Sustainable Purchasing

Many products necessary for the operation of a high-level resort operation are procured with quality being a major selection criteria. The Sonnenalp Resort of Vail has found numerous opportunities to combine the quality requirement with purchasing policies that are in keeping with our "green" focus. Locally grown products not only provide a higher level of freshness but also significantly reduce energy usage generated by transportation. Use of organically grown products reduces the impact of chemicals used in the growing process of food and beverage items. Products made from re-used product or bio-degradable products greatly reduce the impact on our environment.

In all Sonnenalp restaurant operations organic and locally grown products are now present on menus. The procurement of those products has increased on a year to year basis. Nearly all printer and copier paper is made from recycled materials. Other paper products such as hand towels, toilette tissue, and bath tissue are procured based on our sustainable purchasing policy. Our partner Eco-lab provided our laundry machines and dishwashing machines with bio-degradable soaps, and nearly all cleaning products in housekeeping and kitchens now fulfill our environmental criteria.

Many more opportunities exist to further the impact of our purchasing practices. The Sonnenalp Green Team finds new products on a regular basis and if successfully tested recommends appropriate changes.