Greening Brownfields 2008:
Practices and Lessons Learned
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Prepared by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 \ ^\ w/7 j
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This report was prepared by:
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Region 5
Land and Chemicals Division
Materials Management Branch
Report contributors:
Briana Bill
Michelle Heger
Paul Reusch
For more information contact:
Briana Bill
Green Venues Coordinator
U.S. EPA(LM-7J)
77 West Jackson Blvd.
Chicago, IL 60604
(312)353-6646
bill.briana@epa.gov
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Table of Contents
Executive Summary 1
Introduction 2
Summary 2
Greening Goals 3
Greening the Conference Team 3
Event Scope and Structure 4
Practices and Lessons Learned 4
Goal 1: Reduce waste 4
Goal 2: Use environmentally friendly materials 7
Goal 3: Offset greenhouse gases 8
Goal 4: Venue Sustainability 9
Goal 5: Education 11
Goal 6: Transportation alternatives 13
Goal 7: Recycling 14
Conclusion 15
Appendices
A. WARM Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Evaluation Results
B. Recycling at Brownfields 2008: Practices and Lessons Learned
C. Greening the Brownfields 2006 Conference
D. Tip Sheets for Exhibitors and Presenters
E. Region 5 Green Signage
F. Conference Signage
G. Media Room Talking Points
H. "Ask Me" Recycling T-shirt Design
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Executive Summary
Hosting an environmentally sustainable conference was an important goal for the 12th National
Brownfields Conference held May 5-7, 2008, at Cobo Center in Detroit, Michigan. The
Greening the Conference Team planned and carried out a comprehensive program to reduce and
recycle waste, use eco-friendly materials, educate exhibitors, participants and staff, compensate
for the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the conference, promote environmentally-
friendly travel, and support the venue and area hotels with more sustainable practices.
The goal of this report is twofold. First, it is intended to help future Brownfields conference
planners and others identify opportunities and overcome challenges associated with a conference
the size and scope of the national Brownfields conference. In addition, it provides a baseline
against which to measure future green meeting and convention efforts.
Through waste reduction, recycling and the purchase of carbon offsets, the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency and its conference co-host, ICMA, reduced conference-related greenhouse
gas emissions by 56 metric tons of carbon equivalent, equivalent to the annual greenhouse gas
emissions of 38 cars. Recycling was successful, with a diversion rate of 68%. The Greening the
Conference Team carried out numerous other activities, the results of which are reported
qualitatively. These include:
Electronic registration;
Tip sheets and other educational efforts to help exhibitors, presenters, reception hosts and
conference staff reduce and recycle waste and conserve energy;
Hybrid vehicles for mobile workshops and eco-friendly transportation options; and
Meetings with the conference venue and hotels to them institutionalize environmental
sustainability.
Conference greening efforts revealed a number of important conclusions:
1. Working towards an environmentally sustainable conference can help an organization
accomplish objectives beyond those associated with the conference's theme. The Brownfields
2008 opportunity provided measurable results toward EPA's municipal solid waste and climate
change goals. Network news coverage of greening efforts helped convey a positive message of
the Agency "practicing what it preaches." Finally, the conference provided EPA staff valuable
lessons learned that can be incorporated into its green venues, recycling and other environmental
initiatives.
2. Avoiding waste through source reduction can provide a high level of environmental benefit
with relatively little effort. For example, eliminating the printed attendee list this year saved
more than six tons of paper, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions over the 2006 conference by
8 metric ton carbon equivalents, comparable to the annual greenhouse gas emissions from 5 cars.
3. Greening a conference the size of the National Brownfields Conference with over 6000
participants, 300 exhibits, 130 sessions, eight mobile workshops and numerous networking
opportunities requires a dedicated staffing effort. A half- to full-time person for a 9 month to 1
year period is needed to coordinate the greening efforts described in this report. More staff may
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be required if contract support is not available or the venue does not have an established
recycling program.
4. Planning for environmental sustainability should take place in conjunction with overall
conference planning efforts. Early planning helps ensure that greening is integrated into all
aspects of the conference and is included in promotional material and contracts with sponsors,
exhibitor, subcontractors, venues and hotels.
Introduction
The National Brownfields Conference is a biennial conference focused on the cleanup and
redevelopment of abandoned, underutilized and potentially contaminated properties. This year's
conference, held at the Cobo Center in Detroit May 5-7, 2008, was attended by more than 6,000
people who participated in 130 sessions, 300 exhibits, eight "mobile workshops" and numerous
networking opportunities.
A desire to act on behalf of the environment lies at the heart of most Brownfields projects. The
same goal motivated Brownfields 2008 planners, who worked hard to make this year's
conference as green as possible. Goals to help minimize the conference's environmental footprint
included: reducing and recycling waste, using environmentally friendly materials, implementing
an educational program, purchasing carbon offsets and working with the venue and area hotels.
This report documents these efforts and provides a set of lessons learned for future conferences.
Summary
The practices put in place by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and its conference co-
host, ICMA, resulted in: 1) an estimated 6 tons of paper not generated by eliminating one
conference handout; 2) more than 5,800 pounds of clean, marketable recyclables collected; and
3) the offset of nearly 200 tons of carbon dioxide, or CCh. Combined, these efforts reduced
greenhouse gas emissions by 56 metric tons of carbon equivalent, MTCE,1 which is equivalent to
the annual greenhouse gas emissions from 38 passenger vehicles. See Appendix A for a more
thorough discussion of these calculations. Numerous additional unquantified environmental
benefits resulted from the following practices:
Establishing a Greening the Conference team to coordinate all greening activities.
Reducing paper waste through electronic registration and conference promotion and
through the elimination of mailing list duplicates.
Using recycled paper and soy-based ink for printed materials.
Distributing electronic "tip sheets" to exhibitors, presenters and reception hosts with
ideas for waste reduction, energy conservation and other environmental strategies.
1 MTCE and MTC02E are units of measurement that express the heat-trapping effects of various greenhouse gas
emissions in carbon and carbon dioxide equivalent, respectively. An international protocol has established carbon
dioxide (C02) as the reference gas.
Source: U.S. EPA, User's Guide for WARM: Calculating Greenhouse Gas Emissions with the WAste Reduction
Model, (2004).
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Purchasing carbon offsets to counterbalance nearly 200 tons of CC>2 emissions associated
with conference activities.
Using hybrid vehicles to and from the mobile workshop sites.
Developing and implementing a comprehensive recycling program in the conference
center (see Appendix B for the complete recycling report).
Educating participants, exhibitors, speakers and staff through signage, newsletter articles,
public address announcements, dedicated on-site personnel to educate about recycling,
staff briefings and "talking points" for EPA media spokespersons.
Providing information to hotels about ways to decrease their environmental footprint and
how to join Michigan's Green Lodging program.
Hosting a green exhibitor recognition program.
Offering carpooling and rideshare options.
Retaining 200 pounds of foam board signage for later reuse.
Greening the EPA exhibits and regional open houses through waste reduction and
recycling.
Greening Goals
Brownfields 2008 provided numerous opportunities to lessen the conference's environmental
footprint. EPA and ICMA had the following goals:
1. Reduce waste associated with conference promotion, registration, exhibits and other
activities.
2. Use environmentally friendly materials whenever possible.
3. Offset the greenhouse gases resulting from the conference's energy use in the
convention center, hotels, and travel to and from home.
4. Help the convention center and designated conference hotels in conceiving effective
sustainability practices.
5. Educate participants, exhibitors and conference support staff on specific greening
practices so they might incorporate sustainable activities into their own future
meetings and conferences.
6. Promote environmentally friendly transportation alternatives to and from the airport,
around town and to mobile workshops.
7. Recycle waste generated in the registration area, educational and plenary sessions,
exhibit hall, offices, networking sessions and kitchen.
Greening the Conference Team
Achieving an environmentally friendly conference required greening efforts to permeate all
aspects of the planning and operations. To address this objective, a dedicated Greening the
Conference team was led by EPA Region 5 in Chicago. Although the team coordinated greening
efforts, many others (meeting planners, registration agents, caterers, corporate sponsors, janitors,
exhibitors, the participants themselves) played significant roles in ensuring greening efforts were
a success. Members of the Greening the Conference team included:
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EPA, Region 5, including three staff members whose sole conference responsibilities
involved the greening work;
EPA Headquarters;
ICMA, conference co-host;
SRA International, conference planning consultant for EPA;
The Bridge Group, consultant for ICMA in charge of the exhibit hall and sponsors;
Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Green Lodging Michigan program.
To support the Cobo Center recycling efforts, EPA assembled an additional team.
Representatives are listed in Appendix A of the "Recycling at Brownfields 2008: Practices and
Lessons Learned" document in Appendix B of this report.
Event Scope and Structure
The conference took place primarily in the Cobo Center, a large conference venue in downtown
Detroit. Within the center, two adjacent exhibit halls hosted 300 exhibitor booths, a large
registration area, classroom, poster session and concession area. The exhibit hall was the site of
two conference-wide evening receptions. First, second and third floor concourses housed
numerous classrooms, 10 EPA regional receptions, several privately-sponsored receptions, the
Brownfields Transaction Forum, media room and multiple private offices for conference
planning staff and sponsors.
Conference-related private receptions were held in local hotels; any greening activities at these
receptions were the responsibility of the hosts for these events.
Practices and Lessons Learned
The Brownfields conference planning team was successful in implementing a number of green
practices. What follows is a summary of each of the practices organized by the goals listed
above. Additional activities for improving the "greenness" were revealed during the planning
process and later during the conference itself. These practices and lessons learned are described
below for future planners to consider. Brownfields 2008 built on the successes and lessons
learned from the 2006 conference held in Boston. See Appendix C for the summary of greening
practices at Brownfields 2006. It is hoped that the Brownfields 2010 team will build on previous
enhancements to further reduce the conference's environmental footprint.
Goal 1: Reduce waste associated with conference promotion, registration, exhibits and
other activities.
Practices
The Greening the Conference team recognized that reducing potential waste at the outset of the
conference would be one of the most feasible and effective achievements. Reducing incoming
waste would potentially save both natural resources and energy and have a significant effect on
the amount of material needing disposal or recycling at the end of the conference. Waste
minimization practices included:
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Eliminating paper registration.
Providing conference materials online via e-mail "blasts" and the conference Web site,
www.Brownfields2008.org.
Reducing mailing list duplications.
Eliminating the conference attendee list. In the in the past, this list was provided to all
participants in hard copy. This year, the document was available only on the conference
Web site, resulting in a savings of approximately six tons of paper and more than eight
metric ton carbon equivalents. See Appendix A for an evaluation of these and other
greenhouse gas emissions associated with the conference.
Distributing "tip sheets" describing waste reduction strategies for exhibits, educational
and plenary sessions and networking receptions (see Appendix D).
In addition, as one of the conference hosts, EPA Region 5 ensured its exhibit booth and
afternoon open house were as green as possible. At the exhibit booth, handouts were limited to
bookmarks listing the regional Brownfields Web site. If people wanted more information, EPA
staff directed them to a Web page or invited them to write in a guest journal for follow-up. Pine
sapling souvenirs for planting were given out instead of less environmentally friendly giveaways.
When it appeared there would be saplings left over, EPA staff offered them to local
organizations for tree-planting projects. Other EPA exhibitors made similar efforts. At the
Regional Administrator's open house, planning staff selected appetizers that did not require
flatware and opted for the bulk dispensing of beverages and condiments whenever possible.
Giveaways included reusable grocery totes made of recycled material. Signage advertising the
green features of the Region 5 booth and open house were displayed to increase guests'
awareness of these environmental efforts (see Appendix E).
Lessons Learned and Recommendations - Waste minimization
Among the most noteworthy lessons learned was the recognition that planning for waste
minimization must take place when initial decisions are being made about conference promotion
and sponsorship. Both potentially involve a lot of waste from paper mailings, programs and
directories to souvenirs and other items with sponsor names and advertisements. Because the
Greening the Conference team did not become involved until five months before the conference
in early 2008, the group had little ability to affect decisions made early on about conference
promotion, branding and exhibiting. Many of the suggestions offered below stem directly from
the realization of lost opportunities.
For a team that gets involved early, waste minimization may be the area of greatest influence on
conference greening efforts. Although planners have little opportunity to affect a city's
transportation system or a venue's energy and water conservation features, their decisions can
greatly influence the volume of materials produced or generated that will later need to be
disposed. Consider the following recommendations for minimizing conference waste:
Conference Documents
Learn from the conference planners what documents are typically produced for
conference promotion and registration bags and identify paperless alternatives. Replacing
the 14-page exhibitor guide with a large poster-mounted sign(s), electronic "directory of
exhibits" at the entrance to each exhibit aisle, or "desk copy only" copies could save an
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estimated 84,000 pieces of paper, or 0.51 tons. Elimination of this one small guide
amounts to a savings of 1 MICE. See Appendix A for this conversion and modeling
results. Continue the paper-saving practice of posting the exhibitor map on the Web site.
Sponsorship and Branding
Corporate and other sponsors are
critical to the high caliber of the
Brownfields conference. However,
acknowledging sponsors without
producing excessive waste requires
creative solutions as less paper means
less space in conference materials for
sponsor advertisements. The carbon
offsets for energy-related greenhouse
gas emissions was an effective way to
engage sponsors in the greening effort.
Explore additional ways to create
branding opportunities that enhance
Workers prepare to stuff more than 5000 registration
bags with conference materials, newsletters and
sponsor information
environmental goals such as the sponsorship of a contest with certificates or prices for the
greenest exhibit or reusable water bottles to be included with each registration tote bag.
Eliminate branding opportunities that take away from greening goals, such as bottled
water. Future greening teams may wish to review the 2008 sponsor and branding
opportunities as background which can be found on the Brownfields 2008 Web site.
Let potential sponsors know the greening goals and incorporate language into
sponsorship contracts. For example, for those sponsors who wish to include booklets or
newsletters in the registration bags, require or encourage them to use recycled paper,
limit the amount of material, or provide material on a reusable flash drive. Ask them to
make arrangements to collect excess material at the end of the conference so that it can be
reused. This year, over a dozen boxes of excess material, most of which was sponsor-
related and generic enough to be used in other trade shows, remained after all the
registration bags were stuffed. (They were recycled.)
Contracts
Similarly, requests for proposals/cooperative agreements for conference co-hosts and
exhibitors and other contracts should incorporate green specifications such as the amount
of recycled content of printed or other items (e.g., name badge lanyards, tote bags, etc.),
preference for electronic communication, use of EnergyStar office equipment to be used
on-site, etc.
Waste Produced by Exhibitors, Speakers, Food Service and Others
Continue to promote waste minimization strategies to exhibitors, reception hosts,
speakers and others through electronic distribution of "tip sheets" (see Goal 5 below for
more information).
2 Brownfields 2008, Sponsorship Opportunities for Brownfields 2008,
(August 2008).
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For events that involve food or beverages, require or encourage reception hosts to use
only reusable tableware. Much of the waste generated at the event was a result of the two
conference-wide networking receptions and miscellaneous private receptions held at
Cobo Center. Although the center's food service contractor used biodegradable dishes,
there is no commercial composter in the Detroit area so food and tableware was instead
sent to the Greater Detroit Resource Recovery Authority waste-to-energy plant for
incineration.
Reusable glassware would have made this water station
more environmentally friendly
Reuse
Identify eco-friendly ways to provide water
to exhibitors, speakers, conference support
staff and attendees. At Cobo, water refilling
stations, which are inherently a green feature,
were scattered throughout the conference
center, but cups were not recyclable and were
tossed out with the garbage. Waste could
have been minimized if glass cups were
made available or attendees used their own
water bottles, perhaps ones provided by a
sponsor at registration.
Explore ways that conference items such as
flexible canvas or vinyl banners can be reused at
future conferences. "Recycling Center" banners
and other signs printed without date- or
conference-specific information could be reused at
other events.
Other items such as plastic name badges and
lanyards could be collected and reused in the future.
Producing banners without conference- or
date-specific information encourages reuse
Goal 2: Use environmentally friendly materials whenever possible
The conference planning team has a great deal of influence on the content of materials produced.
While some more environmentally friendly materials, such as paper with recycled content, are
readily available, others require additional research and perhaps additional cost.
Practices
The 2008 conference used paper with recycled
content and soy-based inks for conference
mailers. Registration tote bags were made of a
biodegradable material. The Greening the
Conference team faced a challenge in trying to
find an eco-friendly banner fabric or poster board
for the dozens of informational and directional signs.
The banners and poster board materials eventually
EPA collected two hundred pounds of
foam core signagefor reuse
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purchased were not able to be recycled. EPA Region 5 reduced the conference's environmental
impact somewhat by collecting approximately 200 pounds of foam core signs for reuse.
Lessons Learned and Recommendations - Environmentally preferable purchasing
Suggestions for future conferences include:
Sourcing signage and flexible banners that are made from recycled content and can be
recycled if reuse is not an option.
Determining the feasibility of purchasing locally grown food and other locally produced
products for receptions.
As noted above, ensuring all contracts and cooperative agreements contain requirements
specifying green criteria.
Goal 3: Offset the greenhouse gases resulting from the conference's energy use in the
convention center, hotels, and travel to and from home.
Practices
For the first time in its 13-year history, the Brownfields conference purchased carbon offsets in
an effort to make the conference "carbon neutral." The offsets, purchased by several companies
and a state agency, counterbalanced the enormous amount of energy consumed by the Cobo
Center and hotel room blocks, travel for conference support staff, vehicles used during mobile
workshops in metro Detroit and from the disposal of waste generated at the conference. The
offsets were purchased from NativeEnergy, which invests in new renewable energy programs
that will displace fossil-based energy. The specific program funded by Brownfields 2008 was the
Hillcrest Saylor Family Farm Methane Project.3 The methane project helps reduce global
warming and pollution by reducing the amount of fossil fuels farms use for heating and cooling
and by preventing emissions from methane gas emitted from waste storage lagoons. Nearly 200
tons of CC>2 were offset. The NativeEnergy Brownfields Conference Web site also provided a
link for attendees to calculate their own carbon footprint from travel to and from the conference
and purchase carbon offsets. Unfortunately, no one took advantage of this opportunity.
