The PPAI Expo at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas is the cornerstone event for the promotional products industry, and the Association works hard to ensure it aligns with its sustainability vision.
MGM Resorts, the parent company of Mandalay Bay, has its own robust sustainability initiatives that support PPAI’s efforts during the largest and longest-running promo trade show. MGM’s commitment to reducing energy and water consumption, waste diversion and sourcing sustainable products ties into how PPAI creates an environmentally conscious event.
- The PPAI Expo 2024 saw 119,051 pounds of waste diverted from landfill through an enhanced sorting process, donations, recycling and composting programs.
- That number accounted for 88% of the waste generated, meaning only 12% was ultimately sent to landfills.
RELATED: Sustainability Leaders Encourage Expo Attendees To Start Small, Remain Committed
By drawing energy from a mega solar array, MGM properties are powered by renewable energy during daylight hours, with plans to continue to decrease their reliance on traditional power sources. MGM has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions 50% by 2030, aligning with global climate goals.
“From reducing the number of printed materials to providing digital alternatives and encouraging exhibitors to adopt environmentally responsible practices, The PPAI Expo has become a platform for demonstrating how the branded merchandise industry can be more sustainable,” says Elizabeth Wimbush, director of sustainability and responsibility at PPAI.
Elizabeth Wimbush
Director, Sustainability & Responsibility, PPAI
New Features For 2025
The Association has ramped up its sustainability efforts at The PPAI Expo 2025 with several new features.
The Green Product Pavilion has been rebranded to the Sustainability Pavilion and will showcase products that have a positive social impact and/or give-back element. They’re also being vetted before being approved to exhibit in that area.
RELATED: First-Time Exhibitors Gear Up For The PPAI Expo 2025
Expo attendees will also have the opportunity to go behind the scenes and learn about the waste sorting, energy reduction and responsible water management by Mandalay Bay.
It’s all part of “Sustainability At The PPAI Expo – A Tour Of Our Journey To A Zero Waste Event.”
Kristen Royal, director of sustainable operations at MGM, will give a short presentation followed by a walking tour to see the impressive efforts underway that help PPAI host a zero-waste event.
- There will also be lunch and a roundtable discussion after the tour.
The tour takes place Monday, January 13, from 12-1:30 p.m., at Breakers J, MBCC Level 2.
This is an RSVP-only event with a limited group size, so don’t wait to sign up if you’re keen.
Exhibitors’ Role In Sustainability At The PPAI Expo 2025
As an exhibitor, your help is essential in helping PPAI achieve this and making The PPAI Expo 2025 more sustainable overall. Below are some tips to consider throughout all stages of your Expo experience.
Before You Arrive: Use Google Flights to find flights with the lowest greenhouse gas (GhG) emissions. Choose a direct flight when possible because it offers the lowest emissions option. Pack efficiently and minimize extra luggage. Less weight on planes means less fuel used.
RELATED: The 7 Most Exciting Sustainability Trends From The PPAI Expo 2024
Booth Materials/Strategy: Utilize local or regional reps to staff your booth, minimizing travel costs and reducing GhG emissions. When possible, opt for booth materials that are made from recycled materials, that can be reused/repurposed or that can be recycled.
- Go digital by using QR codes.
- If printing, use recycled or FSC-certified paper and partner with a local printer.
On-site Strategy: Consider the most energy-efficient options, such as Energy Star rated, when using powered accessories. Bring a reusable water bottle – water stations are available throughout the show floor. Donate your lanyards to the bins located at the entrance of the show floor.
- Work with Mandalay Bay’s Recycling Manager, Jim Jensen, to coordinate booth and material donations. Just send an email to him at jjensen@mandalaybay.com and use the subject line: The PPAI Expo, <Insert Booth Number>.
Shipping: Consolidate shipments and reuse shipping containers. Avoid rush shipments, as air freight produces up to 20 times more GhG emissions than ground shipping. Reduce or eliminate single-use packaging, including plastic or Styrofoam.
Around Town: If you’re traveling from Excalibur and Luxor to the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, use the PPAI coordinated shuttles (schedule found here) or the Mandalay Bay Tram.
- Turn off lights and reduce air conditioning when not in your hotel room.
- Skip unnecessary housekeeping by using the “Do Not Disturb” sign on your door.
Register Now
Don’t wait any longer – register and book your trip to The PPAI Expo 2025 right now.
PPAI member distributors may have their registration fees waived based on their membership tier. It’s $50 per person for additional registrants.
Qualified nonmember distributors may access the exhibits and conference for $350 per person. Members of industry regional associations but not PPAI can receive a code from their executive director for a discounted rate.
Suppliers and business services providers who are members but not exhibiting will be charged $750 per person for access to the exhibit hall but may attend The PPAI Expo Conference for no additional cost. Nonmember, non-exhibiting suppliers are not permitted to attend The PPAI Expo.
