EMT #39 with Jim Obermeyer - Sustainability Standards: Shaping the Future of Live Events

Event Marketer's Toolbox

The events industry is at a turning point—and sustainability is no longer optional.

In this episode of Event Marketer’s Toolbox, Chris Dunn and co-host Dana Esposito welcome Jim Obermeyer, Regional VP at Bray Leino Events and co-chair of the EDPA/ESCA Sustainability Committee. With more than 40 years of industry experience, Jim shares how a once-small committee has grown into a passionate 28-person task force reshaping the way events are planned, built, and measured.

This episode dives into the creation of Version 2 of the industry’s sustainability guidelines, the need for cross-association collaboration, and the practical steps event professionals can take to reduce waste, reuse smarter, and rethink how live experiences impact the planet.

• Why sustainability matters now
  Post-pandemic, clients and the industry alike are demanding measurable action—moving beyond “green talk” into accountability.
• Inside Version 2 of the Guidelines
  A more detailed, practical playbook with scoring and action steps to help companies start small and grow sustainable practices.
• Collaboration across associations
  EDPA, ESCA, IFES, and Exhibitor Advocate are aligning efforts to avoid fragmented standards and drive unified progress.
• Real-world examples of change
  From Brumark’s carpet recycling program to reusable banding, rental inventories, and creative reuse of graphics and materials.
• Global perspectives & the road ahead
  Europe leads with “sustainability-first” design, while U.S. companies focus on rental and storage—both shaping a greener future for live events.

Sustainability in events isn’t solved in one leap—it’s built one decision at a time. As Jim emphasized, the key is to start small, involve your partners, and keep building.

If you’re ready to take meaningful steps, check out the EDPA sustainability resources (linked in show notes) and begin with one actionable change today.

🎧 Catch the full episode to hear Jim’s insights, real-world examples, and a clear vision for the future of live events.

👉🏼 Join us for more insightful discussions like this by tuning into 'Event Marketer's Toolbox,' where industry leaders share the tools, tactics, and trends driving success in the event world.

This Show is sponsored by Blue Hive

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1. Welcome & Introductions (00:00:00)

2. Why Sustainability Matters Now (00:05:39)

3. The EDPA Sustainability Committee (00:07:59)

4. Breaking Down the Guidelines (00:12:49)

5. Real-World Solutions (00:15:09)

6. Lessons from Europe (00:20:29)

7. Version 2 of the Guidelines (00:28:39)

8. Client Pressure & RFPs (00:38:59)

9. Key Takeaways from Jim (00:43:29)

10. Wrap-Up & Resources (00:46:39)