The Centennial State has long been a trailblazer in helping groups enjoy the state in a thoughtful manner that preserves resources and natural beauty. The Care for Colorado Leave No Trace Principles were created through a partnership between the Colorado Tourism Office and the Boulder-based Leave No Trace organization beginning in 2017 to address recreation-related impacts on the state. Groups and destinations can provide attendees with the seven principles in event information.
Several communities and lodging properties that host meetings and events also have localized ways to help planners in their sustainability efforts. For example, when spending time in Breckenridge, attendees are encouraged to
“B Like Breckenridge.” It’s easier than ever to go car-free with numerous shuttles from Denver International Airport to Breckenridge available, as well as public transportation and a new electric vehicle car share program through Colorado CarShare upon arrival in the mountain town. Also new is Breck Create’s Precious Plastics program, which gives participants the opportunity to transform plastic waste into art through workshops like Junk to Gems jewelry making.
In Beaver Creek, The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa Avon, Vail Valley, continues to amplify its commitment to sustainability by making the resort entirely free of single-use plastic products. The resort has replaced all in-room plastic water bottles with reusable aluminum bottles and installed water filtration stations on every floor. The food and beverage department also is doing its part by transitioning to using only eco-friendly to-go containers and replacing all plastic utensils with silverware. An on-site garden where team members are invited to pick fresh produce and herbs to take home, as well as the donation of all retired towels and sheets to the Eagle County Animal Shelter, are among the many other eco-friendly initiatives.
