Aspen Meadows Resort Enhances Sustainability Amid Reopening
A Colorado resort is increasing its sustainability and environmental credentials as it reopens to guests after weeks of shutdown.
Aspen Meadows Resort, a Bauhaus-style resort surrounded by breathtaking Rocky Mountains views in Aspen’s West End neighborhood, reopened to guests on June 1. While some hotels have turned to increased use of single-use plastic during the pandemic in the name of cleanliness, Aspen Meadows is taking significant steps to lower its carbon footprint while adhering to heightened health and safety standards.
Commitment to Sustainability
The first step taken by the resort was the elimination of single-use plastics. It switched to reusable items that utilize a specialized sanitation system and removed all single-use items from guest rooms. This initiative is expected to save an estimated 22,000 plastic bottles from ending up in landfills this year alone. Secondly, the resort invested in 100% clean energy, including solar, wind, and hydro-generated power. This transition is projected to reduce its carbon emissions by 59%.
“We understand that the climate crisis does not wait for a more convenient time. It is imperative that we make changes that will benefit our employees, guests, community, and planet by reducing our greenhouse gas emissions,” said Richard Stettner, the vice president of campus facilities who is leading this sustainable initiative.
Layout and Amenities
The hotel features 98 suites within a Bauhaus-designed complex, with mountain views visible from nearly every angle. The rooms are furnished with iconic pieces from legendary Bauhaus designers including Marcel Breuer and Harry Bertoia.
Aspen Meadows also serves as the original home of the Aspen Institute, a nonprofit organization that convenes global leaders and scholars to discuss pressing issues such as climate change. In addition to its transition to renewable electricity, the Aspen Institute has contributed to the resort’s eco-friendly measures, including a robust recycling program and the introduction of the slow food movement featuring local and sustainable ingredients across its three restaurants.
Operational Details
As the resort resumes operations, the hotel and its restaurants are operating at 50% capacity under new COVID-related guidelines. Typically, Aspen Meadows is booked throughout the summer; however, with events such as the Aspen Ideas Festival canceled for 2020 and no large groups scheduled, the resort has reduced its rate to $107/night.
To accommodate changing travel plans and restrictions, the resort has also implemented a new 24-hour cancellation policy. For more information, see the resort’s website here.
