The Aspen Skiing Company has been recognised by Business Enterprises for Sustainable Travel (BEST) for its efforts to preserve the environment in the Colorado mountains where the firm operates ski resorts, hotels and restaurants.
The Aspen Skiing Company (SkiCo) is the sixth company to be recognized by BEST for innovative programs that advance the interests of communities, businesses and travellers.
SkiCo operates four major ski areas which cover more than 5,000 acres – Aspen Mountain, Buttermilk, Snowmass and Aspen Highlands, which are visited by more than 1.3 million visitors a year.
The company created an Environmental Affairs Department to preserve surrounding natural resources. As well as providing jobs for more than 3,400 employees, and energy-efficient housing for many, it has successfully reduced pollution and hazardous waste in the area, created programs to protect wildlife and limited business expansion into nearby national forests.
Commenting on the award, Michael Seltzer, Director of Business Enterprises for Sustainable Travel said: “Aspen Skiing Company has proven that environmental responsibility can go hand in hand with healthy business growth. The company has enjoyed rising profits, reduced its risks of violating environmental laws and regulations, boosted morale among its employees and gained a reputation as the environmental leader in its industry. It is a model for other firms wanting to preserve their natural habitats and to ensure their future.”
In 1996, SkiCo developed company-wide policies to protect the environment. Since its Environmental Affairs Department was formed three years ago, the company has:
