BEING GREEN and GETTING GOLD!

Moving Mountains has recycled and taken steps to reduce energy consumption for many years. This year under a new sustainable business program developed by the Steamboat Springs Chamber we have reviewed current practices and recommendations provided by a sustainable business coordinator and taken this to the next level. For our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint we are delighted to have received the top level Gold Award.

Steps include:

• Single stream recycling at all of our rental properties for glass, cans, plastic containers, cardboard, paper and most paper packaging. We recycle about 50% of our current waste.
• Lightbulb replacement program - all conventional bulbs are being replaced with compact fluroescent bulbs which last longer and use less energy.
• Canvas shopping bags are now provided to all staff removing the need to use plastic bags.
• Hot water tanks and pipes are now fully insulated.
• Employees are trained extensively in sustainability practices including in the kitchen and in the chalets.
• Employees volunteer for community causes like Yampatika.
• Appliances: Energy Star rated appliances are utilized in most cases. Boot dryers are on a time switch so that they automatically turn off.
• HVAC: Temperature in rooms are controlled by zones with programmable thermostats to reduce temperature when not in use.
• The hot tub is set on economy when not in use and is covered, both which save energy and evaporation.
• Regular property checks include closing open windows, turning off appliances not in use, checking for water leaks, advising guests to keep garage doors closed.
• Print marketing materials use 100% post consumer recycled paper and office paper products also meet this standard.
• Shampoo bottles and other similar products are refilled.
• Garbage is kept inside so as not to attract wildlife.
• Since water use is high in high end vacation rental units, we now use our Bobo the Bear story to encourage guests to save water, energy and recycle waste.
• Leak monitoring and landscape irrigation are monitored by the staff.
• Green Purchasing policies are now in place seeking out green cleaning products and other household supplies. So far this includes: kitchen towels, cleaning supplies, toilet paper and paper towels.
• Moving Mountains picks up guests at the airport and shuttles them to wherever they wish to go using Suburbans, which reduces the need for individual cars for visitors, and subsequently carbon emissions. We are investigating biofuel or other clean renewable fuel options although there are limited options in our region at this time.
• In our commercial kitchen; food is cooled down prior to refrigerating; equipment is cleaned and serviced regularly; air drying is used whenever possible; condiments are purchased in bulk when possible; reusable storage tubs are used for food; produce is purchased locally whenever possible; Styrofoam containers are avoided.
• Recycle:
  Recycled materials include cardboard, plastic, bottles, other packaging, almost everything except food scrap waste.