The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow has received a Green Tourism award – a key milestone in its efforts to reduce its climate footprint.
The College, which has more than 16,000 members across the UK and internationally, is home to 1599 at the Royal College, an events venue open to all, which caters for weddings, conferences and fine dining.
The bronze award was given in recognition of the College’s work to embed an environmentally friendly approach to People, Planet and Places towards its journey to becoming net zero by 2040.
Professor Adrian Stanley, Chair of the Royal College’s Sustainability Steering Group, said: “Our fantastic colleagues and events company, 1599 at the Royal College, are working tirelessly to ensure that sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. It is thanks to their efforts, and the support of our College community, that we now reflect key aspects of green tourism.
“As a community of healthcare professionals, we recognise that the climate crisis poses a serious risk to public health and our healthcare infrastructure. At the same time, we are aware that the health service itself has a major impact on global emissions.
“As the UK’s only multidisciplinary medical Royal College, we are uniquely placed to be a voice for change. Being recognised with this award gives our Fellows, Members, and the public the assurance that we are committed to addressing climate change through continuous learning and improvement, providing appropriate education and support to colleagues, and adapting our activities as a College.”
Highlights include offering delicious, plant–based and locally sourced food, a significant reduction in waste, removal of single-use plastic, and encouraging active and public transport to the College, which is nestled in the heart of the city. The award also recognised the College’s work in health and wellbeing and equality, diversity and inclusion.
Richie Homes, Deputy Head of Operations, added: “We are delighted to achieve this important award, and it’s a real reflection of the commitment to our Fellows and Members to protect health and the planet.
“While we have reached an important milestone, we are not resting on our laurels – environmental sustainability remains a key focus for us and we are already planning our next steps.”
The news follows 1599 at the Royal College being named Corporate Events Venue of the year 2023/2024 in August by Scotland’s Prestige Programme. The judges were impressed by “the history and majesty of the stunning venue” and the team’s dedication to “ensuring that every event is a success, no matter the occasion… going above and beyond to consistently exceed their clients’ expectations.”
1599 at the Royal College is located at 232-242 St Vincent Street, Glasgow.