At PPAI, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a commitment to reducing our environmental impact and supporting responsible practices throughout our industry.
One of the recent steps we’ve taken toward this goal is the switch to FSC-certified paper for PPAI Magazine. With 147,000 copies printed each year, this change is more than symbolic. It reflects our dedication to making mindful choices that contribute to the health of our planet and align with broader global sustainability efforts.
What’s In A Name?
The Forest Stewardship Council certification is the gold standard for responsible forest management. When you see the FSC logo, it means the paper comes from forests managed in ways that preserve biodiversity, benefit local communities and ensure long-term environmental sustainability.
In other words, choosing FSC-certified paper means we’re supporting practices that prevent deforestation, protect wildlife and reduce the harmful effects of irresponsible forest exploitation. By opting for FSC-certified paper, we’re not only ensuring that our print materials come from responsibly managed forests, but also contributing to the achievement of several UN Sustainable Development Goals.
For example:
SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Our use of FSC-certified paper aligns with the goal to reduce waste and promote sustainable resource use. By choosing sustainably sourced paper, we’re encouraging responsible production practices.
SDG 15: Life on Land – FSC certification helps preserve ecosystems and biodiversity, contributing to the protection, restoration and promotion of sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. This is critical in combating desertification, halting deforestation and preserving biodiversity.
SDG 13: Climate Action – FSC-certified forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO2 and playing a vital role in mitigating climate change. By choosing paper from these forests, we’re supporting global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote a healthier climate.
Connecting To Our Broader Sustainability Goals
Switching to FSC-certified paper is just one part of our broader sustainability strategy. Every year, The PPAI Expo at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas is a cornerstone event for our industry, and we work hard to ensure it aligns with our sustainability vision.
MGM Resorts, the parent company of Mandalay Bay, has its own robust sustainability initiatives that support our efforts during Expo. MGM’s commitment to reducing energy and water consumption, waste diversion and sourcing sustainable products ties into how we create an environmentally conscious event.
Elizabeth Wimbush
Director of Sustainability & Responsibility, PPAI
Our 2024 event 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.
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 our industry can be more sustainable.
What Can You Do?
We know that many of our members are passionate about sustainability and may be looking for more ways to incorporate it into their events. That’s why we’ve created a short survey to help you get the sustainability conversation started with any gathering, small or large. The QR code included below links to a five-question survey designed to spark ideas and provide practical steps for incorporating sustainability in your event planning.
Teamwork Makes The Dream Work
While FSC certification isn’t without its challenges, it’s an important step in the right direction. We recognize that no certification system is perfect – ensuring full transparency and enforcing consistent standards can be difficult. However, choosing FSC-certified paper is part of our broader sustainability strategy, where progress takes precedence over perfection.
At PPAI, we believe meaningful change comes through steady, incremental improvements. Every decision, whether it’s switching to FSC-certified paper or selecting event venues that share your sustainability values, contributes to the larger goal of promoting responsible practices across our industry. We’re committed to taking these steps forward and encouraging others to do the same, knowing that thoughtful, intentional actions drive real progress, even if they aren’t flawless.
Looking ahead, we’ll continue refining our sustainability efforts, learning from experience and focusing on areas where we can make the most difference. It’s about making ongoing adjustments that lead to meaningful change rather than waiting for a perfect solution.
By aligning our use of FSC-certified paper with global sustainability initiatives, collaborating with partners like MGM that share our vision and equipping our members with the tools to make sustainable choices, we’re making tangible strides toward a greener, more responsible future. Every action we take matters, and together, we can drive real change for our industry and the planet.
Wimbush is the director of sustainability and responsibility at PPAI.
