Schweitzer Mountain Resort is a proud participant in the National Ski Area Association's Sustainable Slopes Initiative, and is making efforts resort wide to reduce our impact on the environment. We signed this initiative to demonstrate our commitment to environmental protection and stewardship. 

We cannot ignore the fact that our industry does inherently impact the environment, but we are commited to minimizing that impact however possible. 

During the winter of 2007-2008 the following actions were taken at Schweitzer.

RENEWABLE ENERGY

Both the Basin Express Quad and the Lakeview Triple were supported by renewable energy through the purchase of Green Tags. Schweitzer participates in the Green Tags Program with Northern Lights, Inc and the Bonneville Environmental Foundation.

This year (08-09) enough Green Tags were purchased to offset the energy consumption of three lifts, the Basin Express, Lakeview Triple and Great Escape Quad.

Green Tags are certificates that pay for the production of renewable energy such as wind and solar power which is then introduced into the energy grid.

This purchase reduces the amount of carbon dioxide released into the environment. Schweitzer is proud to join other ski resorts such as Mt. Hood, Park City and Deer Valley to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and create a long-term benefit of reducing our dependence on fossil fuels for energy production. Say no to global warming and think snow!

For more information on green tags, renewable energy and what you can do to color your life more green, click here.

REDUCE, REUSE AND RECYCLE  
  
Schweitzer recycled 2,340 pounds of office paper and 16,460 pounds of cardboard.

In our efforts to recycle glass, we collected over 10,000 pounds and transported it to the Colburn transfer site. Unfortunately, at this time glass recycling is not available in our area; instead the glass is crushed and used as fill. 

Plastic products are not recycled in our area either; the nearest plastic recycling facility would require driving over 100 miles. Our solution for this was to greatly reduce the number of plastic bottles we purchase. Instead of offering primarily bottled water and soda in our eateries, we transitioned to primarily fountain products. 
   
Schweitzer also began purchasing compostable hot beverage cups and food containers.  Traditionally, hot beverage cups use a petroleum-based lining. Tully’s coffee corporation features the new Green Cup with compostable lining.  

Brochures and trail maps are printed on paper made with post-consumer recycled content.          

LITTER

Each spring, our employees collectively walk nine miles of road picking up trash in an effort to keep our roads and water clean.  Our staff works throughout the year to pick up trash at the resort and keep our mountain beautiful.   
   

COMMUNITY

Schweitzer Mountain Resort is a Gold Star Volunteer for Climate Can (Climate Change Action Network), a group of concerned local citizens who organized in response to growing evidence and concern over the impacts of global warming. 

ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE 

A group of directors and employees representing all facets of Schweitzer’s operation meets regularly to discuss conservation opportunities and plan for future progress. Look for updates on this page!