Green Operations

The David L. Lawrence Convention Center was designed to reduce the use of natural resources and operate at the highest green potential. Every day, our staff thinks g1 (greenfirst) by collecting materials that are being deposed of and giving the materials to companies that turn them into usable raw product. We recycle the traditional items - plastics, aluminum, glass, cardboard, all paper, wood and the not-so traditional items - batteries, sod, water and food.

To achieve these goals, we:

• use natural fresh air to ventilate and cool the building
• monitor air quality inside and out (including carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and nitrous oxide levels)
• monitor computer readings of thermostats, light sensors, air intakes and controllable systems
• use low- or no-volatile organic compounds (VOC) in paints, carpeting, adhesives and sealants
• use environmentally friendly cleaning products
• purchase recyclable products and goods
• recycle all products including batteries and light bulbs
• landscape with native plants that require only natural rainfall
• use aquifer water in the cooling towers and for sidewalk cleaning
• operate our own grey water reclamation plant
• use china and cloth whenever possible
• use biodegradable, organic products including plates, flatware and paperware
• grow vegetables and herbs on the Center's rooftop terrace
• purchase from the ‘Buy Fresh, Buy Local' program
• donate leftover food
• compost unconsumed food and kitchen waste
• purchase a portion of our power from Pennsylvania's wind farms
• use environment-friendly office supplies