We are highlighting the incredible efforts of the Aspen businesses participating in the Colorado Green Business Network. This program is designed to support and recognize businesses that are committed to sustainable practices. Through this series, we will showcase how these businesses are making a difference in our community through their impactful initiatives. Below, Sashae Floral Arts & Gifts discusses their experience with the Colorado Green Business Network of Aspen and continued dedication to sustainability.
Colorado Green Business Network of Aspen: Sashae Floral Arts & Gifts
Sashae Floral Arts and Gifts has been a pillar to the Aspen community: providing fresh blooms and gifts to our ever growing Aspen Landscape. Earning the Bronze Level Colorado Green Business Network Award is 20 years of sustainability practices in the making.
How has the Colorado Green Business Network been helpful to you?
Through the CGBN resources, we lead our community in better understanding our waste consumption and energy usage while inspiring mindfulness in our overall practices of sustainability. We have been able to recognize the existing green practices we have implemented and, through the Colorado Green Business Network, find continued inspiration and a springboard for launching new initiatives for our community and our future as a business in Aspen. We will continue to create a culture of sustainability for ourselves and our community.
Sustainability Initiatives Highlights
- We initiated our local composing efforts 15 years ago when it was first being introduced at local Aspen restaurants. Owner, Heather Shapard, said why not include my floral business? We have grown our composting and recycling efforts steadily over the last 15 years, with less than 10% of our waste going to the landfill.
- We use recycled kraft paper goods for our bags and wrapping flower bouquets. We buy the highest content recycled office paper, avoid wasteful printing and reuse office paper when possible.
- Our daily flower deliveries are made in energy efficient vehicles.
- We rent and reuse floral containers and wedding props to keep vases out of our local landfill. On that note, we encourage our repeat clients to bring in their own vases to minimize waste.
- We are committed to giving back through in-kind donations to many of our local nonprofits and programs.
- Our employees are committed to staying green through mindful energy usage and by continuing our sustainability efforts both in and out of the flower shop.
Why Should Other Businesses Join the Program?
We are stronger together. Our individual efforts are strengthened by the community. CGBN offers resources and partnership in sustainable growth.
Importance of This Work in Aspen
Aspen is the example- we are on the leading edge - we as a community are setting the example for many other mountain communities. While fostering positive sustainability practices is important everywhere, Aspen is unique in its ability to inspire positive change by setting the example and standard.
Final Thoughts
We have learned that it is easy to be green! Now more than ever... we are ever blooming in our efforts to grow our sustainability practices by continuing our mission to reduce waste and energy consumption and creating ways to foster community involvement. We are excited to continue spreading the message and the CGBN movement within our community.
Learn more about the Colorado Green Business Network of Aspen and its positive impact on our community.
