Sustainability is a core value of librarianship and the Association of Research Libraries. In service of these values and the Association’s sustainability efforts, the President’s Institute offers an opportunity to engage in environmentally conscious practices focused on resource conservation and sustainability.

While we know there have been successful virtual and hybrid events, the deep learning and engagement experience we want for our attendees is best done in person to ensure everyone has the opportunity for the same shared experience. The ARL President’s Institute rotates annually around the major regions of Canada and the US to allow people in the surrounding areas to attend with less environmental impact. 

The environmental costs of this event will be offset by the long-term benefits of the collaboration and innovation the experience inspires. Please consider joining us for the President’s Institute, we need people passionate about this issue to participate in the conversation! 

The President’s Institute is designed to be an interactive, engaging experience that, like all ARL events, strives to employ the most environmentally conscious policies and sustainable practices. In addition to working with sustainable vendors, here are a few things we’re doing:

• Minimizing the use of plastic where possible (for example, paper name badges, reusable event signage)
• Avoiding food waste and making conscious food-choice selections privileging local suppliers
• Using an event app and electronic event materials and avoiding any printed materials
• Limiting optional promotional products

During the President’s Institute, we're asking that participants consider the following practices to help conserve precious resources:

• Participate in the hotel's green initiatives (for example, opt-out of daily linen changes, avoid single-use water bottles and toiletries).  Learn more about the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay's sustainability efforts.
• Download the event app to access electronic versions of all program materials.
• Bring your own reusable mug or water bottle.
• Recycle a lanyard from another event and bring it along to the Institute for your name badge. 

Donate

If you are able, consider donating to a local organization engaged in sustainability efforts. The following organizations have been identified by the President’s Institute Task Force:

• Surfrider Foundation
• San Diego Coastkeeper
• BikeSD
• San Diego 350
• Wild Willow Farm & Education Center
• San Diego Co-Harvest 

Travel to San Diego

• Try to book direct routes when flying. Planes release the most carbon during takeoff and landing.
• Fly economy. First and Business class takes up more space per seat, which means more fuel per passenger.
• Pack light, as heavy luggage requires more fuel to carry.
• Avoid food and water waste while traveling. Bring meals you'll need while traveling with you, and a refillable water bottle.
• Take public transportation from the airport. Take the San Diego Flyer to the Old Town Transit Center and connect to the 8 or 9 bus to W Mission Bay Dr & Dana Landing Rd. 
• Use the attendee page in the event app to connect with other attendees to carpool.

We will continue to update these pages with information for attendees. If you have additional suggestions, please contact events@arl.org.