Originally published September 2006, Successful Meetings
Did you know that an average hotel purchases more products in one week than 100 families acquire in an entire year? How about the fact that 24 million hotel guest rooms are booked annually in the U.S.? These numbers, from the Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Guide, clearly indicate what kind of impact the hospitality industry has on the environment.
We all can limit and reduce waste consumption—it's just a matter of being educated on how to do so. But it does require more awareness and effort to undertake green initiatives. Currently, almost a dozen convention centers have implemented sustainable design and construction practices that will significantly reduce or eliminate the negative impact of meeting facilities on the environment. They are also in the process of addressing environmental practices that will curb waste and introduce more efficient methods of using energy and water. Moreover, there are two convention centers (Oregon Convention Center in Portland and David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh) that have become LEED certified within the last couple of years. LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a rating system developed by the Green Building Council and a voluntary building certification program that defines high-performance green buildings.
Interestingly, Julie Reed, director of public relations at MERC (Metropolitan Exposition Recreation Commission), the parent agency of the Oregon Convention Center (OCC) in Portland, claims that meeting attendees are attracted to sustainable practices at convention centers. "The OCC has a tremendous amount of natural light streaming in through large windows and skylights," says Reed, "which allows attendees to feel a connection with the outside while being indoors." Joanne Dennison, CMP, of Ordinary Success Inc., in Martinsville, NJ, remembers how aesthetically pleasing Pittsburgh's green convention center is: "It uses a lot of natural light, and isn't that nice on a trade show floor! In the area where buses load and unload there is a manmade waterfall. Since this is an area that is under part of the building, the purpose of the waterfall is not just decorative. The circulation of the water pulls the exhaust out of the tunnel area."
Says Reed, "Knowing that attendees are meeting at a green venue gives them a better sense of place." And, it's all about leaving behind a lighter footprint on the world, she adds.
According to Ellen Schwartz, senior director of sales and marketing at the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center, being green is more than a business issue; it is a social issue. "Our new construction benefits the environment by reducing power needs. This shows that we are actively participating in responsible stewardship."
Following is a list of convention centers that have implemented green operational practices or are planning to incorporate eco-sustainable methods.
#1 ECO-Friendly Convention Center
Oregon Convention CenterPortland, OR—Recently expanded, 255,000 sf of exhibit space, LEED CertifiedENERGY EFFICIENT: Has a lot of windows and skylights to naturally light up the center, which reduces electricity costs and energy use. Has light sensors to reduce the need for artificial light. Has individual temperature controls for each exhibit space, which allows adjustment of temperature levels to match the occupancy of each space.
• The center purchases 14 percent of its electrical energy from Pacific Power's Blue Sky Block Program, which uses renewable wind energy. Wind power is an attractive form of energy generation because it helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• The grounds and the building exteriors are both designed to reduce the "heat islands" produced by asphalt, concrete, or open hard-surface roofs. The use of natural habitat vegetation in landscaping and the facility's roof design meet Energy Star requirements for good emission and reflectance.
RAIN GARDEN: Collects storm water from the facility's roof and filters it through an attractive system of rock terraces, pools, and soil, helping to prevent environmental pollutants from reaching the adjacent Willamette River.
FRESH AIR: Has ventilation systems to bring in fresh, outside air directly to each major space, while not allowing it to mix with exhaust air from the facility.
RECYLCED RESOURCES: 75 percent of the construction waste due to the expansion has been recycled. A quarter of the materials used in the expansion are made of at least 40 percent post-consumer waste.
RECYCLING PROGRAM: Recycles office products, cardboard, newspaper, cans, bottles, pallets, and landscaping trimmings.
• Does progressive food recycling, called commercial food composting. "We capture all food waste from events, where it is processed at the Cedar Grove Composting in Maple Valley, WA. There it becomes biodegradable material and is made into compost for gardening," says Julie Reed, director of public relations for MERC.
