Dallas Market Center’s ArchLIGHT Summit is spotlighting a lineup of sessions and receptions from its 2026 show, returning September 15-16 with headline keynotes, panels, and receptions for the lighting, architecture, specification, and design communities.

This year’s show also runs alongside Dallas Design Week (September 15-17), the DALI Alliance’s North America Summit (September 16-17), and, for the first time, the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)’s national GATHER: Catalyst conference (September 16-18), widening the pool of design and lighting professionals on campus that week.

“ArchLIGHT Summit continues to grow because of the incredible support of our exhibitors, rep agencies, sponsors, partners, and industry advocates,” said show director Lea Tranakos. “Together, they help us build an event that truly serves the lighting and design communities through practical education, product innovation, and collaboration so participants can see where our industry is headed.”

ArchLIGHT Summit’s educational programming opens with keynote speaker Leni Schwendinger, the internationally recognized urban lighting authority behind the NightSeeing™ nighttime design initiative, whose lighting work for landmarks includes New York’s Port Authority Bus Terminal and Times Square. Schwendinger will deliver a keynote blending data, humor, and dazzling visuals to offer a bold new perspective on city life from dusk to dawn.

ArchLIGHT Summit’s recurring networking series, Sip n’ Connect, pairs cocktails and connections on Tuesday afternoon with coffee on Wednesday morning, giving attendees two relaxed chances to unwind and network between sessions.

Closing the educational programming will be Andrea Hartranft, FIALD, principal of Hartranft Lighting Studios and past president of the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD). A recipient of the 2026 EdisonReport Lifetime Achievement Award and previously named Lighting Designer of the Year, Hartranft will pose the question “What If?” in a closing keynote exploring what the future of lighting might look like.

“ArchLIGHT Summit has always been about bringing people together, and Dallas Market Center is such a natural place to do that,” said C. Webster Marsh, director of education and programming for ArchLIGHT Summit. “We’re excited about the conversations that will happen in the sessions, on the show floor, and at the networking events throughout the two days. With DALI Summit and Dallas Design Week happening at the same time, there’s an added energy around the Market Center that makes this year’s event feel especially exciting.”

The 2026 educational program includes seven HSW-accredited sessions addressing topics ranging from recommended lighting levels and color rendering to historic preservation, outdoor controls, selectable lighting, and human health and wellbeing.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

A sampling of the sessions and receptions on this year’s calendar is below:

• WILD’s Welcome Party
  Monday, September 14 | 5 p.m. | WAC Showroom – TM 3101

Women in Lighting + Design (WILD) welcomes everyone to Dallas with a pre-show reception featuring food, drinks, networking, and entertainment that’s open to all attendees, exhibitors, agents, and sponsors.

• Humanizing the Night: A Practical Vision for Safer, More Vibrant, Illuminated Cities — 1.0 LU
  Tuesday, September 15 | 10 a.m. | TM 1 – Education Station

Speaker: Leni Schwendinger, urban lighting authority and founder of the NightSeeing™ nighttime design initiative

ArchLIGHT Summit’s opening keynote makes the case for nighttime lighting as a tool for urban safety and vibrancy, drawing on Schwendinger’s work on landmark projects including New York’s Port Authority Bus Terminal and Times Square.

• AI as a Lighting Designer’s Assistant: Practical Tools for Analysis, Comparison, and Clarity — 1.0 LU
  Tuesday, September 15 | 11 a.m. | Education Station – TM 1

Speaker: Ardra Zinkon, CLD, IALD, president and director of lighting design, Zinkon Creative Studio

A practical look at how designers can put AI to work for analysis, comparison, and documentation while keeping creative control in human hands, including where the technology adds value and where it falls short.

• A Proposed Two-Parameter Approach to Recommended Lighting Levels — 1.0 LU|HSW
  Tuesday, September 15 | 12 p.m. | Education Station – TM 1 

Speaker: Craig Bernecker, Ph.D., FIES, LC

A challenge to conventional thinking on recommended light levels, proposing a two-parameter framework that designers can use to make more informed decisions about illuminance.

