Sustainability & Impact | American Water Works Association

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Elevating Our Commitment

Over the past year, the American Water Works Association's (AWWA) Annual Conference and Exposition (ACE) has significantly strengthened its focus on sustainability. As more events prioritize planet-friendly practices, we are leading the charge to collectively shift the entire industry towards a greener future. Our commitment to improving ACE's economic, environmental, and social impacts has never been stronger. We are continuously enhancing program elements, aligning with our Water 2050 goals, and ensuring that our efforts contribute meaningfully to a sustainable future.

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In March 2024, we demonstrated our commitment by signing the Principles for Sustainable Events, solidifying our dedication to sustainable event practices.

In August 2024, AWWA proudly received our Foundations Level Certification from the Events Industry Council. This marks a significant milestone in our ongoing journey to position ACE as a leader within the water sector.

As we prepare for a comprehensive audit of ACE25's social and environmental impacts in Denver, we are steadfast in our mission to leave a lasting legacy of positive change. Our efforts are not only aimed at enhancing the economic, environmental, and social dimensions of our events but also at setting a benchmark for the entire industry to follow.

2025 ACE Sustainability Goals

Association Best Practice Principles:

Small Steps = Big Impact

While the actions of one person may seem small, collectively, we can make a significant difference. Together, we are not just participants in an event, but active contributors to a better world. Below are several ACE initiatives open for active participation.

ACE Carbon Offset Dashboard - easily understand your impact

We are again please to announce the launch of our Voluntary Carbon Offset Dashboard. This innovative tool from Alymate empowers attendees to learn the carbon footprint of their travel, and then have the option to contribute to our collective goal, reducing environmental impact. By providing a transparent and user-friendly platform, we enable participants to make informed decisions and take actionable steps towards sustainability.

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Sunday Giveback Activity - details to be announced

New for 2025, AWWA will host a Community Giveback activity Sunday, June 8 at the Colorado Convention Center. We are committed to creating an opportunity for all attendees to contribute to a meaningful cause in the local area. Stay tuned for more information on how you can participate.

Water Equation - Invest in the next generation

Water Equation (WE) provides funding for workforce advancements, scholarships, students, young professionals, and Community Engineering Corps. 100% of your donation funds programs for the next generation of water professionals.

Among many positive actions, WE hosts an annual run/walk event at ACE, join us!

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Tips to Transform Sustainability.

You won’t need to go out of your way to be sustainable at ACE. Here are several easy ways you can make an individual impact on the show’s sustainability efforts.

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Properly sort any waste into designated bins. Recycling might feel trivial, but it keeps tons of material out of landfills.

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Bring a reusable water bottle or coffee mug. Forgo single-use cups and utensils when possible.

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Moderate your portions when grabbing meals and snacks. Taking only what you'll realistically eat reduces food waste. Enjoy plant-based options when available.

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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.

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Expanding perspectives helps build a richer community. Attend sessions featuring speakers from different backgrounds than your own.

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Utilize the AWWA Event Mobile App and other electronic materials. This minimizes the need for printed materials.

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Offset carbon emissions. A relatively small contribution goes towards environmental projects that help counterbalance the impact of travel.

ACE Sustainability & Impact Team

  • Joanne Gaglia, Director of Conferences & Events
  • Dawn Flancher, PE, Sr. Manager of Technical & 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

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AWWA Is Accomplishing This Goal With the Help of Our Exhibitors, Vendors, & Venues

We're happy to showcase the exhibitors who have committed to making a difference through our ACE25 Exhibitor Sustainability Pledge. By embracing and implementing sustainable practices, these organizations are not only helping AWWA achieve its sustainability goals but are also contributing to a greener, more sustainable future. Join us in celebrating these supporters of sustainability!

Exhibitors, for inclusion, please complete our ACE25 Exhibitor Sustainability Pledge.

2024 ACE Event Sustainability Report

Read the Report

Our 2024 report established our general baseline and highlights practices we have implemented. We have used the facts and figures within to determine further program goals. By reflecting on both accomplishments and the challenges faced, we aim to encourage continued action with transparency.

All This Positive Change Occurs in Partnership With:

Water Equation, AWWA’s philanthropic arm, provides funding for workforce advancements, scholarships, students, young professionals, and Community Engineering Corps. 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 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 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. 

The Colorado Convention Center, is committed to the core values of: Mindfulness, Integrity, Transparency, and Accountability. We strive to be leaders in sustainability by creating programs that are accessible, inclusive and encourage the participation of all stakeholders. Our goal is to erase the line between a “regular event” and a “green event” by making all events held at the Convention Center sustainable.