• OCC guidelines require that purchased office products are manufactured using recycled material. All in-house publications are printed on recycled stock using soy-based inks.
MINIMIZE POLLUTION: Provides alternative forms of transportation to get to and from the convention center, like light rail systems, buses, and subways. In addition, offers bike storage, showers, and changing rooms.
WATER USE: Has implemented HVAC equipment and controls to reduce water usage.
• Uses low-flow restroom fixtures.
GREEN EATS: Serves condiments in bulk containers, composts food waste, uses locally grown and organic produce wherever possible.
• Donates excess food to local charities.
SCHOOLHOUSE SUPPLIES PROGRAM: The OCC collaborates with Schoolhouse Supplies, which is a volunteer-run, free store for teachers that stocks a variety of supplies donated by the community. The OCC donates foam core, furniture, magazine racks, shopping bags, writing materials, and vinyl plastic. A unique feature is that the organization accepts donations of many items that cannot be recycled through normal channels, or where recycling the items would cost more (in terms of money and energy) than simply finding a new creative use for them.
EDUCATE: The "Green Team" manages and advances the facility's sustainability efforts. This employee committee works to educate staff, clients, and vendor partners on the importance of working toward a sustainable future.
#2 ECO-Friendly Convention Center
David L. Lawrence Convention CenterPittsburgh, PA—New structure, opened in 2003, 313,400 sf of exhibit space, LEED CertifiedENERGY EFFICIENT: 75 percent of center is lit by natural daylight, which decreases energy use by 35 percent. With this natural light and air ventilation, it is projected to save a half-million dollars a year. Has daylight and carbon monoxide sensors. Roof skylights and walls of glass produce diffuse light and uniform temperature, as well as admit natural light.
FRESH AIR: The shape of the building captures natural airflow from the Allegheny River to help ventilate and cool the interior; reduces operational costs by 35 percent annually and minimizes the use of AC too.
WATER USE: Water that is collected is reclaimed through the center's chemical and treatment system. Water is recycled, then filtered, and reused—reducing usage by 55 percent. Just this year the center has reclaimed two million gallons of water.
RECYCLED RESOURCES: Used recycled materials, like steel and iron, to create the new center.
RECYCLING PROGRAM: Recycles mixed paper, glass, metal cans, plastics, cardboard, and used building materials.
MINIMIZE POLLUTION: Provides alternative complimentary forms of transportation to get to and from the convention center and hotels, like buses and subways. Center is within walking distance to all downtown hotels.
GREEN EATS: Serves condiments in bulk containers at concession stands.
• Uses locally grown and organic produce wherever possible.
• Able to donate excess food to local charities and food banks.
#3 ECO-Friendly Convention Center
Moscone CenterSan Francisco,CA—Expanded in 2003, 700,000 sf of exhibit spaceMATERIAL RECOVERY: The center diverts for recycling approximately 75 percent of the waste stream by volume and more than 50 percent by weight. In 2005, over 1,400 tons of materials were diverted, an estimated $500,000 was avoided in garbage costs, and 200 tons of goods were donated to the local community.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY: Has a lighting system to reduce energy usage without diminishing interior lighting levels.
• Rooftop solar electrical system generates power for the city, potentially enough for 550 homes annually.
AIR QUALITY: Monitors carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrous oxide.
• Uses propane additive to reduce carbon monoxide emissions.
GREEN EATS: The catering department has instituted an innovative food scrap composting program in addition to its extensive meal donation program. It buys locally wherever possible, and has changed several purchasing practices to reduce waste, as well as having initiated purchase of biodegradable food service products.
MINIMIZE POLLUTION: Has access to local and regional mass transportation, and is within close proximity of nearly 20,000 hotel rooms.
RESOURCE EFFICIENT: Moscone West (new building) incorporated an extensive program of resource-efficient design. Features include:
• High-performance glazing with low emission glass.
• Use of the latest and most energy-efficient lighting fixtures throughout the facility as well as use of daylight sensors to control prefunction areas.
