The National Conference Center observed Earth Day in April by celebrating its Green Seal and Virginia Green certificates, as well as a Loudoun County Green Business Challenge victory. The property also recognized Earth Day and its sustainability achievements with five trends for meeting planners to consider when booking a green venue.
- The Grass Is Always Greener: When doing a site visit, take a look around. Is there a lot of outdoor space for attendees to take a walk, or a hike, or to sit quietly? Having a facility with outdoor space that is relaxing—even a space to meditate—is a natural way to encourage attendees to unwind.
- Food for Thought: Studies have shown that eating high-protein foods and less sugar keeps up energy, brainpower and focus. Pick a venue that understands the value of healthy food and breaks.
- Energy Savers: The most obvious way to see if a venue has sustainability as one of its mission statements is to look for energy-saving options. Also ask if the property utilizes an efficient energy management program to operate its Central Utility Plant. This saves a great deal of energy compared to operating the plant manually. Ask the chef if the last appliance they purchased was Energy Star-rated.
- Logistics: Paperless check-in, digital brochures and uploading handouts to a website are just a few ways a conference planning department can help keep the paper count down. Ask your venue how water is provided. Plastic bottles are out; ceramic coolers with reusable cups are in. Use environmentally-friendly paper products that are biodegradable and recyclable.
- Get Involved: Working with the local community or “paying it forward” may be a great way to tie your green mission to the property’s green mission.
The National Conference Center offers 917 guest rooms and over 265,000 square feet of meeting and group function space, including the West Belmont Place catering complex with its 16,552-square-foot ballroom.