Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1250928
B M & T ••• January/February 2020 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 22 Mindful Meetings & Menus Matter Hotels around the world are starting to offer customized Mindful Meeting packages to enhance their guests' overall wellbeing while staying on property for a convention, meeting or event. Examples of wellness offerings include healthy superfood, gluten-free or plant-based vegetarian menu options, yoga classes, group guided meditations, fitness classes, innovative spa expe- riences, master Zen talks, puppy and ice cream socials to de-stress, invigorating activities and mindful excur- sions within the destination. Seasoned meeting planners know that creating the ideal catering menu and mindful activities for attendees is vital. Eco-Friendly Event & Meeting Initiatives These days attendees are looking for meeting venues that align with their environmen- tal values. One core value that is gaining momentum is the conscientious handling of event waste and the use of plastic straws and water bottles. Lets look at Hilton who has set a perfect example and raised the bar high. Just last year the company announced it removed plastic straws from its 650 managed properties, with a goal to double its social impact investments and cut its global environmental impact in half by 2030, with the help of science- based targets. In Europe, Middle East & Africa alone, the commitment will remove more than five million plastic straws and 20 million plastic water bottles annually. Laid end to end, the straws saved each year in the region would exceed the length of the River Seine. An estimated eight million tons of plastic waste enter the ocean each year, and research proj- ects that plastic in our oceans could triple in a decade. Plastic pollution not only impacts our waters and marine life, but also our food chain and overall W ith the start of a brand-new year, seasoned meeting planners are starting to implement innovative industry trends into their event plans for 2020. Whether it's eco or social responsibility, ensuring attendees have invigorating meeting spaces with beautiful views, healthy menu options, latest technology or unique breakout sessions, here are some experiential things to consider when planning your events for the year ahead: 5 MEETING & EVENT TRENDS TO CONSIDER IN THE NEW DECADE AHEAD