• Mechanical systems that include chilled-water plant and cooling towers, heating water plant, air, and control systems.
#4 ECO-Friendly Convention Center
Los Angeles Convention CenterLos Angeles, CA—770,000 sf of exhibit spaceENERGY EFFICIENT: Has dual signature glass towers that include patterned glass inlays. These inlays are thicker where solar exposure is the greatest, providing passive solar heat attenuation without the need for additional AC.
• Upgraded the AC chiller units for a 38 percent improvement in energy efficiency and transitioned to an environmentally friendly form of Freon (R-123).
• Nearly 800 high-efficiency lighting units in exhibit halls reduce electrical consumption by 50 percent while providing the same level of illumination.
• Has an electrical capacity of 800,000 kilowatt hours per year of renewable and environmentally safe electrical power.
RECYCLING PROGRAM: Recycles cardboard, glass, aluminum, plastic beverage containers, metals, pallets, mixed paper, scrap metal/steel, toner/inkjet cartridges, and wood.
AIR QUALITY: Upgraded to low nitrogen oxide and carbon dioxide emission steam boilers for cleaner air for the city.
WATER USE: Traditionally, the 21,000 gallons of recirculating cooling water were treated with chemicals to avoid damaging scale, corrosion, and biological growth. These chemicals are dangerous to handle, and drained water may present a hazard to the environment. The center adopted a new water treatment method called "Zeta Rod." Instead of harmful and expensive chemicals, electrically charged rods now prevent bacteria and scale from binding to equipment.
• Reduced-flow diaphragms for toilet and urinal flush valves, low-flow faucets, motion sensor-supported hand-washing stations, and landscaping with reduced irrigation.
#5 ECO-Friendly Convention Center
Phoenix Convention CenterPhoenix, AZ—Expansion will have 872,000 sf total; Phase I was completed July 2006RECYCLED RESOURCES: Excavated sand mixed with large stones, called cobble, and recycled it to make new concrete and asphalt paving.
• Expansion used construction materials from within a 500-mile radius to reduce fuel usage and bolster growth in the local economy.
• Redeveloped an existing central Phoenix site instead of relocating to an undeveloped site.
• Used adhesives, sealants, carpeting, and paint with low emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds.
MINIMIZE POLLUTION: Center is located near public transportation.
ENERGY EFFICIENT: Uses Energy Star-compliant roofing that makes the structure more energy efficient and further reduces the "heat island" effects caused by other roofing materials.
WATER USE: Incorporates water-efficient landscaping to limit the use of potable water.
• Uses air-conditioning equipment that does not contribute to ozone depletion and provides healthy indoor air quality.
RECYCLING PROGRAM: A construction waste management program reduces waste items sent to landfills and increases recycling efforts.
#6 ECO-Friendly Convention Center
Anaheim Convention CenterAnaheim, CA—813,607 sf of exhibit spaceGREEN EATS: Implemented new F&B program 16 months ago that:
• Sources and utilizes local products.
• Uses Rainforest Alliance Coffee, which is sustainable in that it does not compromise the livelihoods of future generations, and it pays living wages to workers.
• Uses sustainable beef products, which allow animals to have a natural life cycle.
• Uses seafood from sustainable fisheries. Has a partnership with Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch Program, which farms fish and helps the center make proper selections on seafood.
• Eliminated products due to cruel methods of harvesting, like foie gras and Beluga caviar.
• Utilizes biodegradable serviceware, like cups, plates, straws, utensils, lids, napkins that are not made of paper but from sugar cane and corn starches. "It takes 3,000 years for glass to biodegrade, 2,000 for plastic, and 1,000 for aluminum cans. With our serviceware it only takes 60 to 180 days to biodegrade," says Jim Tripp, general manager of F&B at Aramark at the Anaheim Convention Center.
• Utilizes organic food.
• Offers free-range products: chicken, eggs, beef.
• Eliminated portion-control products and implemented bulk dispensing units.
