Sustainability

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How you can help.

Reducing our carbon footprint can be done in a myriad of ways.  However, during the ALA Annual Conference, we're asking that you consider our Sustainability Pledge when you:

Register:

• Your donation also helps to offset carbon emissions caused by the increased use of technology. Make a donation to Native Energy, an organization dedicated to helping build Native American farmer-owned and community-based projects. 

  
  $5     |    $10     |    $20     |    $30   |    $50

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See additional ways to reduce your carbon footprint.

• Use low-carbon transportation options. While onsite, use the complimentary shuttles that ALA provides, ride public transportation (buses and trains), or rideshare with people you know. 

• Turn in your conference badge at the end of the conference.

• Participate in your hotel's green initiatives (e.g., opt-out of daily linen changes, take advantage of paperless check-in/check-out options).

• Download the ALA Mobile App to schedule events and sessions.

• Bring your own reusable mug or water bottle, or you can purchase an ALA bottle at the ALA Store.

• When disposing of trash, look for the recycling bins in the Convention Center, as well as throughout the city.

• Reuse your conference tote for groceries and other errands when you return home.

Travel:

• Try to book direct routes when flying. Planes release the most carbon during takeoff and landing.

• If you're local to Chicago, take the opportunity to arrive via train.

• Fly economy. First and Business class takes up more space per seat, which means more fuel per passenger.

• Pack light, as heavy luggage requires more fuel to carry.

• Avoid food and water waste. Bring meals with you and refill your own water bottle.

• Ask your hotel what they're doing to reduce their carbon footprint (i.e., LED lights, thermal insulation, less frequent laundering, etc.).

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ALA's Carbon Offset Partner

The Annual Conference & Exhibition is fighting global warming with high-quality carbon offset in partnership with our preferred provider, Native, A Public Benefit Corporation, an organization dedicated to delivering investment solutions that create sustainable value for our clients and communities.