• LP-30: A Phase-by-Phase Approach to TM-30 — 1.5 LU|HSW
  Tuesday, September 15 | 1 p.m. | Hudson Valley Lighting Group Showroom – TM 3902

Speaker: Jason Livingston, IES, IALD, LC, principal, Studio T+L, LLC

An introduction to ANSI/IES LP-30 and its phase-by-phase implementation of TM-30, showing how the standard’s Preference, Vividness, and Fidelity design intents can broaden color rendering goals across a project, followed by a live demonstration of light sources illustrating each intent.

• The Museum Multiverse — 1.0 LU
  Tuesday, September 15 | 1 p.m. | Avenue Lighting Showroom – TM 3606

Panelists: Anita Jorgensen, IESNA, IALD, LEED, LC; Chuck Cameron; John Delfino, associate principal, Available Light, Inc.; Amy Nelson, manager of lighting design, The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Designers share insights from world-class museum projects spanning historic houses to immersive environments, exploring the tension between compelling visitor experience and responsible stewardship of objects.

• Lighting to Support Human Health and Wellbeing — 1.0 LU|HSW
  Wednesday, September 16 | 1 p.m. | Education Station – TM 1

Speaker: Mariana Figueiro, professor and director, Light and Health Research Center at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

This evidence-based session examines how the spectrum, timing, and duration of light affect the visual, perceptual, and circadian systems, offering practical strategies for designing spaces that support “bright days, dim evenings, dark nights.”

• Equitable by Design: Dynamic Lighting Systems for Neurodivergent Accessibility — 1.0 LU
  Wednesday, September 16 | 2 p.m. | Education Station – TM 1

Speaker: John Delfino, associate principal, Available Light, Inc.

Using La Nubé STEAM Discovery Center, the first U.S. children’s museum with exhibit lighting that dynamically adjusts to the sensory needs of neurodivergent visitors, as a case study, this session explores how dynamic lighting and controls can advance accessible, equitable design.

• What Happens When the Race to the Bottom Is Over? The Evolution of Value — 1.0 LU
  Wednesday, September 16 | 3 p.m. | Eurofase – TM 4002

Speaker: Andrea Hartranft, FIALD, principal, Hartranft Lighting Studios

Hosted in partnership with IALD Texas, ArchLIGHT Summit’s closing keynote invites attendees to consider what will differentiate lighting products once cost and efficiency are no longer the deciding factor.

• DALI Control the Night
  Tuesday, September 15 | 6 p.m. | ArchLIGHT Summit Show Floor

Sponsored by the DALI Alliance, this evening of dinner, drinks, networking, entertainment, and lighting trivia is open to attendees of all Dallas Market Center events and kicks off the DALI Alliance’s North America Summit taking place onsite September 16-17.

• IALD Presents The Second Annual Last Call Y’all
  Wednesday, September 16 | 4 p.m. | Eurofase Showroom – TM 4002

IALD Texas, in partnership with Eurofase, closes out ArchLIGHT Summit with a celebratory reception following the closing keynote.

SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

ArchLIGHT Summit 2026 partners include the DALI Alliance, Women in Lighting + Design (WILD), Oxygen Lighting, and the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD), joining participating Dallas Market Center showrooms in offering CEU sessions, receptions, hospitality events, and additional opportunities for connection throughout the show.

Returning sponsors and lighting rep agencies Architectural Lighting Alliance, Hossley Lighting & Power Solutions, Preferred Lighting Group, Texas Lighting Solutions, and SESCO connect attendees with manufacturers through dedicated pavilions and lounge spaces throughout the show.

Association partners for ArchLIGHT Summit include AIA Dallas, American Lighting Association, Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals (AOLP), International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD), IALD Education Trust, IALD Texas, IES, IES Dallas, IIDA Texas Oklahoma chapter, International Landscape Lighting Institute, Light Justice, NACLIQ, NAILD, NAWIC, NEMRA Lighting, SARA, Texas Society of Architects, The Lighting Exchange, and Women in Lighting + Design (WILD).

ArchLIGHT Summit is proud to partner with leading industry media, including Inside Lighting, Bisnow, Designing Lighting, Edison Report, Light Directory, Commercial Construction & Renovation, Building Design + Construction, LightNOW, US Lighting Trends, National Lighting Bureau, Lighting Controls Academy, and Lighting Controls Podcast.

ArchLIGHT Summit supports the growth of the design/build industry and encourages student participation with complimentary admission to the event and its educational sessions for students pursuing careers in commercial lighting and design.

