Photo Credit: JW WalthallThe world comes to Austin each March for South by Southwest, and with that drastic influx of people and fun it's easy to let your green habits (and good ones, for that matter!) slide. Here at SXSW we've taken a lot of measures to ensure that your experience stays as green as possible. See below for some of our tips.
Getting Around: If you think the traffic is frustrating try finding a parking spot! A bike is far and away the best way to experience SXSW. With SXcycles, the official SXSW bike share program, you can roam the streets stress-free. Presented by NBC's Revolution, SXcycles equips you with a complimentary Tern Link D8, Link P9 or Joe C21 bicycle, lights, lock and helmet. This full service bike share offers a mobile mechanic and tips on how to get around town. Explore Austin and SXSW with this fun, social and eco-friendly transportation alternative. For more fun be sure to check out the Revolution experience at the SXcycles HQ!
Recycling: SXSW works hard to compost and limit waste–at last year's event we diverted over 20,000 pounds of trash from the landfill. We're expanding these intiatives this year through efforts at Southbites, Auditorium Shores and other outdoor SXSW venues. If you happen to find yourself with recyclables yet no recycling is near, head over to Brita's Urban Oasis, an outdoor sustainability lounge featuring a solar charging station, water for your refillable bottles and SXSW's recycling transfer center.
What To See, Eat and Do: Stop by the official food court, Southbites, for local food truck fare including organic, vegetarian and vegan options. Acclaimed “trash artist” Jason Mecier will be on site creating a custom mural presented by the collaborative waste management programs of Keep America Beautiful and GLAD. Whether you work in the sustainability field or are simply conscientious, there are some great panels, films and musicians that are poised to inspire. We're excited to see Elon Musk, Stevie Nicks, Emmylou Harris, Cory Booker and many, many more. Check out the full schedule and build your own. Lastly, remember to drink lots of water, wear sunscreen and change your shoes and socks when the sun goes down–it's the SXSW way to recharge.
