What features should a sustainable stand have?
The commitment to sustainability in events and fairs has shifted from being a trend to a necessity. Brands aim to reduce their environmental, social, and economic impact without sacrificing the creativity and functionality of their spaces.
Designing stands that minimize their impact on the planet, are accessible to everyone, and provide a clear return on investment is essential for a responsible future in the events industry.
Reuse and use of sustainable materials
One of the essential aspects of achieving a sustainable stand is the use of reusable and recyclable materials. Opting for modular structures allows for a reusable stand, which facilitates its use in different events, reducing not only waste but also costs. Additionally, it is important to choose materials with recognized certifications that support their origin and manufacturing process. For example, wood with certifications like FSC or PEFC that guarantee responsible forest management; certifications like Cradle to Cradle that validate the circularity of products; and even certifications that ensure the absence of toxic substances in inks, such as Greenguard Gold.
Furniture also plays a key role: Instead of manufacturing pieces specifically for a single event, opting for rental allows for reduced environmental impact and optimized resources. Similarly, the use of digital screens instead of printed brochures minimizes paper waste and provides flexibility in communication.
Accessibility and Inclusive Design
A sustainable stand must also be accessible to all attendees. Designing spaces with ramps and wide aisles facilitates access for people with reduced mobility without compromising aesthetics.
Additionally, visual inclusion criteria can be applied, such as using colors adapted for people with color blindness and easy-to-read fonts. Lighting also plays an important role in inclusivity. A proper balance between natural and artificial light contributes to a more comfortable environment and prevents visual fatigue in high-traffic areas.
Transparency and Efficiency
From an economic perspective, a sustainable stand should not only reduce costs but also clearly and honestly communicate its actions. Having certified suppliers, using materials with responsible characteristics, and, in some cases, offsetting the carbon footprint are effective ways to demonstrate a real commitment and avoid "greenwashing."
Measuring the impact of the decisions made allows for the improvement of future strategies. Incorporating data on material savings, the number of reuses, or energy consumption facilitates an objective evaluation and helps reduce the environmental impact in the design of eco-friendly stands.
Conclusion
Designing a sustainable stand involves much more than choosing eco-friendly materials. The combination of environmental, social, and economic strategies is key to creating responsible and functional spaces. From the reuse of structures to inclusivity in design, every decision impacts the overall effect of the stand. Embracing this vision not only strengthens brand image but also contributes to a more sustainable and conscious events sector.
