MCEC provides hub for addressing pressing environmental challenges

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) this week hosted the Waste Expo and All-Energy Australia conference, showcasing the latest innovations in waste reduction and renewable energy, aligning with MCEC’s industry-leading sustainability practices.  

MCEC Sustainability Strategy is underpinned by the principles of a low-carbon, circular economy that looks to reduce waste, mitigate and adapt to climate change and have a positive social impact. 

MCEC Sustainability Manager, Kristen Gillespie said as a hub for collaboration and innovation, MCEC provides the perfect platform for progressive discussions and solutions to address pressing environmental challenges. 

Gillespie noted “we’re proud to host both the Waste Expo and All-Energy conference under one roof, highlighting the synergy between these important industries to create a brighter future for us all.” 

The Waste Expo brought together the brightest minds in waste management and resource recovery to shape a cleaner, greener future. 

During the expo, MCEC operated a Zero Waste Café, which featured 33% plant-based items, no plastic packaging and 100% reusable cutlery, crockery and glassware. Any leftover items were donated to food rescue organisation, OzHarvest.  

To coincide with the expo and Sustainability Day, Goldfields Cafe served locally roasted speciality coffee, hot chocolate and certified organic and fair-trade tea, in edible cups, made from locally sourced oats and grains. 

Gillespie added “The Waste Expo was the perfect opportunity to highlight the innovative solutions we’ve developed to reduce our impact on the environment, and challenge the industry to deliver greener events.”

At the All-Energy Australia conference, important discussions on renewable energy, energy management and sustainability took place. 

A fully recyclable cardboard trade show stand, designed by Enphase and Opal, which is a leading sustainable packaging manufacturer, was unveiled. The stand featured a cardboard life-size house and is 100% recyclable, eliminating over 80% of waste that traditional expo stands generate. 

Patrick Matweew, General Manager at Enphase Energy ANZP added “our partnership with Opal represents one more way that Enphase supports and leads sustainable innovation. Enphase is transforming exhibitions and setting a new standard for environmental responsibility across industries.”

Chris Daly, Executive General Manager Packaging at Opal shared “this life-size cardboard house shows what’s possible when innovation and sustainability join forces. “It’s more than just reducing waste, it’s about creating a practical, reusable structure that can serve as a model for future events.”

Gillespie enthused “we’re excited to host such a forward-thinking project. This recyclable cardboard stand supports our own industry-leading sustainability practices, and we hope it will inspire others to think creatively about reducing their environmental impact.”

MCEC strives to be leaders in sustainability and seeks out everyday and innovative ways to be kind to the environment and the city. 

In addition, MCEC’s Positive Impact Guide contains tips and resources to empower their customers to deliver more sustainable events.

From sustainable event switches to First Nations engagement to accessible and inclusive events, explore ways to infuse positive impact into your events here: https://www.mcec.com.au/our-impact/positive-impact-guide 

Image top: MCEC Zero Waste Cafe; Image below: Recyclable Cardboard Stand at Waste Trade Show Stand