Sustainability at 2026 YP Summit and UM Conference

WEF Continues to Expand Sustainability Practices at Specialty Conferences 

WEF has been committed to sustainability, particularly through WEFTEC, its flagship event that recently achieved PLATINUM level certification from the Events Industry Council's Sustainable Event Standards. Recognizing the importance of reducing environmental impact, WEF is extending these sustainability practices to other 2026 events, ensuring that sustainability remains a priority across all events. WEF is practicing sustainability management through waste reduction, reduction of greenhouse gas emission from travel, use of water stations and promotion of refillable water bottles, and minimizing single use plastics, just to name a few.

Click here to learn more about WEF’s sustainability efforts.

Sustainability Practices of the Charlotte Convention Center  

The Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority is committed to operating in a manner that drives social and environmental change to serve our community, customers and visitors. The Charlotte Convention Center is a LEED Gold Certified Building and their sustainable efforts include water conservation, energy conservation, food composting and donations, recycling, waste minimization, and environmental purchasing.

Click here to learn more about the Charlotte Convention Center’s sustainability efforts.

How WEF Event Attendees Can Support Sustainability Initiatives 

 

Before the Conference 

• Choose Sustainable Travel: Opt for public transportation, carpooling, or carbon-offset flights.
• Pack Reusable Items: Bring a refillable water bottle, reusable coffee cup, and tote bag to minimize waste. 
• Go Digital: Download event materials, schedules, and notes on a tablet or phone instead of printing them. 

During the Conference 

• Use Refill Stations: Take advantage of water refill stations instead of buying bottled water. 
• Recycle and Compost: Properly dispose of waste in designated recycling or compost bins. 
• Support Sustainable Vendors: Choose food options from vendors prioritizing local and sustainable ingredients.
• Minimize Energy Use: Turn off lights and electronics in hotel rooms when not in use. 
• Engage in Sustainability Efforts: Participate in conference-led sustainability initiatives, such as carbon offset programs or sustainability-focused discussions. 
• Eat and Shop Local: Visit and patronize the local businesses and eateries while in town for the conference   

After the Conference 

• Stay Connected Digitally: Instead of taking paper business cards, use digital networking tools like LinkedIn or QR codes. 

By making these small but meaningful choices, conference attendees can help reduce their environmental impact and support a more sustainable event experience.

 

Sustainability at WEF Events 

 

The Water Environment Federation (WEF) has been committed to sustainability, particularly through WEFTEC, its flagship event. Recognizing the importance of reducing environmental impact, WEF is extending these sustainability practices to its Specialty Conferences, ensuring that responsible event management remains a priority across all gatherings. 

 

WEF practices the following to ensure high levels of sustainability during all events. 

 

Reducing Waste 

WEF has implemented waste reduction strategies by minimizing single-use materials at conferences. Printed programs are being reduced in page-count through the use of digital alternatives, and reusable signage is prioritized. Additionally, waste diversion efforts, including recycling and composting, help keep event spaces cleaner and more environmentally responsible. 

 

Refillable Water Bottles 

As part of WEF’s commitment to reducing plastic waste, refillable water stations are available at WEF Events. Attendees are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle, eliminating the need for disposable plastic bottles and contributing to overall waste reduction. 

 

Sustainable Sourcing 

WEF is also integrating sustainable sourcing into Events by working with venues and vendors that prioritize environmentally friendly practices. This includes using locally sourced, sustainable food and eco-friendly materials for conference materials and giveaways. WEF collaborates with venue catering to replace plastic water bottles with an aluminum option throughout all conference venue vending and sales.  

 

By adopting these sustainability practices, WEF’s Events will continue to evolve as greener, more responsible events, reinforcing the organization’s leadership in environmental stewardship.