The IMEX Group has launch of a Net Zero Strategy. This outlines IMEX’s roadmap to deliver net zero events and operate a net zero business by 2030.
IMEX’s net zero roadmap is part of its commitment to the industry-wide Net Zero Carbon Events (NZCE) initiative—and IMEX intends to reach net zero by 2030, ahead of the 2050 target set out by NZCE in line with the Paris Agreement. The Net Zero Strategy is yet another expression of IMEX’s new vision: A thriving global events industry focused on positive change.
IMEX was an early signatory to the Net Zero Carbon Events Pledge and committed to long-term reduction and mitigation of event emissions. Its strategy focuses on reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the course of producing both IMEX Frankfurt and IMEX America shows each year.
Collaboration across the supply chain is key to achieving this goal. IMEX will work closely with exhibitors and stand constructors to gradually increase the percentage of reusable and sustainable materials used in building each show. The team will also work with suppliers to gather data that provides a comprehensive emissions footprint—this baseline will then guide future reduction decisions. Data will include numerous indirect greenhouse gas impacts, including emissions from food production, as well as attendee, exhibitor and staff travel.
Partners, MeetGreen, have worked with IMEX for over a decade to measure and report on the shows’ sustainability achievements. The “Sustainable Event Report for IMEX America 2022” has been released, revealing the show’s energy usage, F&B, materials consumption, reuse and its community impact and more.
Highlights include a landfill diversion rate of 92 percent and 191,258 kWh of renewable solar energy generated by MGM which powered activities at the venue, Mandalay Bay Convention Center. This, along with a range of recycling, composting and donation efforts resulted in IMEX America once again reaching the industry threshold for a zero-waste event.
This measurement will now be expanded as IMEX embarks on the next phase of its emissions accounting and management journey through a new partnership with events industry body Isla. Using its platform TRACE, IMEX will measure and report on travel emissions for everyone attending the shows—with results available in a few months. Building on this investment, the team has recently issued an RFP in search of a suitable carbon offsetting supplier.
For more information, visit www.imexamerica.com.
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