At Under Canvas, our mission is to inspire connections with extraordinary places, people, and the planet by enhancing access to the outdoors. This is reflected in everything we do—from the unique locations we select, to the design choices we make, to the experiences we curate for our guests. We invite you to learn more about how our mission comes to life—on Earth Day and every day—at each of our camps.
A Mindful Approach
We see the Earth as our most precious resource and remain committed to a sustainable future where national parks and open spaces can be enjoyed by all. Our Mindful Approach—involving responsible development, thoughtful innovation, resource conservation, and more—includes:
- Recycling, solar power, and carbon offset initiatives where possible
- The use of pull-chain showers, faucets that automatically shut off, low-flow toilets, and other design features that minimize impact on the environment.
- Electric vehicle charging stations provided by Rivian
- Partnerships with brands that align with our values (i.e., lululemon, EO bath, Parachute)
- Adopting the “Leave No Trace” principles and practices at each camp
- Helping people unplug, spend time #OutsideTogether, and take in what nature has to offer with the hopes of creating new environmental stewards for years to come.
International Dark Sky Principles
As part of our Mindful Approach, we follow guidance from the International Dark-Sky Association to reduce light pollution. By implementing efforts such as using warmer-colored lights, eliminating glare, pointing lights down, and promoting education on the values of the night sky, we are protecting the nocturnal environment and helping guests reconnect with the night.
The best part? Many of our camps are located near certified Dark Sky Parks, including Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, Grand Canyon, and Zion national parks. Ask our staff for help pointing out stars, constellations, and (on extra clear nights) the Milky Way. At Under Canvas, you’ll see the dark night sky in a whole different light.
The Nature Conservancy
We have joined forces with The Nature Conservancy—a global environmental nonprofit working to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends—to help fund conservation and raise awareness through education, volunteer efforts, and donation programs.
- Our employee giveback program allows all company employees to donate a paycheck value of their choosing to TNC, which is matched dollar for dollar by Under Canvas.
- We invite guests to join in this effort by donating $3, $5, or $10 to TNC upon check-in.
Volunteer Efforts
Under Canvas employees are passion about enjoying nature and protecting and preserving the natural environments in which we live. That why our employees—across all 11 camps, as well as at our corporate offices in Denver and Bozeman—volunteer in and around some of the country’s most beautiful national parks, as well as at some of The Nature Conservancy’s more than 700 preserves across the country. So far this year, volunteer efforts have included:
What You Can Do
While we believe that businesses have the power to do good, we know that individuals can have a huge impact as well. Here are some things that you can do on Earth Day (and beyond!):
Say Goodbye to Single-Use Plastic
Plastic straws, grocery bags, plastic water bottles—all of these are items that we discard as quickly as we get them…and eventually end up in our oceans and landfills. Our advice is to replace plastic items with reusable or biodegradable options. Plastic wrap and Ziploc bags can be replaced with wax paper or glass jars. Bring your own canvas bags to the grocery store. Get a coffee thermos and water bottle that you can take with you wherever you go.
Give Your Car a Rest
There’s no denying our cars make it extremely convenient to travel. And while cars are a necessity for longer distances, there are plenty of opportunities in everyday life to take a break from your car. Instead of driving every time you want to go somewhere, consider alternative means of transport like walking, biking, or public transportation. It’s not only good for the environment, but for your health too. If none of those are viable options, carpooling can be a great way to reduce the number of cars on the road.
Create Energy Saving Habits
There are many easy ways to reduce your energy consumption, which in turn reduces your environmental footprint. Even small steps can have a big impact. Turn off lights when you leave the room and unplug your electronics when not in use. Even when turned off, common household items like your television, computer, and cellphone charger still use up power. Another option is to invest in more energy efficient products like low-flow shower heads and energy efficient light bulbs.