We offer Canned Water for Kids in our stores which is a Wisconsin-based nonprofit providing spring water in aluminum bottles and cans, with the proceeds used to fund clean-drinking-water projects in developing nations while also reducing plastic water bottle usage.

A program where soap and left-over amenities are recycled and reused providing communities in many countries the basic tools for hygiene and the potential to decrease preventable diseases such as typhoid and dysentery.

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The Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch program helps consumers and businesses choose seafood that's fished or farmed in ways that protect sea life and habitats, now and for future generations. Our recommendations indicate which seafood items are "Best Choices" or "Good Alternatives," and which ones you should "Avoid."

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Zero Landfill. From becoming America's first Zero-Landfill auto maker, with all waste recycled or reused, to our current National Park Zero-Landfill initiative.

#DontFeedtheLandfills

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Many of our products offered in the gift shop are made in the USA and we also offer products made from recycled material.

Our Efforts

FOOD SOURCING

Increasing procurement of local, seasonal and responsibly sourced products.

• Purchase locally sourced foods and beverages from area growers, vintners, brewers, butchers and more.
• Partner with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch Program and only purchase fish from the green, or occasionally the yellow list.
• Source only RBsT hormone free dairy products and cage-free eggs.

How can I help? Many locally produced goods and edibles are available for purchase in our retail stores – consider purchasing these as excellent mementos of your trip.

EFFICIENT OPERATIONS

Controlling our energy usage.

• Utilizing occupancy sensors to control power use in office areas.
• Converting lighting to LED efficient systems.

How can I help? Be sure to turn off all electrical devices when not using.

WATER CONSERVATION

Saving each drop.

• Installed low flow showerheads, toilets.
• Offering an ‘opt-out’ linen conservation program.

How can I help? As a guest, please use only the water you need when showering or using the sink. Reuse your towels by hanging up after use to reduce linen laundry.

MINIMIZING WASTE

Waste is minimized throughout our operations.

• Operating a recycling center within the park.
• Not purchasing Styrofoam for food and beverage containers.
• Working with suppliers to minimize all shipping packaging where possible and to utilize bulk containers when feasible.
• Providing collection containers and bins for guests to place compostables and recyclables in.

How can I help? Recycle materials in appropriate bins and minimize use of throw-away containers.

TRANSPORTATION AND FUEL

Reduce emissions and decrease fuel consumption.

• Purchasing a propane powered motorcoach to reduce emissions on our Mesa Verde sightseeing tours.
• Providing shuttles up and down the mesa for Morefield Campground guests and our associates in order to reduce traffic throughout the park.
• Using electric powered carts for housekeeping operations.

How can I help? Consider enjoying the park with a guided sightseeing tour instead of driving from site to site.

We welcome feedback on any of our sustainability initiatives at Visit Mesa Verde National Park, or ideas that any guest may have that we may implement. In addition to the items above, external communications to and from our guests is a key component of our sustainability program.