Original Message:
Sent: 3/14/2026 5:05:00 PM
From: Yadin Larochette
Subject: RE: Montreal Green Initiatives
Thank you, Nick, for underscoring all the ways the Palais, as the hosting venue, and AIC, as the host organization, are choosing to reduce our environmental impact!
Individual choices also stack up, and choosing greener options can have all sorts of additional direct benefits. I echo Nick's suggestion and encourage you all to check out the revised pledge, where you'll find lots of co-benefits to consider!
I, and the rest of the Sustainability Committee, also look forward to hearing from you on how else we can be better stewards of our environment and simultaneously improve our lives- before, during and after the annual meeting.
Yadin Larochette
AIC Sustainability Committee Co-Chair
Original Message:
Sent: 3/13/2026 12:14:00 PM
From: Nick Farrell
Subject: Montreal Green Initiatives
Over the years, we have become increasingly conscious of efforts we can take to make the Annual Meeting greener. When planning for the meeting, AIC practices value-based intentionality, focusing on environmentally-conscious decisions. This year's efforts include…
Our Green Attendee Pledge, drafted by AIC's Sustainability Committee, which you can sign on to when registering. Signing the pledge is a commitment to help reduce our carbon footprint while attending the meeting.
Programs are available digitally with printed copies only available through print-on-demand pre-orders.
Some of our programming this year is sustainability centered, such as the Developing Sustainable Documentation Strategies for Time-Based Media Art workshop, the Community Partnership Project, and a luncheon hosted by the Sustainability Committee and Health & Safety Network which focuses on sustaining ourselves!
Additionally, our venue, the Palais des congrèss de Montréal, holds a GreenStep Certification – Level 4. This recognition attests to the deep and structured integration of sustainability in all operations, with results that surpass industry standards. It reflects exemplary and consistent management, supported by measurable and proven practices.
In addition, the Palais has signed the Sustainable Tourism 2030 Pledge, and employs a full-time team member in charge of improving and building on sustainability initiatives.
Some of the Palais de congrèss de Montréal key sustainable initiatives include:
- Carbon-neutral building
- Emissions offset from business travel
- Hosts an urban agriculture lab and research projects
- Experimentation on green roofs
- Pollinating beehive
- Vertical urban agriculture on a scaffold structure
- Urban rooftop vineyard
- Carbon offset program for events
- Recycling program
Learn more here.
In working with the Palais, we have selected Maestro Culinaire as our caterer. Maestro uses reusable trays and includes a composting program for all food waste, and are considered a sustainable option.
Lastly, Montreal has an expansive metro system, pedestrian friendly streets, and public bike share. While a car might be the most convenient option, especially if you are in a time crunch, we suggest looking into other transportation options when exploring Montreal if you have the flexibility!
We look forward to seeing you next month! Feel free to respond with ways that you are making your attendance at the Annual Meeting more sustainable!
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Nick Farrell
Operations Assistant
American Institute for Conservation and Foundation for Advancement in Conservation
Washington, DC
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