Greener in 2008

January Las Vegas Market presented sustainable products, programming and parties

Sustainable furnishings and functions dominated Winter 2008 Las Vegas Market, as World Market Center Las Vegas painted the town green.

The Living Green PavilionSM

“This Winter Market was WMC’s most aggressive and environmentally effective programming to date,” said Dana Andrew, vice president of marketing and public relations. “Green is no longer new to our industry — it is an expectation that is growing in importance and has moved into mainstream America. We’ve reached a tipping point, and as a market leader, it is our responsibility to offer programming and showcase innovative products in this area.”

The semi-annual Las Vegas Markets provide WMC the opportunity to present forward-thinking green philosophies and education. Whether someone wants to know about sourcing FSC wood, eco-friendly bedding trends or marketing sustainable product profitably, the educational opportunities are available in Las Vegas.

Asian Art Imports

Sustainability and environmental concerns are not only at top of mind to Market-goers and the industry at large, but a driving force for WMC year round, according to Director of Programming Margaret Casey, a board member of the Sustainable Furniture Council.

“Environmental challenges will continue to evolve and expand. One of our goals is to develop programming that is truly robust and authentic in this area,” Casey said. “We are committed to showcasing dedication and forward-thinking green philosophies. At the same time, WMC continues to adopt new practices that allow our organization and buildings to be as eco-friendly as possible. Education is key to meaningful change.”

Las Vegas Market reinforced its commitment to present eco-friendly solutions and resources with the Living Green Pavilion^SM. This specialty pavilion centers on sustainable furnishings or furniture using wood, cushioning, fabrics and finishing materials that are made from renewable resources. One of Market’s most popular areas, the Living Green Pavilion^SM had tripled in size since its debut in July 2007.

South Cone

Programming and seminars also had an environmentally responsible edge during Winter Market, with many of Market’s educational programming covering issues related to sustainability. The Brave New World Environmental Leadership Series offered informative seminars that emphasized the importance of incorporating sustainable practices into one’s business as well as the methods for doing so. Be sure to visit www.lasvegasmarket.com to view the exciting lineup of seminars taking place throughout the week at the July 2008 Las Vegas Market.

WMC’s recycling system

WMC is committed to top-of-mind awareness of the carbon footprint of the home furnishings industry. Reduction of waste generated from packing materials is a priority. WMC is currently in line to become the largest on-site recycling center in southern Nevada. In 2007, it prevented hundreds of dumpster loads of waste from ending up in the landfills of Clark County by recycling more than 70 percent of all refuse generated from the giant home furnishings complex.

WMC recycled a total of 350 tons of cardboard for a six-week period for 2007’s Winter Market. When Building C opens in mid-2008, about 2,800 truckloads will become 1,400 dumpster loads, which, after on-site processing, will be reduced to less than 100 dumpster loads.

Living Green Pavilion^SM returns in July 2008 for its third installment at Las Vegas Market. Find the most innovative trends in sustainable home furnishings in Building C, Floor 5. Read about this high-design, juried show section, offering the best in fashionable, accessible, and sustainable furnishings for the mainstream market by clicking here.