Unfortunately, there is no set standard for the trade show or event industry on what green is and just how green you need to be to be considered a green or eco friendly company. The good news is that the exhibit industry knows the importance of this and are making due diligence initiatives to become an eco industry. Approximately 30% of the exhibit trade show materials we sell are considered green or eco friendly, which is a big leap in the right direction compared to just two plus years ago when discussions were taking place but green exhibits were still in the research and development stages.

Here are some tips on how to become “green” in your trade show program.

1. Avoid Handouts.
   The vast majority of all handouts end up unread and/or in the trash can on the trade show floor. Try using flash also known as jump drives with your company’s information loaded on the drive for brochures, mirrored web site pages, marketing one sheets or other promotional materials, send an email or e-brochure. However, make sure it’s sent immediately, preferably from the show floor right after you had a face-to-face meeting with the potential customer while the information is fresh in their mind. You will save money not only on the lack of paying for collateral hand out materials, but also on shipping. This is both good for the environment and your budget!

1. Plan Ahead.
   Avoid shipping any materials or display items by air transportation. It is one of the most expensive ways to ship and creates the largest carbon footprint in our environment. Choose a shipping company that is making efforts to be eco friendly by using lighter trucks with fuel saving features.

1. Purchase a Green Trade Show Display.
   Trade show displays can be made with eco friendly and sustainable products such as bamboo, LED lighting, recycled fabrics and low VOC adhesives. Become an environmentally friendly company by displaying your corporate brand on an eco friendly display.

1. Promotional Items.
   Choose items that are practical and reusable (smart marketing move!), made from green materials, are friendly for the environment (seeds or plants) and avoid items that require excessive or unnecessary packing.

1. Rent a Trade Show Display.
   In some instances it may be better for the environment to rent a custom display as there are many advantages to renting vs. purchasing a custom display. The environment is only one reason.

1. Donate Old Display Items.
   Rather than tossing an old trade show display search for a local non-profit organization to donate the display to. Most non-profit organizations could use the support and opportunity to create awareness about their program(s) with the donated trade show display. Look into donating old graphic materials and furniture to local schools or organizations.

1. Pack Smart.
   Avoid one way shippers and opt for reusable shipping cases made from recycled plastic. If your display requires shipping crates, use FSC certified ones. Instead of plastic bubbles, foam or peanuts opt for reusable blankets, rolled cardboard, egg cartons and previously used plastic bags.

1. Save Energy.
   Use LED lights and make it a habit to always turn off any electronic items overnight. Evaluate what is necessary- it seems simple but can save you time, money and reduce energy consumption.

1. Consider Carbon Offsetting or Renewable Energy Credits.
   Credits can be purchased to offset the carbon emissions produced. First and foremost, consider where your carbon emissions are produced and do everything to reduce the carbon emissions. Check out a free carbon calculator. Also check out this handy guide to carbon offset providers before purchasing credits.

1. Be Careful About “Green Washing.”
   If your company chooses to “go green” be sure that you consider all the options and are truthful about whether you are greener or are a truly green company.

DJ Heckes, Author & CEO
EXHIB-IT! Tradeshow Marketing Experts
www.exhib-it.com

Full BRAIN Marketing
www.fullbrainmarketing.com