We have been given the remarkable privilege of operating in and looking after some of the last bastions of wild frontier land, a responsibility we take very seriously. As such, it is vital that we strike a balance between enjoying the surrounding ecosystems and preserving their natural beauty for generations to come. In order to protect these pieces of our natural and cultural history, we practice our innovative EcoSense program in every aspect of our operations. This program includes:
Business Practices
Using recycled, recyclable, reusable, or compostable materials in all areas of our operation, including consumer-based products, back of house products, and construction materials
Relying on electronic advertising and office communications in order to save paper
Enacting practices that reduce light, noise, and smell pollution in addition to water and ground pollution
Monitoring and finding ways to reduce our gasoline, water, and electricity consumption
Using only suppliers that ship in reusable containers and showing preference to local suppliers and artisans
Selling merchandise in minimal or recyclable packaging
Purchasing as many goods as possible locally, which also stimulates the local economy
Encouraging the use of our recycling receptacles
These tactics help us minimize our impact on the springs and divert over 90% of our waste from landfills.
What can you do to help?
Think before you use! How many napkins do you need? Do you really need a straw? A bag? These items diverted from landfills add up over time!
Save your trash for when you find a proper receptacle.
Use our conveniently placed recycling bins when appropriate.
Do not feed the wildlife, as it disrupts the natural food chain and health of the animal.
Teach your children about outdoor ethics, and pass on a green lifestyle to the next generation! We’ve provided these two activity booklets, one for parents and one for kids, for you to print out.
El Portal Market has been given the remarkable privilege of operating in and looking after one of the most iconic landscapes of California, a responsibility we take very seriously. As such, it is vital that we strike a balance between enjoying the Great Smoky Mountains and preserving their natural beauty for generations to come. In order to protect this piece of our natural and cultural history, we practice our innovative EcoSense program in every aspect of our operations. This program includes:
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Using recycled, recyclable, or compostable materials in all areas of our operation
Relying on electronic advertising and office communications in order to save paper
Enacting practices that reduce light, noise, and smell pollution
Monitoring and finding ways to reduce our gasoline, water, and electricity consumption
Using only suppliers that ship in reusable containers
Selling merchandise and snacks in minimal, recyclable packaging
Purchasing as many goods as possible locally, which also stimulates the local economy
Encouraging the use of our recycling receptacles
These tactics help us minimize our impact on the surrounding ecosystem and divert over 90% of our waste from landfills.