Committees | Sustainability Committee
It is not the wind that decides our destination, it is the direction we give to our sail.
Jim Rohn
SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE
Pauline Teyssedre
Strategy Director, Galis
Chair
Joerg Zeissig
CEO, Holtmann GmbH & Co.KG - President IFES
Co-Chair
Gregor Bischkopf
Executive Director, IFES
Sarah Chew
Executive Director, Kingsmen
Edwin Van der Vennet
CIO & Owner, beMatrix HQ
Peter Bottenberg
Managing Director, Moss GmbH
Josh Taylor
H&S Manager, ESSA
Phillipe Beille
President, Duo Display - Past President IFES
Paul McPherson
Operations Manager, Adelaide Expo Hire
Frank Bücker
National Road Logistics Expo & Events Manager, Kuehne + Nagel
Andrew Harrison
Director, Event Supplier & Services Association (ESSA) Communications
Committee Objectives
- To create a mutual understanding of the value of commitment to sustainability as a commonality of our community.
- To promote greater awareness of sustainability through knowledge sharing amongst IFES members so that they can make informed and substantial decisions.
- To encourage the IFES community to achieve greater sustainability through the adoption of global standards and best practices.
- To achieve greater sustainability for our industry by aligning with other associations to work towards a common goal.
IFES has pledged to support and promote the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative amongst members.
Our Sustainability Roadmap
Better than yesterday, less than tomorrow…
As a first-mover with strong convictions around the implementation of Sustainability into the DNA of the Exhibitions and Events industry, IFES believes that we can make a difference to our industry.
Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it’s the strategic foundation and future license to operate for the entire live-com industry IFES takes responsibility by committing the association and our members to contribute to a common understanding and a joint and collaborative roadmap for sustainable development.
OUR WORK
Collaboration is key and that is why we work together with national and international associations to have a transparent and synchronized roadmap for our industry.
We are driven by the resounding message thatwe have no time to waste, start SIMPLE, start NOW!
For true progress, sustainability must move beyond isolated projects and individual initiatives; it needs to become part of every company’s DNA.
The most effective way to achieve this is ISO 20121, an internationally recognized event management system, empowering organizations to systematically embed sustainable practices.
To support you on your journey, IFES together with our industry partner, fwd:, have developed a one-year collaborative training program to help your organization implement ISO 20121.
Better Stands
As Secretariat of Better Stands by Net Zero Carbon Events, IFES drives this global initiative to reduce waste and COâ‚‚ emissions by promoting the shift from disposable to reusable exhibition stands.
The Better Stands framework provides a neutral, transparent assessment system based on 10 sustainability criteria, recognising achievements through Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels. This approach not only reduces waste and carbon impact but also sets a clear path for exhibitors, organisers, and service providers to embed sustainability at the core of their stand practices.
By supporting Better Stands, the industry safeguards its licence to operate while building efficiency, resilience, and long-term sustainability.
Materials Database
To accurately measure and manage carbon emissions, the events industry needs data that reflects our unique use of temporary structures and reusable materials. The IFES-led Materials Library project is building a dedicated database of key materials—such as stand production and flooring—with reliable carbon conversion factors.
By contributing, stakeholders help create a shared resource that sets a standard for the entire industry and provides the foundation for meaningful carbon calculations and reduction strategies.
Best Practice
Our website offers a Sustainability Showcase highlighting real-world examples from across the industry and our member-base, sharing knowledge and inspiring our network to embed sustainability into everyday business practice.
By showcasing practical solutions and innovative approaches, it encourages organisations to learn from each other and take meaningful steps towards a more sustainable future.
To this end, we are committed to providing assistance, best practice examples and resources to assist our members on their sustainability journey.
Learn more about us
The Sustainable Committee
sustainability[@]ifesnet.org
Sarah Chew: sarahchew[@]kingsmen-int.com
Jorg Zeissig: joerg.zeissig[@]holtmann.de