LEEDS 2023: Sustainability Evaluation
Posted Case study, Leeds 2023, News
We’re proud to share the Sustainability Evaluation of LEEDS 2023, a landmark year of culture that placed environmental responsibility at its heart.
Working in partnership with LEEDS 2023, SAIL supported the planning, delivery, and evaluation of sustainable approaches across the year-long programme. From powering events with cleaner energy, to embedding reuse and circular economy principles, the evaluation shows how cultural activity can be both bold and sustainable.
Key findings from the report include:
- 506.6 tCO₂e – the measured carbon footprint of the Signature Programme, with audience travel the largest contributor.
- 91% reduction in emissions achieved by switching from diesel to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) at events.
- 287 professionals and students enrolled on free sustainable events training, building long-term sector capacity.
- Tangible legacies such as new permanent power connections, repurposed sets, and community classrooms now benefit the city.
The evaluation also highlights the creative role sustainability played across the programme, from community gardens and rewilding projects to theatrical productions in nature reserves, inspiring audiences to reimagine their relationship with the climate crisis.
LEEDS 2023 faced the same challenges all major cultural events encounters, from audience travel to procurement, but showed that meaningful change is possible when sustainability is treated as a guiding principle. The report offers valuable lessons for cultural organisations, funders, and producers planning the next generation of sustainable events.
Download the evaluation
To find out more and read the evaluation, click below