Environmentally focused experiences and education

In between meetings, networking and attending education sessions, attendees at IMEX America have opportunities to take care of themselves and to give back by improving the world.

Wednesday started bright and early with the annual #IMEXrun, a 5K race that drew more than 400 runners through a course in and around the Las Vegas strip (including inside the Planet Hollywood casino). The run is sponsored by Italian National Tourist Board - ENIT, CORT, Hilton and Maritz Global Events. Developed by VOQIN. 

Back by popular demand, the Be Well Lounge offers Lee Papa's Mindfulness Lounge™ to teach attendees about how to bring (or keep) mindfulness in their lives. According to PK Keiran, Butler Events, "Mindfulness is something we all need to do and embrace. I dragged people over to experience the joy of it. They had tears in their eyes because we're all so busy we forget to take time for ourselves." Deora Myers from the Trauma Center Association of America, also enjoyed the session. "It was such an enjoyable 20 minutes and I felt so relaxed that I came back again."

Sustainability and smiles

At Sarah Routman's Laughter Lab in the Inspiration Hub, sponsored by Maritz Global Events, attendees participated in interactive activities designed to use laughter to deal with stress, burnout and being overwhelmed. Emily Beck, a meeting planner with Genentech, said "The session provided plenty of positive energy. It's a great networking activity and a useful break if you've been sitting down too long."

"We're on a mission to reduce waste significantly," said Nalan, who led a "sustainability safari" – new for this year – through the show floor, covering the climate-friendly highlights. On the safari, one of many green education sessions at the show, attendees discovered the sustainability measures in place during the show from recycling initiatives and compostable products, to charitable initiatives and water-wise foods. Best practice case studies, sustainability superheroes and IMEX's new sustainability pledge (with around 150 exhibitors signed up!) were showcased at the show floor's IMEX-EIC Sustainability Village. 

The sustainability safari was also a welcome way to clock up the miles as part of the Caesars Forum Walking Challenge by Heka Health. As of press time, all participants walked a total of three million steps.

IMEX America continues until September 12 in Las Vegas.