Posted February 20th, 2009 by Zach in The Green Zone
What is "Embodied Energy" and how can we say that by using it we are going Green?
Embodied energy is a way that we can determine how much energy is used to create a traditional trade show booth from raw materials right up to the transportation of the booth. So by using a low amount of Embodied Energy we are saving energy and thus helping with the green factor.
[more after the break]
What is one way we can do this? Take an example: A client requests that you build them a new 20x20 booth. How can you as a supplier/partner help them to stay green? As mentioned Embodied Energy tracks everything from raw materials to transportation. So you might not be abled to use FSC certified wood on their exhibit. However, you can control how the materials arrive to your warehouse and how the booth arrives at the show. So instead instead of using a dedicated truck to deliver either the materials or the booth, why not try to hire a truck that makes multiple pick ups. You will leave less of a footprint and you may sleep better at night. Market this to your client as part of your green initiative. Or if you have this option (you may not), why not have your materials delivered by train? Not only is this the most economical way to get the materials but research shows it is also one of the greenest forms of transportation. Let you clients know that you are taking the green initiative.
Do you have any stories regarding Embodied Energy considerations? Are you letting your clients know every time you take the Green initiative?
