Arboretum receives British Chamber’s Green Innovation award

Burton based National Memorial Arboretum has become a regional winner in Green Innovation at the British Chambers of Commerce’s business awards 2024.

The Arboretum, who is a member of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), was established over 20 years ago on former gravel works, and has now become the UK’s year-round place to remember.

A paragon of regeneration and sustainability, the once barren 150-acre site upon which the Arboretum sits is home now to more than 400 memorials and 25,000 trees.

In recent years, the Arboretum has installed 250 solar panels on the roof of its Remembrance Centre, significantly reducing CO2 emissions. It introduced 100 per cent recyclable/compostable packaging for its food services and grows an onsite herb garden to supply fresh ingredients for its restaurant.

Committed to supporting local communities, the Arboretum also sources seasonal, sustainable produce from local suppliers.

It is an uplifting and inspirational place where the Nation celebrates lives lived and remember lives lost. 

Mark Ellis, National Memorial Arboretum lead, said: “In recent years, our entire team has made significant efforts to reduce our carbon footprint.

“From installing solar panels, to supporting local suppliers and adopting eco-friendly packaging, we are committed to making a meaningful, positive impact on both the environment and the community around us.

“We are absolutely delighted to have our efforts recognised with the Green Innovation award, and this will encourage us to continue focusing on sustainability in everything we do.”

GBCC director of membership Lillian Elekan also congratulated the Arboretum, saying: “We are incredibly proud that the National Memorial Arboretum has won the British Chambers Regional Award for Green Innovation.

“It's no surprise that the judges were impressed by the Arboretum's unwavering commitment to sustainability.

“Rather than relying on their beautiful natural surroundings, they are actively advancing circular waste disposal practices and prioritising local sourcing of products.

“The Arboretum truly embodies sustainability, and this recognition is well deserved. Congratulations from all of us at the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce!”

National winners’ will be announced by the British Chambers of Commerce on Thursday, 17 October.