Sustainability at Optica Events

Our Commitment to a Greener Future

Optica recognizes the importance of safeguarding our planet for future generations. 

The professional value of networking in person with peers and colleagues is a primary benefit of an Optica Event. However, we also understand that our meetings must be managed conscientiously to minimize their environmental impact. That is why we are dedicated to integrating sustainable practices into every aspect and phase of our events — from selecting a meeting venue to the return freight shipment of equipment.

The Environmental Footprint of this Meeting

Venue Selection

We prioritize event locations with strong commitments to sustainability. Venues are routinely assessed for LEED certification (or equivalent) and host cities for their commitment to renewable energy sources and efficient waste management systems.

• The Hyatt Regency Seattle is Seattle's only LEED Gold-certified hotel, emphasizing energy efficiency, water conservation and sustainable construction. 
• The hotel uses energy-efficient systems, such as heat recovery chillers and LED lighting, which reduce energy consumption by 18% compared to similar buildings. Dual-flush toilets and low-flow fixtures contribute to 30% water savings​.
• Single-use plastics have been largely eliminated, with refillable bathroom amenities and composting systems in place. Food waste is diverted to composting or donated to local charities like Food Lifeline.
• Around 50% of the food served is locally sourced, and 60% of seafood is sustainably harvested. Partnerships with local vendors promote regional agriculture and sustainable practices.

Travel

The selection of an event venue must include consideration of transportation options both to and within the host city. To minimize flight segments, event locations must be served by international airports that offer direct flights from major hubs in Asia, Europe and North America. Optica also assesses the availability and coverage of the host city's mass transit network.

• As of 2022, the Seattle–Tacoma International Airport has 31 airlines in operation, serving 91 domestic and 28 international destinations in North America, Oceania, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
• The The hotel's downtown location supports green travel options, with proximity to public transportation and amenities like bike racks.

Remote Participation

By leveraging technology to facilitate remote engagement, we reduce the need for air travel and associated carbon emissions.

• This congress offers an in-person meeting format with on-demand content. Individuals presenting a contributed oral talk or poster that are unable to travel to the meeting location, whether by circumstance or preference, can choose to submit a pre-recorded video of their talk. (This option is requested when submitting a paper for consideration.)
• These recordings can be viewed on demand by Technical registrants for up to 60 days after the event ends — at which point the paper and accompanying video will be available on Optica Publishing Group's platform.

Materials

The carbon footprint of an event is heavily impacted by the day-to-day choices made in its operation. Optica Event management follows sustainable meeting practices when possible, and we encourage and influence our partners to do the same. 

• Optica actively works to reduce our carbon footprint through promoting local sourcing for food and materials and offsetting unavoidable emissions through carbon offset programs.
• This congress has prioritized the use of reusable materials whenever possible, from signage and decorations to utensils and serving ware. By minimizing single-use items, we significantly reduce our event's carbon footprint.
• Through online registration, email communications and the event app, we prioritize digital communication channels for event promotion, registration and information, reducing the need for paper materials and minimizing waste.
• The Hyatt Regency has strategically placed recycling stations throughout the event to make it easy for exhibitors and attendees to properly dispose of their waste. Clear signage at events ensures that recycling and composting efforts are maximized.