Sustainability at Trade Shows
Trade shows and exhibitions can have significant environmental impact due to the large amounts of energy and resources that are required to set up and run them. However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend toward making trade shows more sustainable and eco-friendly. We’ve reviewed sustainability practices in the industry to highlight key ways venues, and attendees, can be more environmentally conscious in 2023.
How are trade shows becoming more sustainable?
Event organisers are focusing on new ways to make trade shows more sustainable. While some venues are yet to adapt more sustainable practices, others are starting to use initiatives like these to become more environmentally conscious:
- Using LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances & other energy-saving technologies
- Implementing recycling and waste management programs to reduce event waste
- Using sustainable and biodegradable materials during construction
- Venues are offsetting their carbon emissions by purchasing carbon credits
- Attendees to car share, use public transport & fly less to reduce carbon emissions
8 ways to make your next trade show more sustainable
In the modern world, businesses are becoming more aware of the importance of sustainability. As such, they are looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact while still achieving their business goals. One way in which businesses can do this is by attending trade shows in a more sustainable manner. We’ve identified several ways that businesses can be more sustainable when attending trade shows:
1. Use eco-friendly materials
Consider using materials such as recycled paper for flyers and brochures, and reusable or biodegradable products for swag. We also incorporate more sustainable materials when designing exhibition stands.
2. Reduce waste
Try to minimise waste by only printing what is necessary and recycling or composting materials when possible.
3. Choose a sustainable venue
Look for trade show venues that have sustainability initiatives in place, such as recycling programs or energy-efficient lighting.
4. Use digital marketing
Instead of printing flyers and brochures, consider using digital marketing materials such as email campaigns or social media advertising to reach attendees.
5. Offset carbon emissions
Not just for the venues themselves, exhibitors can also consider offsetting the carbon emissions associated with attending the trade show by purchasing carbon credits or supporting renewable energy projects.
6. Provide digital alternatives
Providing digital copies of materials like brochures, flyers, and product catalogues can reduce paper usage and waste. Attendees can access these materials through QR codes or by visiting a digital platform.
7. Partner with sustainable suppliers
Working with suppliers who have a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility can ensure that the products and materials used at the event are sustainable. This can include using sustainable printing companies, sustainable exhibition stands or sourcing eco-friendly materials for products and displays.
8. Encourage sustainable practices
Encourage your attendees to adopt sustainable practices at the trade show, such as using reusable water bottles or recycling waste in your exhibition space.
Overall, the trend towards sustainability in the trade show industry is driven by a growing awareness of the environmental impacts of large events, as well as increasing pressure from attendees and other stakeholders to reduce these impacts.