Lessons Learned and Recommendations - Offsetting greenhouse gas emissions
Based on conversations with attendees, the carbon offsets were a positive and highly visible
feature that heightened participants' awareness of the greening efforts while helping the
environment at the same time. The reasons attendees did not purchase offsets to cover their own
travel may be a factor of cost, lack of support by employers or unclear reimbursement policies,
the intangible nature of carbon offsets, or simply the extra steps needed to calculate the
emissions and purchase the offsets. By the next Brownfields conference in 2010, it is expected
that the use of carbon offsets will be much higher and will become a more standard part of
business practice. Suggestions to increase carbon offset purchase by conference attendees
include:
Simplifying the purchase procedures with an optional "buy it now" choice directly tied to
online registration and payment.
3 Native Energy, Carbon Offsets for Brownfields 2008 from NativeEnergy,
(August 2008).
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Calculating an average carbon footprint to eliminate the need for each traveler to plug in
their own miles traveled, mode of travel, etc.
Devising an incentive or challenge similar to the 2008 Democratic National Convention's
"Green Delegate Challenge" which offers recognition of and a prize for the delegations
with the highest percentage of members offsetting their carbon emissions.
Working with the carbon offset provider to develop a tailored marketing approach.
Alternatively, conference planners should explore including the cost of attendees' carbon offsets
in the registration fees, or offer their purchase as a sponsor opportunity, as was done with
conference-related offsets.
Finally, with the heightened interest in carbon offsets, it is important to note that EPA does not
have criteria for evaluating providers of carbon offsets. Conference planners should always
research companies carefully to ensure they are purchasing a quality product: Are projects
certified according to industry standards and verified by third-parties? Is the provider's portfolio
audited? Will the carbon reductions occur right away versus sometime in the distant future?
Goal 4: Help the convention center and designated conference hotels in conceiving effective
environmental sustainability practices.
Practices
The Greening the Conference team met with managers (e.g., food service, janitorial, events)
from Cobo Center and the designated conference hotels to better understand, document and
perhaps enhance environmental practices related to energy and water conservation,
environmentally preferable purchasing, etc. These meetings revealed that Cobo had incorporated
a number of eco-friendly practices - green cleaning products, low energy lighting, etc. - and had
an interest in expanding the recycling program, which to date had been limited to the collection
of aluminum and plastic beverage containers in the offices and concourses. With interest in green
conferences growing, Cobo had a heightened interest in piloting a recycling program inside the
exhibit hall. EPA devised a detailed plan (Appendix B) for a comprehensive recycling program
during the Brownfields conference and assisted Cobo Center staff in identifying the quantity and
types of recycling bins to obtain.
When securing hotels for block rooms, conference planners asked the hotels for a list of greening
practices. The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality's Greening the Conference team
member then met with each of the hotels about their practices and encouraged them to join the
Green Lodging Michigan program.4 Several hotels expressed interest in the program.
Environmental practices were posted on the greening tab of the Brownfields 2008 Web page.
Lessons Learned and Recommendations - Conference venue and hotels
Enhancing green practices associated with the conference venue itself is perhaps the most
daunting goal to achieve. Making changes to conserve energy or water, better manage waste or
purchase safer cleaning products takes a fair amount of planning over periods of time beyond the
planning horizon of most conferences and trade shows. Therefore the team limited its work with
4Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Green Lodging Michigan: Recognizing Michigan's Hospitality
Industry, (August 2008).
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the venue to the pilot recycling program. Future conference planners setting up a recycling
program where one has never existed should be prepared for extensive planning and coordination
to provide meaningful assistance to the many in-house and off-site contractors including food
service and catering, security, janitorial, maintenance, waste and client-procured services. At
Brownfields 2008, the team had to work not only with conference center staff who maintained
certain recycling bins, but also with the food service provider who managed the kitchen and
oversaw a different set of recycling bins for beverage containers outside of exhibit hall
concession area. It was necessary to work with the janitorial contractor as well, who collected
from the conference center bins but not the food service's bins. Suggestions for conference
planners include:
Being aware that the best way to ensure the hosting venue will be sufficiently green for
the conference is to select one that already meets the criteria established by the
conference team. Although many conference centers are eager to enhance their green
image for marketing or other reasons, significantly enhancing a venue's energy, water
and waste programs in time for the conference after the venue is secured is difficult
unless the venue is highly motivated and has the available budget and infrastructure.
Meeting with venue personnel early in the process (ideally as soon as the contract with
the venue is signed) to learn about current environmental practices, the venue's interest in
enhancing activities and operational practices.
Providing meaningful assistance to the venue requires an in depth understanding of the
roles and responsibilities of venue-employed staff, vendors that operate from inside and
off-site contractors.
Developing a written plan and communicating regularly with venue managers and
contractors to ensure buy-in and a clear understanding of responsibilities. The recycling
report in Appendix B is an example of such a plan for recycling activities and includes
the pre-conference plan, meeting agenda and list of recycling team members.
Posting conference hotels' existing greening practices heightens awareness of the
conference's green goals and encourages attendees to participate in hotel programs such
as linen water and chemical conservation. More information about hotel greening can be
found on the Brownfields website.5
Encouraging hotels to advertise their greening practices, or provide hotels practicing
greening activities with a sign to display for the duration of the conference.
Selecting hotels based on criteria which balance an individual hotel's current green
practices, location, physical condition and the availability of government rate rooms. The
Brownfields conference should be used by the EPA region and host city to further
enhance and develop sustainable greening practices of hotels in the conference hotel
block.
5 Brownfields 2008, Brownfields 2008 Conference - Detroit Hotels,
(August
2008).
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Goal 5: Educate participants, exhibitors and staff on specific greening practices so that
they might incorporate sustainable activities into their own future meetings and
conferences.
Practices
Much of the Greening the Conference team's time was devoted to education. First, the team
knew attendee and exhibitor participation would be critical to achieving waste minimization and
recycling goals. And, it wanted to showcase efforts in such a way that participants would learn
techniques they could apply back home at their own meetings and conferences. Specific practices
included:
Electronic "tip sheets" of waste minimization strategies and other greening suggestions.
Directed toward exhibitors, speakers and reception hosts, these tip sheets were posted on
the Web site6 and distributed electronically in regular e-mail blasts. See Appendix D for
the tip sheets.
A "Green Exhibitor" recognition program to
acknowledge those exhibitors who made efforts
to reduce their exhibit's footprint through waste
minimization, energy conservation, packaging
and mail, eco-friendly giveaways, etc. Exhibitors
were asked to e-mail their efforts to EPA prior to
the conference and framed certificates were
handed out at exhibitor setup so they could be
displayed during the conference. The recognition
program was well-received, with a number of
exhibitors seeking out EPA to point out the green aspects of their booth.
Signage highlighting the conference's eco-friendly conference features (see Appendix F).
"Green Exhibitor" certificate
Signs helped educate attendees about the
conference's green features
An article entitled "Green Corner" in
each of the daily Brownfields Bulletin
newsletters (now posted on the
Brownfields 2008 home page).
A set of talking points left in the media
room to be used by conference
spokespersons (see Appendix G).
A piece in the EPA Regional
Administrator's newsletter interview
highlighting the connection between
Brownfields and conference greening.7
The mention of greening efforts in both the EPA Administrator and acting Regional
Administrator's speeches.
6 Brownfields 2008, Brownfields 2008 Greening Activities,
(August 2008).
'Brownfields 2008, Brownfields Bulletin, (August 2008).
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Talking points on recycling procedures to be read by conference staff at the start of every
session.
Announcements read over the public address system to remind exhibitors and participants
of the recycling centers on each side of the exhibit hall.
Briefings with the contract support staff to explain the recycling and other procedures for
the conference offices and registration area, as well as to better prepare them to be
ambassadors of the greening efforts.
Design of easily recognizable "Ask Me" t-shirts to be worn by EPA recycling team
members. Beginning Sunday, when exhibitors set up their booth, through tear down on
Wednesday, team members talked with each exhibitor explaining recycling procedures.
Most exhibits had multiple personnel staffing the booth so team members visited each
exhibit periodically throughout the week. They also walked concourses checking in with
the offices and classrooms regarding recycling, pulled out contamination (e.g., plastic
bottles out of garbage cans) and fielded numerous questions from attendees about
recycling and greening in general. (See Appendix H.)
Lessons learned and recommendations - Education
Educational activities were well worth the time and effort. Below is a listing of what worked and
what didn't, as well as ideas for activities the team did not have time to carry out:
Tip Sheets
Tip sheets for exhibitors, speakers and reception hosts were helpful in educating people.
Be sure information is available early to give exhibitors time to research and procure
environmentally friendly alternatives to banners, giveaways, packing materials, etc.
Reception hosts need advanced notice because, in most conference centers, it is more
expensive to use reusable tableware than to purchase disposable items, and budgets may
need to be adjusted.
Green Exhibitor Recognition
Exhibitors that participated in the recognition program were proud to display their framed
certificate and point out their booths' green features. In discussions with exhibitors,
however, the greening team learned that many exhibitors did not know about the
program. This could be that e-mail announcements may not have been passed along by
the official company contact to the staff designing the exhibit.
The Greening the Conference team wanted to recognize green exhibitors with a green
leaf or similar icon in the exhibitor directory, but began too late to meet print deadlines.
A contest for the greenest exhibit would have been an original way to engage exhibitors
in the greening efforts. Unfortunately, the team became involved in the planning process
too late to design and implement a contest.
The conference greening team may want to consider having criteria to judge green
exhibits. This was not done in 2008 due to time constraints. Any exhibitor who sent an e-
mail to EPA documenting their intended green practices received a certificate of
recognition. If criteria or checklist were used, EPA or other conference planners should
be prepared to evaluate the practices prior to the conference and visit the booths during
the conference to ensure the practices were incorporated. In addition, they need to be
aware of potential constraints posed by the federal Paperwork Reduction Act which
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prohibits the collection of certain information (even electronic information). EPA
planning staff was unable to collect green exhibitor information via a checklist or survey,
though perhaps this information could have been collected as part of the registration
process overseen by its conference co-host. EPA conference planners are advised to
contact their regional council to discuss options.
Planning
Written educational information and opportunities (i.e., tip sheets, recognition programs
and contests, etc.) must be distributed with original promotional pieces and exhibitor
registration information months before the conference starts. Close coordination with
contractors responsible for the exhibit hall is a must.
As with other greening efforts, it is critical to have an in-depth understanding of the
conference schedule, the rooms where activities are taking place and who is charge of
coordinating the activity. The 2008 Greening the Conference team was not aware of the
transaction forum until the day it occurred, and missed opportunities to educate exhibitors
on waste minimization strategies and recycling.
On-site Personnel
Providing recycling staff with identifiable t-shirts
was useful because, as they circulated in the
exhibit hall and hallways, the staff were a visible
and credible source of information about all
greening activities, particularly recycling. To
expand on the idea, equip all greening team
members with t-shirts and be sure they are well-
briefed on all aspects of the green initiatives.
Recycling staff with "Ask Me " t-shirts
Media Relations
Greening is a hot topic in newspapers, trade magazines, blogs, TV and radio. Be sure to
prepare a one-pager highlighting the green initiatives as a reference for conference
spokespersons. See Appendix G for an example. Be ready with potential photo
opportunities such as a particularly green exhibit, the recycling center or green building
feature such as energy efficient lighting. Fox TV in Detroit aired a positive story about
the conference's green features. Planning ahead made this possible.
Goal 6: Promote environmentally friendly transportation alternatives to and from the
airport, around town and to mobile workshops.
Practices
Conference planners promoted use of public transportation and shared rides where available.
Unfortunately, public transportation does not exist between the airport and the Cobo Center. An
elevated train called the Detroit People Mover has a station stop within the Cobo Center and
circulates the downtown area. Directional signs were posted and people were observed taking the
people mover at dinnertime. A Brownfields group was established on the carpooling Web site,
GoLoco.com, to connect those traveling by car, but it does not appear many took advantage of
this option.
13
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Lessons learned and recommendations - Transportation
Access to good public transportation should be one consideration when selecting a city for a
conference. Even when available, attendees are often hesitant to use it due to the lack of
familiarity, luggage challenges and perceived or real safety concerns. Conference planners might
consider the following for future conferences:
Provide incentives to those who take an environmentally friendly transportation to and
from the conference. For example, offer a discount on registration, free consultation with
a Brownfields expert or VIP parking to those driving a hybrid vehicle, participating in a
carpool or arriving by public transportation (bus, train).
Continue to offer carbon offsets for purchase by those traveling to the conference.
Continue to offer GoLoco.com or other carpooling site. As people become more familiar
with such programs, they may feel more comfortable with carpooling, especially if gas
prices remain high.
Clearly advertise and promote all of the above alternative transportation options.
Goal 7: Recycle waste generated in the registration area, educational and plenary sessions,
exhibit hall, offices, networking sessions and kitchen.
Practices
Recycling was one the most visible and practicable ways of enhancing the Brownfields 2008
conference. Three months prior to the conference, the Greening the Conference team requested
assistance from the Region 5 solid waste program. They pulled together a team of people from
Cobo Center, their on-site and outside contractors (food service, janitorial), a local waste hauler,
representatives from the City of Detroit's environmental department and a local nonprofit
recycling organization. EPA mapped out a plan describing event locations and schedules,
materials to be collected, recycling procedures and logistics and a staffing and volunteer plan.
The recycling efforts were extremely successful, with over 5,800 pounds of material recovered
for recycling and reuse. Approximately two metric tons of carbon equivalents were saved which
is equivalent to the amount of CC>2 generated by the electricity use of one home for one year. The
recycling pre-show plan and final report are in Appendix B.
Lessons learned and recommendations - Recycling
Having a dedicated staff member to plan recycling activities was critical in achieving the
successes seen at Brownfields 2008. Additional staffer volunteers are necessary at the
conference to staff recycling center areas, to relocate recycling bins and to educate
attendees and exhibitors on recycling procedures over multiple shifts. Exhibit set-up and
breakdown would benefit from extra volunteers.
Finding volunteers involves both early outreach and incentives. Conference planners
should consider reaching out to local schools, universities and environmental groups to
solicit volunteer interest months before the conference. Planners for Brownfields 2010
might consider a link on the conference web site for those interested in volunteering. At
Brownfields 2008, volunteers were offered meal vouchers (provided by the conference's
food vendor), and "Ask Me" t-shirts. Similar incentives should be offered for future
conferences, as well as thank you notes or certificates of appreciate at the end of the
conference. Volunteers should sign up for specific time slots and specific activities. It's
14
-------
important to have a local sponsor (environmental organization, school, etc.) for
volunteers, as EPA can not legally serve in this capacity. See Appendix B for additional
volunteer information.
Recycling signage is also critical. If signs
are not already on the recycling bins,
develop pre-made signs that can be taped to
bins and Toters, consistent with recycler
requirements. The Brownfields 2008
recycling team found they needed to carry
around paper, markers and pens and change
signage on Toters within the exhibit hall as
disposal needs changed (e.g., during the
reception, signage was added on the plastics
Toter that said "no cups;" at the registration
Flexible signage is helpful when ^ ^ added Qn ^ ^
1 oters are usedjor multiple purposes. , , ,
stated no yellow name badge strips ).
It is important to have an in-depth understanding of all event-sponsored activities such as
receptions, poster sessions, plenary and breakout sessions. Knowing beginning and
ending times, locations and the types of waste generated (e.g., food, paper, coffee cups,
etc.) ensures that appropriate bins and volunteers can be scheduled and dispatched.
Instituting recycling where none previously existed requires that venue staff (particularly
those working the floor) do their work differently. Buy-in and training by employees at
all levels and shifts (specifically: front line staff, managers, dock supervisors, union
stewards, security, outside volunteers) before the conference begins is important, as most
of these individuals can not be distracted from their duties once the conference begins.
When working in venues employing unionized personnel, it is critical to include union
stewards in the planning process to identify and work through issues that may interfere
with agreements between the union and the conference center. At Brownfields 2008,
teamsters were utilized by the co-host's exhibit hall contractors to assemble and
disassemble exhibitor booths (drapes, dividers, carpeting, electricity) and the poster
session area. EPA recycling staff were at times perceived to be interfering, taking away
union work or changing the flow of activities.
Creative solutions for the recycling or reuse of some materials such as flexible banners
and foam core signage need additional exploration. Research after the conference
revealed companies that will turn banners into tote bags.8 Perhaps banners from one
conference could be turned into tote bags for the next.
Conclusion
Overall, greening activities at Brownfields 2008 were successful. Recycling rates were high
(68%) and conference support staff and attendees were eager to support the many efforts. The
biggest challenge to the Greening the Conference team was designing practices that could be
incorporated after a number of the conference decisions had been made. By becoming involved
Banner Creations, Inc., (August 2008).
Alchemy Goods, (August 2008).
15
-------
from the start, the team would have had additional opportunities to work with the planners on
creative eco-friendly alternatives to many of the conference promotional materials or
sponsorship branding opportunities. The team would have also had education materials ready for
exhibitors, sponsors, presenters, or reception hosts in time for the first release of conference
promotional information.
Coordinating with the large number of organizations needed to put on a conference of this
magnitude was also a challenge. To be comprehensive, the green goals needed to reach every
aspect of the conference planning and execution from promotion, registration, exhibitor and
sponsor recruitment, exhibit construction and teardown, food service planning, janitorial and
waste hauling, transportation to and around town, venue and hotel operations and maintenance,
and more. A team coordinated by one or two individuals serving as liaisons with the general
conference team along with a set of green goals and good plan can make this happen.
16
-------
Appendices
-------
Appendix A
WARM Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Evaluation Results
EPA staff used the EPA's Waste Reduction Model1 to calculate the total metric tons of carbon
equivalent (MTCE) saved through the recycling efforts implemented during the conference.