ALSO AT DALLAS MARKET CENTER

ArchLIGHT Summit’s September dates coincide with Dallas Market Center’s Gift & Home Market and KidsWorld, running September 15-17, giving attendees the opportunity to explore gift, home décor, and children’s product sourcing alongside the lighting and design programming.

Following the strong international growth highlighted in the official post-show results – with overseas visitors increasing by 33.4% – CBD Guangzhou 2026 further demonstrated that its evolution is driven not only by the scale of the exhibition, but also by an increasingly rich ecosystem of content, ideas and international collaboration.
Today, CBD Guangzhou is far more than a sourcing platform. It is becoming a year-round international hub where manufacturers, architects, designers, buyers, institutions and industry experts come together to explore emerging trends, exchange knowledge and create new business opportunities.

This vision was reflected in more than 70 conferences, forums, exhibitions and curated initiatives, transforming the exhibition into a platform where products, innovation and professional dialogue converge. Among the most representative initiatives of the 2026 edition were the following.

International Knowledge and Global Dialogue

One of the highlights of CBD Guangzhou’s international strategy was the debut of The World Connect Lounge and the World Connect Forum, hosted and organised by CBD Guangzhou and conceived and developed by Edimotion.
Created as an international hub for knowledge sharing, networking and business exchange, the initiative welcomed architects, designers, buyers, media representatives, exhibitors and market experts from around the world. Its programme explored global design trends, international market developments and export opportunities, reinforcing CBD Guangzhou’s ambition to become not only a sourcing platform, but also a place where international dialogue generates new business opportunities and long-term partnerships.

Material Innovation and Design Inspiration

Now in its third edition, Archi Box confirmed its role as one of CBD Guangzhou’s most innovative design-oriented initiatives.
Combining a curated exhibition, a material library and dedicated forums, the project created a direct connection between designers, manufacturers and suppliers, showcasing innovative materials and promoting more efficient sourcing processes. Through its modular and sustainable exhibition concept, Archi Box demonstrated how material innovation continues to shape the future of architecture and interior design.

New Business Models for Design Brands

The “All In IP” exhibition explored new ways for design brands to create long-term value beyond the exhibition itself.
By combining immersive installations, branded experiences and reusable intellectual-property content, the initiative demonstrated how exhibitions can become platforms for continuous communication, brand building and community engagement rather than temporary showcases.

Designing for an Ageing Society

Among the most forward-looking initiatives was “Nuan Lili · Smart Age-Friendly Living Space”, China’s first immersive exhibition dedicated to age-friendly living.
Moving beyond the traditional medical approach, the project demonstrated how architecture, interior design and smart technologies can improve everyday life through discreet, human-centred solutions that promote independence, comfort and wellbeing for an ageing population.

Redefining the Future of Living

With the second edition of THE PLACE, CBD Guangzhou explored a broader vision of contemporary living.
Bringing together designers, brands, urban planners and community organisations, the initiative examined how residential spaces, commercial environments and neighbourhoods are evolving to create more sustainable, inclusive and meaningful lifestyles. Through exhibitions and forums, THE PLACE highlighted the growing role of design in shaping communities rather than simply creating buildings.

Together, these initiatives demonstrate how CBD Guangzhou is evolving beyond a trade fair into a global platform for knowledge, innovation and international business. More than a place to showcase products, it is becoming a catalyst for collaboration, market development and long-term international growth.

The journey continues at the 29th CBD Guangzhou, taking place from 8–11 July 2027 at the Canton Fair Complex, Guangzhou. Industry professionals from around the world are invited to discover the latest innovations, connect with leading manufacturers and help shape the future of the global building decoration industry.

LiGHT 26, the UK’s only trade show dedicated to high-end lighting specification, returns to the Business Design Centre in Islington, London, on the 18th and 19th of November 2026, bringing together the lighting and design community for two days of product discovery, expert insight and valuable industry connection.

Whether specifying an upcoming project, searching for new suppliers, discovering the latest technologies or simply looking to stay ahead of emerging trends, LiGHT 26 provides a unique opportunity to explore the very best of the lighting industry – all under one roof.

Since launching in 2022, LiGHT has quickly established itself as a key date in the calendar for architects, interior designers, lighting designers, engineers, consultants and specifiers, offering a dedicated platform to discover new products, meet leading manufacturers and connect with the people behind some of the most innovative lighting projects.

