Monday, February 12, 2024
IMEX Frankfurt releases a sustainability report for 2023, showcasing efforts in waste reduction and energy savings ahead of the 2024 event.
In anticipation of the upcoming IMEX Frankfurt event scheduled for May 14-16 this year, the organizers have released a detailed report on sustainable practices, showcasing the achievements, trials, and lessons from the previous year’s event.
This comprehensive document unveils the strategies for sustainability implemented before and during the 2023 IMEX Frankfurt, detailing significant accomplishments in reducing waste and conserving energy. It also identifies areas where further enhancements can be made. Carina Bauer, CEO of the IMEX Group, shares insights:
“We have now produced our second sustainability report with the assistance of our consultants MeetGreen®. This allows us to compare our current practices with those of 2022, offering a chance to highlight both our victories and obstacles to the broader community, encouraging them to integrate our findings into their events.”
Key Discoveries and Insights
A new branding initiative at the event introduced reusable, timeless signage, significantly decreasing the need for printed materials by 85% compared to the previous year. Efforts were made to minimize carbon-intensive food choices, notably beef, which has a high greenhouse gas emission rate. The food court prominently featured a reduced beef selection, making up less than 5% of the menu, while vegetarian and vegan options represented 58% of sales.
Exhibitors contributed to sustainability efforts; for instance, the Frankfurt Convention Bureau transported all their materials by bicycle, minimizing carbon emissions. The event saw a notable decrease in the use of disposable stands, with a 38% reduction from 2019. The IMEX team aims to further this progress through the Better Stands initiative, encouraging the reuse and recycling of materials.
A highlight of the event was the introduction of four electric buses for attendee transportation, resulting in a significant reduction of CO2 emissions.
The Journey Towards a Greener Future
Carina elaborates on their long-term sustainability goals: “Our commitment to sustainability, evident at both IMEX Frankfurt and IMEX America, is a crucial component of our broader objective to create a lasting positive impact. Our approach involves meticulous attention to detail and a comprehensive evaluation of our decisions through an eco-friendly perspective. Every team member plays a vital role in this transformation, promoting a culture of positive environmental action.
“We’ve also unveiled our net zero strategy, a crucial part of our pledge to the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative. Our goal is to achieve net zero emissions by 2030, well in advance of the 2050 target established by the initiative in alignment with the Paris Agreement.
“This strategy is a key aspect of our Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) efforts, reflecting our vision for a sustainable and impactful global events industry.”
Collaborative Efforts for Sustainability
The success of IMEX Frankfurt’s sustainability initiatives is a collective achievement, involving the IMEX team, particularly the ‘green squad,’ the host city and venue, key suppliers, and attendees.
Participants of this year’s event are encouraged to commit to the People and Planet Pledge and exhibitors are guided by the IMEX Sustainable Exhibiting Guide.
The sustainability report for IMEX Frankfurt 2023 is available for download, and registration for the IMEX Frankfurt 2024, which will be held from May 14-16 at Messe Frankfurt, is open and free of charge. https://landing.imexexhibitions.com/imex-frankfurt-2023-sustainability-report
Saturday, April 27, 2024
Saturday, April 27, 2024
