Major Material Recovery Initiative

EXHIBITORLIVE and Fern successfully diverted 33,772 pounds of materials from landfills following the 2026 EXHIBITORLIVE event through a comprehensive recycling and repurposing program. The Las Vegas-based initiative was executed in partnership with Brumark and Exploring Graphics, demonstrating large-scale sustainability practices in the events industry.

Environmental Impact Metrics

The material recovery program achieved significant measurable results across multiple categories. The initiative recovered 17.92 tons of carpet and turf, 1.23 tons of vinyl materials, 1.88 tons of padding, and 0.5 tons of graphics materials. Beyond waste diversion, the program avoided 10,412 pounds of CO₂ emissions, equivalent to preventing 10,670 pounds of coal from being burned, while preserving 72,900 square feet of landfill space.

Material Processing Pathways

Rather than standard disposal methods, materials underwent specialized processing for extended lifecycle applications. Carpet and turf were processed into alternative fuel sources and industrial reuse applications. Vinyl materials were recycled into raw materials for future manufacturing, reducing virgin plastic production requirements. Padding was reclaimed for various industrial and construction applications, while graphics materials entered specialized recycling and reuse programs.

Industry Leadership Approach

The program was designed to minimize complexity for exhibitors while achieving environmental accountability.

"At EXHIBITORLIVE, sustainability isn't a side initiative — it's a responsibility," said Stephanie Gibbs, General Manager, Exhibitor Group. "By partnering with Fern, Brumark, and Exploring Graphics, we proved that large‑scale events can deliver meaningful environmental impact without placing additional burden on exhibitors."

Gibbs emphasized that the collaboration demonstrates what becomes possible when leadership, innovation, and collaboration combine to advance industry practices. The infrastructure, logistics, and expertise provided by Brumark and Exploring Graphics enabled the large-scale diversion to be achievable within existing event operations.

Based on reporting by Exhibitor Magazine. Read the original article.