The events and exhibitions industries are constantly under the microscope when it comes to sustainability. Traditionally something of a throwaway industry, they are looking to be more considerate about the materials they use and what can be reused or recycled.
Luckily, building materials are developing quickly to embrace a more sustainable methodology. And many of these can be factored into building eco-friendly exhibition spaces, whether that is the venue itself or the various stands and areas within the exhibit.
Sustainable venues
The Design Museum in Kensington, London, is a prime example of what can be done when sustainability is properly introduced into the architectural planning stages and not just as an afterthought. It was awarded the BREEAM rating of Very Good, which it received for both its design and procurement.
The building gets its energy from 100% renewable sources, utilizing a battery energy storage system and greywater harvesting from across the site. Even the retail side of things is doing its bit, by sourcing products made in the UK using sustainable production methods and minimising waste.
It took this ethos a step further in 2021/22 when it hosted a 'Waste Age: What can Design do?' exhibition which focused on how designers can contribute to the circular economy and show us all a new way of living in our everyday lives.
Sustainable venues in the UK will hold an international sustainability certification, such as ISO 21021, which means they have systems in place to reduce all waste, save power and water, and provide eco-friendly catering.
Energy efficiency
The days of exhibitions taking place under horrible fluorescent strip lights that do nothing for the exhibitors or for the environment are, thankfully, gone. Using energy-efficient bulbs and having lights that are motion-sensitive will all help to save energy while also cutting down on electricity costs. Biomass boilers to provide heating, solar panels, rainwater harvesting and many other energy-saving innovations can be employed to give your exhibition space an eco-friendly acknowledgement.
Because exhibition spaces are not necessarily used every day, being able to turn everything off when it is not in use is vital.
Exhibition stands
Exhibition stands are often designed specifically for certain spaces and for certain people or organizations to display their products. Then, they either get thrown away or stored somewhere never to be seen again. Due to recent innovations in materials and clever design ideas, there has been a surge in the availability of more sustainable stands that can be used over and over again.
Instead of using plastic fascias, fixtures and fittings, a composite material such as a cedral click cladding made from fiber cement board, gives a sophisticated and smart look to your stand, whilst being durable and low maintenance. It can also be used outside, making it a highly versatile solution. It can even be provided in a variety of colors, to suit all uses and styles.
Flooring should also be considered. Many exhibition spaces will indicate their area with a section of specific flooring. Carpeting has been traditionally used as it is easy to lay and take back up again in carpet tile format. But, carpet isn’t a very sustainable item, due to toxic chemicals being slow-released into the atmosphere when it is laid. Alternatives include modular reusable systems that are just as easily broken down and transported.
Partners and suppliers
Building up a database of trusted suppliers is a must for anyone in the architecture or design trades. You need people who will realize your vision, whether that is aesthetically or with the products they use to do the job. If you can also use local companies, then that cuts down on transport emissions, reduces your carbon footprint, and is generally kinder to the environment.
Sponsors also need to be considered, and choosing those which have a sustainability commitment will give your own corporate social responsibility a boost.
Transport
It isn’t just transportation of stands, products and paraphernalia that need to be considered. Suppose the venue can put on sustainable transport options for its attendees, such as designated buses, car shares and provide secure cycle storage. In that case, that will up its green credentials as well as make it easier for people to attend.
Embracing technology
It's always best to avoid using paper for anything involved with your exhibition, from tickets to leaflets and programs. Innovations in technology mean we regularly see apps being used to navigate exhibitions, from booking to visiting, QR codes to focus on specific areas in more depth, and audio guides rather than lots of printed text to read.
The introduction of artificial intelligence and virtual or augmented reality lends itself beautifully to exhibition stands and tries to make for a more immersive exhibition experience.
Final thoughts
A commitment to being more eco-friendly has been made by the UK government as it tries to be net zero by 2030, and it is up to every one of us to take note of this and do what we can to increase our environmentally-friendly methods.
