Our Commitment to Sustainability

The eSummit team is dedicated to producing an event that exemplifies SERI's commitment to environmental responsibility and social impact. We've implemented numerous measures to reduce our environmental footprint and promote sustainability throughout the conference. 

Austin, our host city for eSummit 2024, provides an ideal backdrop for our focus on electronics sustainability. Since the early 1980s, Austin has been a pioneer in energy conservation and renewable energy initiatives. The city's green legacy is evident in its long-standing efficiency programs, early adoption of sustainable building standards, and ongoing efforts to reduce carbon emissions. This progressive urban approach mirrors the innovative spirit we aim to foster in our industry. 

 Venue Selection 

  • The Hyatt Regency Austin was chosen for its sustainability and energy efficiency commitment. 

  • The hotel uses energy-efficient LED lighting throughout public spaces, meeting areas, and guest rooms. 

  • Daily operational reports are used to schedule heating and cooling needs, optimizing energy use effectively. 

  • The venue employs low-flow water fixtures in guestrooms and public spaces to conserve water and save energy. 

  • Through their Conserve program, linens are changed every third day unless requested otherwise, and guests may choose to reuse towels. 

  • Large-format amenities are provided in all guestroom showers and tubs to reduce plastic waste. 

  • Attendees are encouraged to use Austin's MetroBike program, with 77 stops around the city, for eco-friendly exploration. 

  • The venue's central location allows walking access to many restaurants, museums, and attractions. 

Food and Beverage 

  • Our food and beverage options follow Hyatt's "Food. Thoughtfully Sourced. Carefully Served." philosophy: 

    • Cage-free eggs are used in restaurants and event menus 

    • Seafood is sourced from responsible suppliers 

    • Organic and locally sourced produce is used when possible 

    • Grass-fed beef is used for hamburgers 

    • Plant-based and plant-forward menu items are offered in restaurants and for events 

Waste Reduction and Recycling 

  • Excess food is composted, and plastics, papers, glass, cans, and cardboard are recycled to support Austin's goal of 90% waste diversion from landfills by 2040. 

  • All single-use plastics have been eliminated from the conference. 

  • Plastic straws have been eliminated; paper straws are available upon request. 

  • Hydration stations are available in the gym and near elevators to reduce single-use plastic bottle waste. 

  • Mobile Entry is available through the World of Hyatt app to reduce plastic keycard use. 

 Sustainable Materials 

  • Conference Bags 

    • Our conference bags are made from 100% reusable and recyclable Polypropylene. 

    • These bags can be separated from other plastic types, melted, and reformed into new plastic products, promoting a circular economy. 

  • Signage 

    • We're using EcoBoard for our conference signage, an eco-friendly alternative to traditional foamcore. 

    • EcoBoard is made from 100% FSC-certified paper, is lightweight, and biodegradable. 

    • It's ideal for short-term presentation displays and point-of-purchase graphics. 

  • Nametags 

    • Made from 100% biodegradable materials that break down into eco-friendly components within 5 years of disposal. 

eSummit 2024 Recycling Partnership with URT

As part of our commitment to sustainability, the SERI eSummit is proud to partner with URT, an R2v3 Certified recycler, to offer a convenient and responsible electronics recycling solution for our attendees and exhibitors.

Approved Items Include:

  • Notebooks/Laptops

  • Tablets

  • Cell Phones

  • Loose Hard Drives

  • Smart Wearables

  • Wireless Headsets

  • Mixed Wires

  • Portable Monitors

Look for the secure collection kiosk at the event!

Bag provider: https://sdslogistics.com/ 

Sign provider: https://pgaustin.com/  

Nametags provider: https://www.pcnametag.com/standard-eco-event-badge.html 

 

If you have any questions or would like to contribute to our sustainability initiatives, please contact [email protected]. 

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