As sustainability takes centre stage in the exhibition industry, the debate over sustainable stand construction continues. Many believe that using biodegradable materials in one-off stand construction is the gold standard for eco-conscious exhibiting. However, industry experts argue that modular, reusable stands offer a far more sustainable and cost-effective solution in the long run. ExpoGuys is a strong advocate for modular stands over once off constructed stands, a preference rooted in sustainability. While other products may seem eco-friendly at first glance, their life cycle paints a completely different picture.
Georg Feldberg, ExpoGuys Operations Manager, explains: “The idea that biodegradable equals sustainable is a common misconception. While biodegradable materials break down over time, their environmental footprint is often higher than anticipated. Many of these materials require deforestation, energy-intensive processing, and cannot be reused. In contrast, modular stands can be used repeatedly, reducing waste and overall environmental impact.”
Feldberg adds: “Modular exhibition stands are designed for long-term use. A single stand can be reused between 30 to 200 times, making it a far more eco-friendly option compared to a custom-built stand, which is often discarded after just one event. This approach aligns with global sustainability goals by reducing landfill waste, limiting carbon emissions, and promoting circular economy principles within the events sector.”
Environmental Impact of Modular Exhibition Stands
Graph illustrating the environmental impact of modular exhibition stands over their lifecycle. The impact is highest during manufacturing and decreases significantly as the stand is reused multiple times:
Graph illustrating the sustainability of modular exhibition stands over their lifecycle. As the stand progresses from manufacturing to repeated uses, its sustainability percentage increases significantly, reflecting the benefits of reusability:
ExpoGuys is at the forefront of sustainable exhibition solutions, advocating for modular stand use and responsible design practices. The company has recently implemented an internal sustainability grading system, ensuring that every stand it produces is evaluated based on reusability, energy efficiency, and material selection.
As the industry moves towards more sustainable exhibiting, the question remains: Is your stand truly as eco-friendly as it seems?
About ExpoGuys:
ExpoGuys specialises in innovative and sustainable exhibition stand design and construction. With a focus on reducing environmental impact, ExpoGuys is committed to creating unique and sustainable exhibition solutions.