IT IS billed as the biggest environmental showcase in the north.

Companies keen to go green or pass on their eco-friendly expertise, are gearing up for an event which attracts an increasing number of delegates every year.

Organised by West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and in its sixth year, the annual Eco Fair covers anything and everything that businesses need to know to introduce environmental practices and make environmental improvements.

The free event, held in Leeds, addresses areas including energy use, waste, use of resources, sustainability and procurement of green products and processes.

“Eco Fair covers all things environmental,” says Elin Pheasant, environment adviser at West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce. “It can have a significant environmental impact.”

She adds: “It overs many different topics, such as legislation and regulation. We have a session on compliance with legislation, making sure companies stay up to date.”

Whatever the size of the business, it must comply with legislation and regulations covering areas such as waste management and pollution. “Some have been working in these areas for year and can give an expert’s view, yet often those looking at this area for the first time produce very good ideas,” says Elin.

“The event also covers sustainable procurement - those companies wishing to buy responsibly and those who want to sell to those who buy responsibly.”

Areas of special focus this year include energy and carbon, people and property, policy and regulation and the circular economy.

The varied programme of seminars this year include the intriguing a session with the intriguing title: ‘Why being from Yorkshire is good for the planet.’

People from different business sectors, from manufacturing, to construction, hospitality, education and local government, can share ideas that may work for each other. “It may be that a representative from a retail or hospitality business attends a case study from a manufacturer, and pick up ideas that could be relevant to them,” says Elin.

“Everyone looks for opportunities to reduce cost - even though the type of business is different, the same approaches apply. Whatever the size and type of company, we all use energy and we all produce waste.”

Technical advice is available from environmental experts and case study presentations from local businesses. “We have a case study that is going to be addressing how important it is to have strong environmental leadership, to enable it to be passed down throughout the company.”

Awareness of environmental issues should be an integral part of decision making, adds Elin. “For instance if a firm is moving premises they could look at buildings for efficient heat and light as well as transport links. Or if a hotel chain is refurbishing, it would make sense to install energy-efficient heating, showers and taps or companies can upgrade equipment to save energy.

“Firms should make the most of opportunities as the business develops. The benefit is more about adding value to things that are planned - opportunities could be missed if the approach is not integrated.”

Yet, adds Elin, it is not always straightforward. “It can be difficult to know how to make the most of your environmental credentials.”

More than 600 people attended last year, ranging from very small businesses with a handful of employees to large companies including local authorities, universities and hotel chains, many who have members of staff dedicated to environmental issues.

Feedback from previous events has been positive, with many delegates returning year after year. “People like to hear what other businesses have done,” says Elin. “They say the sessions are very informative. They leave the fair really motivated,” says Elin.

Yorkshire Building Society Group attends every year. “The seminars are very useful,” says environment and energy coordinator Alison James. “It is helpful in keeping up with changes within the industry and with legislation."

She adds: “It provides good networking opportunities. Depending upon how far you have gone on your journey, it is useful to exchange ideas and learn what others are doing. It is also held locally and is free.”

Much can be gleaned from the many exhibitors, showcasing energy-efficient equipment including boilers, compressors and pumps, as well as solar panels and lighting.

There is the opportunity to chat to stand holders and ask them questions. “Some companies may make changes not for environmental reasons, yet find that the benefits are environmental,” adds Elin.

*Eco Fair is held at on June 15 from 8.30am to 4pm at The Centenary Pavilion, Elland Road. Leeds LS11 OES. To find out more visit eco-fair.co.uk ring 01274 206660 or email info@eco-fair.co.uk