, Utah Business is proud to honor the Utah companies and individuals making strides toward our state’s environmental sustainability. Congratulations to the 2023 Green Business honorees!
Rocky Mountain Power Blue Sky Legacy Awards
Alta Ski Area
Since 1938, Alta Ski Area has been a core part of the community and an advocate for environmental stewardship. In 2008, Alta formally organized the Alta Environmental Center to support and encourage sustainability within its ski area’s operations. With guidance from community stakeholders, Alta developed initiatives that include detailed on-mountain restoration, educational experiences, project accountability and community engagement. In 2022, Alta received the Golden Eagle Award for Overall Environmental Excellence, a recognition for its purchase of renewable energy credits representing 100 percent of its ski area’s electricity use, its food waste program, and its commitment to environmental stewardship. For decades, Alta has worked with the United States Forest Service and other community partners in re-vegetation, tree planting and invasive plant removal projects. Since 1991, Alta has planted over 42,000 trees and 79,000 plants from native seed gathered in the ski area. Future goals include improvements in energy, water use, transportation and waste reduction. Alta Ski Area has been a Blue Sky partner since 2006 and continues to proudly serve as a valuable advocate for renewable energy and sustainability within its community.
Cole Sport
Cole Sport was founded in 1982 in Park City, Utah, and was built around a passion for mountain living and the outdoor lifestyle. Cole Sport has become a fixture in the Park City area due to its bold vision, strong community involvement and commitment to eco-friendly practices. A love of the outdoor lifestyle and sustainability is shared by the management group, whose members average over 15 years with the company, making Cole Sport stand out as a business and an employer. Cole Sport has been committed to eco-friendly practices since the beginning. The Cole Sport family champions core values that include an appreciation of nature, environmental protection, sustainability and social responsibility. Cole Sport has been a Blue Sky Luminary Partner since 2005. Through its participation, nearly 100 percent of its electricity usage at its Park City location is derived from renewable energy sources.
Moonflower Community Cooperative
Since 2002, Moonflower Community Cooperative has been a Blue Sky Champion partner and renewable energy advocate. The co-op has a mission to provide socially responsible foods, goods and education to promote a healthy, sustainable community. Moonflower is a thriving grocer in the heart of downtown Moab, Utah, but began as a group of friends in the 1970s who organized to buy bulk goods not available in Moab after its uranium boomtown days. In 2001, the founders turned an old skateboard and T-shirt shop into the Moonflower co-op and opened its doors to new businesses. The store was an early contributor to a more sustainable energy future and has long served the community as a convenient source of local and imported natural foods and products from its small kitchen.
Tracy Aviary
The team at the Tracy Aviary has worked to lower their carbon footprint and help pave the way to a clean energy future, which supports the aviary’s mission of protecting and conserving birds and their habitats. Tracy Aviary, a Legacy Visionary Partner, engages in many conservation activities, including weekly bird surveys along the Jordan River to inform habitat restoration and management, window collision surveys to help make the city safer for migrating birds, and field trips and classes that provide ways for the local community to learn about and become engaged in conservation efforts. Both the Tracy Aviary in Liberty Park and its Jordan River Nature Center provide easy and accessible ways for people to connect with nature. Often referred to as oases in the city, Tracy Aviary campuses are ideal places to visit for people enjoying a date, looking to connect with nature, or taking a quick break from work.
Community/Government Initiatives
Utah Division of Purchasing and General Services
The Utah Division of Purchasing and General Services (State Purchasing) manages approximately $2 billion in public spending for goods and services in addition to providing centralized services to support government operations. For the last two years, State Purchasing has been developing a sustainable procurement program (SPP). In developing an SPP, State Purchasing has undertaken research to help establish benchmarks, set common best practices and provide specifics about key factors for successful SPP implementation.
