The ATS’s efforts to minimize the carbon footprint of the International Conference will be evident in what is and isn’t present at ATS 2022 in San Francisco.
With increased mindfulness among the Executive Committee and Board of Directors about sustainability, there also has been a shift in the quantity and materials used for printed resources related to the conference. The final program will be available as a PDF instead of a physical book. The Exhibitor Guide will be available only in a digital format as well, on the conference website and through the conference app. Featured Industry Programs listings also are available on the ATS Conference News website.
Recyclable ink is being used for the printed resources that are distributed onsite.
Instead of making individual, single-use bottles of water available to participants, the ATS will distribute complimentary reusable water bottles near registration, and attendees can refill their water bottles at Hydration Stations throughout the convention center, with support from Regeneron/Sanofi, significantly reducing onsite plastic consumption. Each Hydration Station will be easily identifiable by water drop-shaped signage.
Hotel drop bags with ATS and corporate literature will not be distributed this year. Conference attendees are encouraged to visit the Exhibit Hall to engage directly with exhibitors and ATS staff.
Many exhibitors will contribute to the environmentally-friendly atmosphere by using Forest Sustainable Certified wood to construct their Exhibit Hall booths, as well as carpet and padding made from 100 percent recycled material.
This year’s conference venue boasts its own sustainability initiatives. The Moscone Center is part of ASM Global’s VenueShield Environmental Hygiene program, focused on custom health and safety solutions. Additionally, Moscone North and Moscone South have achieved platinum certification for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, the highest level given by the U.S. Green Building Council. Among the features that contribute to this rating are rooftop solar panels that generate 19.4 percent of the building’s energy needs, zero-emissions electricity, and daylight harvesting to offset electrical lighting.
Don’t Miss ATS 2024 Highlights: On Demand
Don’t forget that ATS 2024 Highlights: On Demand are available to all conference registrants! On Demand will give you access to the Opening Ceremony, Plenary Session, Keynote Series, Clinical Year in Review, Adult Clinical Core Curriculum, and so much more. The topics will cover ILD, asthma, health equity, and CF, to name just a few. On Demand content will be accessible to all ATS 2024 full conference and On Demand registrants until March 2025.