Sustainable innovations in exhibition stand construction: materials and technologies of the future

Sustainable solutions are becoming increasingly important in modern trade fair construction. Companies, exhibitors and organizers are increasingly relying on materials and technologies that conserve resources and minimize the ecological footprint. Recyclable materials, energy-efficient systems and a holistic approach play a key role here. WWM GmbH & Co. KG is, to our knowledge, the first company in the industry to successfully implement the latest DIN ISO 20121:2024 standard for sustainable event management, demonstrating how sustainable innovations can be implemented in exhibition stand construction.

1. use of recyclable and modular materials

An important trend in sustainable exhibition stand construction is the use of recyclable and modular construction elements. In contrast to conventional disposable materials, which are often only used for one event and then disposed of, modular, reusable systems enable the flexible and environmentally friendly design of exhibition stands that can be reused for different events and customers. Materials such as aluminum, recycled plastics or bio-based materials are often used, which are characterized by their durability and low environmental impact. 

Modular systems help to reduce waste and resource consumption and adapt to the changing requirements of each project. The integration of such modular solutions is also part of the WWM management system “WWM360”, which ensures sustainability along the entire value chain. 

Especially in combination with sustainable supply chains, which are comprehensively controlled by the compliance management in “WWM360”, organic materials offer a valuable option for the design of modern and sustainable exhibition stands. This approach promotes a comprehensive sustainability strategy that takes ecological aspects into account right from the material selection stage. 

For more information on sustainability in exhibition stand construction, you can download our free white paper.

 2. energy-efficient lighting and power supply

Another focus in sustainable exhibition stand construction is the efficient use of energy. LED technology is now standard in exhibition lighting and makes it possible to reduce energy consumption and maintenance costs. LED systems also offer a flexible lighting design that can be adapted to the specific requirements of an exhibition stand. 

Sustainable solutions are also increasingly being used for power supply, for example through the use of solar panels and battery systems that enable a self-sufficient supply. Such systems offer an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional power sources and help exhibitors to minimize their carbon footprint. 

Read more about modular video walls as a flexible solution in our blog post. 

3. rental components for a sustainable trade fair appearance

Accessories such as chairs, tables and plants are essential for an inviting trade fair stand. However, these do not have to be purchased separately. Thanks to a large repertoire of rental components, such elements can be rented for the duration of the trade fair appearance.

The use of rental furniture enables a major step towards sustainability: existing materials and products are used several times, eliminating the need for new productions. This practice reduces both material consumption and waste and makes trade fair appearances more ecologically efficient.

4. virtual and hybrid events to reduce travel

Virtual events bring many benefits, especially the reduction of CO₂ emissions through less travel. Trade fair visitors can take part in virtual or hybrid events without having to travel hundreds of kilometers. This not only saves travel costs, but also significantly protects the environment.

Nevertheless, virtual events are not completely emission-free, as the data centers required for them also consume energy. Sustainability in this area is achieved through the reusability of content and materials in the corporate metaverse, where the production of disposable items is avoided as far as possible.

5. sustainability in printing and graphics services

Another crucial point in sustainable exhibition stand construction is the use of environmentally friendly printing technologies and graphics solutions. The dye-sublimation process enables the production of reusable textile graphics that are lighter and more compact than conventional materials. This not only reduces the transport volume, but also the overall weight, thus saving energy in logistics.

In addition, many trade fair exhibitors are increasingly turning to LED video walls, which can display content in any size and with flexible customization. These digital solutions often make physical printed graphics superfluous and contribute to sustainable trade fair design.

6. carbon footprint and certification of sustainable trade fair buildings

Reducing the carbon footprint is at the heart of sustainable exhibition stand construction concepts. The successful certification of WWM GmbH & Co. KG in accordance with the new DIN ISO 20121:2024 underlines the company's commitment to taking a holistic view and optimizing all of its activities. This international standard goes beyond established quality management processes and requires a comprehensive consideration of ecological, social and economic factors. 

As a pioneer in the industry, WWM has integrated the requirements of the ISO standard directly into its “WWM360” management system, which enables transparent documentation and optimization of all processes - from production and logistics to reuse. This not only creates trust, but also guarantees that the strict requirements of the standard are continuously met. 

You can find out more about our ISO 20121:2024 certification in our press release.

7. Digital solutions for sustainable event management

Another milestone in WWM GmbH's sustainable strategy is the integration of ISO standards into the event and resource management platform “ExpoCloud”. This platform enables customers to organize their event management in a structured and sustainable way. Customers who handle their projects entirely via ExpoCloud can fulfill the sustainability requirements of the ISO standard more easily and thus pursue their own sustainability goals in a structured manner. In addition to an event process that is as environmentally friendly as possible in terms of planning, executing, measuring and optimizing, the holistic ExpoCloud ecosystem contributes to economic and financial sustainability in many ways: Your events become more efficient, across the board, down to the last detail.

Conclusion: Sustainability as a driver of innovation in exhibition stand construction 

Sustainable innovations will shape the exhibition stand construction of the future. With certification in accordance with DIN ISO 20121:2024, WWM GmbH & Co. KG shows that the highest quality and sustainability standards can be successfully integrated into exhibition stand construction. From modular, recyclable construction elements to energy-efficient technology and the use of organic building materials - the future of exhibition stand construction lies in the combination of innovation and environmental awareness. 

Sustainability in exhibition stand construction is not just a question of material selection, but encompasses the entire process chain - from planning and logistics to disposal. Building a sustainable event industry is not just an option, but a strategic necessity that ensures long-term success and competitiveness. WWM GmbH & Co. KG proves with its innovations and commitment to sustainability that environmentally friendly exhibition stand construction is a future-proof standard that both meets customer expectations and addresses the requirements of an increasingly regulated market.