IMEX in Frankfurt is introducing several major new sustainability initiatives this year as it continues to innovate and encourage the industry to unite and contribute to greater environmental awareness and social responsibility.
Waste Watchers – a new call to reuse and recycle
A key new initiative at IMEX in Frankfurt (16- 18 May) will be Waste Watchers. Partnering with local non- government organisation ShoutOutLoud, the IMEX team has set up this programme to reduce waste by providing opportunities for everyone to re-use and recycle an extensive range of materials. Leftover food, furniture, stand graphics, flowers and stationery that would usually go to waste can be donated daily and will be distributed to those who need them with the help of a local food network and a refugee support group.
Saving trees, reducing paper
This year IMEX in Frankfurt is saving 2.7 tons of paper by not producing a printed Show Catalogue. Hosted buyers and visitor buyers will be able to find out full information about exhibitors and the vast range of education sessions available from a new Show Planner, by downloading and using the Show App and via the show website.
Printing badges on paper rather than card will further reduce the show’s environmental footprint, as will the use of hydroelectricity across the whole show. These innovations are additional to the many sustainability best practices and legacy initiatives which have become established at IMEX in Frankfurt over the years. Full details can be found here.
Learning from sustainability experts
IMEX also provides many opportunities for everyone to learn more about sustainability. Among the many sessions on offer will be: Global Destinations Sustainability Index: Driving Performance and Competitiveness, by Guy Bigwood of MCI. He’ll explain his company’s partnership with ICCA and how the Global Destinations Sustainability Index helps drive sustainable practices.
New IMEX GMIC Innovation in Sustainability Award
Also new this year is a new IMEX-GMIC Green Award - the Innovation in Sustainability Award. This is designed to highlight inspiring event professionals who are driving sustainability forwards through innovation, collaboration and idea sharing. It will be presented to the winner at the Gala Dinner at IMEX in Frankfurt.
Published
07/05/2017