"WARM was developed to assist solid waste managers in determining the greenhouse gas
impacts of their waste management practices. The model compares greenhouse gas and energy
impacts of landfilling, recycling, incineration, composting, and source reduction."2 The
following chart shows the weights of seven different types of material collected for recycling or
reuse during the three day conference. The chart also indicates the corresponding category used
in WARM with the conversion of pounds (collected day-of) to short tons (input to model).
Material
Paper
Shrink wrap
Plastic bottles
Cardboard
Steel cans and metal banding
Aluminum cans
Glass
Sign boards*
Give-a-ways*
Total:
Recycled During
Conference (Ibs)
3350
170
230
960
60
70
790
150
50
5830
Short tons
1.675
O085
O12
0.48
0.03
O035
0.395
O075
O025
WARM category
Paper (primarily from offices)
LDPE
PET
Cardboard
Mixed metals
Aluminum cans
Mixed glass
N/A
N/A
Table 1. Recycled materials
* Signs and give-a-ways were collected for reuse
Using the above inputs to the model, the total change in greenhouse gas emissions for the
Brownfields 2008 conference was -2 MTCE. The negative value indicates an emission reduction.
Therefore, two metric tons of carbon equivalent were saved by recycling rather than combusting
over 5600 pounds of recyclable material at the Detroit area waste-to-energy incinerator. This
information is summarized in the table below. See Attachment A of this document for the
complete Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Analysis - Summary Report and GHG Emission
Factors from WARM.
With combustion practices
With recycling efforts
Total MTCE savings:
Metric Tons of Carbon Equivalent (MTCE)
0
-2
2
Table 2. Summary of WARM Results
For an accurate comparison to future Brownfields conferences, it is important to note that
WARM did not capture those materials that were taken back to Region 5 offices for reuse such
1 U.S. EPA, WAste Reduction Model (WARM),
http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wvcd/waste/calculators/Warm home.html (August 2008).
2 U.S. EPA, Waste Home - Tools, http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/waste/tools.html (August 2008).
-------
Appendix A
as over 100 nametags, 150 pounds of foam sign board, and 50 pounds of give-a-ways.
Furthermore, efforts taken to reduce waste before the beginning of the conference were
successful and the total amount of recycling may have increased (and be reflected in greater
MTCE savings) if more material had entered Cobo from the onset. If, for subsequent
conferences, increased efforts are taken to reduce waste before the conference, these additional
efforts should be quantified in some way so comparisons can be made and improvements
documented. The number of attendees is another factor to consider when comparing the
Brownfields 2008 Conference with future Brownfields conferences.
In addition to the above recycling figures, the 2008 Brownfields conference avoided over six
tons of paper by eliminating the attendee list normally distributed to all attendees. This waste
reduction activity saved over 12,000 pounds of paper. With the assumption in WARM that this
paper would have been recycled at the Brownfields 2006 meeting in Boston, Brownfields 2008
in Detroit saved over eight MTCE by source reducing this paper. This value may be a bit high
because not all six tons of participant lists would have been recycled - some would have been
taken home by participants or never thrown out.
Furthermore, the Brownfields conference purchased carbon offsets in an effort to make the
conference "carbon neutral." The offsets were purchased by several companies and a state
agency from NativeEnergy which invests in new renewable energy programs that will displace
fossil-based energy. Using the EPA's online information regarding carbon dioxide equivalents,3
the 189 tons of CC>2 that were offset is equivalent to 46.75 MTCE using the following
conversion:
( Metric tons Y Gas global
MTCE = \ 8
^ of a gas j[warming potential
= (189 short tons C02 0.907 metrtc tons\ ^ = ^ ?$ Mrffi
^ I short ton f 2\44j
Therefore, with recycling, source reduction, and Carbon offset efforts, the Brownfields
Conference saved over 56 MTCE.
The MTCE calculated with WARM and determined through the NativeEnergy carbon offset
efforts were then used as an input to the EPA's Greenhouse Gas Calculator4 in order to express
quantities of greenhouse gases in terms of easy to understand metrics such as number of cars,
gallons of gasoline, acres of forest, etc. The following is a summary of the equivalency results.
The original Web based results can be found in Attachment A.
3 U.S. EPA, Emission Facts: Metrics for Expressing Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Carbon Equivalents and Carbon
Dioxide Equivalents, « http://www.epa.gov/otaq/climate/420fD5002.htm#global» (August 2008).
4 U.S. EPA, Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator, «http://www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-
resources/calculator.html» (August 2008).
-------
Appendix A
56.75 MTCE is equivalent to one of the following:
Annual greenhouse gas emissions from 38.1 passenger vehicles.
CCh emissions from 23,619 gallons of gasoline consumed.
CC>2 emissions from 484 barrels of oil consumed.
CCh emissions from 2.8 tanker trucks' worth of gasoline.
CC>2 emissions from the electricity use of 27.6 homes for one year.
CCh emissions from the energy use of 18.4 homes for one year.
Carbon sequestered by 5,335 tree seedlings grown for 10 years.
Carbon sequestered annually by 47.3 acres of pine or fir forests.
Carbon sequestered annually by 1.5 acres of forest preserved from deforestation.
CO2 emissions from 8,670 propane cylinders used for home barbeques.
Greenhouse gas emissions avoided by recycling 71.8 tons of waste instead of sending it
to the landfill.
The recommendation to replace the 14-page exhibitor guide with a large poster-mounted sign(s),
electronic "directory of exhibits" at the entrance to each exhibit aisle, or "desk copy only" copies
could save an estimated 84,000 pieces of paper, or 0.51 tons. The following equation was used to
estimate the amount of paper saved:
t^^^r, 7 \\ 2.1 oz exhibitor guide 0.625 Ibs I ton )
(6000 attendees}, =0.51 tons
^ \ loz 2000 Ibs)
Elimination of this one small guide amounts to a savings of 1 MTCE. Attachment B contains
the actual WARM and GHG Equivalency Calculator results.
Attachment A:
Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Analysis - Summary Report for recycling figures
GHG Emission Factors
Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator Web based results for total MTCE
Attachment B:
Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Analysis - Summary Report for elimination of
exhibitor guide
Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator Web based results for suggested source
reduction practice
-------
WARM Summary
Page 1 of2
GHG Emissions Analysis - Summary Report
(Version 8, 8/06)
Analysis of GHG Emissions from Waste Management
GHG Emissions from Baseline Waste Management (MICE): 0
Material
Aluminum Cans
Glass
LDPE
PET
Corrugated Boxes
Mixed Paper (primarily from
offices)
Mixed Metals
Tons
Recycled
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Tons
Landfilled
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Tons
Combusted
0.04
0.40
0.09
0.12
0.48
1.68
0.03
Tons
Composted
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Total
MTCE
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
GHG Emissions from Alternative Waste Management Scenario (MTCE): -2
Material
Aluminum Cans
Glass
LDPE
PET
Corrugated Boxes
Mixed Paper (primarily
from offices)
Mixed Metals
Tons
Reduced
0
0
0
0
0
N/A
N/A
Tons
Recycled
0.04
0.40
0.09
0.12
0.48
1.68
0.03
Tons
Landfilled
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Tons
Combusted
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Tons
Composted
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Total
MTCE
0
0
0
0
0
-2
0
Total Change in GHG Emissions: -2 MTCE
Note: A negative value indicates an emission reduction; a positive value indicates an emission increase.
a) For an explanation of the methodology used to develop emission factors, see EPA report: Greenhouse Gas
Emissions from Management of Selected Materials in Municipal Solid Waste (EPA530-R-98-013) - available
on the Internet at http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/non-hw/muncpl/ghg/greengas.pdf (1.1 Mb PDF file). Please
note that some of the emission factors used to generate these results do not match those presented in the
report due to recent additions and/or revisions. A 3rd edition of the report will be available in early Fall of
2006, which will include the latest emission factors.
b) Emissions estimates provided by this model are intended to support voluntary GHG measurement and
reporting initiatives.
c) Total emissions estimates provided by this model may not sum due to independent rounding.
Back to WARM
View Emission Factors
http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/waste/calculatorsAVarm Form.html
8/7/2008
-------
WARM Emmission Factors
Page 1 of2
(Version 8, 8/06)
The emission factors presented in this table reflect national average landfill gas recovery practices and transportat
distances.
Greenhouse Gas Emission Factors (MICE per short ton)
Material
Aluminum
Cans
Steel Cans
Copper
Wire
Glass
HOPE
LDPE
PET
Corrugated
Box
Magazines
Newspaper
Office
Paper
Phonebook
Textbook
Dimensional
Lumber
Fiberboard
Food Waste
Yard Waste
Grass
Leaves
Branches
Mixed
Paper
Board
Mixed
Paper -
Residential
Mixed
Paper -
Office
Mixed
Metals
Mixed
Plastics
Source
Reduction
-2.24
-0.87
-2
-0.16
-0.49
-0.62
-0.57
-1.52
-2.36
-1.33
-2.18
-1.72
-2.5
-0.55
-0.6
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Recycling
-3.7
-0.49
-1.34
-0.08
-0.38
-0.46
-0.42
-0.85
-0.84
-0.76
-0.78
-0.72
-0.85
-0.67
-0.67
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
-0.96
-0.96
-0.93
-1.43
-0.41
Landfilling,
National
Average
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.11
-0.08
-0.24
0.53
-0.24
0.53
-0.13
-0.13
0.2
-0.06
0
-0.05
-0.13
0.09
0.07
0.13
0.01
0.01
Landfilling,
No
Recovery
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.4
0.04
-0.13
1.05
-0.13
1.05
0.02
0.02
0.39
-0.01
0.06
-0.08
0.02
0.38
0.34
0.4
0.01
0.01
Landfilling,
Flaring
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
-0.06
-0.15
-0.29
0.24
-0.29
0.24
-0.22
-0.22
0.09
-0.19
-0.04
-0.27
-0.22
-0.06
-0.08
-0.03
0.01
0.01
Landfilling,
Energy
Recovery
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
-0.13
-0.18
-0.32
0.11
-0.32
0.11
-0.26
-0.26
0.04
-0.21
-0.06
-0.3
-0.26
-0.13
-0.15
-0.1
0.01
0.01
Combustion
0.02
-0.42
0.01
0.01
0.25
0.25
0.3
-0.18
-0.13
-0.2
-0.17
-0.2
-0.17
-0.21
-0.21
-0.05
-0.06
-0.06
-0.06
-0.06
-0.18
-0.18
-0.16
-0.29
0.27
Compost
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
-0.05
-0.05
-0.05
-0.05
-0.05
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/waste/calculatorsAVarm Form.html
8/7/2008
-------
WARM Emmission Factors
Page 2 of2
Mixed
Recyclables
Mixed
Organics
MixedMSW
Carpets
PCs
ClayBricks
Aggregate
FlyAsh
Tires
N/A
N/A
N/A
-1.09
-15.13
-0.08
N/A
N/A
-1.09
-0.79
N/A
N/A
-1.96
-0.62
N/A
0
-0.24
-0.5
0.04
0.06
0.12
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.26
0.17
0.43
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
-0.08
-0.06
0.04
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
-0.14
-0.1
-0.02
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
-0.17
-0.05
-0.03
0.11
-0.05
N/A
N/A
N/A
0.05
N/A
-0.05
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Back to WARM
http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/waste/calculatorsAVarm Form.html
8/7/2008
-------
Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator | Clean Energy | US EPA
Page 1 of 3
http://www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-resources/calculator.html
Last on Monday, February llth, 2:008.
You are here: EPA Home Climate Change Clean Energy Clean Energy Resources
Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator
Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator
Did you ever wonder what reducing carbon dioxide (CO2)
emissions by 1 million metric tons means in everyday terms?
The following equivalency calculator can help you understand
just that.
For example, it can be difficult to visualize what a "metric ton
of carbon dioxide" really is. This calculator will translate
rather difficult to understand statements into more
commonplace terms, such as "is equivalent to avoiding the
carbon dioxide emissions of X number of cars annually."
This equivalency calculator may be useful in communicating
your greenhouse gas reduction strategy, reduction targets, or
other initiatives aimed at reducing GHG emissions.
Other Calculators
There are a number of other
web-based calculators that can
estimate greenhouse gas
emission reductions for
» individuals and households
» waste, and
» transportation.
For basic information and
details on greenhouse gas
emissions, visit the Emissions
section of EPA's climate
change site.
Enter Your Data Below
There are two options for entering data into this calculator.
Option 1:
1. If you are starting with data in units of "gallons of gasoline consumed," "kilowatt-
hours of electricity," "therms of natural gas," or "passenger vehicles per year", use
this option.
2, Enter a quantity and pick the desired unit below; and
3. Click on the "Calculate Equivalent**" button to convert your value to Carbon Dioxide
Equivalent.
- choose a unit - :
? Click Here for Calculations and References
Calculate Equivalent**
**This calculator uses an eGRID non-baseload national average emissions rate when
calculating "kilowatt-hours of electricity" to "carbon dioxide equivalent".
Option 2:
If you have already estimated the quantity of avoided emissions reductions (e.g., metric tons
of carbon dioxide equivalent), you can input the amount of avoided emissions and select the
appropriate units for the corresponding greenhouse gas type.
Amount
Unit
Gas
htttv//www pna cmv/rlpanpnercrv/pnprcrv-rpsniirrpQ/ralriilatnr html
-------
Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator | Clean Energy | US EPA Page 2 of 3
Tons : C02 - Carbon Dioxide
Tons t CH4 - Methane
Tons ? |\LO - Nitrous Oxide
/ _
Tons J HFC-23 ',* - Hydrofluorocarbon gases
Tons v; CF4 ? - Perfluorocarbon gases
Tons SF,- - Sulfur Hexafluoride
o . ___...,,,. .
56.75 Metric Tons » Carbon Equivalent
*If your estimated emissions of methane, nitrous oxide, or other non-CO2 gases are already
expressed in C02 or carbon equivalents, please enter your figures in the row for CO2 or
carbon equivalent.
I The sum of the greenhouse gas emissions you entered above is 208 \
I Metric Tons ?; Of carbon Dioxide Equivalent. I
This is equivalent to one of the following:
Equivalency Results
Click on the question mark ? link to read the explanation of that particular calculation. Read
about all calculations.
The information you entered above is equivalent to one of the following statements:
Annual greenhouse gas emissions from 38.1 passenger vehicles !_ (click to read more
about this calculation)
CO2 emissions from 23,619 gallons of gasoline consumed ?
CO2 emissions from 484 barrels of oil consumed 1_
C02 emissions from 2.8 tanker trucks' worth of gasoline J_
CO2 emissions from the electricity use of 27-6 homes for one year ?
CO2 emissions from the energy use of 18.4 homes for one year 1
Carbon sequestered by 5,335 tree seedlings grown for 10 years ?
-------
Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator | Clean Energy | US EPA Page 3 of 3
Carbon sequestered annually by 47.3 acres of pine or fir forests ?
Carbon sequestered annually by 1.5 acres of forest preserved from deforestation ?
CO2 emissions from 8,670 propane cylinders used for home barbeques ?
CO2 emissions from burning 1-1 railcars' worth of coal ?
Greenhouse gas emissions avoided by recycling 71.8 tons of waste instead of
sending it to the landfill ?
Annual C02 emissions of 0 coal fired power plants ?
-------
WARM Summary
Page 1 of 1
GHG Emissions Analysis - Summary Report
(Version 8, 8/06)
Analysis of GHG Emissions from Waste Management
GHG Emissions from Baseline Waste Management (MICE): 0
Material
Office Paper
Tons Recycled
0
Tons Landfilled
0.51
Tons Combusted
0
Tons Composted
N/A
Total MTCE
0
GHG Emissions from Alternative Waste Management Scenario (MTCE): -1
Material
Office
Paper
Tons
Reduced
0.51
Tons
Recycled
0
Tons
Landfilled
0
Tons
Combusted
0
Tons
Composted
N/A
Total
MTCE
-1
Total Change in GHG Emissions: -1 MTCE
Note: A negative value indicates an emission reduction; a positive value indicates an emission increase.
a) For an explanation of the methodology used to develop emission factors, see EPA report: Greenhouse Gas
Emissions from Management of Selected Materials in Municipal Solid Waste (EPA530-R-98-013) - available
on the Internet at http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/non-hw/muncpl/ghg/greengas.pdf (1.1 Mb PDF file). Please
note that some of the emission factors used to generate these results do not match those presented in the
report due to recent additions and/or revisions. A 3rd edition of the report will be available in early Fall of
2006, which will include the latest emission factors.
b) Emissions estimates provided by this model are intended to support voluntary GHG measurement and
reporting initiatives.
c) Total emissions estimates provided by this model may not sum due to independent rounding.
[_ Back to WARM ] [ View Emission Factors
http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/waste/calculators/Warm Form.html
9/9/2008
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Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator | Clean Energy | US EPA
Page 1 of 3
http://www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-resources/calculator.html
_,, _ Last on Monday, February llth, 2008,
You are here: EPA Home Climate Change Clean Energy QejB_Eneray_Resources
Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator
Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator
Other Calculators
There are a number of other
web-based calculators that can
estimate greenhouse gas
emission reductions for
* individuals and households
* waste, and
» transportation,
For basic information and
details on greenhouse gas
emissions, visit the Emissions
section of EPA's climate
change site.
Did you ever wonder what reducing carbon dioxide (C02)
emissions by 1 million metric tons means in everyday terms?
The following equivalency calculator can help you understand
just that.
For example, it can be difficult to visualize what a "metric ton
of carbon dioxide" really is. This calculator will translate
rather difficult to understand statements into more
commonplace terms, such as "is equivalent to avoiding the
carbon dioxide emissions of X number of cars annually."
This equivalency calculator may be useful in communicating
your greenhouse gas reduction strategy, reduction targets, or
other initiatives aimed at reducing GHG emissions.
Enter Your Data Below
There are two options for entering data into this calculator.
Option 1:
1. If you are starting with data in units of "gallons of gasoline consumed," "kilowatt-
hours of electricity," "therms of natural gas," or "passenger vehicles per year", use
this option.
2. Enter a quantity and pick the desired unit below; and
3. Click on the "Calculate Equivalent**" button to convert your value to Carbon Dioxide
Equivalent.
