Our Green Initiatives
Sustainable Eco-Tourism and Responsible Ecology
Since our inception in 1988, Desert Adventures has specialized in eco-tourism and sustainable adventure travel, with a focus and emphasis on geological, ethnobotany, and cultural and historical journeys.
Our passion and love of the desert are evident in all of our adventure programs, and we strive to make sure that our guests leave us with positive memories and a new appreciation of and respect for the natural environment.
Desert Adventures applies a green approach to our entire operation and responsible ecology is at the heart of Desert Adventures’ corporate philosophy.
While our sustainable tourism and “Green” policies are constantly evolving, we are committed to using local suppliers, labor, and products, and we adhere to strict green guidelines for ourselves and our guests to minimize our impact on the environment.
Our goal of neutral environmental impact is guided by our “Take only Memories…Leave only Footprints” policy which includes the following initiatives:
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We only travel on existing paths and trails and we teach our guests the importance of staying on established trails when they hike or enjoy nature on their own in order to protect delicate plant and animal habitats.
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We pick up trash wherever we find it and we educate our guests about the harmful effects of littering. In addition, we spearhead annual clean-ups to remove graffiti, dumped cars and appliances, and other trash which are continually littering our pristine desert.
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We train guests on our tours not to disrupt fragile habitats by removing or disturbing rocks, animals, or plants.
We also practice the “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” philosophy of resource conservation:
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In our office we use electronic rather than paper files to save trees and other resources.
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We use recycled paper in our brochures and other printed marketing materials whenever possible.
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We use biodegradable and /or recycled products whenever possible.
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We recycle our cans, bottles, ink cartridges, used batteries, plastic and paper products, and electronics equipment.
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We use all energy efficient lighting in the office and at Metate Ranch.
Our Environmental Commitment
Our environmental commitment extends to the operation of our fleet of classic Jeep scramblers.
Rather than buying new vehicles and contributing to overflowing landfills and junk yards, we have opted to refurbish and maintain existing vehicles.
We recognize, however, that these older vehicles are less environmentally friendly than many newer vehicles. So to help neutralize our environmental impact, we offer guests the option of making carbon offset contributions to help fund clean energy projects and greenhouse gas reducing measures.
In addition, we have plans to convert our entire fleet to CNG or Bio-Diesel over the next ten years.