Green Practices

The balance of the natural environment is an important part of life in the region. Surrounded by Mother Nature, Telluride and Mountain Village actively pursue practices of sustainability. From the biodiesel shuttle buses to the wind energy that powers the free gondola, the commitment to environmentally sound practices is an integral part of development in the region.

The Valley Floor, located before the entrance to Telluride, represents one of the region’s greatest achievements in preservation. In 2001, the National Trust for Historic Preservation listed the Valley Floor as one of the Eleven Most Endangered Places in the U.S., citing that the area was unique to Telluride and an integral and irreplaceable part of the town’s cherished scenic beauty and heritage. After 25 years of unsuccessful negotiations and costly court battles between the Town of Telluride and the San Miguel Valley Corporation, on June 2, 2008, the Colorado Supreme Court ruled six to one in favor of the Town purchasing the land from SMVC for $53 million, a legal act of condemnation. The 570-acre gateway meadow will remain open space in perpetuity—forever wild. Learn about the recreational uses of the Valley Floor.

The New Community Coalition

The New Community Coalition (TNCC) was formed by a group of progressive organizations within the greater Telluride region that recognized the need for a unified voice and vision for future sustainability. Committed to identifying, coordinating and implementing sustainability projects in San Miguel County and the surrounding region, TNCC recognizes that developing a vision for a sustainable future requires the involvement of the entire community. TNCC works in collaboration with organizations and individuals to localize the economy and food sources, develop a greener-built environment, reduce carbon footprints, increase recycling and recover value from waste, expand educational resources and increase energy efficiency.

Green Fund

TNCC’s Green Fund was developed to provide a means for the regional community and visitors to contribute to local renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. The fund helps develop projects that offset carbon emissions by investing in solar and wind projects, biomass to energy conversion plants, and energy efficiency programs for local residents, businesses and schools. In addition, TNCC is developing a strong educational component that focuses on creative ways to educate the community. Interested in trimming your carbon footprint? Make a donation to TNCC’s Green Fund.

Energy

One of the best ways to reduce carbon emissions, save money and live a sustainable lifestyle is to become more energy efficient. TNCC works to decrease energy use and the resulting carbon footprint within our region. From little and big ideas for how to kick the energy habit, visit TNCC.

Green Building

It’s said that “it's not easy being green.” Beginning spring 2009, however, new buildings in Mountain Village won’t have a choice, thanks to a new Green Building Code passed, unanimously, on February 19, 2009, by Mountain Village council. Learn more about green building in the Telluride region.

Take a look at Mountain Village and San Miguel County’s Building Code attached below.

Recycle

Every area has different guidelines, and guidelines often change with the market. Visit TNCC to stay apprised of what is, and isn't, recyclable in this community and to learn new ways to reduce and reuse.

Food

TNCC supports local growers and encourages additional food production in the region. Farmers’ Markets and Community Supported Agriculture, along with local food outlets, are vital for healthy and strong communities. TNCC also advocates the development of more community gardens and greenhouses. Check out the upcoming Farmers’ Market schedule.

Education

Education is crucial to becoming a more sustainable community. TNCC works with local youth, such as the YES Club at Telluride High School, to inspire sustainability projects among young people. Look to TNCC’s website for upcoming classes, lectures, degree guides and school programs.