- choose a unit-
Calculate Equivalent**
**This calculator uses an eGRID non-baseload national average emissions rate when
calculating "kilowatt-hours of electricity" to "carbon dioxide equivalent".
Option 2:
If you have already estimated the quantity of avoided emissions -reductions (e.g., metric tons
of carbon dioxide equivalent), you can input the amount of avoided emissions and select the
appropriate units for the corresponding greenhouse gas type.
Amount
Unit
Gas
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Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator | Clean Energy | US EPA Page 2 of 3
Tons , ii; CO, - Carbon Dioxide
... ^ -- - ...................... _-___
Tons ;& CH4 - Methane
Tons ;|; N20 - Nitrous Oxide
Tons ; HFC-23 -; - Hydrofluorocarbon gases
Tons i; CF4 ,; - perfluorocarbon gases
Tons ;;: SF6 - Sulfur Hexafluorlde
Metric Tons J ; ; Carbon Equivalent
Calculate Equivalencies ] [~ Clear Fields |
*If your estimated emissions of methane, nitrous oxide, or other non-CO2 gases are already
expressed in CQ2 or carbon equivalents, please enter your figures in the row for C02 or
carbon equivalent.
The sum of the greenhouse gas emissions you entered above is 3.7 [
: Metric Tons S Of Carbon Dioxide Equivalent. [
This is equivalent to one of the following:
Equivalency Results
Click on the question mark ? link to read the explanation of that particular calculation. Read
about all calculations.
The information you entered above is equivalent to one of the following statements:
Annual greenhouse gas emissions from 0.67 passenger vehicles ? (dick to read more
about this calculation)
CO2 emissions from 416 gallons of gasoline consumed ?
CO2 emissions from 8.5 barrels of oil consumed ?
C02 emissions from 0.05 tanker trucks' worth of gasoline ?
C02 emissions from the electricity use of °-49 homes for one year ?
C02 emissions from the energy use of 0.32 homes for one year ?
Carbon sequestered by 94 tree seedlings grown for 10 years ?
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Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator | Clean Energy | US EPA Page 3 of 3
Carbon sequestered annually by 0.83 acres of pine or fir forests ?
Carbon sequestered annually by 0.03 acres of forest preserved from deforestation ?
CO2 emissions from 153 propane cylinders used for home barbeques ?
CO2 emissions from burning 0.02 railcars' worth of coal ?
Greenhouse gas emissions avoided by recycling 1.3 tons of waste instead of
sending it to the landfill ?
Annual C02 emissions of 0 coa| fjrec| power plants ?
httn://WWW.ena Pnv/rlfiflrienprffv/pnprav-rpcrmrrpe/na1r'iilatr>r Vitt-nl n/c/onno
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Greening Report - Appendix B
Recycling at Brownfields 2008:
2OO8
Practices and Lessons Learned
Prepared by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
Table of Contents
Overview 1
I. Pre-Event Planning 3
II. Site Operations 5
A. Event Set-Up 5
B. Exhibitor Move-In 6
C.. Exhibit Hall 7
D. Conference Center Concourses 8
E. Special Events/Receptions 9
F. Concession Areas 9
G. Main Kitchen 9
H. Registration Desk & Event Management Offices 10
I. Exhibitor Move-Out & Event Breakdown 10
III. Outreach & Education Activities 13
Pre-Event 13
Event 13
IV. Lessons Learned & Recommendations 15
Pre-Event Planning 15
Site Operations 16
1. Event Set-Up & Exhibitor Move-In 16
2. Conference & Exposition 17
3. Exhibitor Move-Out & Event Breakdown 19
V. Appendices
A. Event Recycling Plan
a. Recycling Planning Committee Roster
b. Recycling Center Layout & Configuration
c. Signage Inventory
d. Volunteer Staffing Plan
B. Waste Generation & Recycling Figures
C. WARM Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Evaluation Results
VI. Attachments
1. Cobo Center Waste & Recycling Assessment Checklist
2. Greening Tip Sheet - Exhibitors
3. Recycling Planning Meeting Agenda
4. Volunteer Information Sheet
5. Pre-Show Meeting Agenda & Fact Sheet
6. Waste Log Sheet
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Greening Report - Appendix B
Overview
The following is a summary of the recycling activities at Brownfields 2008. This bi-annual,
international conference focuses on the industry of redeveloping properties that are or may be
affected by past contamination. More than 300 exhibitors and 5000 participants attended the 130
sessions, exhibits, and networking events held at Cobo Center in Detroit, Michigan, from May 5-
7, 2008.
At the previous conference held in Boston in 2006, an effort was made to increase the
environmental performance of the event from various perspectives, including waste reduction
and recycling. In 2008, EPA Region 5's Land and Chemicals Division was tasked to continue
these "greening" efforts by developing and implementing a waste reduction and recycling
strategy in cooperation with event planners. A detailed recycling plan (see Appendix A - Event
Recycling Plan) was developed by a planning committee consisting of partners from the State of
Michigan, City of Detroit, a local non-profit organization, and private businesses (see the Event
Recycling Plan for a list of committee members).
Based on past conference experience, a priority was placed on reducing and recovering the large
volumes of waste materials generated by exhibitors during move-in and move-out. Many
exhibitors are environmentally-focused companies, and those that participated in the 2006
conference were already aware of waste reduction and recycling efforts. Exhibitors were notified
of waste reduction ideas (such as reducing incoming material packaging and handouts) and event
recycling plans before the event via the exhibitor guidebook, email "blasts," and the Website
(http://www.brownfields2008.org). Although waste reduction efforts are nearly impossible to
quantify, it is anticipated that a significant amount of both waste and recyclables never made it to
Cobo Center as a result of this outreach. One critical waste reduction activity was the elimination
of the attendee list normally distributed to all attendees, which saved over 10,000 pounds of
paper.
Over 5800 pounds of clean, marketable recyclables were generated, collected, and recycled
during the event, as detailed in Table 1.
Material
Paper
Shrink Wrap
Plastic Bottles
Cardboard
Metal
Aluminum Cans
Glass
Signage Board*
<2 £?.
Give-a-ways*
Total
Recycled (Ibs)
3350
170
230
960
60
70
790
150
50
5830
Table 1. Event recycling totals broken down by commodity
* Signs and give-a-ways were collected for reuse
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Greening Report - Appendix B
Approximately 2763 pounds of waste were generated and transported to the Greater Detroit
Resource Recovery Authority waste-to-energy plant for incineration, as seen in Table 2. A
detailed accounting of waste generation is in Appendix B.
Day
May 5
May 6
May"?
Total
Waste Disposed (Ibs)
783
1406
484
2763
Table 2. Event waste generation broken down by date
As shown above, the amount of recyclables recovered was over two times the amount of
waste disposed; the whole event had an overall recycling rate of 68%. EPA's Waste
Reduction Model (WARM) was used to calculate the total metric tons of carbon equivalent
(MTCE) saved through recycling efforts. The analysis showed that approximately two MTCE
were saved by recycling rather than combusting the materials collected. Two MTCE is
equivalent to the CCh emissions from the consumption of 832 gallons of gasoline or the
emissions generated by the electricity use of one home for one year (detailed WARM
evaluation results are in Appendix C).
It is hoped that in addition to sharing information about the recycling at Brownfields 2008, that
the successes, areas for improvement, and recommendations documented in this report will serve
as a roadmap for future recycling activities at Cobo Center as well as at future conferences.
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Greening Report - Appendix B
I. PRE-EVENT PLANNING
The three principal contractors or grantees to EPA for overall management and implementation
of the event were EPA's contractor, SRA International, the conference co-host, International
City/County Management Association (ICMA), and The Bridge Group, ICMA's contractor
coordinating exhibit hall activities. EPA Region 5 dedicated several staff to assist in the planning
of the conference, including a conference coordinator (Laura Lodisio) and a greening coordinator
(Briana Bill). Additional staff from EPA Region 5 (Shelly Heger and Paul Ruesch) was assigned
the responsibility of event recycling. The following tasks were undertaken prior to the event:
1. Information on recycling at the previous conference in Boston was solicited from Cynthia
Greene of EPA Region 1.
2. EPA conducted an on-site waste management/recycling assessment of Cobo Center on
March 4 using a checklist (see Attachment 1) developed by Marc Mowrey of EPA
Region 9.
Figure 1. Exhibit hall space and exit to loading dock
3. A recycling planning committee was established consisting of key individuals from state
and local government, private recyclers, and non-profit recycling organizations (see
Appendix A for a detailed list of committee members). Two conference calls were held to
solicit ideas, suggestions, local contacts, and resource commitments.
4. Waste reduction ideas and recycling plans were communicated to exhibitors, presenters,
and reception planners (see Attachment 2 for the exhibitor tip sheet).
5. An on-site meeting was held at Cobo Center on April 3 during which a walk-through was
conducted and input was solicited on the recycling plan (see Attachment 3 for a copy of
the agenda). The meeting was attended by the City of Detroit Department of
Environmental Affairs, Cobo Center management, Recycle Detroit, NPR Recycling, Inc.,
Aramark Corporation (food services), ABM Janitorial Service, SRA International, The
Bridge Group, and EPA Region 5.
6. A detailed recycling work plan was drafted (see Appendix A) and circulated for comment
among the planning committee and all primary participants at Cobo Center. The
document included materials to be collected, recycling procedures and logistics, outreach
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Greening Report - Appendix B
9.
and education activities, and a staffing plan for the three main stages of the event: 1)
event set-up/exhibitor move-in; 2) conference & exposition; and 3) exhibitor move-
out/event breakdown. Materials targeted for collection are found in Table 3 below.
Event Stage
Event Setup /
Exhibitor Move-in
Conference & Exhibition
Exhibitor Move-out /
Event Breakdown
Materials Collected
Cardboard, paper, shrink wrap,
metal banding, beverage
containers
Cardboard, paper, beverage
containers
Cardboard, paper (extra
handouts), beverage containers,
signage, extra give-a-ways
| signage, extra give-a-ways
Table 3. Materials targeted for collection during the three major event stages
Assistance was provided to Cobo Center management to identify options and vendors for
concourse recycling containers to accommodate the conference as well as future events.
A local recycling contractor (NPR Recycling, Inc.) was identified to provide recycling
containers and a trailer for on-site staging, transportation, and processing of collected
recyclables.
A staffing plan was developed and volunteers were sought to support implementation of
the plan. An information sheet was developed for volunteers (see Attachment 4).
Specially designed, green recycling t-shirts were produced to clearly identify recycling
staff to participants and exhibitors, and lunch vouchers were offered by Aramark.
A recycling team representative attended the pre-show meeting on May 2 to brief key
members from all participating organizations and contractors on the details and logistics
of the recycling plan (see Attachment 5 for the meeting agenda).
10. Supervisors, floor stewards, and individual staff of labor unions and contractors were
contacted individually after the pre-show meeting to answer questions, provide
instructions, and confirm understanding of recycling procedures. In addition, recycling
team representatives attended pre-show briefings and trainings for event staff to provide
an overview of recycling procedures.
Figure 2. Pre-show briefings were provided to host organization staff
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Greening Report - Appendix B
II. SITE OPERATIONS
The following section provides a description of on-site activities during the various stages of the
event. A more comprehensive report detailing the overall conference greening efforts is also
available. Site operations were primarily conducted by the EPA recycling team, which consisted
of four individuals as well as additional volunteers who assisted periodically throughout the
event.
Figure 3. The Brownfields 2008 recycling team (left to right): Briana Bill (EPA),
Amy Kochanowsky (SRA International), Paul Ruesch, and Shelly Heger (EPA)
A. Event Set-Up
Although the event was not scheduled to begin until May 5, show managers and contractors were
on site beginning May 1 to set up in the Wayne and Oakland exhibit halls. Immediately
following the pre-show meeting on May 2, NPR Recycling, Inc. dropped off a semi-truck trailer
containing twenty 90-gallon Toter containers, 10 gaylord containers, and several pallets adjacent
to the trash compactor on the loading dock.
Figure 4. NPR Recycling, Inc. semi-trailer staged adjacent to trash compactor on loading dock
Several containers for material generated by contractors such as shrink wrap, metal banding, and
cardboard were distributed within the exhibit hall. Event contractors, decorators, janitorial staff,
union laborers (carpenters, carpet layers, etc.), security staff, loading dock workers, and fork lift
drivers were instructed on what materials were appropriate for placement into the recycling bins.
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Greening Report - Appendix B
The main exhibit hall managers reinforced recycling efforts during set-up activities with onsite
contractors.
Figure 5. Toters (left) were placed throughout the exhibit hall to capture metal banding and shrink wrap from
furniture and incoming shipments which were staged on pallets during event set-up (right)
Event set-up continued on May 3. However, the exhibit hall was scheduled to "go dark" in the
afternoon, meaning the lights were shut down and no contractors were allowed to work during
that time. During this down time, approximately 30 staff assembled printed materials to be
received by attendees. This work involved the staging, unpacking, and collating of printed
materials and give-a-ways into yellow tote bags (made from recyclable material). Cardboard,
paper, shrink wrap, and beverage containers were recovered during this activity.
Figure 6. Participant tote bag stuffing with recycling containers staged nearby
B. Exhibitor Move-In
The exhibit hall was opened to exhibitors on May 4. Upon check-in, exhibitors were reminded of
recycling opportunities and procedures. Recycling staff in green t-shirts walked the exhibit hall
reminding exhibitors and contractors of recycling procedures and assisted with transporting
materials to designated recycling centers. The centers were set up to collect cardboard, paper,
metal banding, shrink wrap, beverage containers, and garbage. Recycling staff carried box
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Greening Report - Appendix B
cutters to help break down boxes and assisted exhibitors with locating appropriate bins and
collection areas. Janitorial staff utilized gondolas to transport cardboard to staging areas.
Figure 7. Gondolas used for cardboard (left) and a recycling team member assisting janitorial staff (right)
C. Exhibit Hall
During the exhibition, exhibitors were provided with small cardboard waste paper baskets with
plastic liners at each booth. To encourage recycling, no garbage cans were placed in the aisles of
the exhibit floor. Two recycling centers were permanently established on the north and south
ends of the hall and were clearly marked with large, overhead signage (see Figure 8). Toter
containers were used for the collection of paper, beverage containers, and metal and gaylord
containers were used for the collection of cardboard (see Figure 9).
Figure 8. Two recycling centers were set up in the exhibit hall with large hanging signs overhead
Figure 9. A gaylord container with cardboard boxes stacked inside
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Greening Report - Appendix B
A smaller garbage can was placed alongside the recycle bins. Recycling containers were clearly
marked to minimize contamination. For example, many attendees thought paper coffee cups
were acceptable in the paper recycling bin. Additional signage was placed on bins indicating that
paper cups should be placed in the garbage to avoid contamination.
Recycling staff walked the exhibit floor encouraging exhibitors and attendees to recycle.
Recycling staff worked with janitors to periodically check the centers, remove contaminants, and
break down boxes. Full gaylords and Toter containers were transported to the recycling trailer on
an as-needed basis. Janitorial crews used gondolas to collect and transport garbage to the
compactor at the loading dock. All garbage was weighed and logged prior to disposal in the
compactor. The weight, time, and waste origin (if possible) were noted on a log sheet (see
Attachment 6).
Figure 10. Scale for weighing trash and office area on loading dock with logs and event schedule
D. Conference Center Concourses
Recycling bins for co-mingled beverage containers and paper were placed alongside garbage
cans throughout the conference center lobby and concourses. Janitorial crews used gondolas to
collect and consolidate recyclables in a separate sweep and transported them to the recycling
trailer. Because a separate crew and floor warden worked the concourses, separate instructions
were provided by recycling staff.
Figure 11. Recycling bins utilized on concourses
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Greening Report - Appendix B
E. Special Events / Receptions
Several special events and receptions took place during the event, including the opening plenary
session, ten EPA regional receptions, a transaction forum, two private receptions, and two
catered networking events on the exhibit floor. Prior to the conference, ideas for waste reduction
such as avoiding disposables, providing pitchers of water versus bottles, and using glassware and
cloth napkins were provided to reception planners.
A recycling team representative worked with the event coordinator immediately prior to the
event to discuss preferences for recycling bin placement, servicing, and signage. Based on these
discussions, appropriate recycling containers for bottles and cans were placed near exits, garbage
cans, and/or alongside bars. At the conclusion of the events, recycling staff and Aramark
janitorial personnel transported recyclables to the loading dock. Toters for paper were placed in
front of the poster session area and in the transaction forum room. In addition, janitorial staff
conducted a separate sweep for discarded inserts, paper, and tote bags immediately following the
opening plenary session, as many attendees left unwanted materials behind on chairs and on the
floor.
F. Concession Areas
Large recycling containers were placed in the concession areas within the exhibition hall to
capture co-mingled bottles and cans. The containers were provided by Aramark and picked up
separately by Recyclean, a local recycling contractor. These containers (pictured below) collect
cans and bottles on an ongoing basis at events at Cobo Center and data on the weight of the
recyclables collected was estimated.
Figure 12. Recycling boxes placed by Aramark in concession areas
G. Main Kitchen
Recycling staff met with the catering manager and head chef to determine preferences for
recycling containers and procedures on May 2, because much of the food was already in
preparation for the event. Normal procedures involved kitchen staff filling a large gondola with
garbage and transporting it to the compactor. This procedure was modified so that a large
gondola dedicated for cardboard and a Toter for metal food cans were placed just outside the
main kitchen. Kitchen staff was asked to break down boxes prior to stacking them in the gondola
to increase efficiency. In addition, food cans (for sauces, pickles, peppers, etc.) were rinsed prior
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
to placement in a Toter to reduce contamination and odors. Recycling staff coordinated with
kitchen staff to transport full gondolas and Toters to the recycling trailer on an as-needed basis.
Figure 13. Cardboard boxes prior to breakdown and recycling gondola outside the kitchen
H. Registration Desk and Event Management Offices
Staff in the main registration area as well as in several temporary offices in conference center
rooms generated beverage containers and paper. Recycling containers and empty boxes were
placed in these areas upon request and placed in the hallway daily.
