How Green Are the Emmys?

Every host or hostess knows that, as great as parties are, they generate a lot of refuse.

Multiply your back yard barbecue by the 7,000 or more guests at the Emmy Awards Governors Ball, and you have some idea of the herculean task it is to make the ball an ecologically sound event.

Because the Academy is committed to helping the planet, though, every effort goes into keeping the event as green as possible.

Below are some fun facts showing how that is done. 

Ball Vendors in brackets "[ ]"

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Service ware including glass is reusable.
[Classic, Sequoia, Patina, LACC]

To-go items including boxes are biodegradable.
[Classic, Sequoia]

Service ware does not contain Styrofoam/oil-based plastic.
[Classic, Sequoia, Patina]

Storing and transporting food supported by reusable containers.
[Classic]

All cleaning supplies for food products are biodegradable and earth-friendly.
[LACC]

Cooking oil is recycled and then converted into clean, green bio-diesel fuel.
[LACC]

EVENT DESIGN

The LACC achieved a historical feat by becoming the first U.S. Convention Center of age and size to be awarded the highly sought after certification in leadership in energy and environmental design for existing buildings (LEED-EB) from the US Green Building Council
(USGBC).

All floral and debris will be composted after the event, to create new rich soil.
[LA Premier]

Local products and recycled materials used for design elements.
[Bill Ferrell Company/ Sosa Sister’s]

All rentals consistently reused.
[Classic]

Non-reusable set pieces are sent to recovery facility.
[Bill Ferrell Company/ Sosa Sister’s]

All of the materials used for event design are completely recycled.
[Sosa Sister’s]

ENERGY

LACC is enrolled in the LADWP Green Power Program at a level of 30% of the facility’s consumption and is a member of EPA's Green Power Partnership and WasteWise Recycling Programs.
[LACC]

Solar energy panel arrays on site.
[LACC]

Energy saving practices and equipment employed in office work related to the event (i.e. Energy Star products, turn off electronics, etc.).
[Sequoia]

The HVAC (Air Conditioning System) is CFC Compliant; dangerous chlorofluorocarbons that can damage the ozone layer are not used.
[LACC]

Battery LED candles are being used; there will be no burning of toxic candles.
[LA Premier]

WASTE/RECYCLING

Comprehensive recycling program in use including compost, large construction items and small items (including bottles, glass, carpet, wood, and metals).
[Sequoia/LACC]

Dishware and silverware reused or recycled.
[Classic]

All cardboard shipments boxes are recycled.
[Classic]

All parties ensure recycling plans are fulfilled during and after the event. [Sequoia]

NOTE: Los Angeles has the highest recycling rate (76%) out of the 10 largest
U.S. cities.

*Source: Zero Waste Progress Report 2013 by UCLA Engineering Extension Recycling and Municipal Solid Waste Management Program