Corporate Initiatives
Qualtrics
Qualtrics aims to improve efficiencies across all its operations. By 2025, the company’s data centers will be 100 percent powered by renewables and, by 2040, climate-neutral. Multiple office buildings are LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)-certified. Other efforts include utilizing natural light and other natural energy sources, implementing water-efficient practices, reducing single-use plastic and installing reusable dishware systems. Various offices also provide electric vehicle (EV) chargers, public transportation reimbursements and bike rooms. Qualtrics works with a partner to recycle or donate used hardware. Many offices have reduced trash cans to discourage waste production and encourage recycling. Where possible, Qualtrics partners with organizations to redistribute excess food and cater lunches to reduce emissions from transport and individual packaging.
Reaveley Engineers & Associates, Inc.
Reaveley Engineers is the only structural design firm in Utah currently committed to the SE2050 Initiative. This comprehensive program aims to significantly reduce embodied carbon in the design and construction of structural systems and eliminate it entirely in all projects by 2050. Reaveley understands that sustainably designed buildings save money and positively impact the health of occupants. Reaveley has designed over 50 LEED-certified projects, including the Orrin G. Hatch U.S. Courthouse (LEED Gold), Jessie Eccles Quinney Ballet Centre (LEED Gold) and The Leonardo (LEED Gold).
Young Living Essential Oils
Young Living Essential Oils is a purpose-driven wellness company that honors a connection to the land and stewardship of the Earth. From thoughtful agricultural practices and selective sourcing to the highest quality essential oil and oil-infused wellness products, Young Living lives and breathes nature. For nearly 30 years, the company’s conservation efforts and projects have served to bring about meaningful and lasting change in the natural environment. These initiatives include protecting native at-risk species of monarch butterflies through waystations at all Young Living locations in Utah, as well as advancing wildlife protection within the desert bighorn sheep nursery and D. Gary Young Wildlife Sanctuary in Tabiona, Utah. Young Living Essential Oils is committed to creating a lasting positive impact on Utah communities.
Energy Development
Creative Energies
The rapidly changing energy landscape continues to grow toward renewables and a net-zero economy. This landscape has partially been changed by the team at Creative Energies (CE). With over 20 years of experience and as a certified B-Corp, the team at Creative Energies has a deep care for clients and the development of communities toward clean, independent power. A few projects the CE team has worked on include the Tracy Aviary, the Salt Lake City School District, State of Utah buildings, Publik Coffee Roasters and Harmons Grocery.
GIG Performance
GIG Performance, led by automotive veteran Jon Woodward, pioneers clean energy innovation in electric, hybrid and internal combustion vehicles. The cornerstone of GIG Performance’s innovation is the Roadkil 5000, a regenerative power system that captures wasted energy from a vehicle’s suspension and converts it into electrical power for the vehicle’s batteries. GIG’s newest breakthrough is the Dynamic Variable Drive gearbox, which cuts both fuel and energy waste by decreasing the need for higher gears and allowing for smoother transitions. Drivers will experience greater fuel efficiency, reduced engine wear and improved torque for a more sustainable drive. GIG Performance is actively addressing the major challenges confronting electric, hybrid and conventional combustion engine vehicles. The company’s innovative technologies are propelling these vehicles toward greater efficiency and sustainability, driving the world toward a cleaner and greener automotive future.
Green Building
Black Desert Resort
Black Desert Resort epitomizes an organization committed to promoting eco-friendly business and community through both innovative and sustainable practices. By investing in cutting-edge technologies and design principles, the team at Black Desert Resort is creating the most eco-friendly resort ever built, setting new standards for eco-conscious hospitality. The new southern Utah resort will implement high-efficiency HVAC systems, low-voltage wiring, efficient irrigation systems, water recycling methods, a system that maximizes the reuse of energy and more.
Waterford School
Waterford School’s newest building, the Murray Science Center, exemplifies a schoolwide commitment to stewardship of natural resources. The project was built by Okland Construction and designed by Stephanie McCarthy of EDA Architects. The building promotes sustainability with features such as a geothermal system anticipated to cut energy consumption by 50 percent; EV chargers for faculty, staff and students; solar panels; long-lasting and low-maintenance building materials from sustainable sources; and occupancy sensors to reduce energy consumption, among other things. Science is also on display throughout the building, including exposed geothermal pipes and controls, exposed building materials and components, exposed structural steel cross beams and an exposed elevator system.
