Creating sustainable mannequin displays

An often overlooked element within retail and visual merchandising is mannequins. Mannequins are a staple as they play a vital role in shaping the customer experience. As retailers strive to reduce their environmental footprint, the question ‘how can we create mannequin displays that are as sustainable as they are stylish?’ arises.

In this article, we will explore what mannequins are made of, how the materials and manufacturing processes are evolving and what steps visual merchandisers and retail managers can take to create displays that align with sustainability goals, without compromising on impact or design.

What are mannequins made of?

Traditionally, mannequins have been made from materials such as fibreglass, plastic (especially polyethene or polypropylene), and polystyrene. These materials are durable and can be moulded into lifelike forms, but they come with a significant environmental impact. Fibreglass, for example, is non-biodegradable and requires an energy-intensive manufacturing process. The production of plastic releases harmful greenhouse gases and contributes to the global plastic waste crisis – an issue now at the forefront of environmental concerns.

To address these challenges, mannequin manufacturers are turning to more sustainable alternatives, and at Proportion London, we’ve developed two key eco-friendly options.

Our papier-mâché busts are made using recycled paper and card, creating a lightweight, sustainable torso option. These can be finished raw for a more natural look or covered to suit your aesthetic. While they’re not full mannequins, they’re ideal for showcasing garments in a more responsible way.

For full-body forms, our EcoForm mannequins provide a breakthrough alternative to traditional fibreglass. Made using a bio-resin and hemp composite, EcoForm reduces reliance on fossil-based materials while maintaining durability and design flexibility. This award-winning innovation has positioned us at the forefront of sustainable mannequin design, offering brands a practical way to reduce their environmental footprint without compromising on style.

Alternatives to Fibreglass and Plastic

Sustainable mannequin design starts with rethinking what mannequins are made of. Several innovative alternatives are gaining traction in the industry:

1. Recycled plastics and bioplastics

Instead of relying on petroleum-based plastic, some manufacturers now use recycled plastics to produce mannequins. These retain the durability and versatility required for commercial displays but drastically reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Bioplastics, including plastics made from renewable biological sources such as corn starch, sugarcane, or cellulose, are also gaining popularity. While not always biodegradable, bioplastics often have a lower carbon footprint during production and can be an environmentally friendlier alternative when sourced and disposed of responsibly.

2. Paper pulp and moulded fibre

Paper-based alternatives are gaining momentum, particularly for temporary or changeable displays. Constructed from layered paper fibre and bonded with water-based adhesives, EcoForm products offer a low-impact solution that is both lightweight and recyclable.

They are shaped using moulded fibre techniques and finished by hand, making each piece unique while maintaining a premium, sculptural appearance. Unlike fibreglass, EcoForm contains no toxins, no petroleum-derived chemicals, and no solvents, helping retailers drastically reduce the environmental impact of their display materials.

3. Natural and organic materials

Hemp, bamboo, cork, and other organic materials are also being explored for mannequin construction. These materials are renewable, biodegradable, and often produced using less water and energy than synthetic alternatives.

The Manufacturing Process

Sustainability isn’t just about what mannequins are made of; it’s also about how they’re made. A traditional fibreglass production line involves harmful chemicals like styrene, as well as extensive sanding and painting processes that release fine particulate matter into the air. The carbon footprint of a fibreglass mannequin can be significant.

In contrast, EcoForm mannequins are made using a water-based, low-energy production method. The adhesive used in the process is entirely non-toxic, and the finished mannequins are fully biodegradable. The lack of solvent-based coatings or petrochemical ingredients means EcoForm poses no threat to the environment at the end of its lifespan.

Mannequin Longevity

Durability and modularity are crucial in creating a sustainable mannequin display. A mannequin that lasts five years instead of one reduces the need for replacement, transport, and disposal, all of which have associated environmental costs.

Retailers are also turning to modular mannequins. These can be updated seasonally with interchangeable parts such as different heads, arms, or bases, rather than being replaced entirely. This supports a circular economy by extending product lifespans and reducing waste.

Sustainable Display Practices

Creating sustainable mannequin displays goes beyond the mannequin itself and needs to consider what mannequins are made of. Here are some core principles visual merchandisers and retail managers should consider:

1. Invest in timeless design

Rather than following short-lived trends, opt for mannequins and display elements with a timeless aesthetic. Classic poses, neutral finishes, and minimal styling help extend usability across multiple campaigns and seasons.

2. Rethink the lifecycle

What happens to a mannequin at the end of its retail life? Ideally, it should be either refurbished, repurposed, or recycled. EcoForm mannequins are designed to be fully biodegradable at end-of-life. When disposed of correctly, it breaks down without leaving behind microplastics or harmful residue, a critical step toward circularity in the retail sector.

3. Transport with care

Mannequins are often shipped long distances, which contributes to their carbon footprint. Choosing local suppliers or working with manufacturers with UK-based production facilities can help reduce transport emissions. Packaging should also be recyclable, reusable, or biodegradable wherever possible. EcoForm is made in the UK, which significantly reduces shipping emissions for British retailers compared to imported alternatives.

Are sustainable mannequins cost-effective?

There’s a common perception that sustainable options are more expensive. While upfront costs can be marginally higher, the long-term benefits, such as reduced waste, less frequent replacement, and improved brand perception, often offset this.

How Proportion can help

At Proportion London, we combine decades of craftsmanship with a forward-thinking approach to sustainability. We work closely with retailers, visual merchandisers, and designers to create bespoke, high-impact displays that align with both brand identity and environmental goals.

From concept design to hand-finishing, we ensure every mannequin not only enhances your retail space but also supports a more circular, responsible future for the industry. Get in touch with our team today to discuss how we can bring your sustainable display vision to life.