FACILITY OVERVIEW

Host your event in San Diego, a city that is recognized nationally for sustainability and resilience. In 2025, the City of San Diego achieved LEED Gold Certification for Cities and Communities from the U. S. Green Building Council!

Here at the San Diego Convention Center, green approaches are embedded in all areas of operations, with a particular focus on energy resiliency, sustainable sourcing, food waste reduction, and plastic reduction.

ENERGY SOURCING & EFFICIENCIES

• By sourcing greener energy from San Diego Community Power, we have increased our renewable percentage from 31 % to 50 %.

• For ongoing efficiency, our entire facility uses:

○ LED light fixtures. We estimate the bulbs paid for themselves in fewer than two years.

○ Energy-efficient appliances in our kitchens, saving electricity and water.

○ Digital signage in the lobbies, reducing the need for single-use signage.

○ Drought-tolerant plants, drip irrigation, and mulch to reduce water waste.

LOCAL & SUSTAINABLE CATERING

• Fruits, vegetables, seafood, and more are purchased within a 150-mile radius when season permits.

• Our kitchens do not have any garbage disposals. All green waste is composted.

• Water bottle refill stations throughout the building reduce plastic waste. Where individual containers are needed, water is served in cans instead of bottles to minimize single-use plastic consumption.

WALKABLE ENVIRONMENTS REDUCE GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS

Our central location in the heart of downtown reduces car dependence. We are:

• Within walking distance of numerous hotels, shops, and restaurants.

• Next to a trolley stop that connects visitors to north San Diego, LA, and beyond via the Santa Fe Depot.

• Just three miles from San Diego International Airport.

“ For many meeting planners, sustainable food practices are a‘ must’ – no longer a perk or an afterthought. It’ s a value we share with our clients.”

- Sufi Karaien, Executive Chef

48 San Diego Tourism Authority