Innovations for Eco-Friendly Exhibition Spaces
The events and exhibitions industries are constantly under the microscope when it comes to sustainability. Traditionally something of a throwaway industry, they are looking to be more considerate about the materials they use and what can be reused or recycled.
Luckily, building materials are developing quickly to embrace a more sustainable methodology. And many of these can be factored into building eco-friendly exhibition spaces, whether that is the venue itself or the various stands and areas within the exhibit.
Sustainable venues
The Design Museum in Kensington, London, is a prime example of what can be done when sustainability is properly introduced into the architectural planning stages and not just as an afterthought. It was awarded the BREEAM rating of Very Good, which it received for both its design and procurement.
The building gets its energy from 100% renewable sources, utilizing a battery energy storage system and greywater harvesting from across the site. Even the retail side of things is doing its bit, by sourcing products made in the UK using sustainable production methods and minimising waste.
It took this ethos a step further in 2021/22 when it hosted a 'Waste Age: What can Design do?' exhibition which focused on how designers can contribute to the circular economy and show us all a new way of living in our everyday lives.
Sustainable venues in the UK will hold an international sustainability certification, such as ISO 21021, which means they have systems in place to reduce all waste, save power and water, and provide eco-friendly catering.
Energy efficiency
The days of exhibitions taking place under horrible fluorescent strip lights that do nothing for the exhibitors or for the environment are, thankfully, gone. Using energy-efficient bulbs and having lights that are motion-sensitive will all help to save energy while also cutting down on electricity costs. Biomass boilers to provide heating, solar panels, rainwater harvesting and many other energy-saving innovations can be employed to give your exhibition space an eco-friendly acknowledgement.
Because exhibition spaces are not necessarily used every day, being able to turn everything off when it is not in use is vital.
Exhibition stands
Exhibition stands are often designed specifically for certain spaces and for certain people or organizations to display their products. Then, they either get thrown away or stored somewhere never to be seen again. Due to recent innovations in materials and clever design ideas, there has been a surge in the availability of more sustainable stands that can be used over and over again.
Instead of using plastic fascias, fixtures and fittings, a composite material such as a cedral click cladding made from fiber cement board, gives a sophisticated and smart look to your stand, whilst being durable and low maintenance. It can also be used outside, making it a highly versatile solution. It can even be provided in a variety of colors, to suit all uses and styles.
Flooring should also be considered. Many exhibition spaces will indicate their area with a section of specific flooring. Carpeting has been traditionally used as it is easy to lay and take back up again in carpet tile format. But, carpet isn’t a very sustainable item, due to toxic chemicals being slow-released into the atmosphere when it is laid. Alternatives include modular reusable systems that are just as easily broken down and transported.
Partners and suppliers
Building up a database of trusted suppliers is a must for anyone in the architecture or design trades. You need people who will realize your vision, whether that is aesthetically or with the products they use to do the job. If you can also use local companies, then that cuts down on transport emissions, reduces your carbon footprint, and is generally kinder to the environment.
Sponsors also need to be considered, and choosing those which have a sustainability commitment will give your own corporate social responsibility a boost.
Transport
It isn’t just transportation of stands, products and paraphernalia that need to be considered. Suppose the venue can put on sustainable transport options for its attendees, such as designated buses, car shares and provide secure cycle storage. In that case, that will up its green credentials as well as make it easier for people to attend.
Embracing technology
It's always best to avoid using paper for anything involved with your exhibition, from tickets to leaflets and programs. Innovations in technology mean we regularly see apps being used to navigate exhibitions, from booking to visiting, QR codes to focus on specific areas in more depth, and audio guides rather than lots of printed text to read.
The introduction of artificial intelligence and virtual or augmented reality lends itself beautifully to exhibition stands and tries to make for a more immersive exhibition experience.
Final thoughts
A commitment to being more eco-friendly has been made by the UK government as it tries to be net zero by 2030, and it is up to every one of us to take note of this and do what we can to increase our environmentally-friendly methods.
Read More
Add a comment to this news
JOIN MODLAR NEWSLETTER
Featured News