SHERIDAN, WYOMING – November 26, 2024 - Koelnmesse GmbH has set a new standard for sustainability in the German trade fair industry by becoming the first major organizer to achieve certification according to the ISO 20121:2024 standard for sustainable event management. This prestigious certification, awarded by TÜV Rheinland after a comprehensive audit, confirms Koelnmesse's commitment to integrating sustainability into every aspect of its operations.
"We are proud to be a pioneer in the trade fair industry, demonstrating that sustainability is not just a trend, but an integral part of our strategy and daily work," said Gerald Böse, CEO of Koelnmesse.
This achievement aligns with Koelnmesse's recognition as a "Pioneer in Sustainability 2024" by the F.A.Z. Institute, further solidifying its position as a leader in sustainable event management.
A Comprehensive Approach to Sustainability
The ISO 20121 standard provides a framework for organizing events in an ecologically, economically, and socially sustainable manner. Koelnmesse's certification demonstrates its dedication to incorporating sustainability criteria and responsibilities across all its processes, from procurement and logistics to sales, human resources, and management.
"We congratulate Koelnmesse on the successful ISO 20121 certification," said Markus Dohm, Executive Vice President at TÜV Rheinland. "This certificate confirms the commitment to sustainable event management and compliance with high standards in the areas of environment, society, and economy."
Koelnmesse has implemented a comprehensive sustainability management system, documented in a detailed manual, to ensure that sustainable practices are embedded throughout the organization. Mandatory employee training and regular audits further reinforce the long-term impact of these efforts.
Koelnmesse's Sustainability Initiatives
Koelnmesse has set ambitious sustainability goals, including achieving climate neutrality for the entire company and its events by 2030. Some of the key initiatives contributing to this goal include:
- Renewable Energy: Koelnmesse sources 100% renewable electricity and operates Cologne's largest inner-city photovoltaic system on its rooftops.
- Fossil-Free Heating: In partnership with E.ON and RheinEnergie, Koelnmesse is transitioning the entire exhibition center to fossil-free heating from groundwater by 2028.
- Energy Efficiency: Modernization of ventilation systems and the use of LED lighting have resulted in significant energy savings in exhibition halls.
- Sustainable Transportation: Koelnmesse's eSlot digital logistics management system optimizes truck traffic, reducing congestion and emissions. The NUNAV app guides visitors to parking garages and e-charging stations, promoting sustainable transportation options.
- Waste Reduction: Koelnmesse is actively reducing waste at its events through initiatives like promoting sustainable booth construction with reusable materials and using recycled flooring.
A Commitment to Continuous Improvement
Koelnmesse's ISO 20121 certification is not just a one-time achievement but a commitment to continuous improvement. "Through the continuous development of our sustainability strategy and the progress we have made, we are strengthening our competitiveness in the global market," said Christian Glasmacher, Senior Vice President of Corporate Development and Sustainability at Koelnmesse.
By embracing sustainability, Koelnmesse is not only minimizing its environmental impact but also enhancing its reputation and attracting environmentally conscious exhibitors and visitors. This commitment to sustainability positions Koelnmesse as a leader in the trade fair industry and contributes to a more sustainable future for events and the industry as a whole.