STFM Conference on Practice & Quality Improvement Sustainability Practices
STFM is committed to reducing the environmental impact of our conferences. Below are our sustainability practices at the TFM Conference on Practice & Quality Improvement.
STFM’s Sustainability Commitment
STFM is committed to reducing the environmental impact of our conferences by embracing the principles of Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Repurpose. The following practices illustrate how these values shape our current event operations:
- Reduce: Limiting printed materials and utilizing digital materials (emails & mobile app), limiting single-use items like water bottles, and opting for linen-free tables when possible
- Reuse: Using durable, long-lasting signage, display materials, and storage cases, incorporating decorative elements designed for repeated use across multiple events
- Recycle: Prioritizing the use of recyclable materials when possible (e.g., badge holders) and meeting at properties with strong recycling programs
- Repurpose: Creating generic signage and other materials that can be utilized across all three conferences, reimagining materials for new uses to extend their life cycle and minimize waste
Partners' Sustainability Practices
Greater Palm Springs
Greater Palm Springs demonstrates a strong commitment to climate resilience and sustainability through initiatives such as:
- 60+ miles of hiking and walking trails
- Nation’s second-largest agricultural region with seven certified farmer’s markets
- EV charging stations throughout the entire Great Palm Springs area
- Living Desert Zoo & Gardens, which preserves habitats and restore plant and animal populations
- Sustainable places to eat and shop
JW Marriott Desert Springs Palm Desert Resort & Spa
- State of the art energy management system that controls the heating, ventilation and air conditioning along with the majority of the property’s lighting
- Partnership with food donation program through chefsendhunger.org
- Active partner of MESH (Marriott Environmental Sustainability Hub) reducing carbon footprint
- Paint, oil, and tire recycling
- Food waster separation and containment managed by Burrtec Waste Industries
- Recycles 15 tons of cardboard weekly
- Both golf courses are Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuaries
- Flamingo and swan sanctuary development program
- E-waste recycling program
- 95% of green waste is recycled
- Desert scape and tiger turf conversion eliminates irrigation needs
- Cleantheworld.org bar soap donation and recycle
- Refillable bulk shampoo, conditioner, and body wash dispensers in guestrooms
- Refillable water bottle stations throughout property
- Culinary team promotes local farmers, fisherman, and organic herbs from the JW Garden
- Recycling receptacles throughout property in guestrooms and public space
- Optional housekeeping selections for guests (linen reuse)
How Attendees Can Participate
Sustainability is a shared responsibility and intentional choices from each attendee contribute to a more environmentally responsible conference. Consider participating in the following actions:
- Choose sustainable transportation such as rideshare, carpooling, or public transit.
- Bring a reusable water bottle to refill at onsite hydration stations.
- Offset your travel emissions by purchasing carbon credits through a carbon-offset program.
- Use the conference mobile app for schedules, maps, session materials, and other event resources to help reduce printed materials.
- Participate in your hotel’s sustainability program: Reuse linens and towels. Turn off lights and electronics when leaving your room. Decline daily housekeeping when possible.
Questions?
If you have questions about this conference, contact Kim Sevedge at (800) 274-7928 or the email link below.
CONTACT STAFF WITH QUESTIONS