Toter containers for paper were placed in front of the registration desks to collect unwanted
paper inserts from the registration tote bags. A very small amount of paper was collected in these
bins, as relatively few inserts were originally placed in the tote bags. Large containers for bottles
and cans were placed near the registration area and entrances to the exhibit hall.
Figure 14. Toter for unwanted paper inserts and containers for beverage containers in registration area
I. Exhibitor Move-Out and Event Breakdown
Toward the end of the exhibition, recycling staff met individually with each exhibitor to remind
them of recycling procedures during move-out. In addition, staff walked the exhibit hall
instructing exhibitors and contractors to leave boxes of extra hand-out materials along aisles and
assisted with transporting items to recycling centers.
10
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Greening Report - Appendix B
At the onset of exhibitor move-out, contractors concurrently broke down exhibit infrastructure.
The recycling centers were dismantled immediately, as they were located along key
transportation routes for forklifts. Therefore, Toter containers were deployed onto the exhibit hall
floor for collection of cardboard and paper (including extra brochures). Cleaning crews moved
through the exhibit hall gathering waste and recyclables using large gondolas. Although
janitorial staff was encouraged to break down boxes and collect recyclables separately, many
gondolas arrived at the recycling trailer mixed with trash and recyclables needed to be separated
manually. When break down hours concluded, fork lift operators assisted recycling staff in
transporting full gaylords and Toter containers to the recycling trailer.
Figure 15. Event breakdown and loading of full gaylords onto recycling trailer
At the end of the exhibitor move-out hours, recycling staff remained in the exhibit hall to collect
recyclable materials such as foam board signage, name tags, and recyclables from the
registration desk. More than 150 pounds of foam board signage was transported back to the EPA
Region 5 graphic design office for reuse at future events.
Figure 16. Foam board signage was removed after the event for reuse
The trailer was removed on the morning of May 8 and transported to NPR Recycling, Inc. in
Romulus, Michigan. All Toters, gaylords, and loose materials were removed, weighed
11
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Greening Report - Appendix B
individually, and processed at the facility. A detailed report with a break down of material
weights was provided to EPA the following week.
Figure 17. Loaded trailer ready for removal
12
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Greening Report - Appendix B
III. Outreach and Education Activities
The following is a summary of the outreach and education activities conducted to increase the
awareness of waste reduction and recycling.
Pre-Event
Numerous meetings and site visits were held with event planners, venue managers, and
supporting contractors (catering, security, decorators, janitorial, maintenance, etc) to
develop and confirm recycling plans.
- The Website, e-mails, and registration materials publicized greening activities.
- Tip Sheets were emailed to exhibitors, presenters, and reception hosts with an overview
of waste reduction strategies for packaging, handouts, and booth construction (see
Attachment 2 for the exhibitor tip sheet).
- Exhibitors were provided the opportunity to document green practices and receive a
certificate from EPA recognizing their efforts.
Event
- Plenary speakers and conference session moderators announced the availability of
recycling bins, locations of recycling centers, and materials being collected.
Recycling staff wearing green t-shirts walked the exhibit hall and concourses to notify
participants of recycling procedures and to answer recycling questions.
Signs were posted on Toter and gaylord containers clearly indicating what materials were
acceptable.
Large overhead signage was hung from the ceiling over recycling centers to help
participants locate them easily.
General announcements were made over the PA system during exhibitor move-in,
receptions, and exhibitor move-out reminding participants to recycle.
Signs were placed at the entrance to the exhibit hall, on conference center concourses,
and at recycling center entrances.
Welcome to the
Brownfields 2008
Recycling Center!
Items Accepted Here
CARDBOARD (please break down boxei'
ALUMINUM CANS l«mpt]>pl«««e!l
PLASTIC BOTTLES (empty plea**!)
CU»N PAPER («ny p.p.. lyp«)
Recycling Services Provided by:
Figure 18. Concourse signage summarizing green activities at Cobo Center and recycling center signage
13
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Greening Report - Appendix B
Special signage was prepared recognizing all recycling planning committee members as
well as the recycling provider.
Figure 19. Signage posted at recycling centers recognizing planning committee partners
Articles appeared in the daily newsletter highlighting greening activities.
Information on event greening was placed in press releases and provided to press during
briefings. One local TV station produced a story on greening at the event and filmed
activities at the recycling trailer.
14
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Greening Report - Appendix B
IV. LESSONS LEARNED & RECOMMENDATIONS
During the event, recycling staff made notes and met periodically to discuss strategy and
implementation issues. The following lessons learned and recommendations were derived from
recycling staff and can be used to help plan future events.
Pre-Event Planning
Planning should begin 3-4 months prior to the conference with a site assessment and
meeting with venue management to define roles and to clarify expectations.
Waste reduction and recycling information should be included in preliminary marketing
information sent to exhibitors.
The focus on waste reduction and recycling in 2006, along with promotional information
and an environmentally-oriented exhibitor base, greatly contributed to the success of
2008 recycling efforts. The 2008 event results should be promoted in 2010, perhaps along
with a challenge to improve.
It is critical to acknowledge and plan for the fact that recycling efforts will require
janitorial staff do their job differently. For example, janitors may be required to make
separate passes along aisles for waste and recyclables. Obtaining buy-in from managers
and union stewards as well as providing adequate time for staff training is essential.
Attendance at the pre-show meeting by recycling staff was critical to ensure awareness of
recycling plans. Verbal recognition of the recycling priority by the venue director during
this meeting sent a powerful message to all participating parties of the importance of
supporting the plan.
A detailed understanding of all event-sponsored activities such as receptions, poster
sessions, keynote or plenary sessions, office space, breakout session presentations, etc. is
critical to ensure adequate planning for recycling container placement. It is important to
know beginning and ending times, locations, and expected type and amount of
recyclables that may be generated so that appropriate bins and volunteers can be
scheduled and dispatched.
- In person follow-up with as many staff, supervisors, and managers involved in working
the event (i.e., floor stewards, kitchen staff, trade workers, dock supervisors, janitors,
security, etc.) before the event actually starts is critical. Once the event begins, most of
these individuals cannot be distracted from their jobs. Also, it was necessary to brief each
shift manager, as many times there is little communication between shifts, and the venue
may change over as many as three times over a 24-hour period.
Exhibit halls and receptions generate many different kinds of plastic and plastic-like
materials such as shrink wrap, visqueen, vinyl table covers, tape, plastic string and
banding, stirrers, cups, bottles, give-a-ways and their packaging, carpet tape and backing,
peel off tape from nametags, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, protective plastic sheeting,
and other packaging. It is important to determine which of these materials are acceptable
by the recycling contractor before the event.
- Greening is a hot topic and good material for local news stories. Be prepared with press
releases, a media packet or fact sheet, a spokesperson, and possible photo shoot
opportunities to showcase recycling efforts.
EPA attempted to utilize college student volunteers in the recycling effort. A schedule
and short training module (see Attachment 4) was prepared, and lunch vouchers arranged
15
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Greening Report - Appendix B
through Aramark. Recycle Detroit agreed to sponsor the volunteers, as EPA cannot
accept such services. Unfortunately, as the conference approached, the students were not
available because the school term had ended.
Although Cobo Center had performed limited recycling at previous events, the center was
not equipped to undertake recycling at the level requested by event planners. For this
reason, additional assistance was necessary to prepare the venue and to train staff and
contractors. In addition, recycling bins were procured by Cobo Center to support
concourse recycling. Ten recycling stations (Midpoint International - Recycled
Recyclers, Pedestal Series) and forty Rubbermaid recycling containers with lids (23
gallon Slim Jim containers) were purchased before the event (see Figure 11) and
functioned well.
Site Operations
1) Event Set-up and Exhibitor Move-in
- Certain wastes being generated during this phase were not wanted by the recycler (i.e.,
carpet tape backing, bubble wrap, visqueen to protect carpet and Plexiglass panels, non-
metallic banding, and carpet cuttings). A significant quantity of this material was
generated during exhibit hall set-up and was not recovered. Several phone calls to the
recycler were required to clarify what materials were recoverable and marketable.
Figure 20. Carpet cuttings, tape backing, empty tape rolls and visqueen placed over
carpet to protect it from fork lifts during set up was not recycled
Cardboard tubing was too big and unwieldy for gaylords or pallets, making it a challenge
to manage and stage in the recycling trailer. Making plans to accommodate large items
may be necessary. In the case of the tubing, rolls that were not reused were broken in half
and stacked at the front of the trailer.
Figure 21. Carpet rolls stacked at the head of the recycling trailer behind gay lord containers
16
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Greening Report - Appendix B
All recycling staff should carry two-way radios, gloves, eye protection, and box cutters to
assist exhibitors with recycling.
Specially designed t-shirts with a recycling logo and the words "ASK ME" worked well
to highlight people who could help answer recycling questions.
Recycling and janitorial staff should only remove recyclable materials (i.e., cardboard,
shrink wrap, pallets, etc) with the expressed approval of the exhibitor or installer. In
many cases, the exhibitor reused the material for re-shipping or left shrink wrapped
pallets in place as this provides an extra measure of security for unattended equipment or
furniture. In addition, exhibit workers may reuse carpet rolls, visqueen, pallets, or shrink
wrap over the course of the show.
- Metal banding should be handled with extreme care (staff used gloves and eye protection
to avoid injury), folded, and placed into Toter containers along with scrap metal and food
cans.
2) Conference and Exposition
Toters placed outside the registration desk area did not collect as much paper as expected.
This could be because attendees were either not discarding tote bag inserts or separating
unwanted materials off site. A number of tote bags and paper inserts were collected from
chairs and the floor of the opening plenary session, so one can conclude that some
separation took place there.
Limited amounts of recyclable containers and paper were collected from bins on
concourses, event planning offices, and the media room. Because of this, janitorial staff
was advised to empty the contents of these containers and consolidate recyclables into
larger bags rather than pulling individual bags to conserve liners.
Since the Toter containers were too large and loud to roll by open classrooms, concourse
recycling bins were pulled from hallways into individual reception and special event
areas. Additional recycling bins should be set aside and staged to accommodate these
events and deployed on an as-needed basis.
Because Michigan is a deposit law state (carbonated beverage containers have a
redeemable 10 cent deposit), special consideration was given to the collection of deposit
containers (soda cans and beer bottles) and non-deposit containers (wine, juice and water
bottles). The large containers deployed by Aramark were designed to prevent breakage
and removal of containers deposited therein, as the deposit can only be collected if the
container is not broken.
Separate ABM janitorial crews were assigned to the concourses and the exhibit hall. In
addition, up to three different shifts rotated in and out daily. It was necessary to make all
six shift managers and floor wardens aware of recycling procedures. Aramark, which
controlled all receptions, concession stands, and kitchen operations, conducted its own
clean up operations apart from ABM. Therefore, Aramark janitorial staff was made aware
of recycling procedures separately from ABM staff.
Although recycling bins were clearly marked, many participants ignored signs taped to
Toters and instead physically looked into the bins to see what materials were inside prior
to choosing where to deposit their item. For this reason, Toter containers were left
partially full so people could see what went in them.
17
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
Many exhibitors alternated or rotated new staff between set-up, exhibition, and break-
down. Therefore, recycling staff continuously circulated reminding exhibitors of
recycling procedures.
A separate gondola for cardboard was placed outside the kitchen and kitchen staff was
asked to break down boxes there as opposed to at the loading dock. This reduced the
number of trips made to the loading dock and made off-loading of the cardboard from the
gondolas into the trailer easier.
The head chef in the kitchen was made aware of the recycling procedures and asked to
instruct other chefs and food preparers to rinse cans. An additional volunteer should be
assigned to the kitchen area to assist with recycling so it does not conflict with normal
kitchen operations.
Food waste was generated in large amounts both before the event began during advance
preparation as well as disposal immediately following receptions. The event generating
the most food waste was the opening night reception, which hosted several large fresh
fruit, vegetable, and cheese buffets. All unconsumed material was discarded and
represented over 200 pounds of waste. Had the menu been known beforehand, it is
possible that leftover platters could have been donated.
Figure 22. Cheese, fruit and vegetable buffet waste from the opening reception
Catering staff moved very quickly to clean up reception areas after events. This made
recovery and recycling of beverage containers left on both special reception tables and
exhibitor tables difficult, as few participants used the recycling centers. Temporary wait
staff was brought in for these events and need to be instructed on recycling quickly.
A detailed schedule of all receptions along with anticipated menus should be obtained
prior to the event so that adequate planning to minimize waste and maximize recycling at
these events can be conducted.
It was important for attendees to see recycling staff and volunteers maintaining recycling
centers and removing contamination from bins. Several comments were made by
attendees about the high level of attention paid to recycling. Active participation by staff
encouraged active participation by attendees.
Recycling reminders over the PA system in the exhibit hall were well received, though
not many people could hear them over the noise in the exhibit hall.
18
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
It is important to have clearly marked garbage cans near recycling bins, but it is critical
that participants see the recycling bins first.
Signage secured directly on the recycling bins is essential to prevent contamination. If
contaminants such as coffee cups, stirrers, lids, or flatware begin to accumulate in bins,
they serve as a magnet for additional undesirable materials. Recycling staff needs to be
armed and ready with paper, tape and markers to quickly change signage as bins and
Toters are relocated to different events and potential contaminants change.
Several environmentally friendly products were deployed at special events, receptions,
and in concession areas. One area of confusion for participants was as to whether these
materials, such as biodegradable forks/knives/spoons, molded pulp paper food trays, or
small plastic water cups were recyclable. Because composting facilities were not locally
available, this material was not collected and became contamination in recycling
containers.
Figure 23. Biodegradable or compostable flatware, plates, trays and cups
were used extensively during receptions and concessions
Limited contamination in recycling bins was encountered from give-a-ways such as
cubicle clips, pens, and magnets. Volunteers staged at recycling centers would have
helped prevent contamination by these materials.
- Black cardboard waste baskets given to each exhibitor were recyclable, but waste could
have been further reduced by providing reusable cans.
Exhibitors recognized for greening efforts were very proud and appreciative, with many
prominently displaying their certificates. Nonetheless, some exhibitors claimed they were
unaware of the program as exhibit staffers were often not the staff receiving the pre-show
promotional material. It is recommended that additional efforts be made to promote
future recognition programs.
- On some days, janitorial staff was sent home early due to small quantities of waste being
generated, which caused additional work for recycling staff.
Dedicated volunteers should be assigned to the compactor or waste container to log waste
generation data (e.g., number of bags, source, weight) and separate recyclable materials.
This station should be covered during all three janitorial shifts, including late at night
when sweeps are conducted.
3) Exhibitor Move-out and Event Breakdown
- Exhibit workers and fork lifts rapidly began to remove carpet, furniture, signage,
partitions, and curtains immediately upon closure of the exhibit hall. As a result, the
19
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
recycling centers were dismantled immediately and were not able to be utilized during
move-out. Most recyclable material was collected along with garbage by janitorial staff
moving through the exhibit hall with gondolas or separated out of the trash on the loading
dock. Contamination could have been reduced by dedicating gondolas for recyclables
only.
Paperboard booth placards with the exhibitor name and booth number should not be
removed for recycling until all boxes and materials have been removed from the hall.
These are needed by contractors to locate and identify materials for shipping back to the
exhibitor.
One exhibitor returned several hours after exhibit hall closure to retrieve several boxes of
handout materials which had already been picked up by recycling staff. Fortunately,
because the materials were left boxed and stacked on skids in the recycling trailer, these
items were able to be retrieved and returned.
Some poster session and transaction forum participants returned hours after their events
to collect materials. Unfortunately, many posters, business cards, push pins, handouts,
and storage boxes had been removed and left on the floor by workers breaking down the
event. A clear understanding of deadline retrieval times is needed so that posters and
other materials are not accidentally recycled or disposed.
Figure 24. Boxes of undistributed brochures and promotional materials in the recycling trailer
A market for vinyl table covering material should be identified, as significant volume was
generated and disposed.
Figure 25. Vinyl table covering deemed un-recyclable by the recycling contractor and not recovered
20
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
More extensive badge collection receptacles should be placed at exits to both the exhibit
hall and convention center. Just over 100 badges and lanyards were recovered from over
5000 participants.
If possible, waste reduction impacts (i.e., not printing an attendee list, which saved
thousands of pages of paper) should be estimated. In addition, reuse of materials such as
foam board signage and give-a-ways were not able to be captured in the WARM analysis.
For Additional Information
This report was prepared by EPA Region 5. For additional information or questions, contact
Briana Bill (bill.briana@epa.gov). Shelly Heger (heger.michelle@epa.gov), or Paul Ruesch
(ruesch.paul@epa.gov).
21
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
V.
APPENDICES
Appendix
A
B
c
Description
Event Recycling Plan
Waste and Recyclables Generation Charts
Greenhouse Gas Savings Calculations
VI. ATTACHMENTS
Attachment
1
"""2
T
T
T
6
Description
Waste/recycling Assessment Checklist
Exhibitor Tip Sheet
Recycling Planning Meeting Agenda
Volunteer Information Sheet
Pre-Show Meeting Agenda and Fact Sheet
Waste Log Sheet
22
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
Appendix A
Event Recycling Plan
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
BROWNFIELDS 2008
COBO CENTER - DETROIT, MI
RECYCLING PLAN
Overview
The following is a recycling plan for the National Brownfields Conference to be held at
Cobo Center from May 4-7, 2008. Over 300 exhibitors and 5000 participants are
expected at the event. The plan was developed at a meeting held on April 3r in Detroit
in cooperation with the City of Detroit Department of Environmental Affairs, Cobo
Center management, Recycle Detroit, NPR Recycling, Inc., Aramark Corporation, ABM
Janitorial Service, SRA International, the Bridge Group and EPA Region 5. A complete
list of the recycling planning committee is found in Attachment A.
