How Green Are We Really?

Last week's issue included a story on the environmental measures undertaken at the recent Professional Convention Management Assn.'s Annual Meeting, held in Seattle Jan. 13-16. PCMA is one of several industry associations that have incorporated various measures into their meetings recently to reduce their carbon footprints.

Certainly, Intl. Assn. of Exhibitions and Events leaders were able to point to their own green efforts during Expo! Expo! as improvements to the status quo. This is as it should be: the industry's leaders leading the way, in this case, by example.

Nevertheless, as we Tradeshow Week editors visit shows throughout the year, it is often hard to see much evidence that the rank and file of the industry is taking the same consistent approach as its industry groups. While there are exceptions, I think most show managers would say what some have candidly told me: There will be few, if any, efforts to make shows greener until there is a financial incentive.

The April 21 issue of TSW will be our second annual Green Issue, focusing on environmentally friendly shows and venues, and those in the industry who are committed to going green. This will be an opportunity for all of us to see what kind of progress has been made in the past year and give our industry a report card.

Michael Hart is editor-in-chief of Tradeshow Week. He can be reached at hartm@reedbusiness.com.