UK - Unusual Rigging is undertaking a pioneering sustainability initiative that aims to embed environmental and social sustainability across its operations and supply chain. With ambitions that extend beyond internal improvements, the project is designed to identify key areas for action aligned with recognised industry frameworks.
To deliver this work, Unusual is working with Hope Solutions, a leading sustainability consultancy operating at the intersection of climate science and live events. Known for their work with clients including Coldplay, Netflix and Live Nation, Hope Solutions brings deep expertise in carbon measurement, stakeholder engagement, and long-term sustainability planning.
The project is being led internally by managing director Tom Harper - who holds a Masters in the Circular Economy MBA - and supported by facilities and resource manager Lizzie Richmond, who oversees the company’s ISO certifications. This collaboration marks a clear step forward in Unusual’s ongoing commitment to climate action, ethical governance and transparent industry practice.
“We’re building something much bigger than a company checklist,” said Tom. “We’re mapping out how Unusual can act as a catalyst for broader industry change - creating tools, processes and partnerships that will allow us and others to align with fast-approaching sustainability regulations and expectations.”
The project focuses on stakeholder engagement, peer benchmarking, and a materiality assessment to determine where Unusual can have the greatest impact across environmental, social and governance (ESG) frameworks. It also lays the groundwork for mandatory reporting, future certifications, and a comprehensive carbon reduction plan.
Phase one includes auditing operations, engaging with customers, suppliers, and industry peers, and building a clear materiality matrix that identifies what’s most important - both to stakeholders and to Unusual’s day-to-day impact.
“This is a turning point,” explained Tom. “Sustainability can’t be an add-on. It needs to be built into how we think, how we operate, and how we collaborate as an industry. We’re proud to be doing the work - and even prouder to be doing it transparently.”