• Recycles all plastic bottles.
• Educates local schools, service organizations, and management teams on how to take food sustainability to the next level.
#7 ECO-Friendly Convention Center
Chattanooga Convention CenterChattanooga, TN—Expansion, 312,000 sf of exhibit spaceENERGY EFFICIENT: Has a lot of windows and skylights to naturally light up the center.
• Has individual temperature controls for each exhibit space.
• Planted trees and natural habitat landscaping, which reduces heat transfer to the building.
FRESH AIR: Enables natural fresh-air ventilation to take place where windows are operable.
WATER USE: Has rainwater collection system for nonpotable use.
#8 ECO-Friendly Convention Center
Charlotte Convention CenterCharlotte, NC—280,000 sf of exhibit spaceGREEN EATS: Buys local food products for events and uses the process of bundling, which means limiting the number of suppliers for specialized projects and the number of vehicles going to and from, which will ultimately cut down on pollution.
• Implemented a new disposable product—biodegradable cups, made from corn, that are manufactured by Fabri-Kal. After use, the cups take 50 days to biodegrade.
RECYCLING PROGRAM: Recycles paper products and cardboard. By 2008 will be recycling all aluminum cans, glass, and plastic bottles.
#9 ECO-Friendly Convention Center
Long Beach Convention CenterLong Beach, CA—224,000 sf of exhibit spaceENERGY EFFICIENT: Implemented a solar power installation on the center's roof. It is estimated it will save up to 705 kilowatts of energy, or $7,800 per year.
RECYCLING PROGRAM: Recycles cardboard, pallets, white office paper, newsprint, glass/plastic, scrap steel, and shop carts.
SIDEBARGreening Your MeetingFollow these green practices in order to minimize environmental and local impact for your next meeting:
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Use Paperless Technology. Use new media and electronic technology to cut down your paper use. For instance, send online "e-vites" as invitations, create a conference website, offer electronic registration and confirmation, and advertise using the Web and/or e-mail.
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Use Recycled Products. Have all handouts printed on two sides using post-consumer recycled paper. Use recycled- content promotional products when deciding on pens, bags, shirts, and caps. There are beautiful awards made of recycled glass too!
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Meet Nearby. Select hotels within walking distance to the meeting site or provide information on how to utilize public transportation to reduce additional transportation needs.
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Lighten Your Stay. Choose a hotel that offers a linen reuse program and bulk dispensers for shampoos and soaps in guest suites (or ask the hotel not to replace the amenities unless they are consumed). Also, ask the hotels' housekeeping staff to shut blinds and turn down the heat/air conditioning during the day in rooms while attendees are gone.
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Use the Off Switch. Coordinate with the meeting venue to ensure that lights and air conditioning will be turned off when rooms are not in use.
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Bulk Up. Have your F&B service provider use bulk dispensers for sugar, salt, pepper, cream, mustard, ketchup, and other condiments.
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Serve Well. Ask your F&B service to provide glass or china plates and cups. If plastic, they must be washable (biodegradable or compostable is better). No Styrofoam under any circumstances. Also, ask for napkins to be cloth whenever possible and use coasters instead of cocktail napkins.
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Recycle. Ask the meeting venue to put out recycling bins for attendees to use at all catered functions, registration, and especially on the exhibit floor. And get information on the facilities' recycling program for all areas.
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Eat Green. Include vegetarian meals, and have meals planned using local, organic, and seasonal produce. See if the F&B service can offer your attendees free-range options as well as beef and seafood from sustainable farms and fisheries.
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Conserve Water. Have the meeting venue serve drinking water in water coolers or pitchers rather than in individual bottles. In addition to benefiting the environment, this process saves money. One client of Meeting Strategies Worldwide saved $25,000 by not using plastic-bottled water at its conference.
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Spread the Wealth. Donate leftover food to local food banks and charities.
Source: BlueGreen Meetings, Greenbuild Alliance, Meeting Strategies Worldwide