The recycling activities at the conference will focus on the three main stages of event:
Event Stage
Exhibitor Move-in
Conference & Exhibition
(including plenary, session, special
event)
Exhibitor Move-out
Dates / Times
May 4, 8:00am - 5:00pm
May 5, 7;3Oam - 9:30am
May 5, 10:15am - 7:30pm
May 6, 8:00am - 7:00pm
May 7, 8:30am - 12:00pm
May 7, 11:00am - 6:00pm
Recycling activities will be coordinated and overseen by EPA Region 5 in coordination
with ABM Janitorial Service and NPR Recycling, Inc. This document includes the
following components for each stage:
A. Materials to be collected
B. Recycling procedures & logistics
C. Outreach / education activities
D. Staffing plan
At the conclusion of the conference, a summary report will be developed by EPA (in
coordination with the recycling planning committee) which will include a summary of
recycling program implementation, the amount of recyclables recovered, and an overall
recycling rate for the event. The report will also highlight successes, identify areas for
improvement, and make recommendations for future National Brownfields Conferences.
Though exhibitors have been notified of waste reduction strategies and asked to minimize
incoming material packaging, it is anticipated that a significant quantity of clean,
marketable material will be generated, collected and recycled. The recycling strategy and
protocols documented during the event may serve as a roadmap for future recycling
activities at Cobo Center in coordination with their contractors Aramark and ABM
Janitorial Services.
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
I. EXHIBITOR MOVE-IN
A. Materials Collected
The following materials will be specifically targeted for collection during set up of
exhibits in the Wayne and Oakland exhibit halls:
Material
Source
Cardboard
Metal
Plastic shrink wrap
Aluminum and plastic containers
Exhibit, promotional materials packaging
Packaging and shipping
Pallet and container box shipments
Pal let and shipments
Crews
B. Recycling Procedures
A semi trailer will be staged on the loading dock on Level 1 outside Wayne Hall
immediately adjacent to the City of Detroit trash compactor truck currently parked next
to the trash compactor (see Figure 1). The trailer will be delivered on Friday, May 2n and
will require special permission from Cobo Center to remain there until the Wednesday,
May 7l . A parking pass will be required for this trailer.
NPR Recycling, Inc.
will stage a semi-
trailer in this parking
space May 2-7
Figure 1. Staging location for recycling trailer during event
The preliminary semi-trailer will contain 10 wooden shipping pallets, 10 Gaylord
container boxes, and 20 clean Toter containers with wheels. An order will be sent to
NPR the week of April 28l to confirm needed quantities of supplies and logistics for
trailer drop-off and staging. In the event that the trailer is filled or additional
pallets/containers are needed during the event, EPA will contact NPR Recycling directly
to arrange for removal/replacement.
The Toter containers will be deployed onto the exhibit hall for collection of metal
banding, plastic wrapping and paper during set up. Set up crews will be encouraged to
break down cardboard boxes, transport it to designated collection areas, and stack it
neatly within Gaylord boxes mounted on shipping pallets staged alongside the NORTH
and SOUTH walls of the Wayne and Oakland Hall. Depending on availability, ABM
staff will utilize gondolas to assist with transport of cardboard to staging areas.
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
In addition, exhibitors and contractors will be encouraged to coil metal banding and
compact plastic wrapping into the Toter containers which will be staged throughout the
exhibit areas. ABM, EPA and Recycle Detroit volunteers will assist exhibitors and
contractors with staging, collection and transport of full bins to the NORTH and SOUTH
walls of Wayne and Oakland Halls. After set-up hours conclude, EPA staff will
coordinate with ABM crews to transport the full Gaylords and Toter containers to the
recycling trailer staged on the loading dock. This will ensure that there is no conflict with
any incoming shipments or materials during move-in hours.
At the end of day, empty Toter containers will be transported to the Recycling Centers
which will be located midway along the NORTH and SOUTH walls of the exhibit hall
for collections during the exhibition the next day (see Section II. Conference &
Exhibition). All garbage generated at the event will be weighed on an ongoing basis at
the compactors with a hanging scale and logged prior to placement in the compactor or
garbage truck to facilitate calculation of a recycling rate for the overall event.
C. Outreach / Education Plan
Upon check-in, all exhibitors will receive a notice reminding them of the recycling
opportunities and procedures in their Move-In Bulletin. In addition, volunteers wearing
green t-shirts with the recycling logo will walk around the exhibit hall reminding
exhibitors and contractors to follow recycling procedures and assist with transporting
materials to designated recycling areas. Volunteers will have box cutters to assist with
breaking down cardboard boxes. Signage will be posted both on Toter or Gaylord
containers clearly marking what materials are to be placed in them as well as along the
NORTH and SOUTH walls of the exhibit halls to identify staging areas for cardboard.
D. Staffing Plan
SUNDAY, MAY 4th, 8:00AM - 5:00PM
Organization
EPA
ABM Janitorial
Recycle Detroit
Volunteers
Staff
P. Ruesch, B. Bill
D. Gutierrez, Hall Supv, Dock S
S?KubikT2
8
upv + 2
-th
MONDAY, MAY 5in, 8:00AM - 9:30AM
Organization
EPA
ABM Janitorial
Staff
P. Ruesch, B. Bill
D. Gutierrez, Hall Supv, Dock Supv
Recycle Detroit will provide volunteers representing various local student and
environmental organizations to staff the event according to the Volunteer Staffing Plan
(see Attachment D}. Volunteers will receive training, a safety briefing, and will be
assigned to a specific area of the exhibit hall. Activities will include explaining recycling
procedures, assisting exhibitors and visitors with locating appropriate bins and collection
areas, and notifying EPA staff with any issues or problems as they arise.
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
II. CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION
A. Materials Collected
Exhibit Hall
The following materials will be specifically targeted for collection inside the Wayne and
Oakland Halls during the exhibition:
Material
Cardboard
Paper
Aluminum and plastic containers
Source
Promotional materials packaging
Attendees, exhibitors
Consumption
Conference Center Concourses
The following materials will be specifically targeted for collection on the Level 1-3
concourses during the sessions:
Material
Paper
Aluminum and plastic containers
Source
Attendees
Attendee
consumption
B. Recycling Procedures
Exhibit Hall
Two Recycling Centers will have been set up the day before midway along the NORTH
and SOUTH walls of the exhibit hall for collections during the exhibition. See
Attachment B for the configuration of the Recycling Centers. Toter containers will be
utilized for collection of paper, aluminum cans and plastic bottles. A Gaylord container
or large gondola will be staged in each Recycling Center to stack cardboard boxes. In
addition, 2 garbage cans will be placed alongside the recycle bins to minimize
contamination in the recycling stream.
EPA and volunteers will encourage exhibitors and participants to participate in the
recycling effort and transport materials to the Centers. After exhibit hours conclude, or
as containers become full, EPA staff will coordinate with ABM crews to transport full
Gaylords and Toter containers to the recycling trailer staged on the loading dock and
replenish the Recycling Centers with empty bins.
Recycling containers for commingled bottles/cans and paper will be placed throughout
the exhibit hall alongside or nearby garbage cans by Cobo Center. ABM crews will
utilize gondolas or Toters to collect and consolidate paper and commingled bottles/cans
and transport them to the recycling trailer on the loading dock. All garbage generated
during the event will be weighed and logged prior to disposal.
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
Conference Center Concourses
Recycling containers for commingled bottles/cans and paper will be placed throughout
the conference center concourses alongside or nearby garbage cans by Cobo Center.
ABM crews will utilize gondolas or Toters to collect and consolidate paper and
commingled bottles/cans and transport them to the recycling trailer on the loading dock.
Special Events / Receptions
Large recycling containers for commingled bottles/cans will be placed outside the room
exits, nearby garbage cans and/or alongside cash bars by volunteers for Aramark. At the
conclusion of the events, Aramark and volunteers will transport commingled bottles/cans
to the loading dock.
Concession Areas
Large recycling containers (see Figure 2) will be prominently placed in the concession
areas within the exhibition hall and outside the opening session(s) to capture co-mingled
bottles and cans from participants. These containers are owned by Aramark and will be
picked up separately at the conclusion of the event by Recy-clean, a contractor to
Aramark.
Figure 2. Aramark recycling collection containers
C. Outreach / Education Plan
During the conference, both plenary speakers and conference session moderators will be
prompted to announce the availability of recycling bins, the locations of the Recycling
Centers in the exhibit hall, and the materials being collected.
In addition, volunteers wearing green t-shirts with the recycling logo will be walking
around the exhibit hall and outside plenary sessions to notify attendees of recycling
procedures and assist with locating bins. Signage will be posted both on Toter containers
clearly marking what materials are to be placed in them within the Recycling Centers and
signs will also be located within the exhibition hall floor and hanging from the ceiling
(see Attachment C for signage locations in exhibit hall) to help attendees locate Recycling
Centers.
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
D. Staffing Plan
-th
MONDAY, MAY 5in, 10:15AM - 7:30PM
TUESDAY, MAY 6th, 8:00AM - 7:30PM
WEDNESDAY, MAY 7th, 8:30AM - 12:OOPM
Organization
EPA
ABM Janitorial
Recycle Detroit
Volunteers
Staff
_
6
Ruesch, B. Bill, M. H<
Gutierrez, Hall Clean
Kubik + 4
Supv, Dock Supv
III. EXHIBITOR MOVE-OUT
A. Materials Collected
The following materials will be specifically targeted for collection during break down of
exhibits in the Wayne and Oakland exhibit halls:
Material
Cardboard
Paper
Wood
Aluminum and plastic containers
Source
Exhibit, promotional materials packaging
Extra brochures, promo materials
Pallets, dimensional lumber from crates
Crew consumption
B. Recycling Procedures
The semi trailer will remain staged on the loading dock on Level 1 outside Wayne Hall
immediately adjacent to the City of Detroit trash compactor. The trailer will be removed
the afternoon of Wednesday, May 7th upon request to NPR Recycling, Inc. by EPA.
Toter containers will be deployed onto the exhibit hall for collection of cardboard and
paper during breakdown. Set up crews will be encouraged to break down cardboard
boxes, transport it to designated collection areas, and stack it neatly within Gaylord boxes
mounted on shipping pallets staged alongside the NORTH and SOUTH walls of the
Wayne and Oakland Hall. Depending on availability, volunteers or ABM staff will
utilize gondolas to assist with transport of cardboard to staging areas.
ABM, EPA, and volunteers will assist exhibitors and contractors with staging, collection
and transport of full bins to the NORTH and SOUTH walls of Wayne and Oakland Halls.
After break down hours conclude, EPA staff will coordinate with ABM crews to
transport the full Gaylords and Toter containers to the recycling trailer staged on the
loading dock. This will ensure that there is no conflict with any outgoing shipments or
materials during move-out hours.
Full Toter containers will be transported from the Recycling Centers in the exhibit hall to
the recycling trailer. All garbage generated during the event will be weighed and logged
prior to disposal.
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
C. Outreach / Education Plan
During the exhibition, EPA staff and/or volunteers will have met individually with each
exhibitor and provided them with a notice reminding them of recycling opportunities and
procedures. In addition, volunteers wearing green t-shirts ill be walking around the
exhibit hall reminding exhibitors and contractors to follow recycling procedures and
assist with transporting materials to the designated recycling areas. Signage will be
posted both on Toter and Gaylord containers clearly marking what materials are to be
placed in them as well as along the NORTH and SOUTH walls of the exhibit halls to
identify staging areas for cardboard.
D. Staffing Plan
WEDNESDAY, MAY 7th, 11 :OOAM - 6:00PM
Organization
EPA
ABM Janitorial
Staff
P. Ruesch, B. Bill, M. Heger
D. Gutierrez, Hall Clean Supv, Dock Supv
IV. ATTACHMENTS
Attachment
Description
A
I
C
D
Recycling Planning Committee Roster
Recycling Center Layout & Configuration
Wayne and Oakland Hall Signage inventory & Locations
Volunteer Staffing Plan
-------
Recycling Planning Committee
Cobo Center - Brownfields 2008
Greening Report - Appendix B
Attachment A
Name
Debra Gutierrez
Andrew VanDeweghe
Rick Albers
Luke Durocher
Denise Vaughn
Rajiv Chopra
Willa Williams
William Hischke
Paul Ruesch
Briana Bill
Patrick Durham
Joe Demaree
Sarah Kubik
Kelly Hamilton
Organization
ABM Janitorial Service
Aramark Corp.
Aramark Corp.
Bridge Group
COBO Center
COBO Center
Detroit DOE
Detroit DOE
EPA Region 5
EPA Region 5
NPR Recycling
NPR Recycling
Recycle Detroit
SRA International
Phone
313/718-0137
313/567-9111
313/567-8208
703/425-1 1 86
313/877-8262
313/877-8201
313/471-5119
313/471-5100
312/886-7898
312/353-6646
734/721-0197
734/721-0197
313/770-1571
703/284-6177
Email
debra.gutierrez@abm.com
vandeweghe-andrew@aramark.com
luke@tbgevents.com
vauqhnd@detroitmi.qov
choprar@detroitmi.gov
WILLIAMSW@detroitmi.gov
hischke@detroitmi.gov
ruesch.paul@epa.gov
bill.briana@epa.gov
pat@nprrecycling.com
joe@nprrecycling.com
sarah@recycledetroit.com
kelly hamilton@sra.com
-------
Greening Report -
B
Recycling Center - Front View
15'
RECYCLING CENTER
Cardboard
Paper
Cans
Bottles
3'
10'
Recycling Center - Plan View
15'
Sign
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
Attachment C
Signage Inventory
Cobo Center - Brownfields 2008
Type
A
A
B
C
B
C
D
E
F
G
Total
Number
1
1
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
18
Location
Hanging - Oakland
Hanging - Wayne
Aisle/Easel - Oakland
Aisle/Easel - Oakland
Aisle/Easel - Wayne
Aisle/Easel - Wayne
Recycling Center Backdrop
Recycling Center Entry /Easel
Recycling Center
Recycling Center
-------
Volunteer Staffing Plan
Cobo Center- Brownfields 2008
Greening Report - Appendix B
Attachment D
Contact
Paul Ruesch
Briana Bill
Michelle Heger
Maria Zingas
Sarah Kubik
Julia Koslow
Org
EPA
EPA
EPA
Michigan DEQ
Recycle Detroit
Univ. of Michigan
Phone
586/753-3872
313/770-1571
202-277-0895
Email
zinqasm(S>,michiqan.qov
sarah@recycledetroit.com
ikoslow@umich.edu
Total:
SHIFT
1
X
X
X
3
2
X
X
X
3
3
X
X
X
X
4
4
X
X
X
3
5
X
X
X
X
4
6
X
X
X
3
7
X
X
X
X
4
8
X
X
X
3
Shift
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Date
Sunday
Sunday
Monday
Monday
Tuesday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Wednesday
Start
8:00am
1:00pm
8:00am
12:00pm
8:00am
12:00pm
8:30am
12:00pm
End
12:00pm
6:00pm
12:00pm
7:30pm
12:00pm
7:30pm
12:00pm
4:00pm
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
Appendix B
Waste Generation & Recycling Figures
-------
Waste Generation
Brownfields 2008
Greening Report - Appendix B
Appendix B
Date
DAY1
5-May
5-May
5-May
5-May
5-May
5-May
5-May
5-May
5-May
5-May
5-May
5-May
5-May
DAY 2
6-May
6-May
6-May
6-May
6-May
6-May
6-May
6-May
6-May
6-May
6-May
6-May
6-May
6-May
6-May
6-May
DAY 3
7-May
7-May
7-May
7-May
7-May
7-May
Time
10:30
11:00
12:45
12:50
14:00
14:20
14:45
15:15
15:40
16:00
17:45
18:25
19:10
8:30
9:00
9:30
10:30
11:00
11:40
13:00
13:20
13:50
14:15
14:20
15:00
15:30
15:40
16:10
19:45
800
830
930
1020
1130
1300
Total:
Bags
7
4
2
12
14
2
12
4
5
19
1
1
16
Total:
6
5
6
12
5
2
4
13
8
6
18
15
3
4
11
3
Total:
11
31
3
11
1
8
285
Weight (Ibs)
75.5
26.5
8
111
119.5
14
120.5
18.5
17
117.5
17
21.5
116.5
783 Ibs
39
42
51
79
96.5
11
20.5
397.5
52
52.5
128
119.5
40.5
34
105
188
7456 Ibs
85
238
19
89
9
84
2763
Notes
6 bags, 30.5lbs from concourse crew
kitchen
2 bags, 13 Ibs Wayne concession
8bags, 58 Ibs Transaction forum
reception floor
reception floor
reception cleanup
2 bags, 10lbs Baskin Robbins, Wayne concession
3 gondolas, 5 bags, 307lbs kitchen
Wayne concession
Field trip box lunches
2 gondolas reception veg/cheese buffets
midnight shift cleanup
524 Ibs
1.38 short tons
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
Appendix B
Daily Recycling Generation - UBCs
Brownfields 2008
Date
DAY1
5-May
5-May
5-May
DAY 2
6-May
6-May
6-May
DAY 3
7-May
7-May
7-May
Total:
Weight (Ibs)
70
90
15
775 Ibs
140
140
24
304 Ibs
100
100
11
277 Ibs
690
Notes
beer bottles
wine/juice bottles
aluminum cans
beer bottles
wine/juice bottles
cans
beer bottles
wine/juice bottles
cans
-------
Recycling Figures
Brownfields 2008
Greening Report - Appendix B
Appendix B
Material
Paper
Shrink Wrap
Plastic Bottles
Cardboard
Metal
Aluminum Cans
Glass
Signage Board
Give-a-ways
Total:
Recycled (Ibs)
3350
170
230
960
60
70
790
150
50
5830
Bags/Boxes
5
30
2
37
Toters
6
4
2
5
1
2
20
Pallets
1
2
1
4
Gaylords
1
3
1
5
10
Notes
banding, food cans
reuse
reuse
2.975 short tons
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
Appendix C
WARM Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Evaluation Results
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
WARM Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Evaluation Results
EPA staff used the EPA's Waste Reduction Model1 to calculate the total metric tons of carbon
equivalent (MICE) saved through the recycling efforts implemented during the conference.
