Sustainability

At West Slope Startup Week, we recognize the critical importance of sustainability in fostering a vibrant and resilient community. Our commitment to sustainability encompasses not only the environmental impact of our event, but also the well-being of rural entrepreneurs and places we call home. By striving to make West Slope Startup Week a zero-waste event and reducing our greenhouse gas emissions, we aim to set a standard for responsible event planning and inspire positive change within our network.

In 2026, we aim to:

• Transform WSSW into a zero-waste event by reducing and eliminating single-use items wherever possible, providing recycling and composting at event venues, and reusing/repurposing banners and other scenography.
• Reduce our carbon footprint by offering a rideshare service for out-of-town attendees and free public transportation within the City of Durango.
• Provide responsible food options for event attendees with Meat-Free Monday, as well as vegetarian options throughout the rest of the week.
• Promote a culture of eco-responsibility among attendees, speakers, and sponsors

Sustainability is a journey and we recognize that we won’t get it perfect. But we invite you to come along and help us make WSSW good for entrepreneurs and the planet.

1. Hitch a ride – Start networking early, save on gas, and reduce your carbon emissions by hitching a ride with another attendee. We’re partnering with TreadShare to offer carpool buddy matching for folks traveling to Durango. We especially encourage attendees who will be making day trips from towns like Bayfield, Pagosa, Cortez, and Mancos to rideshare. If you’re interested, sign up here.

2. Bring a reusable water bottle and coffee cup – Cut the (plastic) crap. Bring your own refillable drinkware and help us reduce waste.

3. Get sporky – And while you’re at it, use your spork to cut back on single-use utensils. For bonus points, whip out your camp cookware when you join us for breakfast. (Seriously, this would be the most Colorado thing ever.)

4. Sleep local – West Slope Startup Week is a walkable event, with nearly all sessions taking place in Downtown Durango. To cut back on driving, find accommodation that’s within walking or biking distance. And don’t forget the Animas River Trail, which connects the town from north to south, and makes for a great, car-free commute.

5. Pedal power! – Durango is bike crazy. Bring yours and commute like a local.

6. Ride the Trolley – We’ve partnered with the City of Durango to offer free public transportation during the event. Just show your badge on the city bus (aka the Durango Trolley) and reduce your emissions pronto!

7. Go digital – Share your deets like it’s 21st Century with digital business cards and contact information.

8. Just say no – While we’re encouraging our partners to avoid wasteful swag, you can reduce waste by refusing to accept items that you don’t want and won’t use.

9. Use the right bin – We’re offering both recycling and composting at event venues. Before you toss it in the garbage, look for a better bin.

10. Join us for Meat-Free Monday – That’s right, all meals served on Monday will be meat-free. You can help us reduce our carbon footprint by continuing to eat vegetarian or vegan when you dine out on Monday evening.

The effects of climate change are not restricted to energy or sustainability verticals; all businesses will be affected through direct impacts, evolving regulations, or changing markets. The challenge to reduce our collective impact on the planet touches every aspect of how we do business.

At West Slope Startup Week, we celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation endemic to Rural Colorado. There’s no better place to foster meaningful action—not only against climate change, but FOR a clean, healthy, and prosperous future.
As we face growing environmental challenges, the need for agility and innovative action has never been more critical. Who better than entrepreneurs to meet this challenge? We are uniquely positioned to drive change, leveraging our creative, “think-outside-the-box” minds to develop solutions that can mitigate climate impacts and promote sustainability. No matter our industry or job title.

Colorado’s Western Slope, with its unique geographic and cultural landscape, is primed to become a leader in climate innovation. Our region fosters a natural connection to the environment, a strong community spirit, and a growing network of innovators dedicated to making the world a better place. By harnessing these strengths, we can drive the development and deployment of climate conscious businesses.

We believe that West Slope Startup Week can serve as a catalyst for greater climate action and sustainable business operations across the region.