Save the world

Practices

The 2024 Australasian Academy of Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine (AusACPDM) Conference Committee aims to reduce its environmental footprint as much as possible. Many steps such as reducing printed materials (instead incorporating digital solutions) will be taken into account to achieve this. Instead of printed program books, delegates will be provided with access to a Conference app. The Conference is committed to contracting suppliers who prioritise environmentally friendly practices and materials.

Green Committee Members

  • Sarah McIntyre, Cerebral Palsy Alliance
  • Meredith Wynter, Queensland Children’s Health
  • Yana Wilson, Cerebral Palsy Alliance
  • Tessa de Vries, The University of Melbourne
  • Michelle Jackman
  • Fi Graham
  • Lynda McNamara, Queensland Health
  • Danielle Garner, Queensland Health

AusACPDM Go Green Badge

AusACPDM is Going Green

We all have a part to play in preserving our future for generations to come, both locally and across the globe. As individuals as well as a community, we can contribute towards preserving the planet and its natural systems and resources.

We are excited to inform you that AusACPDM 2024 is being transformed into a more green and sustainable experience, in partnership with the Cairns Convention Centre (CCC). Here is what you can expect to see at the meeting in Cairns:

Catering​

  • Food will be seasonal and prepared from local and regional products
  • All food & beverage utensils will be reusable or compostable
  • The cleaning products used in the kitchen and food preparation facilities are Good Environmental CHoice Australia (GECA) certified
  • E-water (electrolyzed water) is used in lieu of chemicals for food safety sterilization
  • Surplus food will be donated to non-profit associations in the surrounding area
  • In place of cut fruit, we will be offering whole fruit

Printed Items & Exhibition​​

  • Programme will be electronic - the Mobile App and Virtual Platform will have expanded content and dynamic ways to interact and share via social media platforms.
  • All course materials will be available in digital format
  • Course attendance certificates will be sent electronically
  • Recycling - containers for specific exhibition-related waste will be rented to maximize recycling
  • Exhibitors will be encouraged to join this initiative and reduce single-use giveaways at their stands​

Energy Efficiency & Water Consumption

The CCC has:

  • Energy efficient lighting, including LED lights and motion sensor lighting with dimming control
  • Optimal air-conditioning to reduce energy use​​ and demand controlled ventilation
  • Heat reducing design, including 1200 sun blades to reduce direct sunlight and reduce solar gain, high-performance glazing glass increases energy efficiency up to 30%, and biophilic design incorporating a living green façade.
  • A double layer pleated plate roof is designed to capture the seasonal tropical downpours and channel rainwater directly into the rainwater storage tanks (~200,000L capacity) that are used for irrigation. ​
  • Sustainable landscaping including a minimum of 50% natives to promote biodiversity
  • Moisture sensitive irrigation of greenery operating during nighttime
  • Dual flush toilets and flow-restricted taps
  • Water and energy efficient appliances
  • Solar hot water heater which provides ~35% of the CCC hot water needs.

Garbage Disposal & Waste Treatment​

  • Commitment from CCC for minimal food waste
  • The CCC has waste sorting bins that are clearly signed.
  • Additional waste sorting bins for metal, glass, and plastic will be provided
  • Segregation of special waste generated during the setup and dismantling of the events​.
  • Grease waste at the CCC is sent to a third-party vendor for conversion to biofuel
  • Hand towels & toilet paper are made of recycled paper

Plastic Free AusACPDM ​​

  • CCC is part of the Plastic Free Cairns Program
  • All name badges will be plastic-free and printed onsite​
  • The venue has multiple water fountains where you can refill reusable water bottles
  • Reusable cups at water coolers around the meeting (to reduce single use water bottles)
  • Non-recyclable plastic will be kept to a minimum throughout the meeting

Accessibility

  • The meeting will be both in person and hybrid, offering inclusive and equitable access to the conference.
  • Virtual conference material will be available on demand for all registrants (virtual and in-person). Recorded content and material will be available for a period of three months after the meeting.
  • The venue is accessible

Carbon Offsetting​

  • We have provided a tool that delegates can use to calculate their approximate carbon footprint for attending the meeting in person. Calculate yours here!
  • We will suggest local biodiversity and carbon offsetting programs that delegates can purchase carbon credits to offset their carbon footprint

Transportation​

  • All local recommendations for accommodation, meals and activities are accessible via walking/wheeling distance or public transport
  • The CCC has parking facilities for bicycles

Aligning with the United Nations (UN) Sustainability Development Goals

The UN recognises the importance of achieving a balance between economic growth, social inclusion and environmental sustainability to ensure a better future for all. AusACPDM is committed to supporting the UNs sustainability development goals, with the aim of incorperating the following priorities:

  • GOAL 3: Good Health and Wellbeing

    Provide healthy food options, promoting physical activity and offering a positive emotional environment

  • GOAL 4: Quality Education

    The conference will promote knowledge sharing and educational opportunities for participants. Education scholarships will be offered to increase participation

  • GOAL 5: Gender Equality

    A diverse and inclusive representation among speakers, attendees and organisers

  • GOAL 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

    Water conservation practices and access to clean water at the conference centre

  • GOAL 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

    The conference centre supports clean energy and we are encouraging participants to reduce energy use by staying within walking distance of the venue and using public transport

  • GOAL 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

    Encouraging sustainable practices in participating industry partners

  • GOAL 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

    Selecting a conference venue that values and already has in place a focus on sustainability

  • GOAL 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

    Measures in place to reduce waste and promote responsible consupution throughout the conference, such as reducing single use plastics and maximising recycling

  • GOAL 13: Climate Action

    Striving to minimise the carbon footprint of the conference by promoting energy efficiency and encouraging offsetting emissions

  • GOAL 15: Life on Land

    Consideration of the environmental impact on local ecosystems by encouraging participants to offset carbon by supporting local environmental/sustainable organisations

  • GOAL 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

    AusACPDM is focussed on improving the lives of people with disabilities and promoting an inclusive society

  • GOAL 17: Partnerships for the Goals

    Fostering collaboration and partnerships among participants, sponsors and organisers to maximise the positive impact of the conference