As Earth Day approaches, we are proud to highlight one of our flagship operations that reflects ExplorUS’ commitment to sustainability in hospitality operations. Muir Woods Trading Company, our café and gift shop at Muir Woods National Monument, outside San Francisco, has garnered recognition from both local and industry organizations.
The operation earned its Marin County Green Business Certification, reaffirming its commitment to environmental stewardship. This certification represents more than recognition; it reflects a rigorous, ongoing commitment to responsible operations. To qualify, businesses must meet strict standards across energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, pollution prevention, and sustainable purchasing. Renewal signifies not only compliance, but continuous improvement, ensuring that operations evolve alongside best practices in environmental management.
This milestone builds on an already strong sustainability standard. The operation achieved TRUE Gold certification due to its 90.7 percent waste diversion rate during the 2024 season, a level that meets and exceeds the threshold required for zero-waste certification. To qualify for TRUE certification, facilities must divert at least 90 percent of their solid waste away from landfills and incineration, maintain detailed tracking and reporting systems, and demonstrate compliance with strict operational and environmental standards over a 12-month period. In addition, operations must meet multiple program requirements, including maintaining a formal zero-waste policy, conducting waste audits, tracking material flows, and limiting contamination levels, while earning points across a comprehensive rating system that evaluates waste reduction, reuse, recycling, and operational efficiency.
Muir Woods Trading Company is also proud to be a 3-Star Certified Green Restaurant recognized by the Green Restaurant Association. This certification is based on a point-based system that evaluates environmental performance across key categories, including energy use, water efficiency, waste reduction, sustainable food sourcing, and chemical and pollution reduction.
Equally important is engaging visitors in these efforts. Guests are encouraged to participate in sustainability initiatives during their visit, whether through proper waste sorting, mindful consumption, or simply gaining a deeper appreciation for the environment beneath the towering redwood trees.
This Earth Day, Muir Woods Trading Company stands as a powerful example of what’s possible when operational excellence and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.