Vail Resorts established a bold Commitment to Zero sustainability goal to achieve a zero net operating footprint by 2030. This goal means zero net emissions, zero waste disposal and zero impact on habitat and forests.
We are making great strides towards this goal as a company. Our North American resorts have now reached 85 percent renewable power. This is partly due to the Plum Creek Wind project in Wayne County, Nebraska. Last season, we recycled and composted 9.8 million pounds of waste. This was 483 times more than the total waste from all domestic resorts. We have also partnered with Vail’s residents and local stakeholders in the certification process for Sustainable Destination Under the Mountain Ideal Standard.
This goal is only possible with the help of our valued guests who ski and ride Vail Mountain. Here are five ways that guests and locals can reduce their impact on the environment when visiting Vail Mountain.
Transportation
Guests can reduce their carbon footprints when they travel to Vail Mountain by carpooling or using Epic Mountain Express. Visit rideshare options GoI70.com/carpool.
Zero waste to be disposed of
Vail Mountain has fewer trash cans than other areas. Instead, you will find central waste sorting locations where on-mountain dining staffs will help you sort and compost what is recyclable. This maximizes waste diversion. Take your lunch and picnics to the mountain scenic decks. Then, pack it in and take it out. Leave No Trace backcountry principles
Respect local wildlife
You should observe wildlife from a safe distance, so as to not disturb their natural habitat. Please don’t feed wildlife if you eat outside.
Learn more about wildlife habitats, and the Vail Mountains ecosystem
For a one-hour guided nature hike, visit the Nature Discovery Center at Eagle Bahn Gondola. Hikes are offered Wednesday through Saturday between 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.
Guest Give Back Program
Through our guest donation program, you can play a significant role in helping to restore and preserve forested areas. Your one-dollar donations from products such as the Epic Pass, Colorado, raised $1.5M last fiscal year to support the National Forest Foundation. These funds were matched in part by the NFF and supported several local critical forest restoration initiatives.
Our goal is for riders and skiers to be able to participate in sustainable efforts. All efforts, large and small, help to positively reduce our impact on the environment.
John-Ryan Lockman is the Environmental Sustainability Manager at Vail Resorts. The Vail Local Marketing District Advisory Council is responsible for the Discover Vail monthly sustainability column.