signage or volunteers to promote good practice on site

Post event restoration

  • Plan and budget for site clean‑up and repairs
  • Restore damaged ground and vegetation
  • Ensure the site is returned in an appropriate condition

Review and improve

  • Evaluate environmental impacts after the event
  • Record lessons learned
  • Apply improvements to future events