Sustainability is a priority for IAAPA Expo 2026, and exhibitors play an important role in making the event more sustainable.
As an exhibitor, please:
- Ensure booth staff are aware of IAAPA’s sustainability policy, focus areas, and targets
- Review and apply the relevant Exhibitor Sustainability Guidelines below
- Sign up for the voluntary Exhibitor Sustainability Pledge
Key Sustainability Focus areas of IAAPA Expo
- Production and waste
- Food and beverage
- Mobility
- Health and safety
- Accessibility and inclusion
- Education and knowledge sharing
- Communication
Measurable Sustainability Targets
IAAPA has established measurable sustainability targets toward 2027. The current targets relevant to Expos and aligned with the Expo’s key focus areas include:
- Reduce CO₂ emissions (GHG Scope 1, 2, and 3 – business travel) by 10% by 2027, compared to the 2025 baseline, while gradually expanding the inclusion of additional Scope 3 categories.
- Reduce unsorted waste from Expos by 20% by 2027, compared to the 2025 baseline.
- Achieve sustainability certification for IAAPA Expo Europe (2026), Middle East (2027), Orlando (2028), and Asia (2029), following a phased implementation plan.
IAAPA Expo Exhibitor Sustainability Guidelines
The guidelines below support IAAPA’s sustainability policy and help improve the overall sustainability performance of the event.
Following these practices can also benefit exhibitors by:
- Demonstrating alignment with your own sustainability commitments
- Strengthening brand reputation among attendees and partners
- Preparing for sustainability requirements that are increasingly common in events and procurement
Exhibitors are strongly encouraged to apply the practices outlined below where applicable:
Sustainability awareness
Exhibitors should be aware that IAAPA prioritizes sustainability. Booth staff should:
- Be familiar with IAAPA’s sustainability statement and policy
- Be informed about relevant sustainability efforts related to the Expo
Eco-labeled coffee (if served at the booth)
Any coffee served should be eco-labeled or sustainability certified (e.g., organic or Fairtrade).
Green meals (if served at the booth)
If food is offered, at least one vegetarian option should be available.
Eco-labeled cleaning products (if used at the booth)
Cleaning products used at the booth should be eco-labeled or sustainability certified.
Minimize giveaways
Exhibitors are encouraged to avoid physical giveaways. Alternatives may include digital content access, entries to a prize draw or experience, or a charitable contribution.
If physical giveaways are provided, they should be reusable, practical, and made from sustainable materials (e.g., recycled materials, responsibly grown natural fibers, non-toxic and/or biodegradable materials).
If electronic giveaways are provided, they should be durable, useful, and battery-free (e.g., hand-powered or solar-powered items).