For two days, the Business Design Centre will become a hub of creativity, collaboration and conversation, with hundreds of leading architectural and decorative lighting brands showcasing the latest products, technologies and solutions. From cutting-edge lighting systems and controls to decorative fittings, technical innovations and smart building technologies, visitors will have the chance to experience new ideas first-hand and discover products before they are specified on future projects.

Returning for LiGHT 26, the Technical Zone will provide a dedicated area for brands specialising in lighting controls, emergency lighting, OEM components, lamps, gear, connected technologies and more. Reflecting the growing importance of intelligent and integrated lighting solutions, the zone offers visitors the chance to explore the technologies driving the future of sustainable and efficient design.

Beyond the exhibition floor, LiGHT 26 will deliver an inspiring programme of talks and discussions, bringing together influential voices from across the lighting, architecture and design communities. Curated by [d]arc media, the [d]arc thoughts talk programme will explore the latest challenges, opportunities and ideas shaping the future of lighting, with speaker announcements for this and the splinter talks programme in the Associations Lounge to follow.

Adding another creative dimension to the show, planning is already well underway for the LiGHT 26 Art Installation, which will once again bring together lighting, creativity and design to create a memorable centrepiece for visitors to experience during the exhibition. Further details will be revealed in the coming months, with visitors invited to experience this unique feature during the show.

Networking remains at the heart of the LiGHT experience. From conversations with exhibitors and industry experts to informal catch-ups with peers, the event provides the perfect environment to build relationships, exchange ideas and discover new opportunities. The popular late-night drinks reception will also return, offering visitors and exhibitors the chance to continue conversations in a more relaxed social setting after the first day of the show.

Simon Albert, CEO of Messe Frankfurt UK, said: “LiGHT has become one of the most important meeting places for the UK lighting specification community, and we’re delighted to welcome the industry back this November. As the first edition under Messe Frankfurt UK, LiGHT 26 will continue to deliver what visitors and exhibitors value most – exceptional brands, inspiring content and meaningful connections – while benefiting from the international reach and expertise of the wider Light + Building portfolio.”

With thousands of professionals expected to attend, LiGHT 26 is set to once again bring together the brands, ideas and individuals shaping the future of lighting. Completely free to attend, it offers an unmissable opportunity to discover new products, gain fresh inspiration and connect with the wider lighting community.

If lighting plays a role in your projects, LiGHT 26 should be in your diary.

Register now for free and be part of the UK’s leading event dedicated to lighting specification.

Today, CBD Guangzhou is far more than a trade exhibition. It has evolved into a comprehensive international platform where innovation, sourcing, market intelligence and business networking converge, serving as a gateway to China’s building decoration industry for architects, designers, developers, contractors, distributors, manufacturers and real estate professionals from around the world.

A Comprehensive Industry Ecosystem

Reflecting the ongoing transformation of the industry, CBD Guangzhou 2026
further strengthened its exhibition model around three integrated ecosystems INTERIOR, EXTERIOR and MATECH covering the entire building decoration
supply chain, from interior solutions and building envelope systems to decorative materials, smart technologies and intelligent manufacturing.

The exhibition also reinforced its market-oriented strategy through six key professional channels dealers, international trade, designers, interior contractors, commercial projects and new media creating valuable connections between exhibitors and highly targeted business audiences.

A major highlight of this year’s edition was the continued expansion of the Bath & Sanitary Area, developed in partnership with the China Chamber of Commerce of Metals, Minerals & Chemicals Importers & Exporters (CCCMC). The collaboration attracted a larger number of export-oriented manufacturers,further strengthening CBD Guangzhou’s position as one of the leading international sourcing platforms for ceramic surfaces, sanitary ware and residential renovation solutions.

Internationalisation at the Core

International development remained one of the defining themes of the 2026 edition. Building on the success of the CBD World-Connect programme, the exhibition further expanded its global communication, overseas buyer recruitment and international media partnerships, reinforcing its role as a bridge between Chinese manufacturers and global markets.

Together with more than 70 conferences, forums and special events held throughout the exhibition, these initiatives further strengthened CBD Guangzhou’s position as an international platform where business, innovation and professional knowledge converge.

