Environmental Sustainability

Environmental Sustainability

We Define Sustainability at The Lodges of Olympic National Park as...

"The ability to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."

We have a deep respect for and commitment to the environment. With our unique location on the Olympic Peninsula, we recognize the need to protect this rare environment where we live, work and play. We also understand that sustainability is an ever evolving practice and is not a destination. 


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Our Environmental Partners

We offer Canned Water for Kids in our stores which is a Wisconsin-based nonprofit providing spring water in aluminum bottles and cans, with the proceeds used to fund clean-drinking-water projects in developing nations while also reducing plastic water bottle usage.

A program where soap and left-over amenities are recycled and reused providing communities in many countries the basic tools for hygiene and the potential to decrease preventable diseases such as typhoid and dysentery.

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The Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch program helps consumers and businesses choose seafood that's fished or farmed in ways that protect sea life and habitats, now and for future generations. Our recommendations indicate which seafood items are "Best Choices" or "Good Alternatives," and which ones you should "Avoid."

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Zero Landfill. From becoming America's first Zero-Landfill auto maker, with all waste recycled or reused, to our current National Park Zero-Landfill initiative.

#DontFeedtheLandfills

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Many of our products offered in the gift shop are made in the USA and we also offer products made from recycled material.


Our Efforts

Our Awards

  • ISO 14001 Certification (Lake Crescent Lodge)
  • TripAdvisor GreenLeader – Gold Level (Lake Crescent Lodge)

FOOD SOURCING

Increasing procurement of local, seasonal and responsibly sourced products.

  • Purchase locally sourced foods and beverages from area growers, fishers, vintners, brewers, butchers and more.
  • Partner with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch Program and only purchase fish from the green, or occasionally the yellow list.
  • Source only RBsT hormone free dairy products and cage-free eggs.
Environmental Sustainability at Asilomar

How can I help?

Many locally produced goods and edibles are available for purchase in our retail stores – consider purchasing these as excellent mementos of your trip.


EFFICIENT OPERATIONS

Controlling our energy usage.

  • Installing low-flow water fixtures – when water use is reduced, the energy required to heat that water up is also reduced.
  • Providing an on-demand water heating system at Lake Quinault in order to further reduce energy use.
Environmental Sustainability at Asilomar

How can I help?

Be sure to turn off all electrical devices when not using.


WATER CONSERVATION

Saving each drop.

  • Installed low flow water fixtures.
  • Operate a single facility for laundry for our 4 lodges, this allows us to operate more efficiently and save energy.
  • Offering an ‘opt-out’ linen conservation program.
Environmental Sustainability at Asilomar

How can I help?

As a guest, please use only the water you need when showering or using the sink. Reuse your towels by hanging up after use to reduce linen laundry.


MINIMIZING WASTE

Waste is minimized throughout our operations.

  • Switching to an “all-tap” system at Lake Crescent Lodge to eliminate two tons of glass waste annually
  • Creating composting programs in order to recycle food waste.
  • Operating a recycling center at Lake Quinault Lodge that is open to area residents.
  • Not purchasing Styrofoam for food and beverage containers.
  • Working with suppliers to minimize all shipping packaging where possible and to utilize bulk containers when feasible.
  • Providing collection containers and bins for guests to place compostables and recyclables in.
Environmental Sustainability at Asilomar

How can I help?

Recycle materials in appropriate bins and minimize use of throw-away containers.


TRANSPORTATION AND FUEL

Reduce emissions and decrease fuel consumption.

  • Offering special parking and incentives for guests who arrive in electric or hybrid vehicles. 
Environmental Sustainability at Asilomar

How can I help?

Consider human powered ways to see the park – hiking, biking and kayaking are all great options. We’re happy to offer suggestions!


We welcome feedback on any of our sustainability initiatives at The Lodges of Olympic National Park, or ideas that any guest may have that we may implement. In addition to the items above, external communications to and from our guests is a key component of our sustainability program.