Bold Reuse, a leader in reusable packaging solutions, is teaming up with the Oregon Convention Center to introduce a reusable packaging program for convention center attendees. This program marks a major milestone in the convention center space, setting a new standard in sustainability for events.
With a collective commitment to environmental responsibility, Bold Reuse, and Oregon Convention Center are thrilled to announce the implementation of the Bold Reuse Platform across select restaurants and cafés within the convention center. This initiative represents a major step forward in reducing single-use plastics and waste, showcasing both organizations' dedication to creating a greener and more sustainable future. By replacing disposable foodware with durable reusable trays and plates, the program significantly decreases the carbon, waste, and water footprints associated with conventional single-use plastic production and disposal.
"Our collaboration with the Oregon Convention Center underscores the critical importance of reuse in advancing our shared vision of achieving zero waste and carbon neutrality," stated Heather Watkins, CRO & Co-Founder of Bold Reuse.
"By eliminating the need for single-use plastics, we significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, minimize waste generation, and lessen the adverse impact of single-use plastic on our planet. As the first convention center to attain LEED certification, they have consistently demonstrated bold leadership in sustainability for the industry. Now, by spearheading the implementation of a reusable foodware packaging program, they continue to lead the way in pioneering sustainable practices.”
The Oregon Convention Center has long been recognized for its forward-thinking approach to sustainability, and the adoption of Bold Reuse's reusable packaging platform aligns with their ongoing commitment to sustainability. As one of the first convention centers to embrace such a program, Oregon Convention Center is poised to inspire other venues worldwide to follow suit.
"We are delighted to partner with Bold Reuse in this pioneering endeavor," said Craig Stroud, Executive Director of Oregon Convention Center.
"By introducing the Bold Reuse Platform, we are creating a positive ripple effect that extends far beyond our walls. We are host to the imaginations that can transform the world, and engaging our attendees to be a part of the solution to our plastic crisis is incredibly exciting.”
About Bold Reuse
Bold Reuse supports companies incorporating reusable packaging into their business operations to reduce their waste footprint while expanding brand awareness and customer loyalty. New Seasons Market, Oregon Convention Center, Starbucks, Imperfect Foods, and the Portland Trail Blazers have partnered with Bold Reuse to help implement and scale reuse systems into their organizations. Recognized as a leader in the reuse industry, Bold Reuse received the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network 2022 Early Stage Entrepreneurs Award. Bold Reuse has helped customers divert nearly 3 million pounds of waste from landfill.
About Oregon Convention Center
Oregon Convention Center is the largest convention center in the Pacific Northwest with 255,000 square feet of contiguous exhibit space, two grand ballrooms, 52 individual meeting rooms, superior catering and concession offerings, and a full-time staff of over 120 professionals, making it the perfect venue to service events from 10 to 10,000 attendees.
The OCC became the first LEED-EB-certified convention center in 2004, then achieved LEED-EB Silver in 2008 and LEED Platinum in 2014. Since 2007, the venue has also been certified Salmon-Safe, a clean water advocacy nonprofit, for its innovative rain garden, responsible stormwater management efforts, and integrated pest management policy.
The OCC is owned and operated by Metro and managed through the Metropolitan Exposition Recreation Commission. Visit www.oregoncc.org for more information. Metro, the regional government, crosses city limits and county lines to build a resilient economy, keep nature close by and respond to a changing climate. Representing a diverse population of 1.8 million people in 25 cities and three counties, Metro’s directly elected council gives voters a voice in decision about how the region grows and communities prosper.