Arapahoe Basin Ski Area has received the 24-Karat Gold Award from the Colorado Green Business Network (CGBN) for its efforts in sustainability, particularly through a waste reduction program. The ski area diverted over 185,000 pounds of waste from local landfills by implementing recycling and composting initiatives across the organization. These initiatives included collecting hard-to-recycle items such as electronics, textiles, batteries, and light bulbs. The resort also emphasized employee education on recycling and composting practices at home.
At an event recognizing these achievements, CGBN celebrated 198 certified green businesses throughout Colorado. Collectively, these businesses saved nearly 50,957 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent in emissions over the past year—an amount comparable to the emissions produced by more than 11,880 gasoline-powered passenger vehicles annually.
“Colorado businesses are actively protecting our environment through operational efficiency and reduced energy,” said Rayna Oliker, Manager of the Colorado Green Business Network. “Our team is inspired to support the innovation and creativity of Colorado businesses.”
The Innovation Spotlight Awards were also presented to six organizations for progress in areas including water use, energy savings, waste management, transportation improvements, and community impact.
Carver Brewing Company introduced ReGen Ale using locally sourced regenerative malt and regional hops grown with climate-smart agricultural practices that reduce soil emissions and prevent land degradation.
Denver Water added ten electric vehicles and two hybrids to its fleet while retiring less efficient vehicles. This change is expected to save approximately 231 metric tons of CO2 equivalents each year. Denver Water plans further investments in electric vehicles in 2025.
Gunnison Country Food Pantry installed a solar photovoltaic system using recycled panels with an expected annual production of about 26 megawatt-hours of electricity. Energy savings will allow the pantry to purchase additional food for community support.
Ready Foods changed its pepper grinding process for salsa production to eliminate water cooling. This adjustment saved 4.5 million gallons of water and $38,000 in expenses within one year.
Revvity Inc. tested shipping products at ambient temperature instead of using dry ice. The successful experiment led to annual savings of about $41,315 and reduced insulated packaging needs by roughly 1,500 cubic feet.
DIRT Coffee Bar established a café focused on serving neurodivergent and disability communities by providing job readiness programs tailored to their needs. The business also replaced its front lawn with sensory-friendly landscaping alternatives and upgraded its HVAC system to an electric model.
For more information about green businesses in Colorado or details on CGBN programs, resources are available through the GreenBiz Tracker directory or by visiting the Colorado Green Business Network website.
