Global MICE industry looking forward on Net Zero Carbon Emission

Published on May 13, 2024

By: Tuhin Sarkar

The Net Zero Carbon Events initiative, a landmark commitment unveiled at COP26 in Glasgow and detailed at COP27 in Sharm El-Sheikh, signifies a global movement within the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry towards sustainability. Spearheaded by the Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC) and supported by IMEX Frankfurt 2024, this initiative demonstrates the sector’s unified response to climate change, with a goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

Global Convention Venues Leading the Way

An impressive array of venues has stepped forward, embracing the call to action laid out by the Net Zero Carbon Events pledge. These venues are not only adopting but are also setting examples through innovative sustainability strategies that significantly reduce their environmental impact.

ExCeL London: A Model of Biofuel Use

ExCeL London, represented at booth F440, is pioneering the use of biofuels within the industry. The venue has implemented a program where used cooking oil is collected and recycled, and HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) biofuel is utilized for operating plant and machinery. This switch has resulted in a remarkable 93% reduction in emissions compared to traditional diesel, setting a high standard for others in the industry.

ICC Sydney: Harnessing Solar Power

At booth B290, ICC Sydney showcases its commitment to renewable energy. The venue hosts the largest photovoltaic array in an Australian CBD, owned by the Sydney Renewable Solar community fund. This impressive installation not only powers 100 local homes but also supplies about 5% of ICC Sydney’s baseline energy needs, underscoring the potential for integrated renewable energy solutions in urban event spaces.

Swedish Exhibition & Congress Centre: Advocating for Wind Energy

The Swedish Exhibition & Congress Centre, located at booth F200, exclusively uses electricity generated by wind power. This initiative reduces the venue’s carbon emissions by approximately 5,500 tons annually, demonstrating the impact of switching to renewable energy sources on a large scale.

Additional Venue Commitments Across the Globe

Other notable venues participating in the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative include:

ACC Liverpool (booth F400) and Manchester Central (booth F400): These UK venues are implementing advanced waste management and energy efficiency practices.

ADNEC Abu Dhabi  (booth E520) and Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (booth E620): These Middle Eastern powerhouses are focusing on water conservation and sustainable infrastructure.

Amsterdam Conference Centre (booth E100) and Bella Center Copenhagen (booth F260): Leading in eco-friendly building certifications and green hosting solutions.

Bilbao Exhibition Centre and Feria Valencia (both at booth D320): Spanish venues promoting local sourcing and minimizing transportation emissions.

The Broader Impact and Future Directions

The collective action of these venues is a robust response to the urgent need for sustainability in the global events industry. By showcasing their initiatives at IMEX, these leaders are not only making a statement but are also encouraging others in the industry to follow suit. The focus now extends beyond individual actions to industry-wide change, aiming for a comprehensive shift towards sustainability that aligns with global climate goals.

The commitment of these venues to the Net Zero Carbon Events pledge is a clear indicator of the MICE industry’s role in global climate action. As we move towards 2050, the goal of net zero emissions becomes not just aspirational but achievable, thanks to the proactive steps taken by industry leaders worldwide. The continued focus on innovation, collaboration, and rigorous sustainability standards will undoubtedly keep pushing the boundaries of what is possible in event hosting, making the MICE industry a key player in the fight against climate change.

The path forward for these venues and the industry as a whole involves a continued commitment to innovation, learning, and community engagement to ensure that the ambitious goals set forth by the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative are met and exceeded. As we look to future COP events and other international gatherings, the MICE industry’s leadership in sustainability serves as a blueprint for other sectors seeking to mitigate their environmental impact.