On Thursday, January 26, the Alaska Tourism Industry Association (ATIA) announced that Kantishna Roadhouse received the Adventure Green Alaska (AGA) certification for sustainable tourism operations and management.
The AGA certification is ATIA’s voluntary certification program for sustainable tourism businesses operating in Alaska that meet the standards of economic, environmental, and social sustainability. The AGA is the states only sustainably tourism certification program and is the result of a statewide effort to grow sustainable tourism in Alaska. This certfication works to promote and encourage tourism businesses to evalute their operations and practice intentional and careful stewardship to sustain Alaska’s resources.
Sustainable Tourism Efforts at Kantishna Roadhouse
In 2018, Kantishna Roadhouse was awarded gold-level Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification by the United States Green Building Council. The LEED certification process is designed to inspire organizations to seek out innovative solutions that support public health and the environment while saving owners’ money over a building’s life cycle.
As part of the process of receiving LEED certification, Kantishna Roadhouse established a recycling program and installed new windows, LED lighting and low-flow appliances, amongst other improvements.
In addition to being LEED certified, Kantishna Roadhouse is committed to the following practices to ensure that its operations protect the local economy, environment, and wildlife, while sharing the story of the Athabascan people and culture:
- Purchasing all supplies from local vendors
- Use of post-consumer recycled materials
- Provides Athabascan cultural presentations to visitors
- Ensures that food, yard, and garbage waste are handled properly
- Use of non-toxic, biodegradable detergents and cleaning products
- Successful recycling program
“Kantishna Roadhouse has a long history of practicing sustainable tourism, and we are honored to receive the AGA certification to highlight our commitment to sustainable tourism and protecting the land for future generations,” said Jordan Sanford, Kantishna Roadhouse General Manager.
“Our corporate value ‘commitment to long-term sustainability’ stems from our values as Athabascan people to respect the land and nature,” said Aaron M. Schutt, Doyon President and Chief Executive Officer. “We are proud to protect our lands and share our commitment to our guests and visitors at Kantishna Roadhouse through the AGA certification.”
