Sustainability Initiatives

Sustainability at the National Press Club: Leading Green Initiatives

At the Press Club, we are committed to sustainability in every facet of our operations, ensuring that our actions contribute to a healthier planet and community.

Event & Venue Operations

  • Event Materials: Recyclable materials are used across in-house events, and most event décor like florals are reused .
  • We partner with recycling companies to responsibly dispose of textiles, electronics, and other materials.
  • Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose: Our office and event supplies follow this principle to reduce waste. 
  • Lost and found items not retrieved are donated to local charities.
     

Energy & Waste Reduction

  • Energy Efficiency: We’re reducing energy use with measurable goals, adhering to DC's BEPS standards, and utilizing timed light switches where feasible and LED lightbulbs and fixtures have replaced CFL lights.
  • Water Conservation: Water refill stations in public spaces are available to guests, reducing the need for single-use plastics, while our ongoing water reduction efforts are monitored for progress.
     

People & Practices

  • Supporting Community & Staff: We host DC-sponsored interns and our staff actively promotes sustainable transportation options for members, staff and guests.
  • Sustainability Leadership: Our dedicated sustainability team monitors and reports our progress.
     

Kitchen & Culinary Sustainability

  • Minimizing Food Waste: Our chefs embrace sustainability through training cooks to prepare each ingredient to its maximum efficiency. For example - chopping a pepper all the way to its stem. Then, instead of composting the tops, repurposing them into staff meals like ratatouille. Our kitchen staff prioritizes extending the life cycle of food and minimize waste at every step of preparing your meal!
  • Composting: We compost both food prep scraps and post-consumer waste through our partnership with Veteran Compost, transforming waste into nutrient-rich soil.
     

Sustainability District Recognition

  • As a proud member of the Sustainability District, our Club is recognized for actively improving our sustainable operations and enhancing our positive impact on the community.
  • We meet key criteria for eco-friendly practices.
  • We attend DDC-led sustainability trainings and roundtable events annually.
  • We improve our services to promote environmental protection, equity, and economic growth.
  • We're dedicated to shaping a greener, more sustainable future.
     

Additional Innovations

  • Private Label Wine: Our wine is produced using eco-friendly techniques, emphasizing natural balance in the vineyards and sustainable water and energy practices.
  • We’ve transitioned away from selling water in plastic bottles. Our Club now partners with a company to produce aluminum bottles, offering a sustainable alternative.
  • Clean Plate Challenge: We encourage staff to reduce food waste by taking only what they need and finishing their meals.