Sustainability

Ilmac has been systematically measuring its carbon footprint across Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions since 2023. This includes direct emissions from owned sources, indirect emissions from purchased energy, and value chain-related emissions. The data is continuously improved in collaboration with partners and suppliers, helping to create a clearer picture of our environmental impact. Based on these insights, Ilmac is able to identify and prioritize targeted sustainability measures with the greatest potential for reduction – both in event operations and beyond.

Ilmac 2025 in Basel places a strong focus on sustainability. With formats such as the Ilmac Conference – part of the Swiss Green & Sustainable Chemistry Days – and the innovation platform “Future of Life Sciences – Area”, forward-thinking technologies and sustainable solutions take center stage.
Together with partners and exhibitors, we aim to actively contribute and foster dialogue around sustainable progress in the chemical and life science industries.

Program

At Ilmac, we are committed to supporting young companies and accelerating innovation in the chemical and life science sectors. The Startup Area offers startups an affordable 4 m² exhibition space, visibility on Ilmac 365, and a 3–5 minute speaker slot to present directly to industry professionals.

The package is aimed at companies under three years old with innovations in chemistry, biotechnology or process engineering.

Learn more!

Ilmac is committed to sustainable event practices – and exclusively uses REWIND carpet. Made from 100% recyclable, latex-free material, it is produced without water and significantly reduces energy use and CO₂ emissions.
After each event, the carpets are collected and fully recycled. They are turned into new raw materials for industries like automotive or furniture.

Ilmac takes place at Messe Basel – a venue strongly committed to ecological sustainability. Several large-scale photovoltaic systems on the hall rooftops generate over 1.4 million kWh of solar energy annually, which is fed into the local power grid.
Hall 1 South, which hosts part of the Ilmac, meets the Swiss Minergie standard. With smart control of heating, ventilation, and cooling, as well as the use of waste heat, it stands out for its high energy efficiency.

In collaboration with its sister company Expomobilia, Ilmac focuses on long-lasting solutions. Parts of the event signage is designed for multi-year use – modular, neutrally branded, and produced to a high standard of quality.

Around 55% of Ilmac’s exhibition space is built using sustainable modular systems from SYMA. These reusable stand solutions minimize material usage and are designed for long-term use across multiple events.
The remaining booths are provided by the exhibitors themselves – with many also relying on reusable systems.

Ilmac partners with SRS Swiss Recycling Services to ensure responsible and resource-efficient waste management. As a specialist in disposal and recycling, SRS ensures that all waste generated during the event is efficiently collected, sorted, and recycled.

Messe Basel – the venue for Ilmac – collaborates closely with Industrielle Werke Basel (IWB) to continuously improve energy efficiency. As part of a long-term project, joint measures are being developed and implemented to reduce overall energy consumption.
These include operational optimizations, upgraded lighting systems, and the use of data and sensors. The goal is to sustainably lower energy use and further reduce the environmental footprint of all events.

At Ilmac 2025, staying hydrated goes hand in hand with sustainability. We will provide free water dispensers with fresh, filtered drinking water in exhibition hall 1.0.
We invite all participants to bring their own reusable bottles and refill them as needed – helping to reduce single-use plastic and support our commitment to a more sustainable event experience.

Ilmac 2025 embraces a digital-first philosophy to reduce paper waste. Instead of printed brochures, catalogs or business cards, we rely on the Ilmac app and digital tools to support efficient and sustainable networking.
Visitors and exhibitors can access all event information, manage appointments, and use lead scanning directly via smartphone.

Ilmac 2025 is easily accessible thanks to its central location in Basel – whether you’re arriving from Switzerland, Germany or France. With excellent public transport connections and international train links, getting here the sustainable way is simple.
To encourage low-impact travel, Ilmac communicates clearly that parking options on-site are limited. Visitors are therefore strongly encouraged to use public transportation.
Bonus for overnight guests: The Basel Card provides free access to the local public transport network for the duration of your stay.

With its Women in Life Sciences format, Ilmac creates a platform to promote diversity and gender equality in the industry. On September 17, 2025, the spotlight will be on exchange, visibility, and networking for women in life sciences.
The evening will focus on topics such as the gender health gap, female leadership perspectives, and systemic challenges in healthcare – featuring inspiring talks, interactive stations, and plenty of space for meaningful conversations.

Ilmac is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible event experience. Messe Basel offers wheelchair-accessible entrances, elevators to all levels, and adapted restrooms throughout the venue.
All accessibility-related information – including routes, services, and contacts – is clearly listed in the Ginto app. This ensures that every visitor can navigate the event independently and with confidence.