EIBTM, Reed Travel Exhibitions’ global meetings and incentives exhibition, is leading by example in its drive to promote sustainable practices meetings and events industry through its current implementation of BS8901, the new British Standard for Sustainable Event Management.

As a result the British Standards Institute will independently certify the organisation of the show this year.

BS8901 sets a generic framework that manages the implementation of sustainability for events, venues or suppliers of any size. This framework creates a way of working that considers economic, environmental and social impacts. Implementing the BS8901 standard consists of three phases, which are each separately certified:
– Phase 1: Planning pre-event
– Phase 2: Implementation during the event
– Phase 3: Review post-event

EIBTM has been independently certified as having been planned in compliance with Phase 1 and is working towards Phase 2.

The standard is following the path to become an internationally recognised standard under the International Standard Organisation (ISO).

“We understand that our event and processes can have both a positive and negative impact on environmental, social and economic issues so our intention is to provide event management that wherever practicable minimises the negative and maximises the positive impacts,” said EIBTM event director Mandy Torrrens.

“Our aim is to be totally transparent in our approach and work with our contractors and suppliers to make all aspects of running and organising an event sustainable.”

EIBTM takes place in Barcelona from 2-4 December 2008.