The WCRP Open Science Conference is committed to reducing the environmental impacts of such a large international event.

Sponsors, attendees and contributors will be asked to follow a set of best practices in order to conserve natural resources as well as promote environmental sustainability.

Downtown Denver was selected as the venue for this conference partly because of its walk-ability and also because Denver is a strong supporter of green and sustainable initiatives. For more information on what the City of Denver’s green program (http://www.greenprintdenver.org/).

Preference is being given to vendors providing the most environmentally appropriate goods and services.

Printed materials will be kept to a minimum. All printed paper aims to have certified recycled content, with a high proportion of post-consumer content. Chlorine-bleached paper will be avoided. We are preparing most conference materials for presentation online rather than distributing them in printed form.

We are actively seeking event sponsors and venues with positive environmental values and practices.

Name badge holders will be recycled and/or collected and reused.

No Styrofoam will used at meal events. Disposable dishes, cutlery, straws, stir-sticks will not used for coffee breaks and meals, nor are single portion package items (ketchup, coffee, cream, sugar etc.). Reusable china and cutlery is used, or if necessary biodegradable tableware (i.e. made from corn/sugarcane etc.).

Local tap water will be used in place of bottled water, with preferably reusable or compostable cups.

Distribution of printed handouts and session notes will be limited to those with a genuine need or interest and will be posted online whenever possible.

What YOU can do to be an environmentally friendly OSC participant

Look for recycling receptacles and use them.

Participate in the ’Sheraton Hotel has a green choice program’

Take advantage of carbon offset programs.

Use shared or public transportation to attend the event or to get between the airport and the hotel.

Don’t rent a car unless absolutely necessary.

Make scientific posters reusable or print on recycled paper with non-toxic, recyclable ink. Copy Experts of Boulder will be providing discount poster printing using recyclable paper and ink. More info, check on the Conference’s Green poster printing service

Indoor climate-control systems will be set to avoid excessive heating or cooling. Dress in layers to ensure your comfort.

Use online rather than printed sources for conference information whenever possible.