According to the 2024 AMEX Global Meetings and Events Forecast, 78% of global event planners aim to set net zero goals by the end of 2024, reflecting a strong commitment to environmental sustainability within the industry. However, with tight budgets and resources, it’s crucial for planners to learn from others’ experiences to optimize their path to net zero.
IMEX America, which has maintained its zero-waste status for the past five years, recently released its sustainability report for IMEX America 2023. The report was compiled in collaboration with MeetGreen, a sustainable meetings firm based in Portland, and showcases the significant strides made in sustainability at the event, held at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, from October 8-10. Despite a 25% increase in attendance, IMEX America 2023 successfully reduced its energy consumption by 42%, diverted 93% of waste from landfills, and eliminated over 16,000 single-use plastic bottles through various initiatives.
The event also made substantial contributions to the local community, donating nearly 1,000 pounds of materials, such as office supplies and furniture, to those in need in Nevada’s Clark County, and providing 200 pounds of food to the Las Vegas community. The sustainability efforts were bolstered by the host city’s infrastructure, including Harry Reid International Airport’s extensive non-stop routes and Mandalay Bay’s use of renewable energy. The venue, along with 12 other MGM properties in Las Vegas, is powered by at least 30% solar electricity, leading to a 41% reduction in emissions.
IMEX America 2023’s sustainability measures extended to food and beverage initiatives, with a focus on reducing waste and carbon emissions. Water stations replaced single-use plastic bottles, and a low-carbon menu emphasized chicken, pork, and vegetarian options over red meat. Additionally, IMEX worked closely with the venue to source regional produce and meat, ensuring food was heated in stages to minimize waste. A total of 166 meals were donated to the Three Square Food Bank after the event.
The event’s success in sustainability is further evidenced by the participation of 122 attendees and 29 exhibitors who signed the IMEX People & Planet Pledge, committing to eco-friendly actions throughout the event. IMEX America 2023 was awarded the highest level of achievement—Sustainable Event Visionary—by the MeetGreen Calculator, which assesses sustainability across various categories such as accommodations, transport, and waste management.
Looking ahead, IMEX plans to enhance its sustainability efforts for future events by focusing on reducing waste during setup and teardown, improving waste station logistics, exploring eco-friendly alternatives for event materials, and implementing more food and beverage practices, such as using bulk creamers and condiments, while still adhering to state code regulations.
IMEX’s CEO, Carina Bauer, emphasizes the importance of sharing lessons learned to help the industry collectively reduce its environmental impact. As part of its commitment, IMEX America 2024 will replace plastic badge holders with craft paper and continue using organic cotton lanyards, both recyclable through TerraCycle. Additionally, IMEX will expand the “Better Stands” initiative from IMEX Frankfurt to eliminate disposable booths.
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