Because conservation of energy and natural resources is a top priority, the San Diego Convention Center (SDCCC) has developed several programs promoting minimal use of materials and natural resources that adversely impact the environment. It is one of the many reasons the U.S. Green Building Council honored our facility with LEED Silver Certification. Outlined below are green programs and practices currently in place at the SDCCC. We invite clients and guests to join in these efforts.
GREEN Fact Sheet PDF download [528 KB]
Waste Minimization
- Initial efforts began in 1990 with the diversion of glass and plastic bottles, aluminum cans, mixed paper, wood pallets and clean green waste to the City of San Diego’s recycling center.
- Mixed recyclables (paper, plastic, aluminum, glass) are collected daily in clearly marked bins throughout our building on a “no-fee” basis.
- Recycling diverts approximately 45 percent of our total waste.
- Used batteries, printer ink cartridges, light bulbs, tires and corrugated cardboard (baled onsite) are among additional items being diverted. Copper wire is also recycled after every show, averaging five tons annually.
- Food & beverage collects cooking oil which is recycled into bio-diesel fuel.
TopEnergy Efficiency
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Heating/Cooling System replacement and upgrades save 2.7 million kWh annually.
- Energy-management software and energy-efficient lighting saves 734,000 kWh annually.
- Energy-efficient dishwashers in the kitchen save 3,297 kWh and 8,198 gallons of water annually.
- Installation of fluorescent lighting in exhibit halls saves 1.3 million kWh annually and reduces energy consumption by approximately 44 percent in our contiguous exhibit halls. The SDCC is the first in the nation to go 100 percent fluorescent in the exhibit halls.
- In-house green team dedicated to exploring and implementing best green practices to encourage sustainability, waste minimization, energy and water conservation, and practices to protect the environment.
Water Conservation
- Low flow, automatic sinks and toilets in all restrooms.
- Outdoor landscaping uses drip irrigation, drought-tolerant plants and mulch to reduce watering.
- Combined efforts save 81,026 gallons of water annually.
Food Composting
- A food composting program began in June 2007. Nearly 150 tons of food waste is diverted annually. Ultimately, our goal is to divert all food scraps, eliminating the use of garbage disposals.
Environmental Purchasing
- Products made with biodegradable, recycled materials, including copy paper, legal pads, envelopes, toilet paper, facial tissue and paper towels are purchased.
- Environmentally responsible cleaning products are purchased for carpets, floors, kitchens and bathrooms.
- Environmentally responsible dry cleaning and laundering services for staff uniforms use biodegradable solvents, which are easier on the environment.
- Food and beverage purchases beef, pork and lamb through a network of local family owned farms committed to raising livestock through humane, sustainable practices. No antibiotics or growth hormones are used. Organic fruits, vegetables and herbs are also purchased locally.
- Compostable green ware is utilized for all disposable meal services and is available at no charge to clients.
- All in-house vendor contracts require adherence to “green” practices.
Donating Reusable Goods
- We work with clients to ensure excess food is donated to local charities following events.
- Approximately 100 tons of food is donated to local charities annually.
- Leftover convention items, unclaimed lost and found items, and surplus furniture and computers are donated to local schools and social service organizations. Over 20 tons are donated annually through this program.
- For more information, email gerrica.gray@visitsandiego.com.
Leadership
- Executive management participates on IAVM's Sustainability Committee for environmentally responsible public assembly facility management, developing best practices to minimize the impact of events globally.
Transportation
- San Diego is not only America’s Finest City, it was ranked 7th among the top 10 most walkable U.S. cities in 2007 by Prevention Magazine and the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
- San Diego has an accessible downtown with 11,000 hotel rooms plus restaurants and attractions all within walking distance of the Convention Center.
- The proximity of the hotels to the Convention Center reduces shuttling and emissions.
- Convention Center is easily accessible via bus or trolley.
- Employees receive paid incentive to use public transit.
