CAVITE STATE UNIVERSITY - TOUR 28 Past Paper PDF

Republic of the Philippines CAVITE STATE UNIVERSITY Silang Campus Biga I, Silang, Cavite ✉ [email protected] TOUR 28 - (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) Issues, Challenges and Trends in...

Republic of the Philippines CAVITE STATE UNIVERSITY Silang Campus Biga I, Silang, Cavite ✉ [email protected] TOUR 28 - (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) Issues, Challenges and Trends in the MICE Industry Submitted by: Adlaon, Lorena N. Castro, Kate Harley T. Crisostomo, Juliana Angela C. Doliente, Jhonalin F. Lacañelao, Jessamae Malupa, Marigold M. Mendoza, Liah M. Munda, Anthonette U. Olaguer, Charie Mae Tubes, Aira Jane D. Submitted to: Prof. Emy Grace B. Patambang, LPT. December 2024  A.​ ISSUES/ CHALLENGES AND TRENDS The MICE – Meetings, Incentive, Conferences and Exhibitions – industry is one of the main drivers within the tourism industry and has witnessed important growth over the past years. As the demand for meetings, incentives, congresses and events is on the rise, the MICE sector’s future looks bright. However, as things grow, challenges arise. Now that we face pandemic, the health crisis had influenced the event planning that it was transformed to implement new forms of organization along with health protocols and social distancing.But new opportunities have also emerged in the process, such as streaming and virtual meetings. Hybrid events and webinars are a reality that is here to stay, and while we all hope that fairs and face-to-face meetings can be resumed soon, the health and sanitary recommendations will have to be taken into account. Most MICE events are aimed at cultural enrichment, social exchange and economic stimulation; and most are presented in the form of meetings, incentives, congresses, ceremonies, conferences, exhibitions and even festivals. There is no single sector or industry of society that does not use events as a form of growth and development, so event planning is a specialization with an extensive field of work and great possibilities for professional development. Challenges for Mice Sector The COVID-19 pandemic has largely shaped how events should be planned for the remainder of the year and in the near future. There are huge changes in planning an event nowadays which brought a huge challenge for MICE planners. Some of these are the following: ​ Limitation on the number of participants ​ Venues must be large enough to guarantee social distancing -​ Open spaces are now in priority and those with good ventilation ​ Implementation of required sanitation and health measures -​ Disinfecting stations and hand sanitizer dispensers at different points of the hotel ​ Development of hybrid events -​ Attendees enjoy a face-to-face/online experience where participants who cannot attend in person can do so online. -​. Furthermore, the following are also challenges present in the MICE Sector: ​ Technology – changing the way we work, and interact anywhere, with everyone and everything. It brings a “coolness” factor that can draw attendees and enhance their experience. However, there are numerous challenges encountered in utilizing  technology in the MICE sector. The usage of big data to the highest event age to effectively deliver the opportunities that we have requires a high level of understanding and knowledge about technologies in order to maximize its functions. And the need to incorporate advanced technology for hybrid events, virtual platforms, and seamless attendee experiences adds complexity and costs, especially for smaller organizations. ​ Deliver the ever changing guest expectations. By staying informed about market trends, leveraging technology, continuously improving services, and fostering a culture of excellence, businesses can not only meet but exceed guest expectations, ensuring lasting satisfaction and loyalty. ​ Rising competition. The MICE industry is becoming more competitive as it develops and grows, with competitors joining the industry and established businesses innovating to stay ahead. ​ Balance between human touch and technology to deliver seamless experience ​ Know your attendees’ generation Trends of the MICE Sector The MICE industry is constantly changing and so are the trends. Following the MICE trends will not only allow you to stay on top of the game but also make your events unique. Luckily, working with hundreds of clients from all over the world allows us to constantly monitor the tendencies, so if you are planning an event in 202, here are some trends you should be aware of and get on board with. 1.​ Sustainability Sustainability will continue as a growing trend. However, the sustainability in the meetings, incentives, conferences, and events should not be limited to managing the usage of plastic. It should take a step towards even more sustainable solutions. Sustainability in the MICE industry is about creating a balance between hosting successful events and preserving the environment for future generations. This approach ensures that events are not only memorable but also responsible and beneficial to the local community and environment. How to add more sustainability to your events: -​ Use local suppliers for catering which are sourcing seasonal ingredients. -​ Opt for sustainable hotels and venues. -​ Use environment-friendly means of transport such as bikes, e-scooters, solar panel buses. -​ Incorporate CSR elements to your team building.  -​ Learn more about sustainability in Copenhagen -​ As demand for responsible events grows, sustainable practices help businesses stand out and appeal to environmentally aware audiences. -​ In long term growth sustainability ensures the MICE industry can grow responsibly, benefiting both the environment and society. -​ Energy efficient venues and local sourcing reduce operational costs, making events more affordable. 2.​ Authenticity The demand for authenticity is bigger than ever. Guests want to have honest, transparent and real experiences when they visit the destination for leisure as well as business purposes. Authenticity helps in building a strong connection between the event and the host community, fostering mutual benefits. By showcasing local culture and heritage, events can create a more meaningful and memorable experience for attendees while supporting the local economy. This approach also aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainability, as authentic experiences often involve eco-friendly practices and support for local businesses How can you accommodate this demand: -​ Incorporate local entertainment elements during your events such as folk performance or a local artist. Doing so you will not only provide your guests with a one in a lifetime experience but also promote local heritage. -​ Promote local cuisine where the dishes are not only made with locally sourced ingredients but also promote local cuisine. -​ Hold your event in the historic venue, special for the destination to promote historical heritage as well as a unique setting for the evening. 3.​ Bleisure If you have not heard about the phrase “bleisure” you are missing a lot. This unique concept describes a combination of the business and leisure trips where the event organizer is not only the coordinator of the event but can provide a unique insight into the destination from the leisure perspective. (Ex: an employee attending a 3-day business conference in Bali and extending their stay for two extra days to relax on the beach and visit local cultural sites). 4.​ Hybrid Events The concept of the hybrid event seems a very conscious move for better accessibility and engagement and most importantly plays a pivotal role in countering the pandemic challenges. Presenters are using state-of-the-art technology more often to combine virtual and in-person elements smoothly, giving participants from all over the world a comprehensive experience. How to add more sustainability to your events: -​ Increased connectivity and ease of travel encourage business travelers to extend trips for leisure. -​ A growing desire for better work-life integration motivates professionals to blend business with leisure activities -​ Enhanced communication tools allow business travelers to remain productive while enjoying leisure time -​ Companies are adopting flexible policies that support bleisure travel, recognizing its benefits for employee satisfaction and retention. -​ Travelers seek authentic experiences, using business trips as opportunities to explore local cultures. 5.​ Personalization The MICE industry is changing the attendee experience by including Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI-driven solutions might surge this year that are intended to enhance and customize each aspect of the event experience. Artificial Intelligence is turning into the key to providing attendees with special and lasting experiences, from pre-event communications to on-site interactions. How to add more sustainability to your events: -​ Understanding attendee preferences to create relevant content and experiences -​ Incorporating real-time polls and hands-on activities to foster engagement -​ Ensuring accessibility for all attendees, reflecting diverse needs. 6.​ Wellness Incorporating wellness activities like yoga and mindfulness sessions into events has become a central focus within the MICE sector. Many conferences and corporate gatherings now feature dedicated wellness sessions aimed at reducing stress, enhancing focus, and promoting overall well-being. These activities often take place during event breaks or as part of morning and evening routines, allowing attendees to start or end their day with balance and energy. For instance, the Global Wellness Summit has set a benchmark by including wellness activities as part of its official agenda, providing participants opportunities to engage in yoga, guided meditation, and fitness classes. How to add more sustainability to your events: Increased Demand: Companies are seeking wellness-focused retreats to balance business with employee well-being, reflecting a broader emphasis on mental health and stress management  Sustainable Practices: Venues are prioritizing eco-friendly initiatives, offering wellness activities and nutritious menus, which align with corporate sustainability goals Global Leaders: India is emerging as a top destination, combining ancient wellness traditions with modern amenities, making it ideal for MICE events. 7.​ Carbon Zero Events: Paving the way to a Greener Future The MICE sector has gone a long way toward organising carbon-zero events this year. The need to address climate change has forced event planners to reconsider their strategy and prioritise sustainability. The goal of hosting carbon-zero events is to reduce and offset the carbon impact that comes with organising large-scale gatherings. The idea of carbon-neutral events entails a complex strategy. To power venues, event organisers are investing in alternative energy sources like solar and wind power. Initiatives like investing in carbon offset programs and forestry projects are becoming increasingly important parts of event planning efforts. -​ In addition to reducing the environmental effect, Carbon Zero Events encourage participants and stakeholders to make greener lifestyle choices by implementing sustainable practices including utilizing renewable energy, reducing trash, and encouraging eco-friendly transportation. A more sustainable longer-lasting future for the MICE industry is being paved by this group effort. 