Net Zero Carbon Events Initiative celebrates five-year anniversary and invites member feedback on future direction
The Net Zero Carbon Events Initiative (NZCE), a global initiative accelerating the events industry's transition to a net zero future, presented plans for its future direction at IMEX America yesterday, highlighting the increased industry support made possible by the appointment of new Program Director, Johanna Fuhlendorf, in June 2026.
"The five-year anniversary has been a valuable opportunity to take stock," said James Rees, President of JMIC. "NZCE is now reworking its strategy and governance structure to reflect the additional capacity provided by our new Program Director, as well as the evolving legislative landscape and the increasingly diverse needs of our global membership, which has more than tripled since NZCE's launch in 2021."
Since its inception, NZCE has helped set standards for decarbonization in the events industry, bringing together stakeholders from across the value chain to collaborate and ensure guidance reflects operational realities.
"Since joining NZCE in 2021, Javits Center has been proud to share what we've learned while learning from others working to reduce emissions across the industry," said Joyce Leveston, President & CEO, Javits Center. "From installing solar energy and achieving a 44% waste diversion rate to measuring our Scope 1 and 2 emissions, we believe progress comes from action and collaboration. We welcome Johanna and look forward to helping NZCE expand its impact globally, particularly across North America."
NZCE was launched to support the events industry's transition to a net zero future. Now that a shared framework has been established, the initiative is placing greater emphasis on practical implementation.
"Members can expect increased engagement, including regular updates on NZCE's latest projects through a new monthly newsletter," said Johanna Fuhlendorf. "We will offer enhanced training opportunities, including free quarterly webinars and additional guidance documents that provide step-by-step instructions for decarbonization. The first round of training will focus on venues, with other parts of the value chain to follow."
NZCE is accepting new members. Organizations interested in joining the initiative can find more information here. NZCE also invites current members to participate in a supporter satisfaction survey, which will be launched later this year to help shape the initiative's strategic priorities for the years ahead.
Javits Center booth C4331
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