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Green Mission

AZA is committed to using as many environmentally responsible practices as possible and feasible for the Annual Conference. The below measures are in place and AZA is committed to carrying out these practices and encouraging all participants and attendees of the conference to do the same.

Conference

Registration Materials

  • AZA prints all promotional materials on recycled, double-sided paper, printed with vegetable oil-based inks when available.
  • All registration confirmation materials and badge previews will be emailed to attendees. Emailing a badge preview prevents the printing of multiple, incorrect badges.
  • Recycling receptacles for attendee registration badges will be located at the registration desk and at Zoo Day to collect unwanted badge holders for re-use at other conferences and meetings.

Program Materials

  • Attendees are encouraged to only take one copy and dispose of in the recycle bins located throughout the convention center.
  • A mobile app will be made available, giving attendees the option to go paper-light.
  • All directional and room signage is reused by AZA from one event to another, whenever possible.
  • AZA encourages all speakers to provide their handouts or presentations to be posted on the website after the conference for Member access.

Exhibit Hall

  • All conference exhibitors and participants are strongly encouraged to use sustainable products for any promotional giveaway items.
  • Exhibitors are encouraged to participate in Lead Retrieval. Attendees will have a bar code on their registration badges, allowing exhibitors to scan their badge to acquire contact information. This will cut down on the number of business cards being distributed.
  • Any box lunch in the Exhibit Hall will be offered either without a box, or in recyclable containers or a reusable lunch bag when possible.
  • All carpet, table clothes and signage in the Exhibit Hall will be recycled or reused as much as possible.
  • Low lighting and air conditioning levels will be practiced during Exhibit Hall set up and tear down, and a schedule of conservative lighting use during non-event hours will be established.
  • Attendees are provided or encouraged to bring reusable water bottles.

Hosts

Green Practices at The Florida Aquarium

The Florida Aquarium is committed to using a science-based, impact-driven approach to address key conservation issues. We strategically focus on conservation initiatives that amplify our expertise, leverage and promote our partnerships, and maximize our ability to successfully protect and restore our blue planet. Learn more!

Green Practices at ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Human impact on the planet is profound and pervasive, affecting land, water, and air, both near and far. In our mission to save and protect wildlife and wild places, we are committed to meaningful green practices that help conserve our valuable natural resources. Learn more!

Sustainability at the Tampa Convention Center

Tampa Convention Center was proudly awarded LEED Silver for Building Operations and Maintenance (O+M) in 2025. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), is the most widely used green building rating system in the world and an international symbol of excellence. Certification is proof that buildings are going above and beyond to ensure the space is operated to the highest level of sustainability. Learn more!