8.​ Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Immersive technologies are making a reputation for themselves in the MICE sector, particularly Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR). Once thought to be futuristic, these technologies are now essential for producing interesting and dynamic event experiences. Anticipate a sharp increase in the use of AR and VR in 2024, as these technologies go past novelty and become essential resources for event planners.​ For Example:​ - AR can display digital information in the real world, helping participants interact with products or services in a more engaging manner. VR, on the other hand, creates completely immersive environments where attendees can "experience" a product or location virtually, even before it's physically accessible.  -​ AR and VR become more common, their use in the MICE industry is expected to grow significantly , with more affordable and user- friendly technology, even smaller event planners can easily incorporate these tools. 9.​ Robots will join the Workforce ​ To combat the spread of germs, especially during the early stages of the pandemic, the Westin Houston Medical Center became the first hotel in the US to deploy nine LightStrike Germ-Zapping Robots. These robots use powerful ultraviolet light to eliminate viruses, bacteria, and fungi, a technology already widely used in hospitals for infection control. This implementation of advanced cleaning technology represents one of the key trends shaping the future of the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) business. By prioritizing and visibly demonstrating enhanced hygiene and safety measures, such as using these robots. B.​ GREEN MEETINGS AND ITS SUSTAINABLE IMPACTS Intro - #1 : Juliana #2 - #3 : Jessa #4 - 5 ending: Ariah A "green" meeting is one that is organized and implemented in such a way as to minimize negative impacts on the environment and promote a positive social impact for the host community. Meetings and events are not stand-alone activities. The average meeting or conference influences a number of other independent yet interactive industry sectors which, in turn, may produce a direct economic, social and environmental impact at their point of intersection. Meetings thus become stepping stones for sustainability in communities, creating local market demand for products and/or services that result in the reduction of toxic materials, waste generation, greenhouse gas emissions, and water and energy consumption (Green Meetings | US EPA, 2024). Key Sustainable Impacts of Green Meetings: 1. Reduced Carbon Emissions: ○​ Virtual and Hybrid Meetings: Allow participants to attend remotely, which cuts down the need for air travel,driving, and hotel stays. In- person meetings typically involve significant transportation related emissions, including flights  and car rides to venues. By hosting virtual or hybrid meetings, these emissions can be avoided. ○​ Eco-Friendly Venues: Choosing venues with sustainable practices, such as energy-efficient buildings and renewable energy sources, helps lower carbon emissions. ○​ Sustainable Transportation: Encouraging eco- friendly transportation methods among the attendees can significantly reduce the environmental impact of meetings. This might include promoting the use of public transportation, offering shuttle services, arranging group transportation. 2. Waste Reduction: ○​ Zero Waste Events: Many conferences now have dedicated teams that focus on waste management ensuring that non-recyclable materials are kept to a minimum, and that food waste is composted. ○​ Digital Documentation: Opting for digital agendas, presentations, and handouts eliminates the need for paper-based materials. ○​ Reusable Materials: Using reusable signage, tablecloths, and tableware reduces waste and minimizes the need for single-use items. ○​ Composting and Recycling: Implementing effective waste management systems, including composting and recycling programs, diverts waste from landfills. 3. Conservation of Resources: ○​ Energy Efficiency: Using energy-efficient lighting and climate control systems can significantly reduce energy consumption. ○​ Water Conservation: Implementing water-saving measures, such as low-flow fixtures and water-efficient landscaping, helps conserve precious water resources. ○​ Sustainable Food and Beverage Choices: Sourcing local and organic food, minimizing food waste, and using compostable or recyclable food packaging can reduce the environmental impact of catering. ○​ Eco Friendly Giveaway: Instead of traditional promotional items like plastic pens or branded keychains, green meetings often provide attendees with useful, sustainable items such as reusable water bottles, bamboo utensils, or eco-friendly tote bags. These sustainable giveaways reduce waste and encourage long- term eco-friendly habits. 