Mandalay Bay Convention Center and UBM Join Forces to Develop Sustainable, Energy Efficient Lighting

February 19, 2018

Global business-to-business events organizer, UBM, and its UBM Fashion Group division, recently partnered with Mandalay Bay Convention Center to collaborate in the development of a more energy efficient and sustainable lighting system within its exhibit halls.

The new LED system debuted during MAGIC Marketplace, held Feb. 12-14 at the MBCC and the Las Vegas Convention Center.

In a demonstration of MBCC and UBM’s commitment to progressive leadership in sustainable, environmental and socially responsible business practices, the multi-million-dollar investment is expected to provide significant carbon footprint reductions as well as improve the overall appearance of the convention facility.

“UBM is committed to sustainability across its events, so when conversations about partnering with the Mandalay Bay Convention Center to upgrade existing lighting, replace all fixtures and install a new control system came to fruition, we enthusiastically agreed,” explained Tony Calanca, UBM executive vice president of exhibitions.

He continued, “We are honored to partner with the MBCC and the impressive team responsible for executing this expansive lighting overhaul in just a matter of months. UBM’s partnership with the MBCC, coupled with this new, state-of-the-art lighting system, will provide long-term sustainability for the tradeshow industry, the city of Las Vegas and the broader society in which we live.”

More than 1,000 light fixtures at the MBCC have been replaced with top-of-the-line LED lights, increasing the luminescence range of the interior hall by nearly 300 percent and reducing the facility’s energy consumption by 85 percent.

The new lighting system will help reduce the MBCC’s environmental footprint in the following ways:

  • The new control system is estimated to reduce energy consumption by 85 percent due to the ability to customize light levels. This amount of projected energy savings could power all of Mandalay Bay for nearly five days and prevent 900 metric tons of greenhouse gases (CO2E) each year.
  • Within the 10-year project’s lifetime, there will no longer be a need to recycle 26,898 fluorescent lamps, which equals 20.4 miles of lighting.
  • Each of the pre-existing fluorescent lamps contained 4 mg. of mercury, which means the 26,898 lamps recycled every 10 years contained 4 ounces of mercury. It only takes one ounce of mishandled mercury to contaminate a lake for centuries.
  • Each year, 3,000 lamps will no longer need to be boxed a second time and transported to other states for recycling.

“This higher quality lighting system will help Mandalay Bay Convention Center – and MGM Resorts International – achieve significant energy savings,” said Chris Magee, vice president of sustainable facilities for MGM Resorts.

He added, “UBM is a valued partner and is as committed as we are to the environment. We’re excited to unveil the results of our collaboration.”

Both the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino and the MBCC hold the Five Key ratings from the Green Key Eco-Rating and Meetings Programs, as well as a gold rating from TripAdvisor’s Green Leaders Program.

The convention facility integrates environmentally responsible practices into its operations including the recycling of more than 80 percent of all convention materials. From sustainable service ware and organic, sustainable menus to zero waste recycling, MBCC offers a variety of options to help groups conduct greener and more socially responsible meetings and events.

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Partner Voices
  MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.  At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:  Protecting Natural Resources  MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.  Committed to Community  Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.  MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.   Fostering Diversity & Inclusion  To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.  MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.