BROOMFIELD, COLO.—RockResorts, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Vail Resorts with nine locations, is rolling out a formal green meetings program. From e-brochures and paperless check-in procedures to organic cuisine, RockResorts has made it easier than ever for planners to support or host environmentally-friendly meetings. To assist meeting planners and attendees in reducing the environmental footprint of their meetings, RockResorts has launched a carbon calculator on its website that allows planners to determine the impact their meeting attendees will have on the environment, including the transportation, lodging and details of the event itself.
The luxury resort company has in place “green” service standards that are required of each meeting or event regardless of additional choices made by the meeting or event planner. These “environmental automatics” include recycling and waste reduction programs, using organic, local and other sustainable food and beverage products whenever possible, and focusing on energy and water conserving fixtures. RockResorts catering and conference service staff are prepared to assist meeting coordinators by making recommendations for sustainable decorations and meeting props, sustainable transportation options, low-impact meeting support and marketing documents, reusable signage, donation of event décor such as plants and flowers, and contribution of food and other products to local nonprofits and food banks.
“There are so many opportunities with an event or meeting where the overall experience can be enhanced by choosing environmental features, while also saving the event planner and meeting attendees money and time,” said Julie Klein, director of environmental affairs for RockResorts. “To ensure meeting planners are aware of possibilities, we are here to offer assistance by creating service standards and options that allow them to know their event is having less of an impact than if they hosted it elsewhere.”
Acknowledging the added value of fresh foods and tastes of the region are a perfect complement to any event or meeting, the company’s Appetite for Life sustainable cuisine program is integrated into in all the company’s restaurants and catering efforts. Elements of this program include use of organic and natural meats, sustainable seafood, seasonal produce, organic wines and other beverages, and use of local purveyors. Meeting planners will be encouraged to work with RockResorts catering teams to create menus that take full advantage of the Appetite for Life program while satisfying the individual needs of their group.
Planners will have the options to support local conservation projects through organizations such as the National Forest Foundation. As a group activity, conference attendees can participate in a project such as a trail restoration or similar volunteer experience in the resort area they are visiting.
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