So, you want to make your venue more sustainable but don’t know where to begin?
You’re not alone.
With event organisers increasingly seeking greener partners, now is the perfect time to start making changes that matter without needing a sustainability degree to get going.
Whether you’re managing a historic venue, a modern conference centre or an up-and-coming event space, these ten tips will help you take confident first steps into the world of sustainable exhibitions.
1. Start with smarter energy use
Sustainability starts with the basics. Switching to renewable energy (like solar or wind), installing LED lighting, and using motion sensors to control lights and heating can make a big difference. Not only will it shrink your environmental impact, it’ll save money too.
2. Pick greener building materials
If you’re upgrading your venue, choose recycled or responsibly sourced materials. Look out for wood that’s FSC-certified and low-impact finishes like non-toxic paints. Bonus points if your fixtures and layouts can be reused or rearranged for different events.
3. Tackle waste early on
Exhibitions create a surprising amount of rubbish, but your venue doesn’t have to. Set up recycling and composting bins, ban single-use plastics where possible, and encourage exhibitors to bring reusable stands and packaging.
4. Don’t forget the water
It’s easy to overlook, but water waste adds up quickly. Install low-flow taps and toilets, fix any leaks promptly, and set up water refill stations so people can avoid buying bottled water.
5. Offer greener food and drink
One of the easiest wins? Rethink your catering. Choose local and seasonal produce, prioritise plant-based dishes, and say goodbye to plastic cutlery. Team up with caterers who know how to manage waste responsibly and donate leftovers where possible.
6. Help people travel more sustainably
Offer secure bike parking, promote public transport links, and give preferred parking to electric vehicles and carpools. The easier you make it for people to travel sustainably, the more they’ll do it.
7. Go digital where you can
From event programmes to signage, digital tools reduce waste and boost flexibility. Encourage organisers to use apps, screens, and online registration, less printing means fewer bins to empty and trees to cut down.
8. Get everyone on board
Sustainability isn’t a solo mission. Train your staff, talk to your suppliers, and give organisers and exhibitors clear guidelines. Think of it as setting everyone up to succeed, not just to comply.
9. Work toward a recognised standard
Once you’ve got some basics in place, look into certifications like ISO 20121, or sign the Net Zero Carbon Events pledge. These can help shape your sustainability goals and give you extra credibility with organisers.
10. Track your progress and shout about it
Measure your impact, even if it’s just basic energy or waste stats at first. Share your efforts with clients and staff, transparency builds trust, and small wins can lead to big changes over time.
Ready to take the first step?
Sustainability can seem overwhelming, but you don’t need to overhaul everything overnight. Start small, keep learning, and involve your wider team. Before you know it, you’ll not only be doing your bit for the planet, you’ll be setting your venue apart as a trusted partner for modern, responsible events.
The post A how-to for venues and sustainability newbies in exhibitions appeared first on Exhibition News | The trade for shows..