Social Impact
Car Charging Pros
Car Charging Pros, a dynamic company established less than three years ago, has swiftly become a prominent player in the EV charging industry. With nearly 3,000 successful installations completed across multiple states, the company has achieved remarkable growth and recognition. Car Charging Pros provides accessible and convenient EV charging solutions for homeowners and businesses and is committed to promoting green living and sustainable transportation. The company’s rapid expansion has significantly contributed to the widespread availability of EV charging infrastructure. As pioneers in the field, Car Charging Pros is dedicated to advancing EV adoption and making a positive impact on the environment. Its work in supporting green living serves as an inspiring example, driving progress toward a cleaner, more sustainable future for all.
Waste & Recycling
Pearagon
Pearagon, a quickly growing tech service company of 13 people located in Draper, Utah, has implemented green business practices to ensure the company remains eco-friendly. Typical office supply products—such as laser-jet ink printers, scanners, copy paper, sticky notes, rubber bands and paper clips—don’t exist at Pearagon. The business operates digitally, allowing it to eliminate the demand for paper-based products almost entirely. Pearagon tries to remain eco-friendly by ordering consumable products in bulk when possible, keeping the frequency of shipment low and reducing the amount of individual packaging. The company also recycles by upcycling furnishings. Pearagon will go dumpster diving or second-hand store shopping to find office furniture! The office size itself keeps a small footprint, so it takes less energy to regulate the temperature and upkeep. The company also supports Salt Lake City’s initiative to reduce driving within the valley by allowing employees a hybrid, flexible working environment.
RunLessWire
RunLessWire is dedicated to revolutionizing the way the world interacts with lighting. Established in 2007, the business has been at the forefront of innovation in the smart home industry, specializing in wireless light switches that make life more convenient and efficient. The company’s self-powered wireless switches are battery-free, using kinetic energy to remotely control lights while also lowering carbon footprint. The journey began with a simple idea: to create smart lighting solutions that seamlessly integrate into one’s daily routine. Today, RunLessWire is proud to offer a range of premium wireless light switches designed to enhance any ambiance while simplifying control over lighting. What sets RunLessWire apart is its commitment to excellence and sustainability. Its team of engineers works hard to develop sleek, intuitive and energy-efficient products that are not only high-quality and practical but also contribute to a greener planet.
Swire Coca-Cola
Swire Coca-Cola has proudly bottled and distributed Coca-Cola and partner brand products in the Beehive State since 1978. Employing more than 1,300 associates statewide, Swire Coca-Cola operates a production facility in Salt Lake City and distribution and sales centers in Logan, Ogden, Draper, Price and Richfield. Headquartered in Draper, Swire Coca-Cola is firmly focused on the long-term sustainability of its business and the strength of the communities it serves. Through its 2030 Sustainable Development Strategy, ambitious goals are embedded into every aspect of the business. From sourcing and packaging to manufacturing and the post-consumer recycling process, Swire Coca-Cola places an emphasis on environmental responsibility. The Salt Lake manufacturing facility maintains a diversion rate of 97 percent. Damaged and expired products are converted into renewable natural gas through bio-digestion. In 2022, Swire Coca-Cola replenished the equivalent of 281 percent of the water it used in manufacturing back to nature.
VLCM
Founded in 1983 and headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, VLCM serves over 20,000 organizations in more than 25 states as an enterprise technology and security provider. VLCM has forged partnerships with reputable recycling companies in the community, enabling the company to further minimize waste and promote responsible disposal practices. The business takes great pride in giving back to society by donating used machines, such as laptops and printers, to charities and schools. VLCM actively engages in various sustainable practices, including operational waste and recycling, product takeback and recycling, as well as sustainable packaging. The company’s dedication to reducing waste extends beyond its own operations, as it collaborates with select partners who specialize in recycling old equipment, effectively diverting it from landfills. By actively pursuing these sustainable initiatives, VLCM strives to make a meaningful impact on the environment while meeting the evolving needs and expectations of its clients.
