In an era where environmental concerns are at the forefront of global discourse, the recent Event Greening Forum (EGF) Workshop, held on 8 August at the University of Johannesburg, brought together industry experts, designers, and students to discuss the pressing need for sustainability in the event and exhibition industries. The workshop, a convergence of minds from various sectors, delved into the challenges, opportunities, and future directions of sustainable practices, with a strong focus on scalability, material reuse, and education.
One of the most significant challenges in the eco-farm and broader sustainable industries is scalability. As German-based keynote speaker Jörg Zeissig ( Vice President of the International Federation of Exhibition & Event Services (IFES) and CEO of Holtmann) put it, “Scalability is not just about doing things bigger; it’s about doing things better. In Europe, we’ve seen how materials like MDF are reused in heating processes, which not only reduces landfill waste but also creates a circular economy.”
Jörg explained that, while scalability is crucial, it must be paired with innovative reuse strategies. “We’re seeing a positive trend where materials aren’t just discarded after one use but are given a second life in new contexts.” This approach not only reduces waste but also demonstrates a practical application of sustainability principles, ensuring that resources are maximised.
DfD: A new standard in sustainable design
Design plays a pivotal role in sustainability, and the concept of “Design for Disassembly” (DfD) was a key topic at the workshop. Jörg passionately advocates for this approach: “Design for disassembly is about thinking ahead – it’s about creating products that can be easily taken apart and reused. This isn’t just a trend; it should be a standard in our design criteria.”
Jörg also explored the practical implications of DfD, sharing examples of successful implementations. “We’ve seen projects where DfD has reduced waste by 50% and cut costs in the long run. It’s a win-win situation – better for the environment and the bottom line.”
He argued that DfD should be integrated into educational curricula to ensure that future designers are equipped with the knowledge and tools to create sustainable products from the outset. “We need to instill these principles in young designers so that sustainability is ingrained in their thinking. It’s about shifting the paradigm from disposable to reusable.”
The economic case for NetZero Events
A significant barrier to widespread adoption of sustainable practices is the perception that they are more expensive. The speakers addressed this challenge head-on, with one sharing a compelling case study involving a bank client. “We showed the client a long-term cost analysis, illustrating how investing in reusable materials would save money over time. Once they saw the numbers, they were convinced.”
By presenting a clear, data-driven argument, designers and consultants can make a strong case for sustainable investments.
Prominent sustainability leader and Green Building Council executive Michelle Ludwig expanded on this by discussing the difficulties posed by traditional Request for Proposals (RFPs) that often demand one-time designs. “RFPs are a hurdle because they push for single-use solutions. But if we propose multi-year contracts, we can offer more sustainable, cost-effective options,” she suggested.
The discussion revealed that shifting client perspectives is a gradual process, but one that is essential for driving long-term change. Michelle emphasised that, “It’s about showing them the bigger picture – how sustainable choices today can lead to significant savings tomorrow.”
Integrating NetZero into Eventing
Xanita’s Gary van der Watt argued that waiting for clients to request sustainable solutions is a missed opportunity. “Sustainability should be baked into the design process from day one. We shouldn’t wait for the client to ask for it; it should be our standard approach.”
This proactive stance was supported by examples of projects where sustainability was seamlessly integrated, resulting in designs that were both functional and environmentally friendly.
He stressed the importance of a holistic approach. “We need to look at the entire value chain – from materials to manufacturing to end-of-life disposal. Sustainability isn’t just one part of the process; it’s the foundation.”
As the industry continues to evolve, the insights shared during the hybrid EGF workshop serve as a guide for professionals seeking to imple,emt sustainable practices during their events. By embracing a holistic approach, collaborating across sectors, and constantly innovating, the industry can make significant strides towards a more sustainable future.
