The Bell County Expo Center has made tremendous efforts to increase its recycling efforts and reduce landfill waste. The Expo Center quickly recognized the issue with waste products from tourism-related businesses. As a result the Expo Center is reducing environmental impact through operational and other improvements.
Recycling Efforts-Waste Reduction
* Recycling bins for paper, plastic and aluminum are placed in offices and public spaces. Ink and toner cartridges are recycled and staff is encouraged to print two-sided documents.
* Motor oil, batteries and cooking oil is recycled and hazardous waste is properly disposed.
* Wooden pallets used for deliveries and supplies are collected by an outside vendor who recycles and reuses the pallets so they do not end up in landfills.
* Outdated computer equipment is donated to charities that recycle, rebuild and redistribute to those less fortunate.
* Damaged copper wires, steel and telecommunication cabling is recycled.
* Unclaimed lost items from events are donated to charity.
* Heated air hand dryers are placed in the restrooms to cut down on paper usage.
* Equestrian and Livestock shavings and waste are recycled and to make compost. More information below to purchase compost from the Expo.
Food and Beverage
* Where appropriate, bulk food from food shows is donated to food pantries.
* During events with high volume, malt beverages are served in aluminum cans vs. plastic bottles at portable concession stands.
Energy Conservation
* Facility lighting and HVAC operations are computer-programmed for maximum efficiency. The Expo has installed
magnetic bearing chillers, a high efficiency condensing boiler and digital
controls on its HVAC system, providing lower maintenance, improved comfort and
considerable energy savings.
* in May 2015 LED lighting was installed throughout the facility, replacing metal halide, fluorescent and
incandescent lighting. The new LED
fixtures provide more light of very consistent quality with significant savings
in operating and maintenance costs.
* During the off-season, products in coolers and freezers are moved to location so non-essential equipment can be turned off or power reduced.
More information about Infrastructure Improvement and Energy Efficiency Click here to see the project