Cody Mendoza / June 12, 2024
Hello, Breckenridge community!
We have an important update to share regarding the Town of Breckenridge’s efforts to reduce plastic waste. This update will affect locals, visitors, and everyone else heading to Breckenridge, so make note of some of these important updates and tips. Starting July 1st, the next phase of Breckenridge’s Plastic Ban will take effect, and we want to ensure everyone is ready for these changes.
What’s New in This Phase?
From July 1st, the following single-use plastic items will be no longer available for purchase or found in Breckenridge restaurants, hotels or any other business in Breckenridge:
- Single-use water bottles under a gallon
- Plastic cups, lids, plates, and utensils
- Single-use items made from polystyrene foam or other petroleum-based plastics (with exceptions for medical purposes)
Breckenridge’s Sustainability Journey
Here’s a quick recap of the steps taken to make our mountain town a more sustainable destination:
- As of May 4, 2023: Stores in Breckenridge are banned from providing single-use plastic carryout bags. Instead, businesses must use 100% recycled paper bags.
- Also, effective as of May 4, 2023: Retail food establishments can only provide single-use condiments and food service ware if requested by the customer, whether ordering online, by phone, or in person.
- Starting January 1, 2024: Colorado restaurants and food prep businesses will no longer be able to use polystyrene foam (commonly known as Styrofoam®) to serve food or beverages.
Upcoming Changes
Looking ahead, here’s what’s on the horizon:
- Effective July 1, 2024: No business in Breckenridge will be allowed to sell or offer single-use plastic water bottles less than a gallon in volume.
- Also, effective July 1, 2024: Retail food establishments will be banned from selling or offering single-use plastic containers and food service ware.
Why This Matters
These measures are vital for protecting the environment in Breckenridge, throughout Colorado, and beyond. Our commitment is to provide outstanding service to our owners, guests, and employees while reducing our ecological footprint.
How You Can Help
We understand that adapting to these changes might be challenging, but we’ve got some tips here to support you on your upcoming visit!
- Bring a reusable water bottle.
- There are numerous free water bottle refill stations throughout town that you can locate using the Breckenridge Water Refill Station Map.
- Actively hydrate and drink electrolytes prior to arrival.
- Bring or purchase reusable shopping bags.
- These can be purchased at the local super market, the Breckenridge Visitors center or fun local made bags can be found at shops like Limber Grove or Ruby Jane.
- Keep reusable cutlery in your bag for meals on the go.
We appreciate all the efforts from every resident and visitor, every small action adds up to a significant positive impact on our environment.
Thank you for supporting Breckenridge’s policies and helping us protect the natural beauty of our community. Together, we can make a difference and ensure Breckenridge remains a wonderful place to live and visit.
For more information regarding Breckenridge’s sustainability efforts and journey, please visit the following resources:
- Sustainable Breck Website
- Sustainable Breck Sustainability Plan
- Local News Article
- Material Management Checklist
- Making the Switch
- Comprehensive Alternatives Guidebook
If you are looking for a sustainable lodging option in Breckenridge, we highly recommend the Grand Lodge on Peak 7 which in 2023 was recognized by the EPA with their Pollution Prevention Award.
Here is an exclusive offer to save 35% off your next stay at the Grand Lodge on Peak 7. To learn more about the Grand Lodge on Peak 7’s sustainability efforts check out this Denver 9News story:
Stay green, Breckenridge!
