Aspen businesses encouraged to deploy greener practices through new program

Aspen businesses looking to adopt sustainable practices, reduce their environmental impact, and contribute to a greener future are being encouraged to participate in a new program promoting environmentally-friendly practices.

The city of Aspen, through a partnership with the Aspen Chamber Resort Association, and support from Colorado, has launched the Colorado Green Business Network of Aspen (CGBN of Aspen), according to a Monday news release.

CGBN of Aspen offers technical assistance, recognition and funding opportunities, and a supportive network to help businesses promote greener practices.  

“This program is a great way for us to support local businesses in their sustainability efforts, connect them to resources, and recognize businesses doing good work,” Tessa Schreiner, city of Aspen’s sustainability manager, said in the release. “Through the pilot program earlier this year, we learned what works well for our local context and where we can be most helpful — we’re excited to work with more businesses in Aspen as the program expands.”   

CGBN of Aspen is a regional partner of the statewide Colorado Green Business Network. All Colorado businesses can participate, but those within Aspen will work directly with the CGBN of Aspen team for personalized support. 

A successful pilot program launched in 2023 and was completed in 2024, showcasing the program’s effectiveness in Aspen. The St. Regis Aspen Resort, Mountain Flowers of Aspen, and Bosq, were recognized through the program this year and have made significant strides in sustainability through initiatives like composting, waste reduction, water conservation, and energy efficiency.  

All three businesses received a bronze level in the state’s recognition program, demonstrating their leadership in sustainability efforts within Aspen, the release states.  

“CGBN of Aspen was very supportive,” Barclay Dodge, Bosq’s award-winning owner and chef, said in the release. “It focused our efforts on areas where we can make a difference and gave a strong sense of usage with waste, electricity, and gas.”  

Businesses recognized through the program will also receive a Colorado Green Business Network recognition seal to display in print materials or for web usage. By participating, businesses can contribute to a thriving and sustainable Aspen by receiving support from the city in pursuing and implementing sustainable practices all while becoming leaders in environmental and social responsibility, the release states.

The state will further recognize the Aspen businesses’ participation in the pilot program with a statewide business recognition celebration in Denver, which is slated for Sept. 27, 2024. 

Businesses who are interested in enrolling in CGBN of Aspen should register on GreenBiz Tracker or email climate@aspen.gov, and the city’s climate team will then schedule a call to understand the businesses’ goals, what support they would like, and if they would like to seek recognition through the program. There is no cap on the number of businesses that can participate.

To learn more and enroll in the program, please visit the city of Aspen website, http://www.aspen.gov/CGBNofAspen. ACRA’s website has more information on the pilot program and insights into Aspen businesses’ successes, which can be accessed at https://aspenchamber.org/explore/sustainability/colorado-green-business-network-aspen.