Ahead of the IAAPA Expo Europe, currently taking place in Amsterdam, numerous industry representatives from around the world gathered at Efteling for the IAAPA Sustainability Day. Efteling and Vekoma presented their innovative vision for the most sustainable attraction of the future, which aims to set new technological and ecological standards.
Sustainability as the Central Theme
During the IAAPA Sustainability Day on September 23, 2024, Efteling and Vekoma showcased their concept of an attraction that can generate its own energy and use it directly to enhance the visitor experience. This forward-looking presentation emphasized the importance of carefully selecting materials and ensuring the attraction seamlessly blends into the natural environment. These factors are crucial for creating an experience that is not only sustainable but also visually and environmentally harmonious.
Open Exchange Between Efteling and Vekoma
A key highlight of Sustainability Day was the open dialogue between Efteling and Vekoma, one of the world’s leading attraction builders. Unlike typical projects where contractual obligations define the framework, this initiative focused on the free exchange of knowledge. Anne-Mart Agerbeek, General Director of Vekoma, explained: “It is unique to collaborate in this way without a direct business relationship. We hope to apply this approach more often in the future.” This open exchange allowed both companies to freely share their insights into sustainable development within the amusement park industry and learn from each other.
Responsibility to Society and the Environment
Fons Jurgens, General Director of Efteling, emphasized during his speech the social responsibility that amusement parks and their partners have. “Sustainability is more than just a trend—it’s our duty as companies to minimize our environmental impact while still providing a unique visitor experience.” Earlier this year, Efteling and Vekoma held a multi-day workshop to develop new concepts for sustainable attraction building. This initiative demonstrates that innovation and environmental awareness must go hand in hand to meet the challenges of the modern entertainment industry.
IAAPA Expo Europe: A Glimpse into the Future
The IAAPA Expo Europe, taking place from September 23 to 27, 2024, at the RAI in Amsterdam, is the largest European event for the amusement and attractions industry. With a record-breaking exhibition space of 18,500 square meters and over 750 exhibitors, the expo provides an ideal platform for exploring the latest products and services. Visitors can meet world-renowned manufacturers and suppliers and participate in high-level workshops and presentations. The expo is considered a must-attend event for industry experts and decision-makers who want to shape the future of the amusement industry.
Sustainability as the Future of the Industry
The IAAPA Sustainability Day clarified it that sustainability is not just a trend but a necessity for the future of the amusement industry. Vekoma and Efteling underscored in their presentation that innovation and environmental responsibility are inseparable. The day concluded with a call to action for all participants to take their role as industry leaders seriously and work together towards a sustainable future.
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