The High Country Conference Center in Flagstaff, Arizona is turning heads with their sustainable efforts. From the building’s features to the staff’s volunteerism, it’s easy to see their emphasis on leaving a small carbon footprint.
For instance, you won’t find bottled water at the Conference Center; instead, water stations are placed throughout the facility. Through this initiative, the High Country Conference Center has saved over 8000 bottles from entering the Flagstaff landfill each year.
The switch did come with some hesitation, says Moses DeBord, General Manager. “We have had several compliments on the initiative from our planners and their guests.”
Other green efforts include low-flow faucets, compact fluorescent lights, and motioned censored HVAC units. Interestingly the carpet is 60% composed of recycled plastic bottles, and the stone used for landscaping and the fireplace is all local to Flagstaff.
Being located on the campus of Northern Arizona University, 90% of the staff is students, who take a lot of pride in working in such a sustainable facility. “Everyone pitches in and makes sure we’re following our green goals,” says Debord.
Aside from sustainable efforts, the staff also likes to give back to the community. “We donate approximately 100 meals per month to the families in need in Flagstaff,” says Debord. “Several members of our team have also volunteered at the food bank.”
The High Country Conference Center’s team takes pride in delivering quality special events, wedding, and conferences. Being able to do so with a sustainable, beautiful backdrop, though, brings great pride to the team.
“It makes us very proud to work in a facility that really cares about not just the environment, but the community around us. Being an integral part of the community really does create a lot of pride among our team. “