We love the outdoors. Protect Our Playground puts a focus on what we can do as individuals and as a larger group to keep our Rocky Mountain lands healthy, alive and growing. There’s so much room for activities right here in our own backyard — and we want to keep it that way.

We know there’s a lot that goes into creating an environmentally sustainable event, and we’re doing our best to make a difference. In 2022, we built upon previous efforts and launched new initiatives to tackle emissions, save water, divert waste and take part in other beneficial programs with event partners, athletes and spectators.

We can’t do it alone and invite everyone to join us on our journey toward a more sustainable GoPro Mountain Games. Read on to see what you can do!

• Waste diversion: In 2022, 86% of waste generated at the event was diverted from local landfills. In 2023, our goal is 90%.
• Water stations: Don’t forget your reusable water bottle! YETI “hydration stations” are set up throughout Vail allowing for free refills (and less waste).
• Giving back to the community: In 2022, GoPro Mountain Games staff, volunteers and athletes partnered with the Eagle Valley Watershed Council for their local Eagle River cleanup where some of the whitewater and fishing competitions take place. We are still working on what our plan for 2023 but look forward to having our Mountain Games community join us in the effort.
• Part of the Eagle County Climate Action Collaborative: The local Climate Action Collaborative led by Walking Mountains Science Center is working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Eagle County 50% by 2030 and 80% by 2050.
• Work with event partners to make green choices

• Bring a reusable water bottle and fill up at one of the Yeti hydration stations around the Mountain Games
• Clean up after yourself, and your dog
• Consider alternate modes of transportation: Bike, walk, carpool or use public transit (sorry, no dogs allowed on Town of Vail buses, though)
• Work with our on-site volunteers at the waste diversion stations and be mindful of what goes where
• Take care of YOUR playground year-round
• Join our Green Team: Here’s your chance to make a REAL difference and support Walking Mountains, Vail Mountain, the Town of Vail and GoPro Mountain Games in their sustainability efforts. The simple goal is to limit the amount of trash going to the landfill by providing guidance and hands-on assistance for guests disposing items at the Zero Hero Tents.
  VOLUNTEER WITH THE GREEN TEAM