Events and exhibitions play a crucial role in our global economy, bringing people together to share knowledge and experiences. However, their environmental impact cannot be overlooked. The events industry is responsible for producing 15 billion tons of CO2 emissions annually, comparable to the carbon footprint of a small nation. Every delegate flight, illuminated hotel room, and constructed exhibition booth contributes to this environmental burden. So, how can we mitigate this impact? Leading event management companies recognize the importance of sustainability for the future of events and exhibitions. There are numerous ways to make environmentally friendly decisions when organizing, managing, attending, or exhibiting at events. From green travel and accommodation to eco-friendly booth design and event execution, we have compiled tips to help reduce the environmental impact of your event strategy.

The Impact of Sustainable Events
Can sustainable events truly make a difference? Absolutely! Every event management company, organizer, and exhibitor can contribute to combating climate change. By taking small but meaningful steps towards sustainable exhibition designs, eco-friendly event technology, and closer collaboration with virtual events, companies can significantly reduce their environmental footprint. Simple choices, such as selecting sustainable materials and contractors, can have a substantial impact. Let’s explore areas where we can make a difference.

Creating a Sustainable Attendee Experience
Providing a sustainable event experience for attendees involves incorporating green and eco-friendly options at every touchpoint. This begins with selecting green transportation and partnering with hotels that practice sustainability. Event technology also plays a crucial role in delivering a paperless experience, utilizing digital tools and platforms for communication, maps, and schedules. Much of this can be managed through an event app, which is essential for enhancing the eco-friendliness of your event. Simple yet effective measures, such as accessible recycling and waste management facilities, reassure attendees that their waste is being disposed of sustainably. Additionally, offering local, seasonal, organic, and ethically produced catering options can further enhance the event’s sustainability.

Sustainable Booths and Exhibits
Making ethical decisions in the construction and operation of event booths or exhibits demonstrates a business’s commitment to sustainability. Booth materials should be durable yet environmentally friendly. Sustainable booths can be made from recycled or reclaimed materials, reducing waste and promoting an eco-conscious aesthetic. Modular booth designs, which can be reconfigured and reused for multiple events, offer long-term environmental benefits.

Leveraging Sustainable Technology
Minimizing the environmental impact of event activations involves thoughtful use of event technology. Energy-efficient devices and displays, as well as renewable energy sources, can significantly reduce an event's carbon footprint. LED lighting, which consumes less power and reduces waste from dead bulbs, is a practical option. Innovative technologies like virtual and augmented reality can create immersive experiences with a lower environmental impact than physical constructions. While face-to-face interactions are valuable, offering virtual event options can connect with those who prioritize reducing their environmental impact.

Educating and Engaging Attendees
Education and engagement are paramount. Events provide an excellent platform to educate attendees about making sustainable choices and demonstrate the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility. Responsible businesses not only focus on their own environmental impact but also consider the downstream effects of their products and services. Use events to showcase how customers can make sustainable choices and assure them that doing business with you supports environmental sustainability.

Business Advantages of Sustainable Events
Embracing sustainability in events goes beyond environmental benefits. It also brings tangible business advantages. Implementing eco-friendly solutions can streamline attendee experiences, enhancing customer interaction and engagement. For example, using electric vehicles for event transportation reduces emissions and lowers fuel and maintenance costs. Employing recycled and responsibly sourced materials, along with modular construction methods, offers long-term financial benefits. Moreover, consumers increasingly consider a company’s green credentials in their purchasing decisions, and large corporations expect environmental commitments from their partners and suppliers. These benefits underscore the value of sustainable event practices.

The Purple Roads Commitment to Sustainable Events

Purple Roads provides a range of sustainable options in exhibition booth design, event management, and event technology services. We collaborate with the most responsible vendors globally to ensure our clients can make ethical and environmentally friendly choices at every stage. Contact us today to learn how we can help integrate sustainability into your event strategy and do our bit to reduce the climate footprint of your event and exhibitions calendar.