The Executive Committee for the Gulf Coast Green Symposium worked with the team at Reliant Park to create a more sustainable event.

Our first decision was finding a location that could host both the symposium and Houston Green Expo near the Metro Light Rail Line.

Below are several of the sustainable initiatives we established. For more information about our Green Event Guidelines and to register to attend the Symposium, visit www.gulfcoastgreen.org  

Venue

• Recycling for paper, aluminum and plastic to be collected by Waste Management recycling services: www.wm.com
• Composting of waste materials from dining and food service sales areas by Nature's Way Resources: www.natureswayresources.com 
• Gulf Coast Green will purchase carbon offsets from a Green-e Certified company for all electricity and travel for the event: www.terrapass.com
• Printing to be 100% recycled content, processed chlorine-free paper using non-toxic toner
• Cotton banners printed with non-toxic ink
• GCG does not allow throw-aways at the symposium or expo; exhibitors are asked to only hand out useful items such as rebates
• GCG will not provide goodie bags, bags or notebooks (please bring your own)
• Symposium CD for purchase, reducing the need for paper handouts

Catering

• Organic foods at all catered events
• Vegetarian options available at each meal, as requested when registering
• Reusable serviceware (china, flatware and glassware) will be used for catering service, not disposable
• Catered beverages and condiments served in bulk containers - no water bottles!
• Concessions food served or sold at the event will be packaged in biodegradable, compostable or recyclable foodware, such as biodegradable cornstarch plates and utensils
• Food Composting (no waste)
• Training and education about green practices provided for facility and catering staff

Transportation & Travel

• Reliant Park is on the Metro Light Rail line: www.ridemetro.org/About_Metro/green/green.asp
• Preferred parking at Reliant Park for carpoolers (2 or more per car)
• Hotel info - Magnolia Hotel on Metro Light Rail line, which runs to Reliant Park
• Holiday Inn provides shuttle bus to Reliant Park

Carbon Offset

• We have partnered with Renewable Choice Energy to reduce GCG Environmental Impact!