On February 1, the Industry Council (EIC) announced Saint Paul RiverCentre and Xcel Energy Center have once again achieved Gold Level certification to the EIC Sustainable Event Standards. This is a recertification of the gold level status awarded to the organizations in 2020. Previously known as APEX/ASTM, Saint Paul RiverCentre and Xcel Energy Center received their original certification as a Venue for Sustainable Events in 2014.

The EIC Sustainable Event Standards are specific standards for environmental and social responsibility within the events industry. Created by the EIC Sustainability Committee in partnership with industry professionals and leading sustainability practitioners, the requirements provide event planners and suppliers with prescriptive actions for producing and delivering sustainable events. The standard specifies performance criteria in the areas of organizational management, marketing, communications and engagement, climate action, water management, materials and circularity, supply chain management, diversity, equity and inclusion, accessibility and social impact. The Event Organizer standard is one of seven comprehensive standards for environmentally sustainable meetings.