IMEX America strives for a sustainable future

Sustainability is set to be a central focus for IMEX America, 9-11 November, in Las Vegas, US. The event will host an ‘EIC People and Planet Village’ as a dedicated hub for interactive education and conversation about sustainability. The Village will feature a shared educational campfire area with sessions dedicated to regeneration, nature+, and diversity. Carina Bauer (pictured), CEO of the IMEX Group, said: “Sustainability has long been at the core of the IMEX Group and has resonated throughout the show since the very first IMEX America. We like to joke that it’s part of our DNA and that we even ‘bleed green’. For several years we’ve had a dedicated area on the show floor to champion sustainability.” A chance to take positive action Attendees are invited to assemble a hygiene kit, participate in a virtual book drive, and help to construct a Clubhouse. Attendees will also have the opportunity to help the community by creating a hygiene kit for Clean the World. Over 5,000kg of kits have been assembled at IMEX America and donated to vulnerable local communities. Learning sessions dedicated to regeneration and nature will cover specifics around event design, CSR case studies, eco travel and climate-friendly food among other topics. Attendees will be able to learn how event professionals are incorporating the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into their operations in the ‘Sustainability and social impact action plan’ delivered by Mariela McIlwraith, vice-president of sustainability and industry advancement at the Events Industry Council.  People and Planet Pledge Both visitors and exhibitors are invited to support a pledge for social impact and environmental responsibility at IMEX America. The new ‘People and Planet Pledge’ details a range of actions, such as using sustainable materials in booth construction, wearing a pronoun badge or carbon offsetting travel. Carina concluded: “We want responsible consumption and production to sit front and centre of each show, never more so than this year. With COP26 taking place at the same time as IMEX America, environmental issues will now be front of mind globally. The new People and Planet Village creates a focal point to explore current issues around sustainability, diversity, and social impact. We’re also excited to invite exhibitors and visitors to support us on our sustainability journey through the new People and Planet Pledge.” IMEX America takes place at Mandalay Bay. To register click here.