United States (IBwire.com - April 20, 2011) The 37th ITA General Assembly will be gathering members from the International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association (ITA-AITES) for a conference specifically analysing issues related to the theme of ‘Underground spaces in the service of sustainable society’.

The event will address issues such as the latest techniques being used for creating municipal services such as tunnels for fresh water, effectively treating wastewater and the distribution of energy. Other sub themes will feature specifics on the planning needed for subterranean spaces with a look at rock engineering and excavation methods.

An exhibition will also run alongside the conference featuring manufacturers of the latest equipment and machinery used for tunnelling as well as monitoring technology. Suppliers are due to present innovations in safety features and equipment which will highlight ways to ensure the optimum safety for people working underground.

ITA-AITES is made up of members from 55 nations and a large numbers of these are expected to attend what is the association’s biggest annual event between 20th and 26th May 2011. As a result hotels in Helsinki especially around the congress venue at Finlandia Hall are going to be in the highest demand.

Lek Boonlert, marketing head at DirectRooms.com commented: “The capacity for hotels to accommodate guests will be diminished with such a high number of attendees. Early reservations will therefore be needed by anyone attending.”