Among the highlights of the international programme was the debut of The World Connect Lounge and the World Connect Forum, hosted and organised by CBD Guangzhou and conceived and developed by Edimotion. As a new international hub for knowledge sharing, networking and business exchange, the initiative brought together architects, designers, buyers, media representatives, industry experts and exhibitors through a curated programme of high-level forums and discussions exploring global design trends, international markets and export opportunities.

Knowledge Beyond the Exhibition

Throughout the four-day event, more than 70 conferences, forums and curated activities explored many of today’s most relevant industry topics, including urban regeneration, residential renovation, ageing-friendly living, sustainability, AI, smart technologies and international trade.

By bringing together industry leaders, institutions, universities, media and
professional organisations, CBD Guangzhou continues to demonstrate that the future of trade fairs lies not only in showcasing products, but also in creating knowledge, fostering collaboration and supporting the long-term development of the global building decoration industry.

Looking Ahead

Following the success of the 2026 edition, CBD Guangzhou will continue to
strengthen its international strategy through the further development of the CBD World-Connect programme and new initiatives designed to support exhibitors’ global expansion and attract an even broader international audience.

The next edition of CBD Guangzhou will take place from 8–11 July 2027 at the Canton Fair Complex, once again bringing together the global building decoration community to discover innovation, build strategic partnerships and unlock new international business opportunities.

It is well to be noted that the public sector procurement framework spans Yorkshire as well as the Humber region, North East, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, and Derbyshire along with parts of Leicestershire, with a range of projects open to tender across a four-year term, with a choice to extend the contract for a further two years.

Managed by the East Riding of Yorkshire Council and Leeds City Council, the framework ensures a regulated, open, and effective route to obtain major building works.

The Yorkshire & North East team from McLaren is an established team located in Leeds city centre and managed by Andrew Beaumont, the managing director.

The appointment solidifies long-term investment of McLaren within the region and encourages sustainable growth thanks to its diversification into the public sector, contributing £250m to its turnover in the previous financial year.

According to Beaumont, “Securing a place on the YORbuild Framework is fantastic news for the Yorkshire & North East region and delivers on the strategic objectives we set ourselves in 2025. This strengthens our ability to support public sector organizations and allows us to focus on schemes where we can add genuine value from the outset. It also gives us a platform to demonstrate our commitment to social value, working with the framework’s YOR4Good Fund and YORscep, to create meaningful opportunities for communities and local supply chain partners.”

The LEEA logo represents assurance of the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association gold standard – a standard that is sacrosanct, which means any member carrying the LEEA logo must earn it.

They do so through the LEEA Membership Assessment, which has the ethos of helping a member stand apart in the marketplace and to achieve the Association’s vision of eliminating accident, injury and fatality.  Undergoing this rigorous assessment process means the member will uphold LEEA’s ‘gold standard’.

More than a just brand, the LEEA logo is a signal of assurance of excellence in an industry that is vital to the efficiency of all kinds of supply chains, and one where risk is commonplace. Looking for the LEEA logo is the most direct method operations have to  mitigate the risk of an inspection by Health and Safety authorities when procuring lifting equipment or supporting services.

It is the simple way to identify an expert. Our membership comprises expertise in every aspect of the Lifting Industry – from design, manufacture, refurbishment and repair, through to the hire, maintenance and use of lifting equipment for an entire spectrum of end users.

The LEEA logo is recognised by people, organisations and governing bodies worldwide – from Southeast Asia, China, the Middle East and Australia to Europe, North and South America. It will be seen across the supply chains of industries as diverse as automotive, aeronautical, construction, defence, entertainment, green infrastructure, logistics, manufacturing, marine and shipping, medical facilities military, oil and gas, ports – the list goes on and on.

Given the high value attributed to the LEEA logo, its use is subject to copyright and a set of Terms and Conditions – which LEEA issues to members. In short, full members of the Association have full use of the Association’s logo or may use the logo appended with the words “Full Member” subject to issued terms and conditions. Associate members may use the logo appended with the words “Associate Member” also subject to terms and conditions. Provisional members are not permitted to use any Association logos.

Terms and conditions

The terms and conditions for the use of the LEEA logo cover the design of the logo itself, that it must be reproduced from original artwork supplied by the LEEA, without any additional text or image within the square boundary of the logo. Specifications are provided in terms of size and colour registration to ensure legibility and must be adhered to. There are instructions on framing on darker backgrounds and where the Association’s name is used in conjunction with the logo.

