Smart Energy Partner - Oregon Convention Center

The Oregon Convention Center is a leader among its peers in envi­ronmental practices. Signing up for Smart Energy is another step toward sustainability.

"We were looking for carbon offset opportunities," said Ryan Thorpe, Director of Operations. "Smart Energy is compelling and different."

Investing in biogas development through Smart Energy is just the latest step toward reducing the Convention Center's carbon footprint. In 2004, the center earned a LEED designation in the Existing Building (EB) category. In 2008, it was the first facility to recertify at a higher rating: LEED-EB Silver.

LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and is ad­ministered by the U.S. Green Building Council. The rating system addresses various components of building operations and system upgrades such as energy efficiency, recycling and improving indoor air quality.

Several green measures are included in the Oregon Convention Center's standard level of service. They include seasonal locally grown food products, reusable china dish wear, condiments served in bulk containers, and food waste and biodegradable product composting.

The Convention Center's rain garden provides beauty as well as ecological benefits, keeping rain water runoff out of the sewer systems and river.

Conferences can recycle their waste at the Convention Center's Sustainability Station.

"The Oregon Convention Center's leadership holds the same values of caring for the community and environment as NW Natural," said Gregg Kantor, President & CEO. "We are proud to be partnering with them in this innovative program."

Learn more about the Oregon Convention Center.