Mandalay Bay Convention Center and UBM Join Forces to Develop Sustainable, Energy Efficient Lighting

February 19, 2018

Global business-to-business events organizer, UBM, and its UBM Fashion Group division, recently partnered with Mandalay Bay Convention Center to collaborate in the development of a more energy efficient and sustainable lighting system within its exhibit halls.

The new LED system debuted during MAGIC Marketplace, held Feb. 12-14 at the MBCC and the Las Vegas Convention Center.

In a demonstration of MBCC and UBM’s commitment to progressive leadership in sustainable, environmental and socially responsible business practices, the multi-million-dollar investment is expected to provide significant carbon footprint reductions as well as improve the overall appearance of the convention facility.

“UBM is committed to sustainability across its events, so when conversations about partnering with the Mandalay Bay Convention Center to upgrade existing lighting, replace all fixtures and install a new control system came to fruition, we enthusiastically agreed,” explained Tony Calanca, UBM executive vice president of exhibitions.

He continued, “We are honored to partner with the MBCC and the impressive team responsible for executing this expansive lighting overhaul in just a matter of months. UBM’s partnership with the MBCC, coupled with this new, state-of-the-art lighting system, will provide long-term sustainability for the tradeshow industry, the city of Las Vegas and the broader society in which we live.”

More than 1,000 light fixtures at the MBCC have been replaced with top-of-the-line LED lights, increasing the luminescence range of the interior hall by nearly 300 percent and reducing the facility’s energy consumption by 85 percent.

The new lighting system will help reduce the MBCC’s environmental footprint in the following ways:

  • The new control system is estimated to reduce energy consumption by 85 percent due to the ability to customize light levels. This amount of projected energy savings could power all of Mandalay Bay for nearly five days and prevent 900 metric tons of greenhouse gases (CO2E) each year.
  • Within the 10-year project’s lifetime, there will no longer be a need to recycle 26,898 fluorescent lamps, which equals 20.4 miles of lighting.
  • Each of the pre-existing fluorescent lamps contained 4 mg. of mercury, which means the 26,898 lamps recycled every 10 years contained 4 ounces of mercury. It only takes one ounce of mishandled mercury to contaminate a lake for centuries.
  • Each year, 3,000 lamps will no longer need to be boxed a second time and transported to other states for recycling.

“This higher quality lighting system will help Mandalay Bay Convention Center – and MGM Resorts International – achieve significant energy savings,” said Chris Magee, vice president of sustainable facilities for MGM Resorts.

He added, “UBM is a valued partner and is as committed as we are to the environment. We’re excited to unveil the results of our collaboration.”

Both the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino and the MBCC hold the Five Key ratings from the Green Key Eco-Rating and Meetings Programs, as well as a gold rating from TripAdvisor’s Green Leaders Program.

The convention facility integrates environmentally responsible practices into its operations including the recycling of more than 80 percent of all convention materials. From sustainable service ware and organic, sustainable menus to zero waste recycling, MBCC offers a variety of options to help groups conduct greener and more socially responsible meetings and events.

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Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.