The Greening of Sedona

Sedona’s countenance is red—the red of the city’s crimson cliffs, buttes and mesas.  But its heart is growing greener every day. There is a movement among area residents to live and work in harmony with nature—and to encourage visitors to also tread lightly on the area’s ecosystems. Nonprofit organizations, such as Friends of the Forest, Gardens for Humanity, Keep Sedona Beautiful, Sustainable Arizona, and Sedona Water Wise Alliance, are promoting conservation, horticulture, resource recovery and awareness of activities and events that are sustainable.

Oak Creek (Sedona)

The Institute of Eco-Tourism (IET) is a focal point and catalyst for the city’s greening efforts. IET promotes environmentally sensitive travel and is a clearinghouse for green information. The family-friendly environmental education center teaches individuals and organizations how to appreciate nature, respect and care for the earth and how to live in harmony with the environment. It often organizes citywide and regional events in partnership with other groups, such as Carrying the Gift of Water Celebration Week with the Hopi Indians.

Soon the institute will install a “green concierge” kiosk on its grounds at 91 Portal Lane, adjacent to the arts and crafts village Tlaquepaque.  This automated, interactive kiosk will help visitors have an eco-friendly experience in Sedona. “It’s a way for residents and tourists to interact in a meaningful, authentic way,” says IET Executive Director Diane Dearmore. The kiosk will have nine different topic areas—from agricultural and cultural tourism to eco-adventures. Visitors will be able to access online information, such as maps, calendars, event descriptions and websites and even print a takeaway document.   For more information, call IET at (928) 282-2720.

Individual Sedona businesses are also turning green. Many hotels, including The Southwest Inn of Sedona and Los Abrigados Resort and Spa, have implemented energy, water and waste-saving features—from low-water toilets to fluorescent flood lights and xeriscaping. 

Some restaurants, such as Garland’s Oak Creek Lodge and the Manzanita Inn, cook with produce they have grown themselves.  Others, such as the Barking Frog, go to great lengths to purchase regionally. Many feature organically grown products, including wines from area vineyards.

Pink Jeep Tours

Adventure companies have also implemented sustainable practices. Pink Jeep, for example, has company-wide green initiatives. It pays meticulous attention to recycling and vehicle maintenance and teaches drivers how to protect Sedona’s ecosystems.  Pink Jeep employees even help rebuild Sedona’s trails, filling in potholes, planting grasses and re-structuring areas damaged by private vehicles.  “Ecological ethics are an essential part of our business,” says Pink Jeep President Shawn Wendell.