Sustainability at trade fairs: Renting plants or using artificial plants?

Sustainability is also an important issue in trade fair construction. Sustainable exhibition stand design includes, among other things, the right choice of plants – especially since plants are an indispensable part of any trade fair. But what should you look for when choosing plants? Are artificial plants or real plants the better choice?

The sustainability trap of plants: Are plants really sustainable in trade fair construction?

Plants, in particular, are often associated with sustainability. What could be more closely linked to nature than fresh greenery and natural flowers? However, real plants are often anything but sustainable in trade fair construction. Most fresh plants have to be thrown away after the event. The small proportion that can be reused requires intensive care due to the stresses and strains they have been through. After all, many plants are affected by the change of location alone. Often, the only options for these plants are private use or disposal after the trade show. A good example of this is the exhibition stand that MMD implemented for Salesforce: Instead of disposing of the thuja trees after the trade show, they were passed on for private use, thus extending their life cycle as a new garden hedge. Our colleague is still happy today!

So, we should ask ourselves: Are real plants, which can only be used once before being thrown away, more sustainable than artificial plants, which can be used multiple times?

Actually, both options can be sustainable. To figure this out, we need to consider external factors. Things like where the plants come from, how they’re transported, whether they can be reused, and what they’re made of all play a role. Some types of plants are definitely more sustainable than others.

These include plants that are cultivated sustainably, consume fewer resources, and grow quickly with little care. These include monstera, bamboo, spider plants, alocasias, pothos, and other green plants. In addition, local plants are considered more sustainable than exotic, rare species. There are also some aspects to consider when it comes to potting soil. If it contains peat, it is not sustainable, as peat is extracted from bogs. This often destroys entire ecosystems. Labels such as MPS (Milieu Programma Sierteelt), GlobalG.A.P. and Fairtrade can provide information about the sustainability of the chosen option. Therefore, it is impossible to say in general terms whether artificial or real plants are the better choice for trade fair construction. It is important to always keep the big picture in mind.

The role of plants in trade fair construction

Plants are virtually indispensable in trade fair construction. They play a crucial role in creating the right atmosphere and enhancing the aesthetics of exhibition stands. Plants are a popular design feature that attracts visitors and encourages them to stay longer.

Current trade fair trends clearly show that nothing works here without a little greenery. Plants not only contribute to a modern appearance, but are also the ultimate symbol of sustainability. Nowadays, every company benefits from an environmentally conscious image.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the trade fair, flashing displays and informative brochures, green elements can create a calm atmosphere and promote well-being. The sensory overload of the trade fair is a thing of the past for a while. Plants radiate a high degree of naturalness and can thus create a veritable oasis for visitors. They also give the trade fair stand a particularly high-quality look.

Not only do visitors feel comfortable – plants also have a positive effect on product sales. Potential customers can enjoy a calm and focused moment at an appropriately designed booth, allowing them to fully engage with what is on offer.

Plants definitely have an emotional effect. Artificial plants can also achieve this and contribute to high-quality room or exhibition stand design. However, what artificial plants cannot do is improve air quality. Only living plants still offer this possibility.

Trade fair plants – what should be looked out for?

Some trade fair organizers are currently considering banning artificial plants in trade fair construction. However, this should be critically questioned. Especially when companies are concerned with sustainability, artificial plants should not be ignored.

The focus is on the aspect of reuse: Can real plants be reused every time or what happens to them after the trade fair? Do they have to be disposed of?

The constant “consumption” of fresh plants is a good example of this. This puts further strain on the environment. While it may appear sustainable to the outside world, it is by no means authentic.

Alternatives to real plants in terms of sustainability

But is there an alternative to real plants, which need to be replaced regularly? One option that can be reused for many trade fairs and does not require maintenance is artificial plants. However, for these to be a truly sustainable alternative, a few factors need to be taken into account. It is important that artificial plants for trade fair construction are made from high-quality materials. This not only increases their service life, but also avoids harmful chemicals in production. In addition, attention should be paid to quality seals such as B1 certificates, which declare the plants to be flame-retardant.

The reusability of artificial plants in trade fair construction in particular offers a wide range of additional advantages. It reduces costs for the exhibitor in the long term and minimizes their ecological footprint. MMD has implemented a sustainable example in collaboration with Adyen by using the same artificial plants at more than 20 trade fairs per year for three years.

Overall impact and total costs in trade fair construction: What about the use of plants?

The use of plants – whether real or fake – affects both the overall impact of the exhibition stand and the costs for the company. Plants can lighten the atmosphere of the trade fair stand, create warmth and naturalness, and promote well-being among visitors. Potential customers automatically perceive the company as environmentally conscious.

But what about the cost? These always vary depending on the type and quantity of plants. Logistics also play a certain role. Transportation in particular has an impact on costs. More effort must be made to ensure that plants arrive at their destination as fresh as possible. Furthermore, exotic real plants are usually more expensive than local ones. Whether plants are rented or purchased also plays a role in the cost question. Rented plants involve greater logistical effort and cost more due to the supply chain. However, they are the much more sustainable option.

Conclusion: Real plants vs. artificial plants in trade fair construction

When it comes to sustainability, many companies in the trade fair construction industry instinctively choose for real plants. However, many are unaware that artificial plants are also an environmentally friendly option. Artificial plants can even be more sustainable than real plants because they can be reused multiple times. Anyone who runs a booth and wants to reduce their ecological footprint should therefore consider several factors. These will help them to make a sensible decision.