Meeting Venue
Though one of ASLO’s most popular meeting venues, Santa Fe has its own unique logistical challenges, particularly regarding space. Plenary lectures and the delivery of ASLO award presentations will take place at the newly constructed Santa Fe Convention Center. Scientific sessions will be held at three venues – the Convention Center, Santa Fe Hilton, and LaFonda hotels. We have scheduled 15 to 20 minute breaks during both the morning and afternoon sessions to allow attendees to move between locations.
The Santa Fe Convention Center is ideal for green meetings and events. Since its inception, environmental responsibility has been a major focus. 88% of the materials from the previous building were salvaged and recycled, 75% of the waste generated during construction is being recycled, and all exterior timber is certified, meaning it was rescued from the Sierra Blanca forest fire. The convention center is LEED Certified. (This is an industry standard for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.) It receives its certification based on standards that consider site sustainability, water efficiency, energy efficiency, content of materials and resources, indoor environmental quality and innovative design. Other factors that are important:
- The new building was constructed on the former site.
- The parking garage is underground on the old site and not being developed on a new site.
- The proximity of the Transit Center to the Civic Center promotes public transportation, and bicycle racks are installed on the grounds of the new building which promotes alternative methods of transportation.
- Roofs of buildings naturally collect heat and create a micro-climate which produces heat within the area inside and surrounding the building. The garden roof eliminates that micro-climate by providing a natural insulation which reduces the heat transmitted.
- Lighting occupancy sensors are placed throughout the storage rooms and restrooms. If no motion is detected within a set time period the lights are automatically turned off.
- There are three 15,000-gallon water catchment tanks for landscaping irrigation which are set in the ground underneath the garage floor.
- A sophisticated CO2 monitoring system is installed in the garage which will set off an alarm if the acceptable level of CO2 is exceeded, and the exhaust system is activated.
- All of the exterior timber used for lentils, corbels, and portals is certified.
- All paints used on the project contain the lowest VOC you can buy.
- Rather than concrete, exterior walkways are made from brick pavers which are porous and absorb water to reduce run-off and eliminate the micro-climate.
- There are three recycling areas located in the new building.
- To create a healthier working environment for staff, all office areas have some natural light.
- There are a number of skylights throughout the public spaces, as well.
- Carpet throughout the building is "green."
