Sustainability

DTECH reduces paper waste by utilizing honeycomb, vinyl, 3M clings, and fabric materials for signage, while event common areas feature sustainable recycled carpet. Attendees will also benefit from recyclable badges without plastic holders, supporting a more eco-friendly event. 

By sourcing greener, sustainable energy from San Diego Community Power—a nonprofit, community-based clean energy provider—the SDCC have increased the renewable percentage from 31% to 50%.

To reduce consumption, the entire facility uses LED light fixtures, including our iconic Sails Pavilion. This investment has helped lower electricity usage, and we estimate the bulbs paid for themselves in fewer than two years. Additional efficiencies include energy-efficient appliances in kitchens, saving electricity and water, and digital signage that helps minimize the need for single-use signage

The SDCC goal of elevating the culinary experience for attendees concurrently aims to reduce our environmental impact. Local sourcing of fruits, vegetables, seafood, and other products are core to the operation. SDCC purchases within a 150-mile radius (whenever season permits) and participates in local composting programs. The kitchens do not have in-sink garbage disposal units; instead, the team is trained to place all excess food scraps into the green compost bins. 

The SDCC's Outdoor landscaping uses drought-tolerant plants, drip irrigation, and mulch to reduce watering. 

Positioned in the heart of downtown, The SDCC central location reduces car dependence. The San Diego Convention Center is located within walking distance of numerous hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions, next to a San Diego Trolley stop and less than a mile from a train station (Santa Fe Depot) that connects employees and visitors to North San Diego, Los Angeles, and beyond & just three miles from the San Diego International Airport.

Beyond the SDCC building, sustainable practices are evident across the region. In 2022, the City of San Diego updated the City’s Climate Action Plan, setting an aggressive target of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2035. In 2025, the City achieved LEED Gold status for its progress and commitments toward sustainability

We are committed to reducing the use of single-use plastics throughout the event by promoting sustainable alternatives such as reusable aluminum water bottles at the concession stands, compostable lunch boxes, plates, cutlery, and other eco-friendly options

The green approach extends to hydration: water bottle refill stations are available throughout the lobbies on the upper and lower levels.

The SDCC recycling program includes 4-stream waste receptacles divided into paper, recyclables, trash, and compost. They also prioritize the purchasing of products made with recyclable and biodegradable materials.

In partnership with Better Stands, we're committed to enhancing sustainability by reducing single-use disposable booths at exhibitions and promoting reusable structures. Join us—pledge your commitment today!

Exhibitors - please sign into your ERC to complete the pledge!