British dental convention strives for eco-friendliness

On Thursday, when the largest gathering of dental professionals in the United Kingdom convenes in London, there will be minimal impact on Mother Earth. That is because organizers of the British Dental Trade Association’s Dental Showcase have initiated eco-friendly practices for 2008.

With more than 10,000 attendees expected, greening the event will be no small task. For instance, the aisles of the 183,000 square feet of exhibition floor at ExCeL London will be covered with 100-percent recyclable polypropylene that after the event will be melted down and transformed into motor parts, crates and flowerpots.

“We take our commitment to preserving the environment seriously and are always looking at new ways to be more environmentally friendly,” said Tony Reed, executive director of the BDTA. “This year we have looked at all aspects of the exhibition and reviewed activities which take place before, during and after the event in order to reduce waste and encourage recycling wherever possible.”

Other nature-friendly steps taken by the BDTA planners include recyclable show bags; show guides printed on 50 percent recycled paper; use of low-energy light bulbs; and provision of recycling bins.


| Other Headlines for October 1, 2008

Pope endorses sustainable travel (Travel Mole)

Germany uses sustainability to draw meetings (Focus on Travel)

The green bubble bursts (L.A. Times)