A fully recyclable cardboard trade show stand was on show at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), which has been hosting the Waste Expo and All-Energy Australia conference (23-24 October). The event showcased the latest innovations in waste reduction and renewable energy.
MCEC sustainability manager, Kristen Gillespie said: “We’re proud to host both the Waste Expo and All-Energy conference under one roof, highlighting the synergy between these important industries to create a brighter future for us all.”
The Waste Expo brought together some of the brightest minds in waste management and resource recovery to shape a cleaner, greener future.
During the expo, MCEC operated a Zero Waste Café, which featured 33% plant-based items, no plastic packaging and 100% reusable cutlery, crockery and glassware. Any leftover items were donated to food rescue organisation, OzHarvest.
To coincide with the expo and Sustainability Day, Goldfields Cafe served locally roasted speciality coffee, hot chocolate and certified organic and fair-trade tea, in edible cups, made from locally sourced oats and grains.
“The Waste Expo was the perfect opportunity to highlight the innovative solutions we’ve developed to reduce our impact on the environment, and challenge the industry to deliver greener events,” Gillespie said.
A fully recyclable cardboard trade show stand, designed by sustainable packaging manufacturer Enphase for conference organiser Opal, was unveiled. The stand featured a cardboard life-size house and is 100% recyclable, eliminating over 80% of waste that traditional expo stands generate.
“Our partnership with Opal represents one more way that Enphase supports and leads sustainable innovation. Enphase is transforming exhibitions and setting a new standard for environmental responsibility across industries,” said Patrick Matweew, general manager at Enphase Energy ANZP.
“This life-size cardboard house shows what’s possible when innovation and sustainability join forces. It’s more than just reducing waste, it’s about creating a practical, reusable structure that can serve as a model for future events,” said Chris Daly, executive general manager Packaging at Opal.
“We’re excited to host such a forward-thinking project. This recyclable cardboard stand supports our own industry-leading sustainability practices, and we hope it will inspire others to think creatively about reducing their environmental impact,” Gillespie added.
The All-Energy Australia conference provided a forum for discussions on renewable energy, energy management and sustainability.
MCEC publishes a guide for exploring ways to infuse positive impact into your events at the venue: https://www.mcec.com.au/our-impact/positive-impact-guide
