Event Manager at CT Gaming

Milen Tanev is an experienced B2B sales and marketing professional with a strong focus on technology innovations, IoT, and product development. With over ten years in the field, he is skilled in product and business development as well as managing sales and marketing channels. Currently an event manager at CT Gaming in Sofia, Bulgaria, Milen builds and oversees vendor partnerships, manages budgets, and organises exhibitions and trade shows.

Through this article, Tanev highlights the potential of IoT and AI to revolutionise event management by offering smarter, greener solutions that enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

As the demand for sustainability grows, the event industry—planners, venues, suppliers, organisers, and visitors—must embrace technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI). These technologies are transforming event management, offering smarter, greener solutions that reduce environmental impact, enhance efficiency, and improve the overall attendee experience. The results? Greater time savings, personalised interactions, and significant environmental benefits.

Smart Energy Management: Efficiency Through Automation

Energy consumption is a major concern for large events. However, IoT sensors and AI-driven systems are making energy use more efficient. These technologies track real-time data on lighting, heating, and cooling, then automatically adjust energy usage based on occupancy and external conditions.

For example, at the Amsterdam RAI Convention Centre, IoT-powered smart lighting reduces energy consumption by 30% by adjusting when rooms are empty. Similarly, AI-driven HVAC systems optimise energy use without compromising comfort. At the Las Vegas Convention Centre, IoT and AI help reduce energy consumption by 20%, efficiently managing lighting and climate based on foot traffic.

Reducing Waste: Smarter, Cleaner Events

Waste management is another area where IoT and AI excel. Smart waste bins equipped with sensors monitor fill levels and notify staff when they need to be emptied, reducing unnecessary collection trips.

During the 2016 Rio Olympics, smart bins reduced waste collection trips by 30%, cutting both fuel costs and emissions. Wembley Stadium has similarly implemented AI-driven waste management systems that optimise collection routes, lowering operational costs by 15% while making waste disposal more efficient.

Optimising Resources: From Water to Paper Conservation

IoT and AI extend beyond energy and waste management, helping conserve water and reduce paper use. At Barcelona’s Mobile World Congress, IoT-based water systems monitor usage in real-time, resulting in a 15 percent reduction in water consumption. AI-driven analytics help predict demand, allowing for smarter water management and minimising waste.

Moreover, AI can help reduce unnecessary printing by ensuring that only essential materials are produced, further contributing to sustainability by cutting down on paper use and associated costs.

Enhancing the Attendee Experience with AI

AI’s capabilities go beyond operational efficiency; it also personalises the event experience. By analysing data, AI recommends sessions, networking opportunities, and meals based on attendee preferences, tailoring the event experience to individual needs.

At Salesforce Dreamforce, AI offers personalised recommendations, boosting attendee engagement and reducing resource waste. This makes events more interactive and resource efficient. Similarly, at SBC, SIGMA, and ICE, IoT and AI technologies improve both operations and visitor experiences. For example, SIGMA uses IoT sensors to monitor traffic flow, optimising booth placement. AI-powered chatbots provide personalised recommendations and answer visitor questions, enhancing engagement.

Key Examples from Global Gaming Events

At major gaming events like SBC, SIGMA, and ICE, IoT and AI are essential to improving both efficiency and the attendee experience. SIGMA leverages IoT sensors to monitor attendee movement and track foot traffic, enabling better booth placement and crowd management. AI-powered chatbots answer queries and provide tailored recommendations, helping visitors navigate the event seamlessly.

At SBC, AI helps event organisers predict attendee behaviour, optimising resources for popular sessions and exhibitors. Meanwhile, IoT technologies manage energy and lighting in real-time, ensuring sustainable practices and minimising waste.

At ICE, AI enhances resource management by predicting attendee needs, reducing food waste, and optimising energy usage. IoT supports these efforts with smart waste management, ensuring bins are only emptied, when necessary, thus minimising labour and transportation emissions. ​

The Future of Event Management: Embracing IoT and AI

The future of the event industry is being shaped by IoT and AI, technologies that are crucial to achieving sustainability and efficiency. From reducing energy consumption to improving waste management and personalising attendee experiences, IoT and AI are driving the shift toward smarter, greener events.

To remain competitive and sustainable, venues and event organisers must embrace these technologies. By doing so, they will not only reduce their environmental footprint but also achieve significant cost savings and operational improvements.

A Sustainable Future Powered by Technology

The event industry stands at a pivotal moment. By adopting IoT and AI, organisers can revolutionise event management—improving sustainability, enhancing attendee experiences, and driving significant cost savings. Now is the time for all stakeholders to embrace these technologies and lead the charge toward a more efficient and eco-friendly future.

Milen brings over a decade of experience in tech-driven industries, specialising in IoT, automation, and sales engineering. He manages the full technical aspects of the BEGE Expo and leads CT Gaming and CT Interactive in participating in global events such as SBC, SIGMA, and ICE. Milen’s approach combines IoT, AI, and his marketing expertise to develop practical strategies that drive sustainability, efficiency, and cost savings for the event industry.