High Altitude Society column: Actively Green 2015
High Altitude Society
Betty Ann Woodland | Special to the Daily |
On Wednesday evening at the Sonnenalp Resort of Vail a group of committed and caring people were recognized and celebrated as 26 businesses and organizations received their Actively Green 2015 sustainable business certifications. Actively Green is an initiative of the 2015 FIS Alpine World Ski Championships that endeavors to elevate our community sustainability performance while further solidifying Vail’s reputation as a world-class tourism destination and event host.
Businesses from any sector are encouraged to participate, from accommodations to tour operators to restaurants and retail companies. Benefits to businesses include saving money, becoming a community leader, engaging employees, attracting customers and fueling economic development.
“The program has given us a roadmap on how to implement healthy and environmentally-friendly business practices, and in doing so, we have seen energy and water usage and costs decrease while boosting employee morale and receiving positive responses from our guests,” said Johannes Faessler, of Sonnenalp Resort of Vail.
Kim Langmaid addressed the crowd offering thanks to the many who were involved in the program and the evening’s celebration.
“Thank you Johannes Faessler for hosting and co-sponsoring our celebration this evening and for being such a huge champion of the Actively Green 2015 program and for all your support and encouragement and longtime dedication to sustainability in Vail,” Langmaid said. She also thanked Jane Ross, who leads the green team at the Sonnenalp. “You serve as an inspiring mentor to other businesses in the community, and you have been a huge help toward our celebration this evening.”
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Langmaid recognized the Vail Valley Foundation and the 2015 Ski Championships Environmental Committee for their idea for Actively Green 2015 and for their financial support and vision. She also thanked the town of Vail and its environmental sustainability manager, Kristen Bertuglia, as well as Eagle County and Energy Smart. For more information, visit http://www.activelygreen2015.com.
Betty Ann Woodland is a longtime local who covers events. She can be reached at http://www.high altitudesociety.com.
