ASPEN, Colo.—Denver has a chance to show its environmental leadership when it hosts the Democratic National Convention next summer, Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper said at American Renewable Energy Day in Aspen.
About 35,000 people, including 15,000 reporters from around the world, are expected for the Democrats’ convention. Hickenlooper said Friday that convention organizers are working to make the event as environmentally friendly as possible. Ideas include implementing waterless urinals and reusable water bottles.
The city is trying to make the convention nearly paperless and recycle as much paper as possible. It is also working to reduce the water and energy used by hotels, both during the convention and beyond, Hickenlooper said.
Gov. Bill Ritter, a Democrat, said there has been a “seismic” shift in Colorado over the last two years in the number of people who think that renewable energy and climate change are crucial issues.
Ritter made renewable energy a key part of his gubernatorial campaign. He said Friday that interest in promoting alternative energy sources crosses political parties and philosophies.
This past session, the state Legislature passed a bill requiring power companies to produce 20 percent of electricity from renewable sources by 2015.
Ritter said Colorado ranks among the top states for wind, sun and the potential for geothermal development, making it a strong spot to harness renewable energy.
