2010 Marks the Year APM Becomes “Greener”

Overall APM operations have been predominantly electronic since 2006 (entire proposal review process, housing, and registration), helping CSWE to be considerate of our ecosystem by conserving paper. In 2010, CSWE is fulfilling its ethical responsibility to be a “green” organization at the next level. Portland, OR is renowned for its “green” efforts, providing the perfect host city for CSWE to introduce its expanded commitment to make regular annual conference operations more sustainable. The Oregon Convention Center, where all 2010 APM events will be held, was the first convention center to receive Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-rated (LEED) sustainable certification.

New to APM Starting in 2010

• CSWE has made an organization-wide commitment to use only printers that are FSC certified.
• Preliminary and Final Programs are now printed on FSC-certified paper.
• Certificates for completing continuing education units (CEUs) are being converted to an electronic format, saving more than 900 sheets of paper.
• Recycle your unused CEU Passport session evaluation forms by handing them to the designated registration representative onsite during posted hours.
• On-site meeting signs will use more than 180 pounds of “bioboard,” a 100% recyclable paper product.
• External Function Space Requests form submissions will be paperless, starting with the 2010 APM.
• Tote bags made with recycled materials for the 2nd year in a row.
• Reducing the number of computers at its Annual Program Meeting’s Cyber Café to help save energy.
• CSWE will be collecting plastic name badge holders for recycling in the registration area on Saturday, October 16–Sunday, October 17.
• APM Marketing Toolkit is no longer being commercially printed and has been converted to a more eco-friendly, electronic format, saving more than 6,000 sheets of paper annually.

Sustainable Facts About the Oregon Convention Center

• Lighting and mechanical systems are put into conservation mode at night and during non-event days. 
• Building has heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) conservation policies for staff.
• Has water conservation policies for landscaping and irrigation systems, plumbing, and facility restrooms.
• Gives preference to eco-friendly consumer products
• Uses disposable service ware—plates, bowls, coffee cups, beer and wine glasses, salad bowls/lids, utensils and straws—for concessions and catering that is biodegradable or compostable
• Composts food and organic waste throughout the building