"WARM was developed to assist solid waste managers in determining the greenhouse gas
impacts of their waste management practices. The model compares greenhouse gas and energy
impacts of landfilling, recycling, incineration, composting, and source reduction."2 The
following chart shows the weights of seven different types of material collected for recycling or
reuse during the three day conference. The chart also indicates the corresponding category used
in WARM with the conversion of pounds (collected day-of) to short tons (input to model).
Material
Paper
Shrink wrap
Plastic bottles
Cardboard
Steel cans and metal banding
Aluminum cans
Glass
Sign boards*
Give-a-ways*
Total:
Recycled During
Conference (Ibs)
3350
170
230
960
60
70
790
150
50
5830
Short tons
1.675
0.085
0.12
O48
6xJ3
0.035
O395
O075
O025
WARM category
Paper (primarily from offices)
LDPE
PET
Cardboard
Mixed metals
Aluminum cans
Mixed glass
N/A
N/A
Table 1. Recycled materials
* Signs and give-a-ways were collected for reuse
Using the above inputs to the model, the total change in greenhouse gas emissions for the
Brownfields 2008 conference was -2 MTCE. The negative value indicates an emission reduction.
Therefore, two metric tons of carbon equivalent were saved by recycling rather than combusting
over 5600 pounds of recyclable material at the Detroit area waste-to-energy incinerator. This
information is summarized in the table below. See Attachment A of this document for the
complete Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Analysis - Summary Report and GHG Emission
Factors from WARM.
With combustion practices
With recycling efforts
Total MTCE savings:
Metric Tons of Carbon Equivalent (MTCE)
0
-2
2
Table 2. Summary of WARM Results
For an accurate comparison to future Brownfields conferences, it is important to note that
WARM did not capture those materials that were taken back to Region 5 offices for reuse such
1 U.S. EPA, WAste Reduction Model (WARM),
http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/waste/calculators/Warm_home.html (August 2008).
2 U.S. EPA, Waste Home - Tools, http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wvcd7waste/tools.html (August 2008).
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
as over 100 nametags, 150 pounds of foam sign board, and 50 pounds of give-a-ways.
Furthermore, efforts taken to reduce waste before the beginning of the conference were not
quantified and the total amount of recycling may have increased (and be reflected in greater
MICE savings) if more material had entered Cobo from the onset. If, for subsequent
conferences, increased efforts are taken to reduce waste before the conference, these additional
efforts should be quantified in some way so comparisons can be made and improvements
documented. The number of attendees is another factor to consider when comparing the
Brownfields 2008 Conference with future Brownfields conferences.
The MTCE calculated with WARM was then used as an input to the EPA's Greenhouse Gas
Calculator3 in order to express quantities of greenhouse gases in terms of easy to understand
metrics such as number of cars, gallons of gasoline, acres of forest, etc. The following is a
summary of the equivalency results. The original Web based results can be found in Attachment
A.
Two Metric Tons of Carbon Equivalent is equivalent to one of the following:
Annual greenhouse gas emissions from 1.3 passenger vehicles.
CC>2 emissions from 832 gallons of gasoline consumed.
CC>2 emissions from 17.1 barrels of oil consumed.
CC>2 emissions from 0.1 tanker trucks' worth of gasoline.
CC>2 emissions from the electricity use of 0.97 homes for one year.
CC>2 emissions from the energy use of 0.65 homes for one year.
Carbon sequestered by 188 tree seedlings grown for 10 years.
Carbon sequestered annually by 1.7 acres of pine or fir forests.
Carbon sequestered annually by 0.05 acres of forest preserved from deforestation.
CC>2 emissions from 306 propane cylinders used for home barbeques.
Greenhouse gas emissions avoided by recycling 2.5 tons of waste instead of sending it to
the landfill.
In addition to the above recycling figures, the 2008 Brownfields conference avoided over five
tons of paper by eliminating the attendee list normally distributed to all attendees. This waste
reduction activity saved over 10,000 pounds of paper. With the assumption in WARM that this
paper would have been recycled at the Brownfields 2006 meeting in Boston, Brownfields 2008
in Detroit saved over seven MTCE by source reducing this paper. This value may be a bit high
because not all five tons of participant lists would have been recycled - some would have been
taken home by participants or never thrown out.
Attachment A:
Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Analysis - Summary Report
GHG Emission Factors
Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator Web based results
3 U.S. EPA, Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator, http://www.epa.gov/cleanenergv/energy-
resources/calculator.html (August 2008).
-------
WARM Summary
GHG Emissions Analysis - Summary Report
(Version 8, 8/06)
Analysis of GHG Emissions from Waste Management
GHG Emissions from Baseline Waste Management (MICE): 0
Page 1 of2
Greening Report - Appendix B
Material
Aluminum Cans
Glass
LDPE
PET
Corrugated Boxes
Mixed Paper (primarily from
offices)
Mixed Metals
Tons
Recycled
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Tons
Landfilled
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Tons
Combusted
0.04
0.40
0.09
0.12
0.48
1.68
0.03
Tons
Composted
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Total
MTCE
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
GHG Emissions from Alternative Waste Management Scenario (MTCE): -2
Material
Aluminum Cans
Glass
LDPE
PET
Corrugated Boxes
Mixed Paper (primarily
from offices)
Mixed Metals
Tons
Reduced
0
0
0
0
0
N/A
N/A
Tons
Recycled
0.04
0.40
0.09
0.12
0.48
1.68
0.03
Tons
Landfilled
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Tons
Combusted
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Tons
Composted
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Total
MTCE
0
0
0
0
0
-2
0
Total Change in GHG Emissions: -2 MTCE
Note: A negative value indicates an emission reduction; a positive value indicates an emission increase.
a) For an explanation of the methodology used to develop emission factors, see EPA report: Greenhouse Gas
Emissions from Management of Selected Materials in Municipal Solid Waste (EPA530-R-98-013) - available
on the Internet at http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/non-hw/muncpl/ghg/greengas.pdf (1.1 Mb PDF file). Please
note that some of the emission factors used to generate these results do not match those presented in the
report due to recent additions and/or revisions. A 3rd edition of the report will be available in early Fall of
2006, which will include the latest emission factors.
b) Emissions estimates provided by this model are intended to support voluntary GHG measurement and
reporting initiatives.
c) Total emissions estimates provided by this model may not sum due to independent rounding.
Back to WARM
View Emission Factors
http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/waste/calculatorsAVarm Form.html
8/7/2008
-------
WARM Emmission Factors
Page 1 of2
Greening Report - Appendix B
(Version 8, 8/06)
The emission factors presented in this table reflect national average landfill gas recovery practices and transportat
distances.
Greenhouse Gas Emission Factors (MICE per short ton)
Material
Aluminum
Cans
Steel Cans
Copper
Wire
Glass
HOPE
LDPE
PET
Corrugated
Box
Magazines
Newspaper
Office
Paper
Phonebook
Textbook
Dimensional
Lumber
Fiberboard
Food Waste
Yard Waste
Grass
Leaves
Branches
Mixed
Paper
Board
Mixed
Paper -
Residential
Mixed
Paper -
Office
Mixed
Metals
Mixed
Plastics
Source
Reduction
-2.24
-0.87
-2
-0.16
-0.49
-0.62
-0.57
-1.52
-2.36
-1.33
-2.18
-1.72
-2.5
-0.55
-0.6
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Recycling
-3.7
-0.49
-1.34
-0.08
-0.38
-0.46
-0.42
-0.85
-0.84
-0.76
-0.78
-0.72
-0.85
-0.67
-0.67
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
-0.96
-0.96
-0.93
-1.43
-0.41
Landfilling,
National
Average
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.11
-0.08
-0.24
0.53
-0.24
0.53
-0.13
-0.13
0.2
-0.06
0
-0.05
-0.13
0.09
0.07
0.13
0.01
0.01
Landfilling,
No
Recovery
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.4
0.04
-0.13
1.05
-0.13
1.05
0.02
0.02
0.39
-0.01
0.06
-0.08
0.02
0.38
0.34
0.4
0.01
0.01
Landfilling,
Flaring
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
-0.06
-0.15
-0.29
0.24
-0.29
0.24
-0.22
-0.22
0.09
-0.19
-0.04
-0.27
-0.22
-0.06
-0.08
-0.03
0.01
0.01
Landfilling,
Energy
Recovery
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
-0.13
-0.18
-0.32
0.11
-0.32
0.11
-0.26
-0.26
0.04
-0.21
-0.06
-0.3
-0.26
-0.13
-0.15
-0.1
0.01
0.01
Combustion
0.02
-0.42
0.01
0.01
0.25
0.25
0.3
-0.18
-0.13
-0.2
-0.17
-0.2
-0.17
-0.21
-0.21
-0.05
-0.06
-0.06
-0.06
-0.06
-0.18
-0.18
-0.16
-0.29
0.27
Compost
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
-0.05
-0.05
-0.05
-0.05
-0.05
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/waste/calculatorsAVarm Form.html
8/7/2008
-------
WARM Emmission Factors
Page 2 of2
Greening Report - Appendix B
Mixed
Recyclables
Mixed
Organics
MixedMSW
Carpets
PCs
ClayBricks
Aggregate
FlyAsh
Tires
N/A
N/A
N/A
-1.09
-15.13
-0.08
N/A
N/A
-1.09
-0.79
N/A
N/A
-1.96
-0.62
N/A
0
-0.24
-0.5
0.04
0.06
0.12
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.26
0.17
0.43
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
-0.08
-0.06
0.04
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
-0.14
-0.1
-0.02
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
-0.17
-0.05
-0.03
0.11
-0.05
N/A
N/A
N/A
0.05
N/A
-0.05
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Back to WARM
http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/waste/calculatorsAVarm Form.html
8/7/2008
-------
Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator Clean Energy \ US EPA
Page I of 3
Greening Report - Appendix B
htt p:// w w w. fipa. go v/clea n energy/ en erqy-resources/ca i cuiator.htm i
La si updated on Monday, February 11th, 2008.
Clean Energy
You are here: EPAJHome C!irnate_Charige Clean..Energy Clean Energy Resources
Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator
Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator
Did you ever wonder what reducing carbon dioxide (CO2)
emissions by i million metric tons means in everyday terms?
The following equivalency calculator can help you understand
just that.
For example, it can be difficult to visualize what a "metric ton
of carbon dioxide" really is. This calculator will translate
rather difficult to understand statements into more
commonplace terms, such as "is equivalent to avoiding the
carbon dioxide emissions of X number of cars annually."
This equivalency calculator may be useful in communicating
your greenhouse gas reduction strategy, reduction targets, or
other initiatives aimed at reducing GHG emissions.
Other Calculators
There are a number of other
web-based calculators that can
estimate greenhouse gas
emission reductions for
individuals and households
waste, and
transportation.
For basic information and
details on greenhouse gas
emissions, visit the Emissions
section of EPA's climate
change site.
Enter Your Data Below
There are two options for entering data into this calculator.
Option 1:
1. If you are starting with data in units of "gallons of gasoline consumed," "kilowatt-
hours of electricity," "therms of natural gas," or "passenger vehicles per year", use
this option.
2. Enter a quantity and pick the desired unit below; and
3. Click on the "Calculate Equivalent**" button to convert your value to Carbon Dioxide
Equjvajent.
- choose a unit - f~
? Click Here for Calculations and References
Calculate Equivalent**
**This calculator uses an eGRID non-baseload national average emissions rate when
calculating "kilowatt-hours of electricity" to "carbon dioxide equivalent".
Option 2:
If you have already estimated the quantity of avoided emissions reductions (e.g., metric tons
of carbon dioxide equivalent), you can input the amount of avoided emissions and select the
appropriate units for the corresponding greenhouse gas type.
Amount
Unit
Gas
http://www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-resources/calculator.html
6/20/2008
-------
Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator | Clean Energy US EPA Page 2 of 3
Greening Report - Appendix B
Tons C02 - CarbQD_Djoxi.de
Tons CH4 - Methane
Tons N20 - Nitrous_Qxide
Tons HFC-23 - jHydrofluorocarbQinsases
Tons CF4 - Perfluorocarbon gases
Tons SF6 - SulfuL±!exaf[uQride
2 Metric Tons
Calculate Equivalencies ] Clear Fields ]
*If your estimated emissions of methane, nitrous oxide, or other non-C02 gases are already
expressed in CCK or carbon equivalents, please enter your figures in the row for CO2 or
carbon equivalent.
The sum of the greenhouse gas emissions you entered above is 7.3
Metric Tons Of Carbon Dioxide Equivalent.
This is equivalent to one of the following:
Equivalency Results
Click on the question mark ? link to read the explanation of that particular calculation. Read
about all calculations^
The information you entered above is equivalent to one of the following statements:
Annual greenhouse gas emissions from 1-3 passenger vehicles ? (dick to read more
about this calculation)
C02 emissions from 832 gallons of gasoline consumed ?
C02 emissions from 17-1 barrels of oil consumed ?
C02 emissions from 0-1 tanker trucks' worth of gasoline ?
CO2 emissions from the electricity use of 0-97 homes for one year ?
C02 emissions from the energy use of 0.65 homes for one year ?
Carbon sequestered by 188 tree seedlings grown for 10 years ?
http://www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-resources/calculator.html 6/20/2008
-------
Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator j Clean Energy | US EPA Page 3 of 3
Greening Report - Appendix B
Carbon sequestered annually by 1.7 acres of pine or fir forests ?
Carbon sequestered annually by 0.05 acres of forest preserved from deforestation ?
C02 emissions from 306 propane cylinders used for home barbeques ?
C02 emissions from burning 0.04 railcars' worth of coal ?
Greenhouse gas emissions avoided by recycling 2,5 tons of waste instead of
sending it to the landfill ?
Annual CO2 emissions of 0 coal fired power plants ?
http://www.epa.gov/cJeanenergy/energy-resources/caiculator.html 6/20/2008
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
Attachment 1
Waste & Recycling Assessment Checklist
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
Waste & Recycling Assessment Checklist
Cobo Center - Brownfields 2008
Facility
What are the functional areas and locations?
Where will the event be taking place within the overall facility?
Obtain a floor plan if possible
Personnel
Who at COBO management oversees waste management & recycling? Contact & phone?
Other staff/ contractors / vendors involved in waste management / recycling? Contacts & phone?
Who is the food vendor? Contact and phone?
Who is the primary drayage contractor? Contact and phone?
Who are the subcontractors involved in maintenance/clean up? Contacts and phone?
Waste Generation and Flow
Where are waste receptacles located and what types are used?
How is waste collected and handled?
Is there a staging area? Compactor?
Who is the waste hauler? Is there a contact and if so, how is it set up?
Where does the waste go?
Recycling Materials and Flow
What materials are collected for recycling?
Do you recycle toner cartridges, ink jet cartridges, batteries, diskettes, CDs, video/audio tapes,
computers, phone books, fluorescent tubes, etc?
How are materials collected (e.g., streams separated, co-mingled, etc.), what types of receptacles
are used and where are they located?
What storage is available for staging? Is there a compactor for recyclables?
Who is the recycling hauler for the facility?
Where do the recycled materials go after being picked up? Is there any further sorting?
Are you aware of any food disposal / composting operations in the area?
Metrics
Does the facility track the weight of waste being removed? If so, how do you arrive at these
numbers (e.g., on-site scale, weekly/monthly weight reports from hauler)?
Does the facility track the weight of recycled material being removed? If so, how do you arrive at
these numbers (e.g., on-site scale, weekly/monthly weight reports from hauler)?
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
Attachment 2
Greening Tip Sheet - Exhibitors
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
Greening Tip Sheet - Exhibitors
Our goal at the Brownfields 2008 Conference, to be held in Detroit on May 5-7, 2008, is
expand on the excellent efforts to "green" the event in Boston in 2006. We have
incorporated lessons learned from the previous event and need your help to make sure
that this year's conference is even greener!!
With that in mind, as you are designing your booth, please keep in mind the following:
PAPER
Use paperless technology where possible, posting information at your booth
rather than in handouts. Ask attendees for their email addresses so you can
provide more information electronically later.
Cut down on handout size by formatting to minimize the amount of paper used or
provide web address cards for further information.
Use recycled paper with post-consumer content (preferably 50% or higher) and
print using vegetable-based inks. Clearly identify the recycled content levels.
Where possible, produce materials that can be reused at other events (leave off
dates or slogans).
Minimize use of notebooks and binding materials that cannot be easily recycled.
Use two sided printing on all of your information and marketing materials.
Use water-based adhesive mailing labels.
Use uncoated stock that can be recycled, and limit the use of fluorescent paper
or glossy paper to specialized applications (e.g. high quality photography).
ENERGY
Use energy efficient light fixtures and office equipment. See Energy Star
www.eneraystar.aov.
When not in use, turn off electronics and unplug equipment that draws power
even when not turned on. If you are using computer equipment, set it to power
down during a pause in use.
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
PRODUCTS
Use reusable shipping crates and materials for supplies.
Create display booths that can be reused at other events.
Bring only what you need. We are expecting between 5-6,000 participants.
Purchase reusable environmentally preferable products. For suggestions, see
(http://yosemite1 .epa.gov/oppt/eppstand2.nsf).
Choose supplies that have the least amount of disposable packaging.
Purchase recycled content or consumable give aways with little or no packaging.
RECYCLING AND REUSE
Make provisions to take back reusable or give-away items that you cannot take
with you. Make arrangements to donate at a local recycling providers:
http://artsandscraps.ora
http://recycledetroit.com
http://michiaanrecycles.orq/
http://recycleannarbor.ora/
Recycle all items possible by consulting Michigan's Recycled Materials Directory:
http://www.michiaan.goV/dea/0,1607,7-135-3585 4130-12387-,00.html
Michigan is a bottle-bill state, most cans and bottles have a 10 cent deposit.
Recycling containers will be available in the Exhibit Hall.
Remember to recycle your name badge as you exit the Exhibit Hall.
DON'T FORGET TO ADVERTISE YOUR GREEN EFFORTS TO VISITORS!!
