Sustainability Practices

STFM is committed to reducing the environmental impact of our conferences. Below are our sustainability practices at the STFM Conference on Medical Student Education.

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

City of Charlotte

The City of Charlotte demonstrates a strong commitment to climate resilience and sustainability through initiatives such as:

  • The City of Charlotte has a Strategic Energy Action Plan.
  • Charlotte Green Team, discusses sustainability efforts as a hospitality industry.
  • Charlotte is also home to the Innovation Barn.

Sheraton/Le Meridien Charlotte

  • High-efficiency lighting throughout the property
  • Conscientious choice of reducing/eliminating plastic (i.e. paper straws, recycled styrofoam containers and wooden coffee stirrers)
  • Exclusive use of cage-free eggs
  • Closed-loop cooking oil system for safe and conscientious disposal
  • Automated kitchen exhaust cleaning and grease filtration system to minimize need of environmental-unfriendly chemicals for cleaning
  • 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, 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.

EMAIL QUESTIONS