NCORE 2024 will be held May 28 – June 1, on the island of O‘ahu at the Hawai‘i Convention Center in Honolulu, Hawai‘i!
At NCORE, we believe that a commitment to sustainability is responsible and essential to positively impacting the environment, community, and the overall conference experience. As a participant, you have the power to make a difference. Join us in our journey towards a more sustainable future. This takes increased focus as we bring NCORE to Honolulu in 2024 and make transparent the changes we are making to align with our environmental sustainability values.
Why Sustainability Matters
Environmental Impact: Conferences can leave a significant carbon footprint, contributing to the global challenges of climate change. Recognizing that these effects disproportionately impact NCORE/BIPOC communities, we are committed to practicing sustainability. We aim to mitigate the environmental impact and foster climate resilience within marginalized communities through energy-efficient practices, waste reduction, and eco-friendly materials.
Community Engagement: Sustainability is intrinsically linked to community well-being, especially in the context of climate change. The adverse effects of climate change often disproportionately affect NCORE/BIPOC communities, exacerbating existing social and environmental injustices. By supporting local businesses, promoting green transportation, and engaging in community outreach initiatives, we strive to reduce our carbon footprint and address these communities' unique challenges.
Enhanced Experience: Recognizing climate change poses unique challenges for NCORE/BIPOC communities, our commitment to sustainability extends to creating an inclusive and enriching conference experience. This includes choosing eco-friendly venues, providing healthy catering options, and fostering a focus on wellness. By addressing the specific impacts of climate change on marginalized communities, we aim to create an environment for learning and networking that is sustainable and responsive to the needs of NCORE/BIPOC participants. Together, we work towards a more equitable and resilient future.
Sustainability is not just about environmental responsibility; it's a holistic approach that considers our actions' social and economic dimensions. Through our sustainability initiatives, we aspire to positively impact both the environment and the communities we serve, recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by NCORE/BIPOC populations in the face of climate change.
Our Specific Actions:
- Eco-Friendly Name Badges: We have moved to a new, larger, durable, recyclable paper name badge that eliminates the need for plastic sleeves.
- Reduced Program Pages: We have shortened text entry spaces in the printed program and expanded those spaces on the conference app to reduce the number of printed program pages.
- Discontinuing Conference Bags: We are discontinuing conference bags to minimize overproduction (You are welcome to bring your favorite bag!).
- Essential Information: We are discontinuing name badge ribbons and placing critical information on the larger paper name badge.
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Environmental Service Projects: We provide opportunities at the conference convention center to engage in short but meaningful ecological service projects. Join us in giving back to the local environment and community by participating in these hands-on initiatives.
- Local and Native Hawaiian Sourcing: We take every opportunity to source conference items locally and from Native Hawaiian vendors. By supporting local businesses and indigenous communities, we promote sustainability and strengthen our connection to the culture and environment of Hawai'i.
What You Can Do:
- Travel Sustainably: Choose eco-friendly transportation options, use the shuttle service provided, rideshare with other attendees, or walk if possible.
- Protect yourself and the Environment: Hawai‘i has some of the strictest sunscreen laws in the United States. It is illegal to sell, offer for sale, or distribute sunscreen in Hawai‘i that contains oxybenzone or octinoxate without a prescription. Bring only mineral sunscreen with you or purchase sunscreen in Hawai‘i. Consider wearing a rash guard or clothing with fabric that offers UV protection.
- Be Mindful of Materials: Use reusable materials where possible and dispose of rubbish responsibly.
- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: If you bring your own lanyard, water bottle, or tote bag to registration you will receive tokens to make donations to native Hawaiian community organizations.
- Bring a throwback NCORE bag or one to show off your school pride! (Any tote bag is welcome!)
- You are STRONGLY encouraged to stay hydrated! Bring a water bottle and carry it with you. There are 5 bottle fillers at the convention center. Locations:
- Level 1: near Kamehameha Exhibit Hall III
- Level 3: near rooms 311, 313 C, 316 C, and 319 B
- Lanyards should have a clip at each end that can fasten onto the style of badge in use.
- Conserve Energy: Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Conserve water.
- Support Local: Explore local businesses and attractions, supporting the community.
- Spread the Word: Share your sustainable conference experience with others and encourage them to join our commitment.
Join us in making NCORE an educational and enriching experience and a sustainable one. Together, we can create a positive impact on our planet and community. Thank you for being a part of our commitment to sustainability.
Get Involved - Be Part of a Sustainable Future.
Questions? Contact ncore@ou.edu
Photo at top of page of an image of a pōhuehue flower provided by the Hawai'i Tourism Authority. Pōhuehue (also called beach morning glories) are indigenous to Hawai‘i and are excellent natural vegetation used to control beach erosion. Photo used with permission.