Designing Eco-Conscious Brand Experiences
How we integrate environmental and social responsibility into event planning
BY DEVIN FINNERAN | COPYWRITER
While each brand activation is an opportunity to build a fantastical world of immersive storytelling, as producers, it’s imperative that we integrate sustainable thinking into our creative conceptualization, rather than treat it as an afterthought.
Sustainability is all about meeting the needs of the present, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. With that in mind, here at Cogs & Marvel, we weave conscious thinking into every experience we create; from utilising digital solutions, to building physical environments, from partnering with local artists or charitable groups, to sourcing gifts from small businesses.
While ideating the narrative journey, there are many ways to reimagine physical builds as digital, mixed media, or multisensory activations, each as equally interactive and immersive.
Bespoke video backgrounds developed for Adobe’s Green Monday Eat for Impact initiative
On a number of recent projects, our creative team transformed initial proposals that required fabrication into AR, projection, or VR installations that invited guests to play in mixed media spaces with an option to capture imagery through in-camera setups, making the highly visual content easily shareable to social. These digital solutions are also more suitable for the world we now inhabit, where contact must be limited.
With the use of digital signage and bespoke event apps we no longer require as many printed assets as we once did, but when we do, we opt for water-based ink, recyclable materials and compostable boards - honeycomb is great! Likewise, when a physical build is necessary, we discuss ways to repurpose leftover materials in our suppliers’ warehouses, and how materials will be treated, recycled, or ideally, repurposed post-activation.
“We all know we’ll need power onsite, and researching alternative energy sources will uncover all kinds of cool innovations that can lead your creative storytelling”
Eco-innovation doesn't stop with physical builds. We all know we’ll need power onsite, and researching alternative energy sources will uncover all kinds of cool innovations that can lead your creative storytelling in unexpected directions, often producing serendipitous outcomes.
Depending on the brief, we seek out ways to support local small and minority businesses, as well as up-and-coming artists and charitable organizations. When we’re asked to supply “swag,” we propose thoughtfully curated kits of consumable or compostable goods sourced from earth-friendly artisans.
Electric bus design developed by the creative team for a brand activation concept
From our Obsidian Adventures series with Obsidian Wine Co.
Where possible, we try to give back just that little bit more to the community where the event is being hosted by commissioning pieces of art and design, or elevating the work of local groups. Those of us lucky enough to spend our time designing brand experiences need to build consciousness into our blueprints, and further integrate environmental and social responsibility issues into event planning.
Working with us is an experience you don’t want to miss.
Get in touch if you’re ready to push boundaries with our award-winning team!
