From design decisions and system integration to manufacturing and recycling, AV consultants, manufacturers, and integrators all play a critical role in reducing environmental impact. So, let’s explore some sustainability best practices across the AV ecosystem, highlighting actionable steps laid out by the @AVIXA Sustainability Advisory Group in their new guides.

First, Why it Matters

Why is sustainability important? Embracing sustainability in AV tech is a powerful stride toward reducing environmental harm. And it's becoming a huge part of modern business operations.

“As the demand for advanced AV technologies continues to grow, so does the urgency to address the environmental challenges that accompany their development and deployment,” stated the AVIXA Sustainability Group’s Best Practices Subcommitte. “The AV industry, like many others, faces a critical need to adapt to the rising expectations surrounding sustainability.”

Whether in schools or corporate offices, adopting eco-friendly AV solutions has become essential for businesses committed to responsibility. This is how you can get started.

Sustainable Practices for AV Consultants

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important consideration for AV consultants as clients look to reduce environmental impact without compromising performance. From the earliest stages of system planning, consultants have opportunities to make more responsible choices through thoughtful design, product selection, and documentation. The following sections explore how sustainable practices can be integrated into key phases of the consulting workflow.

Programming / Schematic Design:

• Initiate conversation with client and end user early on in project
• Benchmark benefits / ROI
• Provide real world examples and implement these into future projects

Design / Bid Documents:

1. Specify remote management software that can provide data on power consumption and other sustainability metrics
2. Specify products that align with client’s sustainability goals. Review the following:
   1. Power consumption,
   2. Materials used in manufacturing, shipping, etc.,
   3. And more…

In the new sustainability guide for AV consultants, created by the AVIXA Sustainability Advisory Group, you’ll be able to receive more in-depth information.

Sustainable Practices for AV Manufacturers

Some ways that you can begin to make more sustainable choices as an AV manufacturer is to:

• Work with recycling companies to ensure that electronic waste is disposed of responsibly,
• Refurbish old products or components to extend their lifespan,
• Encourage customers to buy refurbished items, reducing the demand for new resources,
• And more…

In the new sustainability guide for manufacturers, additional best practices can be found.

Sustainable Practices for AV Integrators

When it comes to sustainability, integrators can lead in operational sustainability and customer empowerment. Key areas of focus should include:

1. Training and Awareness
2. Green Service Contracts
3. Sustainable Operations
4. Circular Economy Implementation
5. E-Waste Management and Traceability
6. Metrics and Reporting

Additionally, customer engagement is essential to successful sustainability implementation. A client-facing checklist, integrated into handovers or contracts, can ensure AV solutions align with environmental goals and upcoming EU regulations.

In the new sustainability guide for integrators, you’ll be able to see an example of a customer checklist, learn more about standardized sustainability KPIs for the AV industry, and receive additional information on sustainable practices for integrators.

In Closing

By incorporating sustainable practices, you can help the industry reduce its carbon footprint and make a difference at the local level, which can lead to global impact. You can add value for your end users, clients, and the planet.

The AV industry has the chance to lead by example. And with these guides in your toolbelt, it’s never been easier to take sustainable steps.

For a closer look at how to incorporate more sustainable practices as an AV consultant, manufacturer, or integrator, access the guides on AVIXA.org.