Earth Day is an annual event celebrated around the world on April 22nd to demonstrate support for environmental protection. It was first celebrated in 1970 and is now coordinated globally by the Earth Day Network (https://www.earthday.org/). On this day, various activities are organized to raise awareness about environmental issues such as pollution, deforestation, climate change, and conservation. Earth Day serves as a reminder of the importance of taking action to protect our planet for current and future generations.

Let’s discuss the role of plastic at events:

1- Number 1 priority : Plastic bottles

Plastic bottles at events can pose significant environmental challenges due to their single-use nature and potential for pollution. Event organizers can consider alternatives to single-use plastic bottles, such as providing water refill stations, offering biodegradable or compostable cups, or encouraging attendees to bring their reusable water bottles.

Two actions that can be taken today are:

• Initiate the elimination of plastic bottles with a cyclical approach and reduction strategy.
• Communicate with participants to encourage them to bring their own reusable bottles well before the event.

It’s important to implement a reduction strategy. How many tons of plastic bottles do you have in year 1? year 2? Then, you will be able to contribute to achieving the 60% Reduction of Plastic Production by 2040.

2- Number 2 priority : protective films & carpets

Here are two main types of plastics commonly used in events: carpet and protective films. Unfortunately, in many cases, these materials end up in residual waste and are not recycled at all. Recycling them involves additional transportation to specific facilities nearby and using appropriate recycling machinery based on the type of plastic.

To address this issue, you can consider the following options:

• Remove the carpets and protective films entirely, or wherever feasible.
• Recycle your exhibition carpets into items such as bottles, bags, auto parts, or toys.
• Reuse your exhibition carpets at other events.
• Upcycle your carpets into new products or materials, such as rugs, slipper, pet beds, or insulation.
• Use natural and already recycled carpets
• Ensure that the protective film is recycled rather than being disposed of as residual waste.

It’s essential to communicate with your suppliers to understand how and when they recycle their carpets and protective films. This information can help you make informed decisions about the most sustainable options for your events. Ensure that your providers or cleaners can provide proof of recycling certification. Recycling carpets is not a simple task and can be costly. Therefore, it’s crucial to verify that the recycling process is being carried out effectively and responsibly.

3 – Number 3 priority : Plastic materials for stands

Plastic materials commonly used for stands at events include PVC, widely used plastic due to its durability and versatility for stand structures, signage, and banners. Also known as Plexiglas or Perspex, acrylic is a transparent plastic that is frequently used for display cases, shelves, and signage at exhibitions.

These plastic materials offer various properties such as strength, transparency, and flexibility. However, it’s essential to consider sustainability factors and explore options for using recycled or biodegradable plastics where possible to minimize environmental impact.

To address this issue, you can consider the following options:

• Explore alternative materials such as cardboard, bamboo, or recycled wood for stand structures, signage, and display elements. These materials are renewable, biodegradable, and often more eco-friendly than traditional plastics.
• Invest in modular stand designs that allow for easy assembly, disassembly, and reconfiguration without the need for single-use plastic components. 
• Choose Recycled Plastics: Look for suppliers offering recycled plastic options for stand components, panels, and signage.
• Minimize Packaging: Avoid excessive plastic packaging for transporting and storing stand materials.

CONCLUSION : 

It’s not feasible to eliminate all plastics overnight. What’s crucial is to develop a comprehensive plastic reduction strategy that considers the needs and expectations of all stakeholders. This can be achieved through a structured 2 to 5-year plan, focusing on specific goals aligned with the overarching objective: a 60% reduction in plastic production by 2040. 

Can you decrease your plastic usage by 60% over the next 16 years? 

Begin by assessing your current situation: How much plastic did you produce, recycle, or reuse at your last event? Identifying your starting point is key to developing effective strategies for reducing plastic consumption and promoting sustainability.