Please share your greening ideas or suggestions! Please send all suggestions to: Briana
Bill, EPA Region 5's Green Venues Coordinator at bill.briana@epa.gov or 312/353-6646.
With your help, things will be looking green at...
Brownfields2008
r r
fc
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
Attachment 3
Recycling Planning Meeting Agenda
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
Planning / Coordinating Meeting
Recycling Plan - Cobo Hall
Brownfields 2008
Date: Thursday, April 3, 2008
Location: Cobo Hall
Purpose: Discuss and finalize plans and strategies for recycling during exhibition, conference
and food service activity during the event.
Proposed Agenda:
1:00 Conference and Exhibition Recycling Plan
Exhibitor Set-up
Conference & Exhibition
Exhibitor Break-down
Invited Attendees:
Gregory Cox, ABM
Denise Vaughn, Corporate Services
Willa Williams, Detroit Environmental Affairs
Melinda Uerling, Recycle Ann Arbor
Sarah Kubick, Recycle Detroit
Paul Ruesch, Shelly Heger, Briana Bill, EPA Region 5
Patrick Durham, Nelson Paper Recycling
3:00 Food Services Recycling Plan
Breaks
Meals
Special events, receptions
Invited Attendees:
Andrew VanDeweghe, Aramark
Paul Ruesch, Shelly Heger, Briana Bill, EPA Region 5
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
Attachment 4
Volunteer Information Sheet
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
Welcome!
Thank you for volunteering for the
Brownfields 2008 Conference!
CHECK -IN
When you arrive at Cobo Hall, enter through the main entrance and go to the Brownfields 2008
registration table outside Wayne Hall. Ask for your green "Ask Me" recycling shirt, name badge and
meal voucher. Registration staff will instruct you as to where to meet up with EPA and/or Recycle
Detroit for a short training and assignment.
If you have not already registered, please do so online at www.brownfields2008.org. or onsite.
ACTIVITIES
Your key responsibilities are educational and direct assistance in the Wayne and Oakland exhibit halls:
1. Help to educate the exhibitors during set-up about what materials can be recycled:
Material
Cardboard
Metal
Plastic shrink wrap
"Wood
Aluminum and plastic containers
Source
Exhibit, promotional materials packaging
Packaging, extra brochures, shipping
Strapping
Pallet and shipments
Pallets, container boxes
Participants
2.
3 .
Direct people to recycling areas where bins are located
Assist with transport of recyclable materials containers or collecting areas
SAFETY
1. Be mindful of heavy equipment moving through the aisles (i.e. fork lifts, trucks, etc.)
2. Stay off loading docks
3. Please be respectful of conference exhibitors, attendees, and Cobo maintenance staffs if you have
any questions, do not hesitate to ask! Your primary points of contact are as follows:
Name
Sarah Kubik
Briana Bill
^^^Z^^^ii^^^Z
Paul Ruesch
Cell Phone
313-770-1571
708-829-1925
3T434L4865
312^617^7212
CHECK-OUT
If you need to leave your shift early, be sure to let someone know so we can cover your area. At the end
of your shift, please sign out at the registration desk so we can be sure everyone is accounted for.
Thanks again for your help!
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
Attachment 5
Pre-Show Meeting Agenda & Fact Sheet
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
2008 EPA BROWNFIELDS CONFERENCE
PRE-SHOW MEETING
FRIDAY, MAY 2, 2008
AGENDA
INTRODUCTIONS
WELCOME Tom Tuskey, Director - COBO Center
GENERAL EVENT OVERVIEW - Kelly Hamilton, SRA International (Conference)
Tad McGalliard, ICMA (Exhibits)
Molly Wenner, CSC (Registration)
OTHER EVENTS
COBO ARENA
- JOE LOUIS ARENA (See Attached Sheet)
- COBO CENTER
FLOOR PLANS
FIRE MARSHAL APPROVED
EXHIBITS - WAYNE & OAKLAND HALLS
Over 300 Exhibitors participating!
SHOW CONTRACTOR - HARGROVE INC.
Floor Marking (Thursday, 5/1)
- Move - In (Thursday, 5/1 - Sunday, 5/4)
- Exhibits Open (Monday, 5/5 - Wednesday, 5/7)
- Move -Out (Wednesday, 5/7 & Thursday, 5/8)
CONFERENCE CONTRACTOR - PARAMOUNT CONVENTION SERVICES
ELECTRICAL - MOTOR CITY ELECTRICAL
AUDIO-VISUAL - PSAV
SECURITY
- Cobo Center
Gallagher Security
Detroit Police Department
-------
Greening Report - Appendix B
HART MEDICAL
AT&T EXHIBITOR SERVICES
COBO CENTER INTERNET SERVICES
PARKING/TRANSPORTATION
Municipal Parking Department
Detroit People Mover
CLEANING - ABM JANITORIAL CLEANING SERVICES
- Exhibit Hall
CATERING - ARAMARK
Deliveries
Concessions
Receptions
Coat Check/Luggage Setup
COBO HOSPITALITY & BUSINESS CENTER
MISCELLANEOUS
Show Lighting
Other Concerns
ADJOURNMENT
THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME AND COOPERATION.
LET'S WORK TOGETHER FOR A SUCCESSFUL EVENT!
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Greening Report - Appendix B
Attachment 6
Waste Log Sheet
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Greening Report - Appendix B
Waste Log Sheet
DATE:
BAG
TIME
WEIGHT
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Appendix C
Greening the Brownfields 2006 Conference at the Boston Convention and
Exhibition Center (BCEC)
The following is a list of what we were able to do:
Changed language in the Conference registration announcement to encourage
electronic registration.
Provided information on public transit and resources (MBTA) and hybrid taxis for the
website on travel.
Organizer used a merge/purge system to reduce or eliminate duplicate mailings.
Used recycled content, chlorine free paper for flyers, programs and daily newspapers.
Met with and conducted walk throughs of the BCEC facility to ensure that recycling
would happen at the Conference. EPA staff visited every exhibitor asking them to
recycle at the end of the show, giving background on the BCEC and informing them
about the America Recycles Day (which was on 11/15/06) pledge. Recycling
containers for paper and bottles and cans were in every session room, the hallways
and the Exhibit Hall. In addition, when the Exhibit Hall closed, recycling of old
corrugated cardboard (OCC) was provided and the cleaning staff positively sorted it
out of the trash bins when it was mistakenly placed there by the exhibitors. Over 3
tons were recycled at the Conference or 1.1 Ibs/person recycled or composted.
Provided Energy Star training to area hotels.
Worked with GSA staff at the Moakley Courthouse to ensure that Sebastian's
Catering would recycle bottles and cans at the Moakley Courthouse during the
Community Reception.
Worked with Green Boston Tourism to help them in training hotels and to ask the
hotels to advertise their greening efforts to their guests.
Provided greening efforts text for the Final Conference program and the Daily
newspaper. Four posters on the greening efforts at the Conference were placed around
the Conference and moved on a daily basis to be in the highest traffic areas.
Added anti-idling language to the Request for Proposals (RFP) for the mobile
workshop tour buses and to the contract for the chosen bus company.
Provided greening tips to presenters and exhibitors (See Attachment # 26). Presenter
tips were posted outside of the Kinkos copy center and at the speaker ready room. We
worked with Kinkos to ensure that 100% recycled content paper was available for
copying needed at the conference.
Developed 7 "green" educational sessions for the Conference:
Green building on Brownfields training,
Green buildings and affordable housing,
Green building and colleges and universities,
Construction and demolition debris,
Energy Star,
Solar, wind and waste, and
Artist for Humanity Walking Tour.
Arlene O'Donnell, Acting Commissioner of Massachusetts DEP, presented a Waste
Wise Award to James Rooney, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Convention
Center Authority and Mike Tracey, Executive Chef at the BCEC with Susan Bodine,
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Appendix C
AA for OSWER for their efforts in food waste composting and recycling. Chris
Beling provided the script for the event and Bill White provided information on their
energy reductions efforts and green house gas emissions equivalents.
Improvements:
o Have a carbon offset program for attendees
o Solicit hotels to find the greenest ones to contract with for the Conference
blocks
o Put recycling in the contract with the facility
o No open top containers for recycling
o More recycling bins on the exhibit floor and a map of where they are
located
o Serve local foods on biodegradable tableware
o Consider doing a green competition for exhibitors
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Appendix D
Exhibitors - Let's * ^, »n Brownfields 2008!
Brownfields 2008 Conference needs your help to make this year's conference the greenest ever!
We invite you to participate in the new Green Exhibitor Recognition Program to showcase your
efforts in reducing the environmental footprint of the conference.
As a starting point, we encourage you to incorporate these tips into your design, and look
forward to any innovative ideas you have to make your exhibit environmentally friendly.
PAPER
Go paperless! Post information at your booth and leave out an email sign-up sheet or
Web page so attendees can get an electronic copy later. Keep a small supply on hand for
people who ask for a handout.
Cut down on handout size by formatting to minimize the amount of paper used or
provide web address cards for further information.
Use recycled paper with post-consumer content (preferably 50% or higher) and print
using vegetable-based inks. Clearly identify the recycled content levels.
Where possible, produce materials that can be reused at other events (leave off dates,
conference name, and other "one time only" information).
Minimize use of notebooks and binding materials that cannot be easily recycled.
Use two-sided printing on all of your information and marketing materials.
Use water-based adhesive mailing labels or closures.
Use uncoated stock that can be recycled, and limit the use of fluorescent paper or glossy
paper to specialized applications (e.g. high quality photography).
ENERGY
Use energy efficient light fixtures and office equipment See Energy Star
www.energystar.gov
When not in use, turn off electronics and unplug equipment that draws power even
when not turned on. If you are using computer equipment, set it to power down during a
pause in use.
PRODUCTS
Use reusable shipping crates and materials for supplies.
Create display booths that can be reused at other events.
Bring only what you need. We are expecting between 5-6,000 participants.
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Appendix D
Purchase reusable environmentally preferable products. For suggestions, see
(http://yosemitel.epa.gov/oppt/eppstand2.nsf).
Choose supplies that have the least amount of disposable packaging.
Purchase recycled content or consumable giveaways with little or no packaging
RECYCLING AND REUSE
Make provisions to take back reusable or give-away items that you cannot take with
you.
Michigan is a bottle-bill state, most cans and bottles have a 10 cent deposit.
Recycling containers will be available in the Exhibit Hall.
Remember to recycle your name badge as you exit the Exhibit Hall.
DON'T FORGET TO ADVERTISE YOUR GREEN EFFORTS TO VISITORS!
If you 've got a great tip not mentioned here, please share it with Briana Bill, EPA Region 5 's
Green Venues Coordinator at bill.briana@epa.gov or 312-353-6646.
With your help, things will be looking green at...
Brownfields 2008
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Appendix D
Presenters - Let's Brownfields 2008!
Our goal at the Brownfields 2008 Conference, to be held in Detroit on May 5-7, 2008, is to make
it the greenest Brownfields conference yet and to track lessons learned so that each succeeding
conference can be even greener.
With that in mind, we would like you to consider the following tips.
Because all presentations will be posted on the Brownfields 2008 web site, we discourage
handouts. However, if you decide to provide them, please consider the following:
Format your handout to minimize the amount of paper you will use
Choose the 6 slides per page option for PowerPoint printouts
Use recycled content paper with the highest recycled content possible (preferably
50% or better) and process chlorine free. Mark the environmental attributes of the
paper on the handout.
If more than one sheet is needed, print it double-sided.
If you need additional copies while at the Cobo Center, ask for recycled content paper
at the business center.
If attendees request copies of your presentations:
Collect their business cards and transmit it to them electronically.
Also, let them know that all presentations will be posted on the Brownfields 2008
web site.
Please note:
The Cobo Center will have recycling bins throughout the facility for recycling beverage
containers and paper. Additionally, recycling bins for name badges will be at the registration
area and in the exhibit hall. Thank you for your efforts.
Let us know if you have other ways in which you will be "greening" your booth or suggestions
that we should share with others or consider implementing for Brownfields 2010. Please send all
suggestions to: Briana Bill, Green Venues Coordinator, at bill.briana@epa.gov or call at 312-
353-6646.
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Appendix D
Reception Hosts - Let's
Brownfields 2008!
Brownfields 2008 encourages you to help conference greening efforts by considering the
following environmentally-friendly options when placing orders with your caterer.*
China service (plates and mugs), silverware and/or cloth napkins instead of
disposable cups, plates, eating utensils and/or paper napkins.
Ordering cold beverages such as fruit juice, lemonade, punch, spring water and iced
tea by the gallon(s) as opposed to individual units.
Finger foods or appetizers as opposed to buffet or plated meals to reduce amount of
necessary plates and utensils.
Request bulk containers for condiments such as cream, sugar, sweetener, mustard and
mayonnaise.
Also, consider asking your caterer the following:
Is disposable serviceware made from environmentally-friendly materials?
Will recycling bins be provided for beverage and packaging containers (cardboard,
plastic jugs, steel cans, wine bottles, etc.) used in the kitchen or bar area? (Note: for
hosted events at Cobo Center, recycling will be available.)
Is food locally purchased, is it organic and will unused food be donated?
Finally, help green your reception area by limiting written promotional materials and handouts,
using recycled content whenever possible in brochures and giveaways, and even encouraging
guests to bring their own mug!
* Keep in mind that some offerings may include an additional charge.
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No paper handouts.
Eco-friendly grocery tote
give-aways.
No silverware to throw out
Bulk beverage containers.
No individual packaging
for food.
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No paper handouts.
Going Green
Reusable posters.
Going Greer,
Eco-friendly seedlin
give-aways.
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Appendix F
Exhibit hall:
Our Exhibitors Are Greening Their Booths
Reducing the number of handouts or going entirely paperless.
Giving visitors only documents they really want.
Giving away bookmarks with Web site URLs instead of even more documents.
Handing out CDs loaded with info and Web links.
Buying carbon credits for travel.
Joining EPA's Climate Leader program.
Staying within walking distance of the Cobo Center.
Instructing staff to recycle booth materials.
Using the Detroit People Mover for social outings.
Handing out business cards and other promo items made from seeds.
Using double-sided printing on recycled paper with vegetable-based ink.
Reusing exhibit and shipping materials.
Promotional materials without the 2008 conference logo so leftovers can be reused.
Reusable, recycled and recyclable promotions such as coasters made from denim and
"low-impact" candy packages.
Interactive booth layout that invites dialogue instead of handouts.
Unplugging lights and equipment.
Environmentally-friendly purchasing
Just-in-time shipping for what's needed when it's needed
Efficient booth designs such as a carrying case that serves double duty as table.
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Appendix F
Signage - Meter Board for Registration Area:
Do you know about these GREEN opportunities at Brownfields 2008?
Recycling of conference beverage containers, cardboard, shrink wrap, banding and
leftover promotions.
Eco-friendly tips to exhibitors, presenters and reception hosts.
Mobile workshops using hybrid buses donated by GM.
Paper waste reduced due to electronic registrations, shorter conference promotional
materials and booklets, and post-consumer content papers.
Conference sponsors purchased carbon offsets to counterbalance energy used in the
Cobo Center, hotel blocks, mobile workshops and waste disposal.
Participants also able to buy carbon offsets through the conference Web site.
Hotels encouraged to adopt environmentally-friendly practices and joining Green
Lodging Michigan.
Exhibitors participating in the Green Exhibitor Recognition Program to promote
greening activities and recycling in the Exhibit Hall.
GoLoco.org providing shared rides and the Detroit People Mover offering an eco-
friendly way to get around Detroit (station is located on the 3rd level).
Bulk beverage and condiment dispensers used where possible
Signage, the daily newsletter and the Brownfields 2008 Web Site
(www.brownfields2008.org) further explaining how the conference is green.
2 signs on easels for main corridors (1s* and 2nd levels):
Greening Activities at Cobo Center
Lighting in Atrium and mezzanine corridors cycles on and off based on natural light
levels. This, plus replacement of 84,000 lamps with more energy efficient lighting
contributes to reduction of 23 million less kWh of energy annually.
Cobo Center has just begun a recycling program to collect plastic, aluminum and
paper in offices.
Cobo Center encourages the use of public transportation in and around Detroit via the
Detroit People Mover - the Cobo Center even has its own station located on the 3rd
level.
2 signs on easels for main corridors (1s* and 2nc* levels):
Greening Activities for Janitorial and Cleaning Services
Touchless faucets to save water
Paper towels that contain post-consumer recycled material
Metered towel dispensers to save paper
Eco-friendly cleaning products
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Appendix G
Greening the Conference
The Greening the Conference subcommittee activities included:
Providing significant technical assistance and facilitating development of fledging
recycling program for cardboard, shrink wrap, metal bindings, beverage containers.
o Partners: Cobo Center, Aramark (food), ABM (janitorial), City of Detroit, Nelson
Paper Recycling, and NGO Recycle Detroit, local students
Encouraging exhibitors, presenters and reception/open house hosts to do the green
thing
o Green Exhibitor Recognition Program - certificates, signage
o Tip sheets with lots of environmentally-friendly ideas
Using hybrid buses donated by GM for the mobile workshops
Offering travelers opportunities to purchase carbon offsets (through NativeEnergy) and
purchasing offsets to balance energy consumed by Cobo Center, hotel block rooms,
mobile workshops and waste disposal
Reducing paper waste with electronic registrations, shorter conference promotional
materials and booklets, and use of soy-based inks and post-consumer content papers
Encouraging hotels to adopt environmentally-friendly practices and join Green Lodging
Michigan
Promoting shared rides to the conference through the GoLoco.org Web site and around
Detroit via the Detroit People Mover
Arranging for bulk beverage and condiment dispensers and reusable dish and
silverware
Providing educational information through signage, the daily newsletter, visible
recycling opportunities, Web page and email blasts
Region 5's Exhibit and Open House green practices include:
Use of bookmarks and environmentally-friendly giveaways to promote EPA Web sites
Reduced numbers of handouts
Signup sheets so EPA can follow up electronically with exhibit visitors
Bulk beverage dispensers and reusable dishware at the RA's open house
Useful giveaways: a grocery tote and seedlings
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