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Case Studies
The Economy and the Environment:
In this December 2008 white paper, MeetGreen argues that when compared on gross margins and return on sales, companies that report sustainability data outperform those who do not. MeetGreen believes this is because companies committed to sustainable practices tend to operate more leanly and because consumers are now placing a premium on sustainably produced goods.
Forest Leadership Forum:
Is it worth the time and effort to green a conference? What are the payoffs — immediate and long term? How do you get started? These answers and more can be found in the story of one international conference held in Portland.
Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) General Assembly:
Since 2005, the UUA has made a conscious effort to green their meeting practices by reducing waste, improving energy efficiency and practicing water conservation. Their 2007 meeting in Portland improved waste tracking and diverted 67 percent of trash from landfills. Delegates enjoyed meals comprised of 21 percent organic food and 61 perfect local foods. Hotels engaged in voluntary green practices, including post event reporting and the general assembly reduced paper waste.
United States Green Building Council (USGBC):
More than 8,000 professionals in the environmentally responsible building and construction sector attended the 2004 GreenBuild conference in Portland. Earth-saving measures included biodiesel-powered delegate shuttles, food composting and EnergyStar lighting at the convention center.
No. 1, "Greenest City in America" — Popular Science (February 2008)
No. 1, "Environmental Friendliness” — America's Favorite Cites survey, Travel+Leisure (September 2009)
No. 1, "Most eco-friendly big cities in America" — SustainLane.com (September 2008)
Best Place to MeetGreen — MeetGreen meeting consultants