SUSTAINABLE
MEETINGS
Sustainable meetings integrate environmental and social concerns into the meeting process to reduce the impact a meeting has on the environment, and to encourage giving back to the local communities in which meetings are conducted. At The Westin La Cantera Resort, we strive to provide you with the tools you need to conduct an environmentally-friendly event.
The following is a listing of our sustainable meeting initiatives:
Electronic sales tools: The traditional meeting planning process requires the use of a tremendous amount of paper. By utilizing electronic sales products, we significantly reduce paper usage in the meeting planning process and encourage the use of web and email based business conduct.
Energy efficient digital signage: Our energy efficient led reader boards lower energy consumption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Recycled content paper products: Directing recycled materials into production saves resources and energy, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and the need for disposal. All offices paper, printed signage, napkins, coasters, etc. meet the minimum post-consumer recycled content percentages as dictated by the EPA.
Recycled meeting supplies: Meeting supplies require materials, energy, and labor to manufacture and transport. After use, their disposal can cause pollution and take up space in landfills. After meetings, all unused meeting supplies are collected for future meeting use.
Recycled content paper flip charts: In partnership with PSAV, our flip charts, with the exception of those that are post-it ready, contain 30% post-consumer recycled content.
Potted plant displays: Instead of displaying fresh cut flowers, we use potted plants wherever possible.
Environmentally-friendly chafing fuel: Conventional chafing fuels are fossil fuel based, and produce carbon monoxide and dioxin emissions - they are classified as hazardous waste. Environmentally-safe chafing fuels are made from biodegradable, all natural materials in recycled aluminum cans. These fuels burn longer and cleaner.
Condiments served in bulk: Serving condiments in individual packets creates both packaging and food waste. We have the opportunity to provide our meeting guests with condiments in bulk containers to help reduce this waste.
Sustainable banquet and catering menu options: Several of our banquet offerings use produce from local sources, include fair trade or organically certified products. We incorporate food products from sustainable sources. In addition, we offer several menus that are 100% sustainable.
Meeting space recycling: Recycling waste can extend the life of existing landfills, and reduce environmental burdens such as strained natural resources and pollution. We offer several chic recycling receptacles throughout our meeting and ballroom space.
Green transportation options: The Westin La Cantera offers shuttle service to several major attractions, including Fiesta Texas and The Shops at La Cantera. In addition, please see our concierge for information about public transit options.
Food donation: We donate leftover food to community-based food recovery programs twice weekly.
Meeting impact report: We offer our planners the opportunity to tangibly demonstrate to their company, the success of their meeting using key indicators such as energy savings, water savings and waste management.