For People and the Environment – Sustainability is Our Responsibility
As Messe Friedrichshafen, we host people from all over the world. Every year, exhibitors and visitors from more than 100 nations come to Lake Constance. Given this, we want to take responsibility for our guests, our partners, our employees – and especially for our environment. Messe Friedrichshafen is located in one of the most beautiful natural landscapes, with an Alpine panorama in view and Lake Constance nearby.
However, Lake Constance is also one of Europe's most sensitive ecosystems, which we must protect. For this reason, Messe Friedrichshafen is strongly committed to sustainable practices at all levels.
We achieve this through numerous measures – from waste reduction to energy-saving initiatives and traffic reduction through an extensive shuttle bus service.
Sunroof XL: Messe Friedrichshafen Plans Large-Scale Photovoltaic System
At a press conference on October 30th Messe Friedrichshafen presented the details for the large photovoltaic system:
- PV system on barrel-vaulted roofs with a total output of up to 5.5 megawatts peak
- Stated aim: to cover the majority of annual electricity demand in-house
- Significant contribution to the climate targets of the City of Friedrichshafen
- After completion, the largest PV roof system in the Lake Constance region
Friedrichshafen – In-house electricity for Messe Friedrichshafen: With the installation of a large-scale photovoltaic system, the company is taking another important step toward sustainability. With a total output of up to 5.5 megawatts peak, 12,350 PV modules on an area of 25,000 square meters, the roof system will become the largest in the Lake Constance region.
Solar Power System
For many years, Messe Friedrichshafen has been producing electricity from renewable energy through installed solar panels on the roofs of all auxiliary buildings.
Energy Management
Energy peaks are avoided using energy optimization software, and power losses are prevented by a special transformer system. Unnecessary energy consumption is quickly identified through the cross-functional building control system's visualization. Decentralized heating, cooling, and ventilation units allow the exhibition halls to be operated efficiently based on demand.
The hall technology is equipped with the latest energy-efficient systems, such as heat recovery and modular, intelligent system control. For all these measures and the continuous development of relevant systems and processes, Messe Friedrichshafen employs a well-trained energy manager.
Waste Reduction and Separation
Messe Friedrichshafen strives for maximum waste reduction and separation through a series of initiatives:
- Consistent separation of residual waste, recyclable materials, and paper. Up to 90% of waste is reusable.
- Monitoring of waste separation.
- Largely avoiding carpeting in walkways.
- Collaboration with professional service providers who
prioritize waste separation. - No disposable tableware or cutlery in the gastronomy area.
- Mostly using reusable glass bottles in the gastronomy area.
- Company and service provider agreements to reduce waste and encourage the use of reusable materials.
Water Management
Water is a scarce resource, so careful and eco-friendly use is highly prioritized.
Water-saving fixtures are utilized, cisterns are used for irrigating the outdoor areas, and rainwater is partially used in the toilet facilities.
Gastronomy
Messe Friedrichshafen places a high value on sustainability in the gastronomy sector:
- Using regional products
- Offering health-conscious options, including vegan and vegetarian dishes
- Mostly using reusable glass bottles
- Minimizing plastic use through alternatives like bulk dispensers for ketchup, mayonnaise, etc.
Public Transportation
To encourage environmentally friendly transportation to the trade fair grounds, Messe Friedrichshafen offers extensive public transport services at most of its events. The free Messe-Express (MX) connects the trade fair grounds with the city and harbor stations on a fast route.
Combination tickets for the ferry, catamaran, and the local public transport network BODO complement the public transport offer.
Mobility
Mobility is an important issue for us as a trade fair company. To provide our visitors, exhibitors, and partners with the most environmentally friendly travel possible, we offer a comprehensive shuttle bus service in Friedrichshafen that brings our guests to hotels, airports, and major city centers.
Additionally, there are several charging stations on the exhibition grounds where electric cars can be charged free of charge or included in the parking fees during events, congresses, or conferences. Upon request, exhibitors, stand staff, or booth builders can also be provided with their own power connection within the grounds. Furthermore, free rental bicycles are available for use. Messe also offers employees e-bikes as company bicycles.
Some of Messe Friedrichshafen's fleet already consists of electric vehicles.
Employees
Jobrad bicycle leasing offer for all employees
- Free electricity for electric cars during working hours
- Information and training on energy-saving opportunities
- Bundling workplace equipment for better and more efficient use of devices
- Workstations designed with daylight concepts
- Height-adjustable desks
- Health check-ups and consultations with an occupational physician
- Paper savings through digital invoicing, correspondence, and information distribution
Green electricity
Messe Friedrichshafen uses 100% green electricity. This means that the AUMA target for 2025 for the trade fair industry in Friedrichshafen has already been implemented.
