When you're prepping for a trade show, the last thing on your mind is how much garbage you'll leave behind. That is, unless you're aware of just how much waste conventions can create.

Trade shows are responsible more than 600,000 tons of trash each year. And, according to the Trade Show News Network (TSNN), expos in the U.S. and Middle East alone emit nearly 200,000 tons of carbon annually. And that's just from the production of exhibition booths!

If you exhibit at or attend at least one conference a year, you contribute to these alarming statistics. And that's why it's also your duty to help reduce the waste that's created.

TSNN recommends the following tips for reducing display waste:

1. Use recycled materials

If you're printing brochures, making signs or even passing out trade show giveaways, opt for ones made from eco-friendly materials. For example, your literature can be printed on recycled paper. Also look for eco-friendly promotional products that can be passed out to attendees.

2. Print with vegetable-based ink

Did you know that traditional ink can leak volatile organic compounds once the paper has been thrown out? TSNN suggests switching to soy-based ink, instead: "Such inks have dramatically less impact on the environment, and are easily removed." What an easy way to make a difference!

3. Avoid UV coated paper

Although some printers will argue that UV-coated paper protects the environment by "sealing in" any oil-based solvents, this type of material is also difficult to recycle. Paper that features an aqueous (water-based) coating will be much easier on the earth.

According to Green-Technology.org, "One out of five Americans spends the day in a school building."  There's really no excuse for these buildings to not be made as green as possible.  California "has long been on the edge of the green schools movement," and is therefore the ideal location for the October 2011 Green California Schools Summit & Exposition. 

Do you have a green product or service that you think can help transform California schools?  If so, then you should absolutely register to exhibit at the Green California Schools Summit & Exposition, which will take place October 17 and 18.  Pass out environmentally friendly promotional items to win the attention of California school district superintendents, principals, board members, and more! These California public school leaders and decision makers are eager to share your green solutions with their schools, making this the perfect opportunity for getting your product out there.

If you work as a teacher, architect, administrator, or any other representative from public, public charter or private schools, then you'll love attending the Green California Schools Summit & Exposition.  According to the Expo's Web site, attending provides you with the "chance to discover the latest green innovations."  You're going to love seeing products and services on display, from "energy efficient lighting" to "curriculum resources."

If you're passionate about helping your school to "Go Green", then you'll love seeing all the go green promotional products that exhibitors have to show off.  Perhaps best of all is the fact that the Expo's keynote speaker will be Carl Pope, Chairman of the Sierra Club.  Pope is a "veteran leader in the environmental movement," and is sure to inspire!