As an exhibitor or sponsor, what can YOU do?

Everyone plays a part in experiencing a conference that is kind to the planet and leaves positive legacies that benefit the community.

As an exhibitor or a sponsor at AIEC, here are some of the things you can do to help. Let us know what else you are doing!

Exhibitors and sponsors

Use digital materials and online interactions rather than printing excessive physical documents, which will reduce paper usage and associated resource usage and carbon emissions.
Use vendors who offset their packaging and delivery as part of the purchases you make.
For items that must be produced/printed, use local printers/suppliers for a reduced carbon footprint.

Replace single-use plastic giveaways with sustainable alternatives such as recycled paper products, bamboo items or reusable merchandise.
Choose merchandise that avoids individual plastic packaging.
Utilise creative displays or interactive installations made from recycled or upcycled materials to showcase your products or services.

Minimise promotional materials and giveaways that often end up as waste by opting for digital alternatives or eco-friendly products such as reusable bags or plantable seed paper.
When planning and purchasing merchandise, think about quality over quantity.
For your functions, if using your own branded name badges, use paper name tags without plastic pocket holders.
Where possible, avoid single-use pull-up banners.

Organise interactive digital displays at your booths to educate attendees on sustainable products, practices or technologies.
Fill out the self-assessment questionnaire to see what you already do or could do to improve your sustainable practices.

Showcase diversity and inclusion in your promotional materials and booth design, representing a wide range of demographics and cultures.
Offer diverse and inclusive product displays that cater to different needs and preferences, ensuring that all attendees feel welcome and represented.

If hosting offsite networking functions, where possible:

Favour venues that prioritise locally sourced, organic and sustainable food options
Pick venues that are within easy walking distance of hotels or the convention centre
Partner with caterers who prioritise locally sourced, organic and sustainably produced food options
Eliminate single-use packaging and utensils by offering eco-friendly alternatives such as compostable or reusable options for food samples or giveaways.

Source materials for booth construction or promotional items from local suppliers, reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation.
Prioritise suppliers who follow ethical practices, such as fair-trade certifications or commitments to workers’ rights and environmental sustainability.

21 March - Call for proposals opens

12 April - Call for proposals closes

30 May - Registration open

July - Program released

31 July - Super early bird registration closes

13 September - Early bird registration closes

22–25 October – AIEC 2024