Water
WesTech Engineering, LLC
WesTech Engineering is deeply committed to sustainability and aims to be a leader in environmental and social responsibility. Steven Klekas, WesTech’s dedicated VP of sustainability, is a professional engineer with 15+ years of experience. WesTech looks to fully decarbonize its business by 2040, achieve zero waste, and enable thriving people and communities. The company actively monitors greenhouse gas emissions and pursues projects to enhance energy and water efficiency, reduce waste and improve products and services. Current projects include HVAC control optimization, LED lighting, occupancy scheduling, waterwise landscaping, EV fleet vehicles, cardboard reuse and food composting. WesTech is also pursuing a rooftop solar photovoltaic system and supply chain engagement to drive accelerated progress. The company prioritizes community engagement through its CommunityTHRIVE Fund, which focuses on empowering underprivileged communities by providing access to clean water, filtration equipment, education, sanitation and hygienic facilities.
Green Business Leadership
Utah Sustainable Business Coalition
The Utah Sustainable Business Coalition (USBC) began in 2019 as a collaboration between Adobe, Nu Skin, the Salt Palace Convention Center, Young Living Essential Oils and the Utah Climate Action Network and has grown to include more than 300 businesses, sustainability professionals and community partners. The USBC’s mission is to advance sustainable business practices in the state by connecting Utahns working in this space with the people and resources that can help them achieve their organizations’ sustainability goals. The coalition cultivates a community of engaged sustainability professionals through live experiences, sustainability expert panels, facility tours, volunteer opportunities and social gatherings. The USBC raises awareness of the sustainability work that is happening in organizations across Utah through different initiatives. The USBC also provides resources to help sustainability practitioners advance their skills through training and advocacy organizations.
Mountain America Credit Union
Mountain America Credit Union (MACU) is deeply committed to pioneering and implementing sustainable measures that not only make businesses environmentally friendly but also positively influence the community at large. Four of the company’s most impactful initiatives are the adoption of innovative HVAC systems, championing sustainable mobility solutions, food waste reduction and advocating for eco-friendly landscaping. Recognizing the immense energy consumption and environmental implications of traditional air conditioning systems, MACU has embraced VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) systems. This cutting-edge technology is inherently more efficient, using a markedly lower amount of environmentally detrimental refrigerants. The on-site café at headquarters has several initiatives aimed at reducing food waste, and MACU has been an ardent proponent of xeriscaping for over a decade. Through these initiatives, MACU is not only reducing its environmental impact but also showcasing to the wider community that businesses can thrive while being stewards of the environment.
Utah’s Hogle Zoo
Utah’s Hogle Zoo inspires conservation action through green practices. The zoo has strategically reduced its water use by planting waterwise landscaping, renovating restrooms and innovating water filtration systems. Pool maintenance by a dive team is critical to water quality and reducing water use. In 2022, the zoo used 5 million fewer gallons than in 2019, a pre-pandemic benchmark year. The zoo has been fighting the plastic pollution crisis for decades by reducing the use of single-use plastics, including single-use straws, bags and bottles. In 2019, it installed water bottle refill stations. The zoo has two LEED Gold-certified buildings and utilizes green building practices in all capital projects. It participates in the Blue Sky program and has three solar arrays. The zoo’s main restaurant is a member of the Green Restaurant Association and offers a meatless Monday special. Working with the Jordan River Commission, Utah’s Hogle Zoo hosts family-friendly volunteer events to restore the Jordan River, including in-river projects, trail cleanups and pollinator gardens. To learn more about our 2023 Green Business Award winners, check out the YouTube playlist below. Access honoree photos from the event here.