Sustainability & Impact
Our Hero Journey Continues
Since launching our sustainability initiative in 2023, the American Water Works Association (AWWA) has empowered Water Heroes to lead the charge toward a responsible future. At ACE, we’re advancing practices that reduce environmental impact, support economic resilience, and promote social equity – all in alignment with our Water2050 vision. Our journey continues as we work together to shape a more sustainable water sector.
Setting the Standard
After signing the Principles for Sustainable Events and earning our Foundations Level Certification in 2024, AWWA reaffirmed its commitment to responsible event practices. In September 2025, ACE25 was proudly certified Platinum by the Events Industry Council following a comprehensive third-party audit – a milestone that reflects our leadership in sustainable event planning. We are now in an elite tier of organizations to host an event that meets these high standards.
As we look ahead to ACE26 in Washington, D.C., we remain focused on creating lasting, positive change for the water sector and the broader events industry.
Certificate Report
Goals & Best Practice Principles
2025 ACE Sustainability Goals
- Increase venue waste diversion from landfill over 2024 metrics
- Establish an ACE procurement policy for AWWA ACE materials
- Raise awareness of the ACE Carbon Offset Dashboard
- Strengthen 2025 Exhibitor Pledge
Association Best Practice Principles:
Offsetting Our Impact
At ACE25, AWWA took meaningful steps to reduce and offset environmental impact across multiple areas – efforts that reflect the spirit of our 2025 Elevate mindset and support our 2026 Water Heroes journey.
Water Restoration Certificates®
To balance 100% of event water use, AWWA purchased WRCs that fund projects returning clean water to ecosystems. This reinforces our commitment to water stewardship and empowers Water Heroes to protect this vital resource.
Energy Offsets
We offset 75% of venue energy use in Denver through a combination of clean energy from the Colorado Convention Center solar array and Xcel Energy grid, plus the purchase of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs).
Carbon Offsets
In addition to hosting the attendee carbon offset dashboard, AWWA offset all staff travel to ACE25. View offset project details including type, location, and volume here.
Small Steps = Big Impact
Individual actions may seem small, but together they create powerful momentum for change. At ACE, attendees aren’t just participants – they’re active contributors to a better world. Below are several initiatives designed to foster involvement and meaningful impact.
ACE Carbon Offset Dashboard
Track Your Impact, Take Action
We’re proud to bring back the ACE Voluntary Carbon Offset Dashboard for 2026. Powered by Aclymate, this interactive tool helps attendees calculate the carbon footprint of their travel and offers the opportunity to contribute toward our collective sustainability goals. By providing a transparent and easy-to-use platform, we empower all change makers to make informed choices and take meaningful steps to reduce environmental impact.
Pro Tip: Confirm your travel and hotel details before exploring offset options.
ACE Sunday Giveback Activity
Community Impact Starts Here
Returning in 2026, the ACE Sunday Giveback Activity invites Water Heroes to kick off the conference with purpose. In 2025, attendees joined the Soap Saves Lives Experience, assembling eco-friendly hygiene kits to support the local Denver community. While plans for the 2026 activity in Washington, D.C. are still being finalized, we are committed to creating an opportunity for hands-on impact. Stay tuned!
Wellness Lounge
Recharge, Refocus, Reconnect
Prioritizing well-being is essential to creating impactful and sustainable experiences. At ACE26, our Decompression Lounge returns as a cell phone-free sanctuary designed to promote mental and physical wellness. This peaceful space offers attendees a chance to pause, recharge, and refocus throughout the conference.
Water Equation
Empower the Next Generation
Water Equation (WE) supports the future of the water workforce through scholarships, student programs, and professional development. Every donation directly funds initiatives that empower the next generation of water professionals.
At ACE26, Water Heroes can engage with WE through meaningful activities that foster connection and purpose – all while supporting a cause that strengthens our industry from the ground up.
Tips for Everyday Sustainability
Every person has the power to make a difference, and it doesn’t take much to get started. At ACE, small, intentional choices can lead to a big collective impact. Here are a few simple ways you can contribute to our sustainability efforts and be part of the movement.
Properly Sort Recycling
Properly sort any waste into designated bins. Recycling might feel trivial, but it keeps tons of material out of landfills.
Reusable Water Bottle
Bring a reusable water bottle or coffee mug. Forgo single-use cups and utensils when possible.
Reduce Food Waste
Moderate your portions when grabbing meals and snacks. Taking only what you’ll realistically eat reduces food waste. Enjoy plant-based options when available.
Conserve Resources
Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Participate in your hotel linen reuse programs rather than having housekeeping refresh your sheets and towels every day.
Expand Your Perspective
Expanding perspectives helps build a richer community. Attend sessions featuring speakers from different backgrounds than your own.
Use the Mobile App
Utilize the AWWA Event Mobile App and other electronic materials. This minimizes the need for printed materials.
Offset Carbon Emissions
A relatively small contribution goes towards environmental projects that help counterbalance the impact of travel.
Share Rides
Use public transportation to reduce carbon emissions – there are lots of options! Denver’s wide streets also make it easy and enjoyable to explore the city by e-bike or scooter.
Our Allies: Exhibitors, Vendors & Venues
Sustainability at ACE is a team effort, and we’re proud to recognize the exhibitors who have signed the ACE Exhibitor Sustainability Pledge. Alongside our vendor and venue partners, these Impact Allies are leading the way with responsible practices that support our shared mission and inspire others to follow suit.
Together, these allies help expand the reach of our sustainability efforts across the show floor and beyond, strengthening our collective impact and encouraging meaningful action.
ACE Sustainability & Impact Team
- Joanne Gaglia, Director of Conferences & Events
- Dawn Flancher, PE, Director of Technical, Educational, & Research Programs
- Lisa Star, SEPC, Sr. Manager of Exhibits and Sponsorship
- Lindsey Richeaux, CMP, SEPC, Sr. Manager of Event Tech & Engagement
- Lisa Stanicel-Klemme, CDMP, Marketing Manager, Conference & Events
- Neal Hyde, Buyer & Purchasing Analyst
ACE Event Sustainability Reports
Our 2024 report established a baseline for ACE’s sustainability journey, highlighting key practices and measurable impact. Building on that foundation, the newly released 2025 report reflects our continued progress.
By sharing both accomplishments and challenges, we aim to foster transparency, encourage accountability, and inspire ongoing action across the ACE community.
Our Sustainability Collaborators
Water Equation
Water Equation, AWWA’s philanthropic arm, provides funding for workforce advancements, scholarships, students, and young professionals. WE is committed to fulfilling the critical need to ensure that the water sector has the necessary workforce to provide clean and safe water to communities in North America. Among many positive actions, WE hosts an annual running and walking event at ACE.
Honeycomb Strategies
Honeycomb Strategies provides sustainability expertise for trade shows, conferences, convention centers, arenas, and organizations to identify sustainable solutions, engage stakeholders, develop data management systems, and implement programs to measure impact so that events can thrive. As a women-owned business and accredited B Corporation, Honeycomb Strategies aims to inspire people to see sustainability as both an opportunity and responsibility.
Freeman
Freeman has a commitment to net zero carbon by 2050, and by 2030 to reduce GHG emissions by 50%. With both an ISO 14001 and ISO 20121 certification, Freeman is there to help guide you through sustainable offerings while at ACE. Be sure to consult with Freeman on your expo and booth materials and logistics.
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
As one of the largest buildings in the nation’s capital, the WEWCC is committed to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint. The venue leads with initiatives like color-coded recycling, water efficiency, green purchasing, and energy-saving features, all contributing to a more responsible and efficient event environment.