Sustainability is a long-term goal for The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) to meet the needs of economic growth at its current speed with the least impact on the environment. But it’s more than preserving the natural world and its fragile ecologies. It's about enabling the growth and development of businesses and government entities so that all parts of society work harmoniously to ensure that future generations have the natural resources to survive.
ASCE and its members are dedicated to ensuring a sustainable future in which human society has the capacity and opportunity to maintain and improve its quality of life indefinitely, without degrading the quantity, quality, or the availability of natural, economic, and social resources.
What is sustainability?
Sustainability is our society’s ability to exist and develop without depleting all of the natural resources needed to live in the future. Sustainable development supports this long-term goal with the implementation of systems, frameworks, and support from global, national, and local entities.
Why is sustainability important?
Sustainability is important for preserving our planet and natural resources like water and air. Building a sustainable future and cultivating sustainable ways of living will reduce pollution and protect the habitats of plants and animals.
A key part of sustainability involves sustainable business practices and economic development, including green technology, eco-friendly supply chains, and more. When businesses and governments follow sustainable sustainable practices, it creates a ripple effect on individuals and communities to decrease greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuels. All of this contributes to a better quality of life.
What are some things we are doing at Ports® '28 to be more sustainable?
- Our conference program agenda will be printed on 30% recycled paper
- All content will be made available through the conference app to reduce printed agendas
- Our conference signage will be created on biodegradable honeycomb corrugated cardboard
- Refreshment break napkins are made from 100% recycled paper up-to 80% post-consumer content
- Lunch napkins are made from biodegradable and recycled materials, including renewable resources containing 20% recycled fibers
What are some things the Arthur R. Outlaw Mobile Convention Center does to be more sustainable?
- The recycling program has been a tremendous success. Since 2009 we have recycled more than 171 tons of trash at the convention center
- Our Windsor Chariot carpet extractor, along with all the carpet's cleaning agents, has been certified by the Carpet and Rug Institutes' Green Label and Seal of Approval Programs
- Our floor wax and cleaning supplies, furnished by Proctor and Gamble, all meet or exceed the Green Seal standard for cleaning products as well as the EPA's Environmentally Preferable Purchasing guidelines
- The implementation of foam soap has greatly reduced usage and waste
- Abundant natural lighting in all lobby areas minimizes energy use
- Monitoring and control of doors by security personnel through facility walks focusing on closing doors not in use
- Double pane windows are throughout the building to reduce energy costs
- Timed or motion sensor lighting systems have been installed in various locations throughout the property
- Lighting systems controlled by electricians allows lighting levels to be set at 50% during move-in and move-out, and 100% only during event hours
- Recycling of all printer ink cartridges
- All air handlers use two different types of filters to maximize efficiency
- Reports and documents produced paperless whenever possible
- Technicians monitor the operation of boilers and chillers. These are kept to a minimum at all times. Normally we are operating at 1/3 of chiller use and 1/2 of boiler use. Variable speed drives were installed on the cooling towers and chiller
- We are in the process of updating the lighting scenarios throughout the building. All meeting rooms are equipped with LED lighting as well as various other places around the building. This trend will continue until the entire facility is complete
- The entire center has been outfitted with automatic flush toilets and urinals to reduce water use
- We have planted several new shrubs, plants, and trees around the facility
- One of the most important issues addressed is training. Employees have been trained to be aware of energy, gas and recycling consciousness
What can you do to help Ports® '28 to be more sustainable?
- Reuse your conference towels instead of creating daily laundry
- Prioritize mindful sustainable actions in your hotel, restaurants and around the city of Mobile (ie. turning hotel lights off when not in use / change hotel thermostat when vacant / bring a reusable straw while dining / bring reusable bags for shopping)
- At the conclusion of the conference, please return your name badge to be reused
- Explore Mobile on foot or by bicycle
- Use public transportation to/from the airport
Did you pledge to be a "sustainable traveler" during the conference registration process?
Thank you for your pledge to be a "sustainable traveler". This pledge means you promise to be environmentally conscience during the conference and in everyday life.
Participate in an airline carbon-offsetting program
What is carbon offsetting? Carbon offsets fund specific projects that either lower CO2 emissions, or “sequester” CO2, meaning they take some CO2 out of the atmosphere and store it. Some common examples of projects include reforestation, building renewable energy, carbon-storing agricultural practices, and waste and landfill management.
Before you purchase your airline tickets to Mobile, please consider making the commitment to contribute to your airline's carbon offset program!
Downtown Mobile Walking or Bike Self-Guided Tour
During your stay in Mobile, you can explore the entire city on foot or bicycle.
View a full-size PDF of the map.
You can find self-guided walking tours in Mobile, Alabama, focusing on its rich history and architecture, with options ranging from apps like Questo, which offers mystery-themed quests, to exploring the historic districts like Church Street East and Dauphin Street with their original gas lamps and Victorian homes.
Self-Guided Tours
- Dora Franklin Finley African American Heritage Trail: Check their website for stops and self-guided options to explore black history in Mobile
Guided Tours
- Church Street East Historic District: Wander through streets with Federal, Greek Revival, and Victorian homes, often still lit by original gas lamps.
- Dauphin Street: Walk this area to see historic buildings and experience the downtown entertainment district.
- Historic Districts: Mobile has several, including the downtown area, with unique architectural styles and brick sidewalks, perfect for wandering at your own pace.