For professionals ready to make a difference, the new SAVe Guide to Sustainable AV Design and Installation, published by ISE’s official Sustainability Partner, offers a timely, practical blueprint. It’s a comprehensive guide packed with actionable strategies that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a special focus on Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. 

Here are five key takeaways from the guide: 

Choose brands committed to sustainability 
AV integrators are in a unique position to influence the supply chain. Professionals are urged to select manufacturers with transparent sustainability practices, third-party certifications (like TCO Certified, EPEAT, and Energy Star), and a commitment to circular economy principles. Look for companies that offer take-back programmes, use renewable materials, and provide detailed sustainability reports. 

Prioritise energy efficiency and smart design 
Designing for energy efficiency is central to sustainable AV. This means specifying equipment with environmental certifications, integrating intelligent power management, and using all-in-one components to reduce overall power consumption. Strategies such as daylight harvesting, automated scheduling, and active thermal management cut energy use further. 

Plan for end-of-life and reuse 
A truly sustainable AV project considers what happens when equipment reaches the end of its useful life. Consider refurbishing, donating, or recycling components, and working with certified e-waste recyclers. Documenting end-of-life plans not only supports environmental goals but also adds value for clients’ sustainability reporting. The SAVe: Second Life initiative offers a network of organisations through which AV equipment can be donated.  

Reduce transportation and installation impact 
Transportation is a major source of emissions in AV projects. SAVe recommends consolidating shipments, using local suppliers, and pre-assembling racks off-site to minimise trips. During installation, reduce waste by reusing materials, choosing sustainable cabling, and minimising plastic use. 

Embrace remote monitoring and preventative maintenance 
Remote monitoring technologies allow for early detection of issues, reducing unnecessary site visits and extending equipment life. Preventative maintenance protocols further ensure that systems run efficiently, saving both resources and money. 

The guide introduces an AV Project Evaluation Matrix – a practical tool for assessing sustainability at every stage, from design to end-of-life. Whether you’re conducting a quick installation check or a comprehensive project review, this matrix helps ensure that sustainability isn’t an afterthought, but a core part of your process. 

Explore the full SAVe Guide to Sustainable AV Design and Installation at the SAVe website. 

Stay informed!

Sustainability is of the megatrends that are revolutionising the world of AV and systems integration.

ISE is the world-renowned annual tech show for the AV and systems integration industry, taking place in Barcelona, 3-6 February 2026. For more updates on sustainability within our industry, and to discover more about ISE 2026 as details are released, sign up for updates.

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