We’re going green for the future.
360° approach to sustainability
As part of the MCH Group, we align ourselves with the DARE Framework: Decarbonize, Accelerate, Rethink, and Empower. This 360° approach to sustainability embeds responsibility into everything we do. From reducing emissions and using resources efficiently to fostering collaboration and innovation, we’re creating measurable progress and added value for our customers, the region, and the planet. Let’s build a brighter future together!
MCH Group.
All information about the MCH Group and its subsidiaries can be found here.
DARE Framework
DECARBONIZE - Reduce Climate Impact and Halve Emissions by 2030
Net Zero Carbon Events
The MCH Group is a proud signatory of the global Net Zero Carbon Events initiative, advocating for a climate-neutral future in the events industry. By utilizing renewable energy, optimizing operational processes, and providing targeted support to organizers, we’re helping to cut emissions and promote sustainable events. Our ambitious goal? Achieving net zero by 2050.
CO₂ Footprint
We measure our CO₂ footprint annually, focusing on reducing emissions in key areas like energy consumption, material use, and transportation.
CO₂-Footprint Calculation Service
Sustainability starts with transparency. That’s why we share our expertise with partners and customers by offering a CO2 footprint calculation service for events at the Messe and Congress Center Basel.
Our team provides tailored analyses, identifies major emission sources, and highlights the most effective ways to make events more efficient and resource-friendly. This creates a reliable foundation for fact-based decisions and credible sustainability communication.
Decarbonize & Rethink
Actions under our "Rethink" pillar directly contribute to reducing our CO2 emissions.
ACCELERATE - Amplify positive impact on environment, society, and economy
Sustainable Event Guide
Sustainability is a shared mission that succeeds only when everyone works together. At the Messe and Congress Center Basel, we rely on collaboration with organizers, exhibitors, and partners to create sustainable events.
Our Sustainable Event Guide supports stakeholders in embedding sustainability into the planning and execution of their events from the very start. Packed with practical tips and recommendations on energy, materials, mobility, catering, and waste management, it empowers you to take impactful actions and host responsible events.
Basel Shines – A Venue with Global Impact
Located in the heart of Europe, Basel combines a central location, vibrant urban culture, and a deep commitment to sustainability. At the Messe and Congress Center Basel, we create platforms that foster knowledge, connection, and innovation - impacting far beyond the city’s borders.
Together with local partners and a city that champions environmental awareness and openness, we host events that deliver value for people, the economy, and society.
MesseQuartier Basel
The MesseQuartier Basel represents the evolution of the Messeplatz into an open, dynamic urban district. What was once solely a trade fair venue is now becoming a lively hub for events, dining, work, culture, and relaxation.
Architecturally defined by the iconic Hall 1, designed by Herzog & de Meuron, the quarter uniquely bridges the trade fair and the city. It opens up to the public, encourages interaction, and sparks fresh ideas for Basel’s urban development.
Responsibility & Continuous Improvement
At the Messe and Congress Center Basel, we adhere to the MCH Group Code of Conduct and Supplier Code of Conduct as our guiding principles. We act with economic, ecological, and social sustainability in mind, prioritizing quality, professionalism, and trusted partnerships. Sustainability and compliance are deeply embedded in our corporate governance, supported by risk assessments, audited IT systems, and close collaboration with Group Risk Management.
RETHINK - Reimagine Resources and create Circular Systems
Renewable Energy
We cover 100% of our electricity needs with renewable sources. A portion of this comes directly from the photovoltaic systems on the roofs of Messe Basel, generating hundreds of thousands of kilowatt-hours of clean energy each year.
Energy Efficiency in Partnership with IWB
In collaboration with Industrielle Werke Basel (IWB), we’re continuously enhancing our energy efficiency. Through targeted analyses and optimizations, we’ve already significantly reduced consumption. And we’re not stopping there—there’s still more potential to unlock, so we keep refining our facilities and processes to maximize energy efficiency step by step.
Catering
Our catering partner, Wassermann & Co., stands for quality and responsibility. Certified to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards, they prioritize regional sourcing, short supply chains, and a diverse menu with vegetarian and vegan options.
Upon request, they integrate surplus, high-quality food from retailers into catering offerings through Food-Save projects. This allows events to contribute to reducing food waste without compromising on quality or enjoyment.
Booth Construction
Together with our partners SYMA and Weber Floors, we’re making booth construction more sustainable, one step at a time. SYMA focuses on modular, durable systems that can be reused and adapted to various needs, significantly cutting down on material use and waste.
Weber Floors complements this with innovative flooring solutions like the REWIND carpet, which is fully recyclable and emits about 70% less CO2 than traditional trade fair carpets. The result? Booth designs that blend functionality, aesthetics, and environmental consciousness.
EMPOWER - Promote Diversity, unlock Potential, and strengthen Inclusion
Accessibility and Inclusion
We’re proud to partner with the OK:GO initiative, which promotes barrier-free travel in Switzerland. Our halls and facilities are listed in the Ginto app, providing visitors with specific needs reliable information on accessibility in advance. This transparency makes planning a self-determined visit to our events easier than ever.
Additionally, we can connect organizers with Pro Infirmis or relevant experts for site inspections and planning accessible events.
Basel: A city with sustainable appeal
As a host city, Basel blends sustainability with urban quality of life and genuine openness. The destination is deeply committed to eco-friendly mobility, responsible tourism, and social inclusion, ranking it among Europe’s leading sustainable cities.
Certificates.
Certified under the internationally recognized TourCert standard for sustainable destinations and placed 22nd out of over 100 cities in the 2025 Global Destination Sustainability Index (GDSI), Basel’s dedication to the environment, society, and responsible tourism shines through.
BaselCard
With the BaselCard, guests can use public transport throughout the city free of charge and benefit from discounts on cultural and tourist attractions. This promotes environmentally friendly mobility and makes sustainable travel easy and appealing.
Arrival.
Located in the heart of Europe, Basel is just a comfortable, climate-friendly train ride away from Zurich, Geneva, Paris, or Frankfurt. Thanks to its central position and excellent public transport connections, your sustainable journey begins the moment you arrive. Travel to Basel by train and arrive relaxed - with a clear conscience.
Labels and Collaborations
The Messe and Congress Center Basel values partnerships with trusted sustainability labels and works alongside partners to build a responsible events industry.ungsbranche.
Net Zero Carbon Events
As a signatory of the global Net Zero Carbon Events initiative, the MCH Group commits to continuously reducing its CO2 footprint and achieving net zero emissions in the long term. This initiative connects stakeholders across the event sector to establish shared standards and measurable progress in climate protection.
Swisstainable Level II – engaged
With the Swisstainable Level II label, we’re part of Switzerland Tourism’s sustainability program, showcasing proven commitment to environmental, social, and regional value creation while continuously advancing toward sustainable event operations.
OK:GO
In the realm of social sustainability, we collaborate with the OK:GO initiative to promote barrier-free travel in Switzerland, ensuring accessible information about our venues and fostering greater inclusion for all guests.
Sustainability Report
The MCH Group’s Sustainability Report highlights how we take responsibility through the DARE Framework—Decarbonize, Accelerate, Rethink, Empower. With targeted measures, we’re actively contributing to a more sustainable events industry.
