Did you know that 60% of the materials used in trade show booths end up in landfills? 😳
With Climate Week NYC 2024 fresh in our minds, it's clear that we as an industry need to step up our game. Businesses are actively executing climate plans and strategically collaborating to make a real difference.
So, what does this mean for us event planners and trade show pros?
It's time to roll up our sleeves and tackle this waste problem head-on.
Ready to give your 2025 trade show strategy an eco-friendly makeover? Here are five clever ways to weave sustainability into your plans:
1. Opt for Eco-Friendly Giveaways
70% of trade show swag doesn’t even make it onto the flights back home — meaning, it’s immediately trashed.
Tip: Choose sustainable giveaways that provide real value and won't end up as waste. Consider items made from recycled materials, reusable products like water bottles or tote bags, or digital alternatives such as e-gift cards, downloadable resources, or in-kind donations.
Why It Matters: Giveaways are a trade show staple but often generate significant waste. By selecting items that attendees can reuse or repurpose, you reduce environmental impact while reinforcing your brand's commitment to sustainability.
2. Incorporate Digital Marketing Tools
Tip: Replace printed brochures and flyers with digital alternatives. QR codes for instant downloads, event apps, and email follow-ups are excellent ways to provide attendees with information without the waste.
Why It Matters: Printing is resource-heavy. Going digital saves paper, ink, and transportation costs while offering attendees a more interactive and personalized experience.
Digital options also allow marketers to gather and use attendees' contact information for future outreach.
3. Reduce Energy Consumption with Smart Tech
Tip: Use energy-efficient lighting, AV systems, and booth designs. Partner with venues that prioritize renewable energy sources and energy-saving technologies.
Why It Matters: Events can be energy-intensive, especially with extensive use of lighting and electronics. Being mindful of energy consumption can significantly reduce your event's carbon footprint.
4. Reduce Downstream Waste from Booths and Displays
Tip: Build — or better yet, RENT trade show booths with durable, recyclable materials and design components like flooring and carpet for reuse. Consider using eco-friendly carpets made from recycled materials that can be reused for future events or easily recycled post-event.
Why It Matters: Booth setups often lead to large amounts of waste, especially with materials like carpet that are frequently discarded after one-time use. By opting for recyclable or reusable carpets, you cut down on landfill contributions, reducing downstream waste.
This practice aligns your brand with sustainability goals and demonstrates long-term environmental responsibility.
5. Partner with Sustainable Suppliers
Tip: Work with vendors and suppliers that share your sustainability goals. Whether it's catering services offering local, organic food options, understanding if conference locations have recycling, or collaborating with exhibit agencies on sustainable booth design inputs like fabrics, aligning with sustainable partners is key.
Why It Matters: Sustainability doesn't happen in a vacuum. Your choice of suppliers and other partners can significantly minimize your event's overall environmental impact.
By implementing these strategies, you'll reduce your environmental footprint and position your brand as a leader in sustainable event practices. As we move towards 2025, it's clear that sustainability is no longer optional – it's a critical aspect of successful trade show marketing.
Contact us to start planning your award-winning eco-friendly approach today and stay ahead of the curve.