CO₂ Performance Ladder
Note: CO₂ emission factors change annually. In this comparison, we use the applicable emission factors for each year. This ensures that the figures remain realistic within the year itself, but it also means that part of the difference between years may be due to changes in calculation methods.
At So Expo, sustainability is not a trend but a concrete responsibility. In 2024, we again took significant steps to reduce our CO₂ emissions. We focus not only on numbers but, more importantly, on structural improvements that truly impact our operations and the environment.
Our total CO₂ emissions decreased from 200.84 tons in 2023 to 132.64 tons in 2024—a reduction of 68.2 tons of CO₂, or more than 34% less than the previous year.
The largest reduction occurred in Scope 2, thanks to the switch to fully green electricity (–47.90 tons). Scope 1 also decreased significantly, with a combined reduction of 26.94 tons CO₂ due to lower gas and fuel consumption. Within Scope 3 (international flights and external EV charging), emissions increased by 6.6 tons CO₂.
Measures & Results per Category
In 2024, we achieved clear results in multiple areas. Gas consumption decreased by almost 37% compared to 2023, thanks to technical adjustments and more conscious usage. Progress was also made in our vehicle fleet: the use of HVO100 biofuel and reduced petrol consumption further lowered emissions. At the same time, CO₂ emissions from electricity were fully eliminated due to our switch to 100% green electricity with guarantees of origin.
Some areas remained challenging. Emissions from refrigerants increased slightly due to service intensity, although we continue to monitor leaks closely. Scope 3 emissions also rose, mainly due to necessary international flights for projects. We are actively seeking alternatives, such as train travel within Europe.
Collaboration & Circularity
Beyond our own measures, we actively collaborate with partners to take back and reuse materials. For example, we participate in the JMT Take Back program for vinyl flooring. After exhibitions, the used vinyl is collected and recycled for reuse in the supply chain.
We also participate in the Van Straaten Take Back program, where banners used at exhibitions are returned and responsibly recycled to give the materials a second life. In this way, together with our partners, we contribute to a circular economy and further CO₂ reduction.
Goals 2024
In 2024, the first structural steps toward sustainability were taken. We began using HVO100 fuel in part of our fleet and introduced Eco-Driving to reduce fuel consumption. Further research is planned into acquiring our first electric company vehicle. In addition, we fully switched to green electricity, reducing our Scope 2 emissions to zero.
By 2028, So Expo aims to reduce its relative CO₂ footprint by 40% compared to the base year 2023.
Goals for 2025:
- Expanded use of HVO100 in the fleet
- Integration of Eco-Driving into policy and behavior
- Sustainability as a criterion in new rental contracts
- 5% reduction in residual waste compared to 2024
- Continuation of 100% green electricity with guarantees of origin
- Investigation into replacing (leased) company cars for project managers (minimum plug-in hybrid) to further reduce petrol consumption