Our Sustainability Commitment
At ABET, sustainability is a fundamental part of our values, and we are proud to align our efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These principles guide how we design and execute our largest external event, the ABET Symposium, ensuring sustainability remains a key focus throughout.
This initiative reflects our commitment to making a lasting, positive impact – but we can’t achieve this alone. Sustainability is a shared value for many of our participants, and your involvement is crucial to our success. On this page, we outline our efforts and highlight how your contributions can help us create a more sustainable and meaningful event experience.
Planting Trees with Evertreen
As part of our sustainability efforts, we are partnering with Evertreen for ABET Symposium 2026! Evertreen is an organization that empowers forward-thinking companies to reduce their carbon footprint through reforestation projects.
For every attendee at this year’s Symposium, we are planting a tree to help reforestation projects in North Carolina, USA! Thanks to your participation, we are building a better world for the next generation of problem solvers — one that is safer, more efficient, more inclusive and more sustainable.
Check out the information below to learn more about our ABET Forest!
ABET Symposium Reforestation Dashboard
Waste Management and Reduction
Dedicated Recycling Bins
Recycling bins will be conveniently located throughout the event space, making it easy for participants to dispose of materials responsibly.
No Souvenirs at Registration – Trees Planted Instead
In lieu of traditional conference souvenirs, we’re focusing on meaningful contributions by planting a native tree for each participant. This not only reduces waste but also supports reforestation efforts in North Carolina. Each participant will receive an e-certificate featuring a QR code linking to a satellite image of the forest created by the ABET Symposium 2026 community.
Minimized Printed Materials
To further reduce paper waste, we are eliminating preprinted flyers. Instead, participants will receive a single printed brochure featuring a QR code. This code links to all event information, ensuring a streamlined, eco-friendly approach to sharing resources.
Eco-Friendly Resources and Practices
Encouraging Reusable Water Bottles
Participants are encouraged to bring their own reusable water bottles to reduce single-use waste. Hydration stations will be available throughout the event space to make refilling convenient.
Compostable Beverage Cups
For those who do not bring their own bottles, we will provide corn-based compostable cups for beverages during breakout sessions. These cups decompose quickly and help minimize the environmental impact of single-use products.
Recycled Materials for Name Badges
Name badges will be made from recycled materials, aligning with our commitment to reducing waste and conserving resources.
Collection Bins for Lanyards and Badges
Designated collection bins will be available at exits for attendees to drop off their lanyards and badges as they leave, reducing waste and allowing these items to be repurposed in future events.
Energy and Resource Conservation
Digital Signage and App Information
To minimize printed materials, we are increasing the use of digital signage for directions, schedules and announcements. Participants are also encouraged to rely on the Symposium app, which offers a comprehensive guide to the event, including real-time updates, speaker information, and session details.
Sustainable Transportation and Local Engagement
Sustainable Transportation Options
We encourage participants to explore eco-friendly options listed on the Raleigh-Durham International Airport website. Raleigh offers sustainable alternatives like walking, biking, public transit, rideshares and electric scooters to help reduce your carbon footprint.
