The 2006 C.O.O.L Idealist National Conference is committed to setting an example of social and environmental responsibility through proactively embracing sustainable practices and reducing the impact of our collective ecological footprint.
Together, by recognizing the power of our individual choices, we can ensure responsible environmental stewardship now and as we return to our communities.
In preparation for the conference, the Greening Team focused on six primary areas:
Conference Materials We...
printed the program and other materials on 30% post consumer recycled paper,
used reusable name tags,
provided tote bags,
gave presenters a green guide to reduce paper use and waste,
and supplied everyone with a reusable mug.
So you should...
recycle all paper,
return your nametag,
use your tote bag as a shopping bag for groceries,
get only what you need from workshops,
take advantage of e-resources
and use your mug INSTEAD of disposable cups at every meal.
Lodging We...
worked with area hotels to implement environmentally responsible services to reduce water and energy use.
So you should...
print your own Green Hotel Card in advance
of the conference, or pick one up at registration,
turn off lights when you leave,
and be conscious of your water usage.
Transportation We...
prioritized lodging and activities within walking distance of campus,
and worked with the Nashville buses to provide cheap transport around town.
So you should...
walk (or skip),
pick up bus fare/route details from the information table,
and carpool.
Food Services We...
have plenty of vegetarian options,
worked to reduce waste by serving food in bulk and on recyclable materials,
said no to Styrofoam,
provided fair-trade coffee,
and will donate all unused food to Room at the Inn, a program providing food and shelter to Nashville's homeless population.
So you should...
clean and recycle all cans, bottles, and paper after meals,
take only what you will eat,
always use your mug at meals,
and think about how your food choices affect the world.
Waste Management We...
provided lots of well marked recycling receptacles,
aimed to reduce waste in all endeavors,
and have a free cycle bin for items you want to donate (www.freecycle.org).
So you should...
recycle right (rinse bottles/cans, recycle only #1 and #2 plastic, read labels)
and use your mug instead of disposable cups.
Awareness/ Education We...
researched information important for all social changers and activists,
posted green facts around the conference site,
and would love to answer questions about greening the conference, turning your campus sustainable, or individual lifestyle choices.
So you should...
absorb new information,
challenge others to consider the sustainability of their lifestyle,
provide suggestions for greening the conference next year,
and be empowered by the impact of your daily choices.
Make a COMMITMENT to walking lightly on the earth!
Want to get more information? We think these are great resources!
Ecological Footprint Quiz will help you calculate just how much of the earth you need to maintain your current lifestyle.
Co-Op America seeks to harness economic power to address to create a socially just and environmentally sustainable society. Be sure to check out the National Green Pages.
Earth911 provides community specific information about environmental services from curbside recycling to used motor oil drop off locations.
Sustainable Style Foundation aims to educate, support and inspire people from all walks of life to make more sustainable personal lifestyle choices at work, at home and at play.
