Learning from leaders in sustainability: BEAM

Learning from Leaders in Sustainability: BEAM, Hertford

It’s Canned Wine Group’s second consecutive year partnering with Society of London Theatre & UK Theatre, and supporting the highly anticipated UK Theatre Awards, which has once again shone light on the incredible innovation and creative excellence within the arts sector. The story behind each of the achievements is unique and it’s clear to see the passion and dedication that has led to outstanding accomplishments across off-stage and on-stage.
Abi (Key Account Manager in Entertainment) sat down with Laura Lightfoot (Operations Manager at BEAM, Hertford) to learn more about all the hard work and expertise behind BEAM’s sustainability journey, leading to their extremely well-deserved 2025 Excellence in Sustainability Award.

Having undergone a three-year renovation project of what was Hertford Theatre, the theatre reopened in the summer of 2024 under its new identity, BEAM, an impressive venue that now features a multi-purpose arts space for top entertainment, creativity and culture – a real landmark in the heart of Hertfordshire. The project has been centred around growth and legacy, aiming to build both on the future of the arts and the positive impact it can have on society, whilst maintaining the spirit of the cultural venue from before. Their journey to date is impressive, from state-of-the-art renovation, meticulous craftsmanship and care, and building a new team to continue the legacy of the building, where working sustainably is at the forefront of what they do. For this Sustainable Sips article, we learn more about what sustainability means to this leader within the arts and culture sector.

What kicked off a commitment to sustainability?

A timely conversation, just the week after BEAM received a renowned Brick Award (hosted by the Brick Development Association) in the Public category, Laura explains that it is the building itself that underpins their sustainable journey and vision. With an overwhelming pride for the award-winning building and everything its legacy provides for the community, the team strive to operate in a way that is worthy of the opportunity they have been given. They want to do it justice – not just now, but for generations to come.

Has there been a focus or key driver throughout the journey?

What stands out from our conversation is the importance of long-standing partnerships in achieving real progress. Laura identifies their ongoing partnership with Bennetts Associates, the architectural firm behind the renovation project, as one of the key factors in their sustainability journey. The
partnership between BEAM and Bennetts Associates has been a real asset as they align on vision, values and a shared net zero goal.
Where the focus has always been on sustainable development, decisions have been made in all areas including construction, lighting, heating (which is all electric), and flooring (which is all recycled).

Is there someone along the journey you to give a shoutout to?

For the passion to continuously improve and truly understand the outcome of what they have created, it is Alistair Bogle and the team at Bennetts Associates who are to be commended. Bennetts Associates continue to work with BEAM to understand how the sustainable development vision is playing out day-to-day. For example, the firm have put BEAM forward as a case study for students of the Environmental Design and Engineering MSc by University College London to measure BEAM’s actuals in energy and water consumption. It is initiatives like this that show how a strong relationship driven by passion has meant a deep-rooted commitment to an ongoing sustainability journey.

What are some of the biggest achievements in the sustainability journey?

It is evident that the team’s dedication to leading operations is a key factor behind the success in sustainability at BEAM. With a new team created to take on the reopened venue, Laura emphasises their exciting opportunity to shape something together from a fresh starting point. The team defined their pillars and principles, and they took time this summer to evaluate their progress. Delivering leading sustainable operations within the diverse venue covers a wide range of bases including:

• Eliminating plastic throughout the venue (and opting to serve drinks in cans) and making early investment in reusable cups
• Engaging production companies with their sustainable ways of working – like having information sheets about sustainable suppliers in dressing rooms
• Committing to being a digital-first venue and minimising print material where possible
• Considering the green energy credentials of their new website host
• Developing a local and seasonal menu for their new food offering
• Working with local suppliers wherever possible

Laura explains that by asking themselves the question: “what can we do now that we won’t have to change our minds about later?”, decision making has been orientated around sustainable practices from an early stage, so they really are at the centre of operations. With the backing, too, from green Hertford Council, the community tends to be well engaged and aligned on the same values.

What are you most looking forward to coming up at BEAM?

BEAM is constantly developing its offering to deliver excellence for the local community, which can be seen with the newly launched food offering. This is yet another opportunity to root their commitment to sustainability within their operational development, where they have aimed to create a seasonal menu using local produce that will resonate with the community.

What’s more, BEAM understand the importance in using their voice to educate around sustainability and encourage creativity within the community. In early 2026, they will be hosting their second “Dark Skies” event in collaboration with a local Dark Skies organisation. Following a film screening educating on the impact of light pollution, the community will have the chance to experience a truly dark sky, joined by astrologists for the evening too.

Overall, it’s clear to see why BEAM’s journey has been awarded such prestigious accolades. Their dedication, passion and pride for the sustainable development of the venue is impressive. Strong relationships and enriching the community is at their heart – and long may it continue for generations to come.