Frankfurt: Where Business Meets Sustainability

When it comes to sustainability, one thing is absolutely certain: Large-scale events – especially congresses with thousands of attendees – can have a significant positive impact, if they are run right. Events that are well planned ensure that host cities and their residents benefit greatly in the long term. At the same time, associations and their events have the opportunity of profiting from the sustainability efforts of the chosen congress destination.

Frankfurt is leading the way in this regard. The city has set itself ambitious goals, aiming to become climate-neutral by 2035 and to run almost entirely on renewable energy by 2050. Many businesses are already making the switch, including Messe Frankfurt, where, among many other congresses and fairs, IMEX Frankfurt is held every year.

Back in 2020, Messe Frankfurt switched to 100%-renewable energy for its venues. Then, in 2023, it was awarded the official EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme) certification, further underlining its commitment to continuously improving its environmental performance.

Sustainable mobility is another key factor in making events eco-friendlier. That’s why Frankfurt has committed itself to comprehensively reshaping its transport culture by 2050. The objective? To encourage widespread use of public transport while considering diverse mobility needs. It goes without saying that, whenever possible, transportation should be efficient, climate-friendly, and well-integrated into a city’s urban environment. With its excellent connectivity and smart transport planning, Frankfurt ensures that sustainability and economic performance go hand in hand, thereby strengthening the city’s long-term competitiveness. Frankfurt’s steady expansion of its cycling infrastructure further supports this vision, making it easier for residents and visitors to choose biking as a healthy and sustainable mode of transport.

But sustainability in Frankfurt isn’t just about going green – social responsibility is just as important. Keeping in line with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the UN, the city is working towards reaching full accessibility, both in infrastructure and in barrier-free communication. Many event venues and conference hotels prioritise DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), thereby helping to ensure barrier-free conferences in a welcoming, non-judgmental environment. One standout example is the Scandic Frankfurt Hafenpark (picture above), a pioneer location in hosting accessible events. Of its 505 guest-rooms, 52 are fully barrier-free, and the entire conference area and all public spaces are designed with accessibility in mind – a true milestone for inclusive events.

Meanwhile, in terms of event catering, many providers in Frankfurt and the surrounding region are making sustainability a top priority as well. They focus on reducing food waste, using seasonal and local ingredients, and offering healthy meal options. Mainfood Catering, for example, takes a particularly innovative approach by creating menus that repurpose unused ingredients. They also partner with charitable organisations to donate leftover food, ensuring it reaches those in need.

Sustainability is without a doubt a key focus in the field of event planning. The Frankfurt Convention Bureau (FCB) actively supports associations in making their congresses as green and impactful as possible. Among other measures, the FCB promotes sustainable practices by offering discounted public transport tickets for congress delegates, making eco-friendly mobility an easy and convenient choice.

But its commitment goes even further: From the very start of the bidding process, the FCB works with planners and PCOs to define legacy goals and develop strategies that ensure long-term benefits for both the city and the event’s participants.

Frankfurt Staedel Museum Innenhof

For further information, please visit www.meetfrankfurt.com or contact the Frankfurt Convention Bureau directly:

Frankfurt Convention Bureau
congress@infofrankfurt.de
Tel: +49 (0) 69 / 24 74 55 – 500