4 Positive Social Impact: ○​ Supporting Local Businesses: Sourcing food and services from local businesses can boost the local economy and create jobs. By giving preference to local companies, you're doing more than just buying goods or services; you're making an investment in the development and well-being of your neighborhood and contributing to the creation of a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable future. ○​ Community Engagement: Incorporating community outreach initiatives, such as volunteer opportunities or charitable donations, can have a positive social impact. Promoting community involvement helps create a society that is more resilient, inclusive, and powerful, allowing everyone to have a say in how their shared destiny is shaped. ○​ Educating Attendees: Raising awareness about sustainability issues can inspire attendees to adopt eco-friendly practices in their personal and professional lives. Workshops on Mental Health, Sustainability Education, Civic Education, Financial Literacy Seminars, are some example in Educating Attendees. 5. Economic Impact : ​ Open space and Carbon offsets: Natural areas like forests, parks, and farmland act as "carbon sinks," absorbing greenhouse gases and mitigating climate change. This provides economic benefits by improving quality of life and supporting agriculture, the state's largest industry. The state's cap-and-trade program allows public and private entities to generate carbon offsets from these open spaces. Preserving open space, rather than developing it, often proves more fiscally responsible, as it maintains property values, tax revenue, and avoids costly infrastructure and service development. ​ Attracting Eco-conscious Participants: Many attendees are increasingly attracted to sustainable practices, and they may choose to attend events that prioritize environmental responsibility. This can also enhance an organization’s reputation and brand loyalty, especially among eco-conscious consumers and professionals. ​ Efficient Transportation : Transportation, a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in California, calls for sustainable solutions. Efficient  transportation systems offer a variety of options beyond single-occupancy vehicles. 2 These systems not only reduce fuel consumption and improve air 3 quality but also contribute to economic growth. By alleviating traffic congestion, enhancing public health, and stimulating local economies, efficient transportation systems offer a comprehensive approach to sustainable development. Green meetings are designed to minimize negative environmental impacts and leave a positive impact on the host community. They incorporate sustainable practices in various aspects of event planning and execution, such as venue selection, transportation, catering, waste management, and communication. C.​ GREENWASHING Greenwashing is a deceptive marketing practice where companies promote their products or services as environmentally friendly, sustainable, or eco-conscious when they are not. It's a way to capitalize on consumer desire for ethical and sustainable products without actually implementing significant changes (Nelson, 2024). Common Greenwashing Tactics: 1.​ Vague Claims: Using terms like "eco-friendly," "natural," or "green" without specific evidence or certifications. 2.​ Hidden Trade-offs: Highlighting one eco-friendly aspect of a product while ignoring its negative environmental impacts. 3.​ Misleading Labels and Certifications: Creating fake certifications or misusing legitimate ones to deceive consumers. 4.​ Focus on a Single Issue: Emphasizing one minor environmental benefit while overlooking broader environmental concerns. 5.​ Irrelevant Claims: Promoting a product's environmental benefits that are unrelated to its core function. Examples of Greenwashing: ​ Plastic Packaging Disguised as Eco-Friendly: Companies may use recyclable or biodegradable packaging for a small portion of their products while continuing to use excessive plastic packaging overall.  ​ "Green" Products with Harmful Ingredients: Some products labeled as "natural" or "organic" may contain harmful chemicals or be produced using unsustainable practices. ​ Misleading Carbon Offset Claims: Companies may claim to offset their carbon emissions by planting trees or investing in renewable energy projects, but these claims may not be fully transparent or effective. ​ Greenwashing Marketing Campaigns: Companies may use emotionally charged advertising to portray themselves as environmentally responsible without substantial evidence to back up their claims. D.​ EVALUATING EFFORTS CHANGES AFFECTING THE MICE INDUSTRY IN THE NEXT MILLENNIUM Introduction The MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) industry plays a critical role in the global economy, driving business, tourism, and professional networking. As the industry evolves, various efforts and changes are shaping its future. ​ Sustainability and Social Responsibility One of the most significant changes in the MICE industry is the emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility. Event organizers and venues are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices to minimize their environmental footprint. These efforts include: ​ Digitalization: Reducing paper usage by opting for digital brochures, tickets, and communication. We can build a future where technology supports social justice, ethical corporate practices, and environmental protection by utilizing digital technologies for these purposes. ​ Green Venues: Selecting venues with sustainable practices such as energy-efficient lighting, waste reduction programs, and sustainable food sourcing. ​ Waste Management: Implementing strategies to reduce, reuse, and recycle materials used during events.  