IMEX America and MeetGreen launch sustainability plan

As part of their sustainability partnership, IMEX America and MeetGreen have agreed the details of a sustainability plan for the new tradeshow for the international meetings, incentive travel and events industry, which debuts October 11-13 at the Sands Expo in Las Vegas.


Specialist consultants in sustainable meetings management, MeetGreen have been tasked with advising on a series of measures that can be implemented to enhance sustainable performance across all aspects of the trade show.

“Our intention is to use this first year to benchmark our performance,” said Carina Bauer, IMEX Group CEO. “The first year goal is to collect baseline information from our various venues and vendors and to use that data to build a solid sustainability strategy over the long-term.”

The full sustainability plan covers the tradeshow venue, hotels, catering, print material, signage and carpeting, general service contractors and transportation. Some of the key measures at IMEX America will include Energy Star lighting plans; recycling of copper, aluminum, brass and heavy metals, plus recycling and reuse of waste wood, metal, plastic, cardboard, drywall, carpet padding, concrete, asphalt and glass. Electronic products will be donated to The Blind Center of Nevada, while leftover food product will be donated to the Las Vegas Mission every day. Through the Sands Expo, IMEX will also work with 209 local vendors, which will help to keep transportation emissions low and support the local economy.

“Among the initiatives taking place at IMEX America 2011 we will have specific objectives relating to water usage, energy, emissions, waste reduction and overall event sustainability,” said Bauer. “IMEX America is committed to educating the meeting, incentive travel and events industry about sustainability issues and addressing these in a proactive, measured way.”

Amy Spatrisano, Principal, MeetGreen, is ready to share these eco-friendly opportunities. “Many of the key suppliers on this project have been receptive to seeing where they can improve or enhance their sustainability practices for this show,” said Spatrisano. “Their willingness to engage in this way presents some fascinating learning opportunities and wonderful stories to share.”

The IMEX Group already has a long-term partnership with the Green Meeting Industry Council (GMIC), the global community dedicated to sustainability in the meetings and events industry.

“At IMEX America, we will also have a Sustainability Center – powered by GMIC – where attendees will be able to pick up ‘green’ tips and best practices, as well as meeting experts and attending drop-in workshops,” said Bauer. “Through our sustainability plan, our intention is to develop a long-term relationship with our exhibitors, attendees, venues and vendors that will help build a successful show and increase our sustainability efforts for the future. We consider this a keystone in our strategy as a progressive organization at the heart of the global meetings industry.”