From rocket ships to duck houses: how over 900 event assets were given a second life
When AWS Summit London 2026 ended, the impact of the event didn't end when attendees left Excel London.
Working in partnership with AWS and Event Cycle, we took a deliberate approach to asset reuse, ensuring materials from the event could continue delivering value long after the final session finished. Rather than viewing de-rig as the end of the event lifecycle, we saw it as the start of a new chapter.
By engaging Event Cycle early in the planning process, opportunities for asset reuse were identified before the event took place. Through Event Cycle's network of charities, community organisations and local projects, 912 individual items were ultimately rehomed.
The initiative supported 14 organisations, generated more than £53,000 in social value and diverted more than 2.4 tonnes of CO2e from landfill.
DESIGNING WITH LEGACY IN MIND
Too often, sustainability conversations begin once an event is over. For AWS Summit London, the goal was different: to consider the future of materials before they were ever installed.
By working with Event Cycle early in the planning process, assets could be identified, catalogued and matched with organisations able to put them to meaningful use. This approach helped maximise both environmental and social impact while ensuring materials remained in circulation.
The variety of projects supported highlights the incredible potential of circular event delivery.
A six-metre-tall rocket ship installation found a new home at The Askefield Project, a community care farm in Lincolnshire, where it now supports outdoor activities and learning opportunities.
A purple telephone box from the exhibition floor was transformed into a library space at Trinity Homeless Projects in Hillingdon.
Structural materials were repurposed by Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, where they will contribute to a new exhibition exploring historic escape tunnels.
Materials including metal sheeting, lockable cabinets and surplus stationery were donated to Stepney City Farm, where they were put to use across a range of practical farm and education projects.
Across London and as far as Lincolnshire, exhibition assets found new homes in community spaces, youth projects, heritage sites and charitable organisations.
THE IMPACT IN NUMBERS
912 assets rehomed
14 organisations supported
£53,177 of social value created
2,409kg CO2e diverted from landfill
96% of materials redistributed locally
100% of transport emissions offset through Event Cycle initiatives
RAISING THE BAR FOR EVENT SUSTAINABILITY
As event professionals, we have a responsibility to think beyond the live experience.
While creating unforgettable moments for attendees remains our priority, we're always looking for opportunities to maximise the value and impact of an event beyond the live experience itself.
AWS Summit London 2026 demonstrated what is possible when sustainability is considered before de-rig begins. By working with partners who share that vision, event materials can continue to create value long after attendees have gone home.
It's an approach we're proud to champion and one we'll continue to build on in future projects.
WHAT COULD YOUR EVENT LEAVE BEHIND?
When sustainability is considered from the earliest planning stages, event assets can continue to create value long after the final attendee has gone home. It's a conversation we're proud to be having with clients and partners across the industry.
Get in touch to hear more speaktosleek@sleekevents.com