Unfortunately, there is no set standard for the trade show or event industry on what green is and just how green you need to be to be considered a green or eco friendly company. The good news is that the exhibit industry knows the importance of this and are making due diligence initiatives to become an eco industry. Here are some tips on how to add green into your trade show program.

1. Plan Ahead. Avoid shipping any materials or display items by air transportation. It is one of the most expensive ways to ship and creates the largest carbon footprint in our environment. Choose a shipping company that is making efforts to be eco friendly by using lighter trucks with fuel saving features.

2. Steer clear of Paper collateral and catalogues. The vast majority of all handouts end up unread and/or in the trash can on the trade show floor. Try using a flash drive with your company’s information loaded on the drive for brochures, mirrored web site pages, marketing sheets or other promotional materials, send an email or e-brochure. Make certain it is sent immediately, preferably from the show floor right after you had a face-to-face meeting with the potential customer while the information is fresh in their mind. This is both good for the environment and your budget as you will save money not only on the lack of paying for collateral hand out materials, but also on shipping.

3. Save Energy. Use LED lights and make it a habit to always turn off any electronic items overnight. Assess what is truly necessary.

4. Promotional Items. Choose items that are sensible and reusable, made from green materials, are friendly for the environment, and avoid items that require excessive or unnecessary packing.

5. Rent a Trade Show Display. In some instances it may be better for the environment to rent a custom display as there are many advantages to renting vs. purchasing a custom display. The environment is only one reason.

6. Pack Smart. Avoid one way shippers and opt for reusable shipping cases made from recycled plastic.

7. Most Important, Be Sincere. If your company chooses to “go green” be sure that you consider all the options and are truthful about whether you are greener or are a truly green company.