Vail Resorts on track for zero net operating footprint by 2030

Vail representatives at the groundbreaking for the Elektron Solar Project. Photo: Vail Resorts

BROOMFIELD, Colo. — Vail Resorts announced on November 15 that it is on track toward reaching its goal of a zero net operating footprint by 2030.

According to its fifth annual progress report, the company is ahead of schedule to meet its emission goals and is on track to reach zero waste to landfill and zero net operating impact on forests and habitat to achieve a zero net operating footprint by 2030.

“It is because of the passionate work of our team that we are able to share these results. We have set bold goals and commitments and continue to deliver on promises we have made to our environment and our communities,” Kirsten Lynch, CEO of Vail Resorts, said in a press release. “Climate change requires all of us working together to mitigate the challenges facing not just our industry but our planet – and we remain dedicated to doing our part as responsible stewards of the great outdoors and committed partners to our communities. I am so proud of our team for staying focused and on track as we continue to make progress towards a zero net operating footprint.”

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Since the launch of Vail Resort’s Commitment to Zero in 2017, Park City Mountain Resort has invested over $1M in energy efficiency projects in snowmaking, buildings, and lifts.

“Thanks to these investments, Park City Mountain’s electric usage will be provided by 100% renewable beginning energy in 2023, powered by its partnership in the Elektron Solar Project, a new solar farm outside Salt Lake City, in addition to over 150 solar panels on site,” Sara Huey, the senior manager of communications at PCMR said.

PCMR also diverted 421 tons of waste from the landfill in 2021 through reuse and recycling across ten different recycling/divertible waste streams.

“Park City Mountain Employees collect everything from quality used lumber, construction materials, pallets, furniture, trail maps, and trail signs for the new Employee Restore, which opened in 2021. Last year, the Restore diverted 19,342 lbs (9.7 tons) of waste from the landfill,” Huey said.

Vail Resorts’ other notable achievements include:

Vail Resorts reached 100% renewable electricity across its North American mountain resorts and 96% worldwide.
The company donated $22.9 million to over 250 local organizations.
Vail Resorts provided $1.3 million in emergency relief grants and scholarships, including financial support to team members directly impacted by the Marshall Fire in Colorado.
During the 2021/22 winter season, Vail Resorts hosted more than 8,000 youth from cities such as New York, Chicago, Boston, and others and provided more than $8 million in donated goods and services.
Vail Resorts has advocated for climate action through participation in groups, including Ceres, RE100, and its leadership in the Mountain Collaborative for Climate Action.

“We see Vail Resorts as a neighbor, and their financial support and partnership is a testament to the company’s willingness to tackle our community’s challenges alongside us,” Diego Zegarra, vice president of equity and impact for the Park City Community Foundation, said in a press release. “Whether it’s helping to support our community’s mental health needs, supporting our housing efforts, or helping us to improve access to the sport, we know that as a major employer, they can help us with our community’s unique needs.”