The BS 8901 standard 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. The standard is following the path to become an internationally recognised standard under the International Standard Organisation (ISO).

EIBTM is the first RX UK show to have been independently audited and certified as being compliant with the full standard, with London Book Fair, AIX09 and Offshore Europe following later in the year as the shows take place. RX UK is aiming to expand the programme for 2009/10 from 4 to hopefully 10 shows.

Commenting on this initiative Piers Kelly, RX UK Operations Director said: “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. Our aim is to be totally transparent in our approach and work with our suppliers, exhibitors and visitors to make all aspects of running and organising an event more sustainable.

These four show teams are leading the way. They have had to put in extra time and effort to achieve this certification and also re-prioritise money in their own show budgets to fund it. However, there are signs that we have been able to generate a new revenue stream and achieve small cost savings to at least cover this cost in the first year.

Our focus for 09 will be to grow this organically within RX UK, spread awareness and knowledge internally and with our external stakeholders and develop a reliable sponsorship revenue stream while making cost savings if we can.”