Sustainable exhibition stands | How to set one up for your trade show

Sustainability is a key topic in today’s world, and companies taking part in trade shows and events are increasingly looking for environmentally responsible solutions.

At Servis, we understand this need and offer sustainable exhibition stand designs that blend creativity, visual impact, and a strong commitment to the environment.

In this article, we’ll dive into what a custom-designed exhibition stand is and how it can help you stand out at trade shows and events. We’ll look at how it differs from modular stands and standard packages, as well as the benefits of choosing a custom or hybrid design. We’ll also break down the most commonly used materials—including modular options to help reduce costs and simplify setup—and walk you through the step-by-step process of creating a stand that’s visually appealing, functional, and aligned with your brand identity.

What makes an exhibition stand sustainable?

A sustainable exhibition stand is one that’s designed to minimize its environmental impact at every stage—from material selection to dismantling and potential reuse. Key features typically include:

Use of recycled and recyclable materials: Such as FSC- or PEFC-certified wood, reusable aluminum, and displays made from recycled fabrics.
Modular and reusable designs: Assembly systems that make it easy to take the stand apart and use it again at future events.
Energy-efficient lighting: Incorporating low-consumption LED technology to cut down on energy use.
Waste reduction: Sorting materials and reusing components like carpets and structural elements whenever possible.
Local production and efficient transport: Lowering the carbon footprint by working with nearby suppliers.

Benefits of sustainable exhibition stands

1. Strengthen brand image

Today, sustainability is a key differentiator. An eco-friendly exhibition stand sends a clear message of environmental commitment and corporate responsibility.

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2. Long-term cost reduction

Using reusable structures and recyclable materials helps cut costs for future trade shows and events.

3. Standout appeal and visitor engagement

Attendees appreciate companies that are committed to sustainability, which can lead to increased interest and foot traffic at your stand.

How to create a sustainable exhibition stand

1. Planning and material selection

From the very beginning, it’s important to choose materials that are recycled, recyclable, or reusable, while avoiding single-use options. Material selection should also take into account their origin—look for sustainability certifications like FSC or PEFC when using wood. It’s also wise to assess the durability of materials to extend their lifespan and reduce the need for frequent replacements.

Additionally, planning should consider the environmental impact of the production process itself. Opting for low-carbon-footprint materials from local suppliers helps cut down on transportation and associated emissions.

2. Optimized setup and dismantling

A modular exhibition stand can be reused across multiple events, helping to avoid unnecessary waste. These systems allow for flexible, customized designs without compromising sustainability, as they can be dismantled and reassembled with minimal material loss.

To optimize this process, it’s best to design structures that require little to no adhesives or disposable elements during assembly. Choosing reusable fastening systems and lightweight, easy-to-transport materials also helps lower logistics costs and reduce waste.

3. Efficient energy use

Choosing LED lighting and optimizing electricity use helps reduce energy consumption during the event. In addition to using energy-efficient LED bulbs, you can incorporate motion sensors and timers to prevent unnecessary energy use when the stand isn’t in operation.

4. Waste reduction and recycling

Implementing waste management systems within the stand helps minimize waste generation and ensures proper disposal. It’s a good idea to provide separate bins to make it easy to sort recyclable, organic, and non-recyclable materials.

Conclusion: The future of events has to be sustainable

Future events need to align with sustainable practices to reduce their environmental impact without compromising effectiveness.

Sustainability isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a necessary shift that’s changing how we interact with spaces and engage with attendees. Choosing responsible materials, energy efficiency, and waste reduction is key to making a meaningful difference.

If you’re looking to bring sustainability into your events, starting with an eco-friendly exhibition stand is a great first step. At Servis, we can help you develop sustainable solutions without sacrificing design or innovation.