Sustainability is far more than a buzzword for us – it shapes our daily actions and defines our long‑term vision. With strong commitment and forward‑thinking initiatives, we continuously work to make Formnext and all our year‑round activities increasingly resource‑efficient and environmentally responsible.
Innovation meets responsibility
Additive Manufacturing and industrial 3D Printing are key technologies driving sustainable production, resource‑efficient manufacturing, and the future of greener industrial processes. By applying material only where it is truly needed, less waste is generated. Studies show that Additive Manufacturing can significantly reduce material waste compared to traditional subtractive processes. For complex components, material savings can reach up to 70–90%, depending on the process and geometry (AIIEM: How Additive Manufacturing supports green manufacturing & waste reduction, aiiem.org). Additional analyses, including those by the VDI Centre for Resource Efficiency, likewise confirm the high potential of AM for conserving resources (VDI ZRE, Resource efficiency through additive manufacturing, Short Analysis No. 35).
At the same time, localized and on‑demand production enables shorter supply chains and lower CO₂ emissions. Reusable materials and modern recycling methods further support the shift toward a resource‑efficient, circular economy. Additive Manufacturing also contributes to more sustainable applications – for example, through lightweight construction in mobility or efficiency gains in the energy sector. Throughout their life cycle, AM‑produced parts can achieve substantial CO₂ reductions.
As a trade show dedicated to this innovative and responsible industry, we take our own mission seriously. Sustainability is not only a topic our community is shaping – it is also a core principle guiding how we plan and execute our events, today and in the future.
Our ambition: to combine innovation with responsibility and, together with the AM community, promote solutions that pave the way toward a more environmentally conscious future.
Sustainability at Messe Frankfurt Group
As the first German trade fair company to join the UN Global Compact back in 2010, Messe Frankfurt is committed to the principles of responsible business conduct. Ecological, social, and economic responsibility are firmly embedded in the corporate strategy. The venue operator has pursued a sustainable business approach for decades, with a particular focus on environmental and climate protection.
Examples of sustainable measures at Messe Frankfurt:
Circular economy: Up to 90% of the annual waste generated on the exhibition grounds is returned to the material cycle.
Renewable energy: Photovoltaic systems on site generate electricity for more than 500 households.
100% green electricity: The entire exhibition grounds are powered by certified green electricity.
Green urban oasis: More than 40% of the outdoor spaces are unsealed. Lawns, shrubs, and around 890 trees create a pleasant microclimate. Additionally, 244 vines make Frankfurt one of the few cities with its own vineyard.
Discover the Messe Frankfurt Group’s climate strategy, sustainability philosophy, Code of Conduct, sustainability report and exhibitor guide for sustainable booth concepts.
As a user of the Frankfurt exhibition grounds, we benefit from the sustainable infrastructure provided by Messe Frankfurt, a venue operator that has long prioritized environmental responsibility and resource‑efficient operations. This strong sustainability framework reinforces our commitment to delivering responsible, sustainable events and supports our shared mission with the AM industry to advance a more environmentally conscious future.
Sustainability tips for exhibitors
Sustainability works best when everyone contributes – before, during and after the show. Our exhibitor guide provides a compact overview of key topics you can integrate into your planning. You will also find practical advice on handling waste and recyclable materials during set‑up and dismantling.
We have put together some essential first tips to help you make your trade fair presence more sustainable. Take a look!
Tips for a sustainable trade fair visit
Before the event: Plan sustainably and conserve resources
Organize eco-friendly travel: Choose the most climate-friendly way to get to the fair –whether by using the DB event ticket, public transport, or carpooling. The exhibition grounds also offer numerous charging stations for electric vehicles.
Choose sustainable accommodation: When booking your hotel, opt for properties certified with recognized sustainability labels such as GreenSign, Green Key, or Green Globe to further reduce your CO₂ footprint.
Design a resource-efficient booth: Plan a modular, long-lasting booth setup. Avoid large digital prints or date-specific graphics so materials can be reused at future events.
Use print materials only when necessary: Digital solutions are the most sustainable choice. If printed materials are required, use certified paper (e.g., FSC or PEFC) and keep print quantities to a minimum.
Select promotional items carefully: Choose durable, meaningful giveaways that offer real value – ideally with environmental or social benefits.
Plan catering responsibly: Offer regional, seasonal, and vegetarian or vegan food options. Plan quantities realistically and rely on reusable dishware instead of disposable items.
Make your trade fair visit count: According to an AUMA study, a single trade fair visit can replace an average of five business trips. Invite customers and prospects strategically to make the most of your participation.
During the event: Act sustainably
Stay environmentally friendly on the move: Use local public transport or carpool to reduce emissions during the event.
Plan fair working hours for your team: Ensure reasonable working schedules and good working conditions for your booth staff.
Raise awareness among your team: Brief your team on sustainable behavior and your company’s sustainability values before the event begins.
Choose regional service providers: Support local partners and benefit from shorter transport routes.
Use digital tickets: Show your ticket electronically to save paper. If using a printed ticket, reuse existing lanyards whenever possible.
Consume water responsibly: Refill your reusable bottle at the water stations on-site to avoid single-use plastic and reduce packaging waste.
After the event: Reuse materials responsibly
Dispose of materials correctly: Separate waste by type to ensure high-quality recycling.
Check recycling and reuse options: Pass materials on or reuse them for future events wherever possible.
Make use of storage solutions: Store booth modules, graphics, and furniture so they can be used again at upcoming trade fairs.
Evaluate your environmental footprint: Review the ecological impact of your trade fair appearance and identify opportunities for further improvement.
Tips for a sustainable trade fair visit
Before Formnext
Even during the preparation phase, you can actively contribute to an environmentally friendly trade fair visit.
Choose a climate‑friendly journey: Use the DB event ticket, public transport or carpooling. Numerous charging stations for electric vehicles are available on the exhibition grounds.
Stay sustainably: Choose hotels with renowned sustainability labels such as GreenSign, Green Key or Green Globe.
Plan efficiently: According to AUMA, one trade fair visit replaces an average of five business trips. Plan your appointments in advance to optimise your time on site and avoid unnecessary travel.