ASPB MEETINGS - GOING GREEN!

This year ASPB is making every effort to ensure that our 2008 meetings are as environmentally friendly as possible. Plant Biology 2008 and The Pan American Congress on Plants and BioEnergy will both be held in Mérida, Mexico. While the unique location does present a few challenges in holding an entirely green meeting, we hope the steps we are taking this year will increase awareness of the carbon footprint created by our meetings.

Logistical steps for greening our 2008 meetings

Printing
Materials printed for the meetings will be on recycled paper and will use vegetable ink if possible. Conference bags and giveaways will be produced with recycled materials, if possible, and will be functional items rather than 'toys'.

Shipping
We are cutting our shipping weight in half this year by leaving behind our large booth and eliminating many other materials. We are encouraging our exhibitors to do the same. We will make sure we ship only what will be used to minimize waste and the necessity to ship back to the U.S.

Local Food and Supplies
We will serve mostly local food at all food events during the meetings. Materials and logistical items will be purchased from local vendors in Mérida.

Recycling
Recycling bins will be provided throughout the meeting space, and we have requested participating hotels to provide recycling and linen and towel reuse programs in the hotel rooms.

Name Badge
Name badge collection bins will be provided at the end of the meeting so that badges can be reused for future meetings.

Paperless
As in previous years, registration, housing and abstract submission forms are all online. ASPB has eliminated the mailing of meeting flyers and instead is using electronic marketing methods. We will also do what we can to minimize waste on site.

Save Energy
We will turn off lights and air conditioning in the meeting rooms when not in use to conserve energy.

What can you do as an attendee?

1. Make a conscious effort to recycle, not only while in the meeting venues but also while touring or enjoying the local area.
2. Take advantage of the linen and towel reuse program in the hotel rooms.
3. Be conscious of your water consumption by turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth and limiting your shower.
4. Only bring what you need.
5. Reduce your annual air travel, and make the ASPB meeting a high priority

For now - "Les esperamos en Mérida" - See you in Mérida