The logo may be used on reports of thorough examination, stationery, promotional literature and other promotional items, advertising, exhibition stands, clothing, signs, vehicles, etc, without restriction so long as it is clear and legible to maintain the high quality of the LEEA’s corporate image. But it must not be used in such a way as to be seen as an endorsement of a particular product.

While the LEEA logo must not be used on any training certificates, members of the LEEA Accredited Training Scheme can use the correct ATS Logo on training courses accredited by LEEA.

If an organisation is no longer a member of the Association, their right to use the logo also ceases. Any remaining material bearing the logo must be withdrawn or the logo obscured.  The LEEA logo and name may not be used on any identity card scheme which is not approved by the Association.

Please be sure to read the full terms and conditions of using the LEEA logo because they are important part of upholding our gold standard. If you have any questions, contact mail@leeaint.com.

LEEA badge holders are trusted partners and there will be no dilution in terms of quality among the membership – they must have the processes and people in place as well as a commitment to ongoing excellence.

We want more lifting equipment providers, service companies and individuals to become members and earn the LEEA badge to further spread our gold standard. There are many great reasons to join our Association and I would encourage anybody who is interested in doing so to visit https://leeaint.com/benefits for more information.

Highlighting the importance of the launch, James Venerus, Product Marketing General Manager at Komatsu Europe, said: “At Komatsu, safety is always our number one priority and is non-negotiable. This collaboration with Safety Shield Global marks a clear step forward in delivering integrated solutions that enhance jobsite safety and give customers greater peace of mind.” The company stated that the system has undergone extensive testing in typical European operating environments and has demonstrated industry-leading detection accuracy. Performance testing covered a broad range of site conditions and ensured reliable detection across multiple colours commonly used in high-visibility and protective workwear.

The technology has been developed jointly with Safety Shield Global, whose software is specifically designed for environments where workers operate close to heavy equipment. By combining that software with Komatsu machine architecture, the system provides real-time identification of people located around the machine. Jonathan Guest, CEO of Safety Shield Global, commented: “This partnership with Komatsu marks a major milestone for Safety Shield Global. We are honoured to collaborate with such a respected global manufacturer.” He added: “Our mission has always been to eliminate deaths and serious injuries in environments where people work alongside heavy machinery. Komatsu shares those values, and we’re excited to deepen this partnership and grateful for their trust in our technology.”

The human detection system works alongside the existing KomVision camera system and on-board machine controllers. Operators receive immediate visual and audible notifications through a dedicated in-cab display and alert system whenever a person enters a predefined risk zone surrounding the excavator. Komatsu said factory installation ensures seamless integration, calibration and support while maintaining the quality standards expected from its equipment portfolio. According to Venerus, “Factory-fit is about delivering the same Komatsu standards of quality, assurance and reliability across every part of the machine. By integrating this system at the production stage, we ensure customers receive a solution they can trust – fully aligned with the performance and durability expected from Komatsu equipment.” The option is available on the PC170-11, PC210-11, PC240-11, PC290-11, PC360-11, HB365-3 and PC490-11 excavator models.

Located on a 214-acre site, the facility is expected to improve access to wallboard for contractors, developers and construction firms throughout Western Canada. Designed as one of the most technologically advanced and sustainable operations in USG’s global network, the plant is intended to enhance supply reliability for building projects while supporting the company’s long-term growth strategy. The Alberta Wallboard Plant also reflects a broader effort to strengthen the availability of essential building materials for housing and infrastructure development.

“As one of the most significant wallboard manufacturing investments in our company’s history, Wheatland represents a major milestone for our business and a significant commitment to the future of manufacturing and construction in North America,” said Chris Macey, President and CEO of USG Corporation. Steve Youngblut, President of CGC Inc., said: “We are proud to officially open our doors in Wheatland County and deepen our long-term commitment to Western Canada.” He added that the facility will help ensure builders have access to the materials required for homes and infrastructure projects while supporting long-term employment and economic growth in the region. Dr. Uwe Knotzer, General Partner, Knauf Group and chairman of USG, said the facility demonstrates the group’s commitment to advanced manufacturing and sustainable growth in North America.

