Sustainability

at WindEnergy Hamburg

A systematic approach to sustainability

Sustainability is a key component of our corporate strategy. We continuously work to make our processes more resource-efficient and to reduce negative impact on the environment and society through targeted measures.

Our approach

Our sustainability strategy covers the areas of environmental responsibility, social responsibility and responsible corporate governance. Key focus areas include energy efficiency, climate protection, resource conservation, circular solutions, and fair as well as accessible framework conditions.

We also see our trade fairs as drivers of sustainable transformation. Through our events, we create spaces for innovation, networking and knowledge exchange, thereby fostering the development and dissemination of sustainable solutions across a wide range of industries. In doing so, we contribute beyond our own operations to supporting economic and societal transformation processes.

Our goal is to achieve net carbon neutrality by 2040. We are currently further developing the climate strategy required to achieve this and are gradually defining specific measures and interim targets for its implementation.Further information can be found on our Website.

Measures

Energy

As part of our operations, we mainly use district heating (around 99 per cent) to heat our buildings and have been sourcing electricity from renewable sources since 2011. With our ISO 50001-certified energy management system, we are continuously improving our energy efficiency – amongst other things, through the gradual switch to LED lighting and other energy-saving measures. The photovoltaic system on the roof of the CCH generates additional electricity, thereby contributing to the use of renewable energy.

Resources

We reduce material consumption and promote reuse. One important approach is the significant reduction of carpeted areas at our events in order to minimise waste and material-related emissions. By dispensing with aisle carpeting at selected events for the first time, we were already able to save around 15 tonnes of waste. In addition, we use modular stand construction systems as well as rental solutions for equipment and technology. Together with partners, we are also testing approaches for material recycling and reuse.

Catering

In catering, we focus on demand-oriented planning and place a stronger emphasis on plant-based food options. Surplus food is donated to Hamburger Tafel, where permitted under food safety regulations.

Mobility and Logistics

We optimise transport and delivery processes and use vehicles on the site that are either electric or powered by HVO100 biodiesel fuel. We also promote sustainable travel: the event admission ticket also serves as a public transport ticket within the HVV network.

Water and Operations

Technical measures such as self-closing taps help to significantly reduce water consumption – they use only around one third of the water flow of conventional fittings.

Social Responsibility

Accessibility, inclusion and fair working conditions are integral parts of our identity as an event organiser and employer – ranging from two-sense alarm systems and tactile contrast markings to collective bargaining agreements and comprehensive safety concepts.

Our approach to sustainability

Transparency

We are committed to clear and comprehensible communication. Statements regarding sustainability are based on concrete measures and – where currently available – reliable data.

Context

A significant share of emissions is generated outside our direct sphere of influence, for example through travel to and from events or through external services. We are working to make these emissions more transparent and to reduce them together with our partners.

Continuous Improvement

Sustainability is an ongoing process. We regularly review and further develop our measures and adapt them to new requirements and insights.

Further information

You can find out more about sustainability at Hamburg Messe und Congress GmbH and the German trade fair industry’s joint position on sustainability here.