It’s no secret that the ski industry has a careful eye on the issue of global warming, and a careful eye is probably an understatement. Global warming (or climate change, as it is less dramatically referred to) more than any other issue can have a devastating impact on our business.
Many Colorado Ski Country USA member resorts have taken the issue of global warming, and enveloped it into tactical solutions with regards to environmentalism, sustainability and corporate responsibility. Resorts’ efforts are on their own accord. From energy credits and generating power from sun, wind and water; to re-purposing, recycling and reusing materials and equipment; every member resort does their part.
However, one member resort stands out in its efforts Aspen-Snowmass. Which is probably why Aspen Skiing Company’s president and CEO Mike Kaplan has been invited to the White House. Mr. Kaplan will join a group of business leaders in Washington DC to push the case for strong climate and clean energy legislation before a key House vote on Friday on the Waxman-Markey bill.
The Waxman-Markey bill or American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES)
H.R. 2454, implements the a cap and trade mechanism to regulate greenhouse gas emissions; promotes job growth by supporting development of clean tech jobs; implements renewable energy and energy efficiency standards; and provides support for consumers and industries in transition to a clean energy economy.
The executives will meet with Senior Advisor to the President Valerie Jarrett and Carol Browner, Assistant to the President for Energy and Climate Change. The goal of the meeting is for the White House to discuss business efforts to advocate for comprehensive climate legislation, and to explore how Americans can work together to continue to broaden that support as a climate and energy bill moves through Congress.
Mr. Kaplan gives kudos to the new administration for taking strong leadership on this issue and notes that climate change is the most significant long term threat to our mountain environment. With the support of Aspen and other businesses, the goal is for President Obama to lead and swiftly enact comprehensive legislation to ensure Americas prosperous and competitive future.
