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venue , Dubai World Trade Centre is leading the way when it comes to sustainability , with its journey built on three pillars :
• Serving as a role model and addressing the growing public demand for businesses to play an active role in supporting environmental objectives ;
• Maintaining unwavering alignment with local and federal government vision and strategy ;
• Actively pursuing leadership in sustainability benchmarking within the global MICE industry , setting a standard for others to emulate .
One of its flagship projects has been the introduction of photovoltaic solar panels , generating 3.5 megawatts of power and clearly demonstrating its commitment to clean energy sources .
In planning and hosting events , DWTC ’ s ‘ Green Meetings ’ initiative encourages eco-friendly practices such as reducing plastic bottle use , minimising water consumption in cleaning , and advocating for paperless event materials .
It also adheres to the principle of ‘ Reduce , Reuse , Recycle ’ with recycling bins conveniently placed throughout the venue . DWTC ’ s Earth Care team works with exhibitors post-event to segregate bulk waste , and in addition to this the venue fosters strategic partnerships with local organisations on recycling campaigns and distributing excess food to those in need . Recognising all of these efforts , DWTC has earned Green Globe certification .
Elsewhere within the business events ecosystem , the upcoming introduction of the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp is set to make it easier for meetings professionals and delegates to identify how hotels are meeting green standards .
It will recognise hotels with the highest adherence to the Department of Economy and Tourism ’ s ( DET ) 19 ‘ Sustainability Requirements ’, with a three-tier system : Gold , Silver and Bronze . The accreditation process is being overseen by a committee of senior industry professionals to ensure integrity and independence , with criteria such as energy and water efficiency , waste management programmes , and staff education and engagement initiatives being considered .
Another DET initiative has sought to drastically reduce single-use plastic consumption , specifically targeting water bottles . At the heart of the initiative has been the installation of free water stations throughout the city , combined with a major awareness campaign to encourage residents and visitors to use refillable bottles .
Remarkably , since its launch in February 2022 , the initiative has cut the consumption of over 10 million 500ml single-use plastic water bottles .
From the largest solar park in the world to the smallest changes in behaviour , Dubai ’ s sustainability journey is making an impact . Meeting planners are invited to be part of it . EW
l To find out more about hosting business events in Dubai , visit dubaibusinessevents . com or contact askdbe @ dubaidet . ae
www . exhibitionworld . co . uk Issue 6 2023 33