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 Embassy Suites Denver Downtown Convention Center was the city's first hotel to reach the Silver LEED certification as recongnized by the U.S. Green Building Council. 

Key sustainability features include:

• Energy and Water Efficiency: The hotel integrates energy-efficient systems and water conservation technologies.
• Sustainable Materials: Bamboo paneling, recycled materials for uniforms and eco-friendly tiles are used throughout the property.
• Urban Location: Its proximity to public transportation and local attractions reduces the need for car travel, supporting sustainable urban mobility

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.

Denver, Colorado, has a robust sustainability plan aiming to combat climate change and enhance resilience. The city is targeting a 100% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. 

Key components of Denver's strategy include:

• Climate Protection Fund: Denver established a taxpayer-supported fund dedicated to climate action. In its first year, USD 57 million was allocated to projects emphasizing climate-vulnerable communities, such as transitioning to renewable energy and promoting sustainable practices​.
• Energize Denver Initiative: This program aims to reduce fossil fuel reliance in buildings, a major source of urban emissions, by implementing energy efficiency standards​.
• Transportation Upgrades: Denver promotes eco-friendly transportation through e-bike rebates, expanded bike-sharing programs and infrastructure improvements to reduce reliance on cars​.

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 Embassy Suites 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.