The opening follows the project’s groundbreaking in 2024 and forms part of USG’s wider investment strategy aimed at supporting construction markets across Canada and the United States. Together with the revitalization of the Little Narrows gypsum quarry in Nova Scotia, USG, through CGC, is investing nearly CAD$325 million to strengthen material supply, expand production capacity and improve service across its network. The Alberta Wallboard Plant is expected to support future housing, commercial and infrastructure development in Western Canada, while the Little Narrows project will increase gypsum supply along the Eastern Seaboard.

Addressing attendees, Mr. Harshvardhan Neotia, Chairman, Ambuja Neotia Group, Chairman, CII Suresh Neotia Centre of Excellence for Leadership, said, “Climate change is one of the most critical challenges our generation is facing, and the hospitality sector has a significant responsibility in shaping a more sustainable future. Sustainability must become an integral part of how we design, build and operate hospitality assets. We need to place the planet first, followed by people and performance, while recognising that profits are a natural outcome of responsible business practices. By intelligently leveraging technology, embracing renewable energy sources, creating nature-integrated spaces, promoting biodiversity, adopting eco-friendly materials, and strengthening collaboration across stakeholders through platforms like IGBC Green Hospitality Summit, the industry can redefine guest experiences while reducing its environmental footprint. Resorts and hotels have immense potential to become living examples of sustainable development through green landscapes, organic cultivation, microclimate enhancement, and resource-efficient operations. If we focus on doing our duty towards the environment and society, the results will follow. Meaningful transformation will require collective commitment and sustained efforts from all stakeholders to lead the hospitality sector towards a greener and more resilient future.” Speaking on the sector’s evolution, Mr Sushil Mohta emphasized the growing importance of sustainability, operational efficiency and guest experience, noting that sustainability credentials are increasingly influencing traveller decisions and strengthening market preference for responsible hospitality.

Setting the direction for the event, Ar. Vivek Singh Rathore highlighted the rapid expansion of India’s hospitality sector and the need to align that growth with climate resilience and resource efficiency. He noted that the IGBC Green Hotels Rating System supports sustainability throughout the lifecycle of hospitality projects, from planning and design through construction and operations. The summit featured panel discussions on the convergence of design, experience and sustainability, as well as operational challenges linked to water and energy use in HVAC systems, kitchens and laundry facilities. Technical sessions examined decarbonization strategies, renewable energy integration, smart automation, water efficiency and sustainable materials. Through the IGBC Green Hospitality Summit, industry experts shared case studies and implementation approaches aimed at reducing emissions and improving ESG performance across hospitality assets.

The event concluded with the “Walking the Talks” Awards, recognizing organizations that have demonstrated leadership in green building practices and sustainable hospitality. Thirteen hotels received recognition for adopting IGBC green building concepts, including Lemon Tree Hotels Limited, Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Limited, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, InterGlobe Hotels Pvt Ltd./ IBIS Portfolio, Kolkata Hotels Ltd. – Holiday Inn Express Kolkata Airport and Pravat Hospitality Pvt Ltd. The awards acknowledged efforts to reduce environmental impact while enhancing guest experience through sustainable infrastructure and operations.

This pioneering approach moves from theory-only testing to a real world demonstration of proficiency, with learners applying their knowledge across three key stages:

• Preparation and planning
• Process
• Reporting and justification.

These stages are assessed against equipment in known conditions of repair, with learners demonstrating their true proficiency by passing each stage to achieve the relevant LEEA diploma. The same pass criteria applies across both MCQ and Practical Test routes, ensuring consistency in standards, quality and reliability. Practical Test days are scheduled to give flexibility around when assessment takes place.

Matt Barber, LEEA Director of Membership, commented: “Having listened to our members, we have designed our new Proficiency Testing for those who prefer to demonstrate their skills through hands-on inspection. Not all learners feel at ease with online multiple choice assessments, yet for years this has been the standard – a single format and a single measure, but is that enough in an industry built on real world skill? LEEA’s new Proficiency Testing is a shift in mindset to a learner-centred, inclusive approach to qualification. It challenges industry standards and embraces initiative to create fair and reliable outcomes.”

He added: “Rather than replacing the existing route the multiple-choice assessment remains available. So this creates choice and provides an inclusive route to qualification by supporting different styles and removing unnecessary barriers.”

For more information and to secure your spot, visit leeaint.com/courses.