Later this year, RX will publish our Pathway to Net Zero, setting out our carbon reduction strategy to achieve net zero by 2040, with key milestones for all our shows. As a first step, we have developed a new carbon reduction toolkit or ‘Playbook’ to support all of our event and operations teams in making more sustainable choices – be it through switching to digital catalogues, using sustainable badges and lanyards, recycling waste within the local community, or any number of other transformative opportunities.
Why Sustainability Matters for Event Hosts
As event hosts, RX has a unique opportunity to create positive change and promote sustainability. Our events have the potential to inspire and educate attendees on the importance of sustainability, and to create a lasting impact on the communities where we operate. However, hosting events can also be resource-intensive and carbon-intensive, and if not managed carefully, can have a negative impact on the environment.
That's why our Sustainability Playbook is designed to help us reduce our carbon footprint and minimize our impact on the environment. By following the strategies outlined in the playbook, we can ensure that our events are not only successful and enjoyable, but also sustainable and environmentally responsible.
Measurement
To effectively reduce our carbon footprint, it's important that we first measure our current emissions. Our Sustainability Playbook recommends using carbon accounting software to track and analyze our emissions data. By tracking our carbon footprint, we can identify areas where we can make improvements and set targets for reducing our emissions.
Stakeholders
We recognize that sustainability is a shared responsibility, and as event hosts, we have the opportunity to engage with and influence our stakeholders to promote sustainable practices. Our Sustainability Playbook encourages us to work with our suppliers, exhibitors, and attendees to promote sustainability by providing education, guidance, and incentives to encourage sustainable behavior.
Venues
The venue where we host our events can have a significant impact on our carbon footprint. Our Sustainability Playbook recommends selecting venues that prioritize sustainability, such as those with green certifications or those that use renewable energy sources. We also encourage our teams to work with venues to minimize energy use and waste during our events.
Production and Procurement
The production and procurement of event materials can also have a significant impact on our carbon footprint. Our Sustainability Playbook recommends using sustainable materials and reducing waste by ordering only what we need. We also encourage our teams to prioritize local and sustainable suppliers for event materials.
Waste
Waste management is a critical aspect of hosting sustainable events. Our Sustainability Playbook recommends implementing a waste management plan that prioritizes waste reduction, reuse, and recycling. We encourage our teams to work with local waste management facilities to ensure that waste is properly recycled and disposed of.
Logistics
Logistics, including transportation and travel, can also have a significant impact on our carbon footprint. Our Sustainability Playbook recommends prioritizing sustainable transportation options for attendees, such as public transportation or carpooling. We also encourage our teams to minimize unnecessary travel and to use virtual meeting technology when possible to reduce emissions from travel.
Our Journey to Net-Zero Carbon Events
Our ultimate goal is to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040 for all our events. To help us achieve this goal, we have developed a carbon reduction strategy that outlines key milestones for all our shows. Our Pathway to Net Zero will be published later this year and will provide a roadmap for our journey towards net-zero carbon events.
In the meantime, our Sustainability Playbook provides a toolkit that supports our teams to make more sustainable choices in their day-to-day operations. Some of the key strategies outlined in the playbook include:
1. Digital Catalogues
Printing event catalogues can be a significant source of waste, both in terms of paper and carbon emissions from printing and transportation. Our Sustainability Playbook recommends using digital catalogues instead. This not only reduces waste and carbon emissions but also provides a more convenient and interactive experience for attendees.
2. Sustainable Badges and Lanyards
Traditional plastic badges and lanyards can be a significant source of waste, often ending up in landfills or the ocean. Our Sustainability Playbook recommends using sustainable alternatives, such as badges made from recycled materials or lanyards made from natural fibers. This not only reduces waste but also promotes our commitment to sustainability to our attendees.
3. Waste Recycling within Local Communities
Waste management is a critical aspect of hosting sustainable events. Our Sustainability Playbook recommends working with local waste management facilities to ensure that waste is properly recycled and disposed of. By partnering with local communities, we can create a positive impact and reduce our carbon footprint.
4. Transformative Opportunities
Our Sustainability Playbook also encourages our teams to identify and implement transformative opportunities that promote sustainability. These can include using renewable energy sources, reducing food waste, and promoting sustainable transportation options for attendees.
Conclusion
Hosting sustainable events is not only important for the environment, but also for our reputation and impact on the communities where we operate. At RX, we are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and promoting sustainability through our events. Our Sustainability Playbook is a comprehensive guide that supports our teams in making more sustainable choices and contributes to our journey towards net-zero carbon events. By implementing the strategies outlined in our playbook, we can ensure that our events are not only successful and enjoyable but also environmentally responsible.
