Environmental Green Practices
The Albuquerque Convention Center, (ACC), managed by SMG, strives to leave the smallest footprint on the environment and is exercising initiatives such as recycling, water conservation and energy reduction.
The recycling program, although in its infancy, has been quite effective in reducing the solid waste that is sent to local area landfills. Currently the ACC recycles paper, wood pallets, and cardboard. Pending the arrival of recycling containers, the ACC is starting a pilot project to recycle aluminum, glass, and plastic.
The ACC, along with the rest of the Albuquerque community, is concerned with the water supply in our arid environment. Currently the ACC practices water conservation in the form of automatic faucets and utilizing low-water plants and xeriscaping for landscaping. The ACC is also a participant of the City’s Water Watch Program; at banquet events, water is only served when requested by the client.
In addition, the hot summers cause large facilities to draw an inordinate amount of energy to maintain comfortable temperatures. The ACC has just completely refurbished its HVAC system, which is more effective and efficient in the heating and the cooling of the facility. In its effort to reduce energy consumption, the ACC does not heat, cool, or light any unused spaces and a white roof coating has been applied on the roof to reduce the heat load during the summer months. The ACC also utilizes compact fluorescent light bulbs.
The ACC also utilizes “green” cleaning products and is a participant of the City’s “Act Now” program which develops and promotes Transportation Demand Management (TDM) programs that encourage the use of alternative modes of transportation to improve air quality and decrease traffic congestion in the Albuquerque area.