Atlanta Celebrates Sustainability Leadership

Matt McLaughlin and
Richard Eidlin 

On February 23, 2012 the Metro Atlanta Chamber hosted a reception honoring Atlanta's sustainability leadership at their impressive offices on the edge of Olympic Centennial Park.  The view from the reception area was spectacular.

As an event sponsor, the American Sustainable BusinessCouncil orchestrated the successful event along with assistance from the Chamber and other sponsors. After a warm welcome by Jorge Fernandez, Metro Chamber VP Global Commerce, Richard Eidlin, ASBC Director - Campaigns & Business Engagements, served as the program Master of Ceremonies. 

Suzanne Burnes, James Marlowe and
Peter Marte enjoying reception

Speakers ranged from solar power pioneer Peter Marte of Hannah Solar Power to Suzanne Burnes, Sustainable Atlanta Executive Director, to Robert Newcomer, Chair of the Green Chamber of the South, an event sponsor.  Frank Knapp of the SC SmallBusiness Chamber of Commerce gave a regional perspective of sustainability's vital role in economic growth and stability.  Emphasizing their focus on refurbishing electronics for reuse, Matt McLaughlin represented event sponsor Electronic Recyclers International.

Richard introduced Elemental Impact founder Holly Elmore as "the most colorful was saved for last."  Holly's podium time was dedicated to Atlanta's role in building templates for sustainable operating practices to implement across the nation and globe. First with the Zero Waste Zones launched in 2009 followed by the Sustainable Food Court Initiative Pilot at the Atlanta Airport, Atlanta takes a pronounced leadership role in mobilizing the corporate community into sustainable ACTION.  

Holly @ the podium

An overview was given of the monumental compostable packaging provision included in the airport concession contracts awarded in early January.  See the ZWA Blog post, Atlanta Airport Makes Bold Sustainable Statement, for details on the contract provision. 

The Ei FB album, 02-23-12 Atlanta Sustainability Reception, gives the pictorial recap of the event. 

With serendipity at play, the ZWZ Two-Year Anniversary was exactly one year earlier across Centennial Park at The World of Coca-Cola.  Many of the press conference attendees were at the Metro Chamber event.  The ZWA Blog post, ZWZ Garners National Support, gives an overview of the press conference.

It was a lovely evening and celebration of Atlanta's pioneering spirit.