The Grounds Management Association (GMA) has announced the Sports Turf Amenities and Landscaping Trade Exhibition (SALTEX)’s upcoming ‘Learning LIVE Sessions’, taking place at the Birmingham show in November.
The event’s organisers state that the SALTEX Learning LIVE Sessions will focus on the sustainability and environmental issues the grounds maintenance sector is currently facing.
On these issues, Geoff Webb, GMA chief executive, said: “Those managing and maintaining sports turf and green spaces are already having to deal with the impact of climate change, and industry suppliers are doing their best to innovate and help grounds people to minimise the impact of droughts and floods.”
“Extreme weather conditions are becoming more frequent, and we need to continue to educate grounds staff and plan now to ensure that, as a sector, we are equipped to deal with what lies ahead.”
Content line-up
Taking place on 2 -3 November, the exhibition has begun to confirm its speakers and content.
Tony Hanson, managing director of Environmental Solutions International, together with Robin Price, director of quality and environment at Anglian Water, are amongst the presenters announced. The pair will discuss the use of water in mitigating turf irrigation, discussing drought restrictions, temporary bans, and water resilience practices.
On his subject choice, Hanson explained: “Due to climate change, population growth, and historically high personal consumption, there is simply not enough water available in the UK without action.”
The 2022 SALTEX Learning LIVE schedule has been extended to over 30 sessions. Additionally, it is releasing papers that cover key issues for the grounds care industry, including pay, career development, negotiating in the workplace, and available grant funding from sports clubs.
Alongside the Learning LIVE programme, SALTEX 2022 has stated that 400 industry brands have confirmed attendance, allowing delegates to network across the grounds maintenance sector.