The North East's first EcoFest
Sophie was responsible for the launch and publicity of the North East's first fully sustainable retail event.
In a bid to boost the centre's sustainability credentials, I launched the 'EcoFest' concept at Dalton Park Outlet Shopping Destination in 2022 in partnership with Climate Action North. The event highlighted small changes everyone can make to reduce their environmental impact.
More than 1,500 people visited the two-day festival which featured a EcoMarket with more than 25 regional traders selling sustainable items including pottery, ceramics, chocolate, wellbeing products, and more.
Willow crafting workshops and wildlife walk bookings were full throughout the weekend. Shoppers were also able to watch catwalk displays featuring high quality, sustainable fashion available from brands at Dalton Park, including Adidas, TOG24 and Radley.
A pledge wall was also available for visitors to write small and simple ways they can help save the planet. Ideas included changing to LED bulbs, using the car less for smaller journeys, taking part in a beach clean, and reducing food waste.
Jerry Hatch, former Centre Manager at Dalton Park said: “EcoFest was a huge success and there was a real buzz around the centre throughout the weekend. My one small change is to walk more and take the car less so I can reduce my carbon footprint while increasing my step count!"
Climate Action North’s Managing Director, Sharon Lashley, added: “We were thrilled with the success of EcoFest and how many people used the pledge wall to make their One Small Change commitment.
"We collected over 120 pledges on the day, but the fact that over 1,500 guests attended the EcoFest on the day is a sign that people do want to explore more sustainable lifestyles and want to consider change – for our team this is a brilliant result and exactly what our One Small Change campaign is all about!”
This campaign won the Sustainability Award at the North East Tourism Awards in April 2023.
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