These measures not only benefit the environment but also appeal to environmentally conscious attendees and stakeholders, enhancing the overall reputation of the events. ​ Personalization Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics are revolutionizing the way events are personalized. Organizers can now tailor experiences to individual preferences, offering unique and engaging activities. Key aspects of personalization include: ​ Customized Agendas: Attendees receive personalized schedules based on their interests and professional goals. ​ Targeted Networking: AI algorithms match attendees with similar interests, facilitating meaningful connections and collaborations. ​ Interactive Content: Personalized content delivery, such as tailored sessions and workshops, enhances engagement and satisfaction.​ ​ Wellness Focus The well-being of attendees has become a priority in the MICE industry. Incorporating wellness activities and facilities into events promotes a healthy and productive environment. Initiatives include: ​ Wellness Programs: Offering activities like yoga sessions, meditation, and fitness classes. ​ Healthy Catering: Providing nutritious and balanced meal options to support attendees' health. ​ Mindfulness Spaces: Creating designated areas for relaxation and stress relief during events.​ ​ Diversity and Inclusion Creating inclusive and diverse events is essential for fostering a welcoming and respectful atmosphere. The MICE industry is making strides in this area by:  ​ Inclusive Programming: Ensuring diverse representation among speakers, panelists, and participants. ​ Accessibility: Implementing measures to accommodate attendees with disabilities, such as accessible venues and assistive technologies. ​ Cultural Sensitivity: Promoting cultural awareness and sensitivity in event planning and execution. ​ Contactless and Paperless Organization The adoption of contactless and paperless technologies is transforming the logistics of event organization. These innovations offer numerous benefits, including increased efficiency and enhanced attendee experience. Key developments include: ​ Mobile Apps: Utilizing event-specific mobile apps for registration, communication, and scheduling. ​ Contactless Payments: Implementing contactless payment systems for transactions within the event. ​ Digital Badges: Replacing physical badges with digital ones for secure and seamless access control.​ ​ Hybrid Events The rise of hybrid events, which combine in-person and virtual elements, is reshaping the MICE industry. This approach offers greater flexibility and accessibility, allowing a broader audience to participate. Key features of hybrid events include: ​ Virtual Platforms: Leveraging advanced virtual platforms to stream live sessions and facilitate remote participation. ​ Interactive Tools: Incorporating interactive tools like live polls, Q&A sessions, and chat features to engage both in-person and virtual attendees. ​ Global Reach: Expanding the event's reach by enabling participation from individuals across the globe.​ ​ Impact on the Industry The aforementioned changes are expected to drive significant growth and transformation in the MICE industry. According to industry projections, the global  MICE market is anticipated to reach a worth of $1.78 billion by 2030. The industry is adapting to new technologies and societal shifts, ensuring that events remain relevant, engaging, and impactful. Conclusion The MICE industry is at a pivotal juncture, with various efforts and changes shaping its future. From sustainability and personalization to wellness and hybrid events, the industry is evolving to meet the demands of a dynamic and diverse audience. Embracing these trends will not only enhance the attendee experience but also drive growth and innovation in the MICE sector for years to come. By solving these concerns and seizing new possibilities, the industry can continue to prosper, providing meaningful and impactful events that meet the changing expectations of businesses and attendees worldwide. It plays a crucial role in economic development by facilitating business networking and showcasing innovations, while also generating significant revenue for host cities through tourism and infrastructure investments. The industry has evolved from its roots in 19th-century Europe to become a major driver of business travel and job creation worldwide. MICE events foster collaboration, enhance brand visibility, and motivate employees through incentive programs  REFERENCES Green Meetings | US EPA. (2024, September 15). US EPA. https://www.epa.gov/p2/green-meetings Edwards, G. (2023, November 24). In-person, virtual or hybrid: how to choose your event format for your upcoming events. Event Management Platform for Virtual, Hybrid and Online Events | Canapii. https://canapii.com/blog/how-to-choose-your-event-format/#:~:text=Virtual%20events %20eliminate%20the%20need,limitations%20of%20in%2Dperson%20events. The Company of Biologists Ltd. (2023, December 21). Choosing sustainable venues: a guide - The Company of Biologists. The Company of Biologists. https://www.biologists.com/stories/choosing-sustainable-venues-a-guide/#:~:text=Mor e%20renewable%20sources%3A%20choosing%20a,ways%20to%20decrease%20th e%20carbon Greener choices. (n.d.). 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Retrieved from https://www.coursehero.com/file/97183433/mice-industrydocx/ https://www.zerowasteeurope.eu/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Zero-Waste-Events.co mpressed.pdf Online, E. (n.d.). European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines - The Net-Zero Carbon Events Philippines. ECCP. https://www.eccp.com/events/1228 CVEnT. (n.d.). 9 Trends shaping the future of MICE Business. https://www.cvent.com/sg/blog/hospitality/9-trends-shaping-future-mice-business The Fiscal and Economic Benefits of Sustainability https://www.ca-ilg.org/sites/main/files/file-attachments/the_fiscal_and_economic_ben efits_of_sustainability_draft.pdf