PROTECTING THE PLACE WE CALL HOME

SVWC’s Sustainability Journey

At the Sun Valley Writers’ Conference, words have the power to shape our world—and so do our actions. For decades, Sun Valley’s breathtaking landscape has been a wellspring of inspiration for writers and readers alike. As we gather to celebrate storytelling, we also recognize our responsibility to protect this extraordinary place for future generations.

That’s why we’re taking action. Through reducing waste, sourcing responsibly, and supporting local conservation efforts, SVWC is committed to making our conference more sustainable while preserving the immersive, transformative experience that makes it so special.

As SVWC friend and alum Barry Lopez once said, “Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.”

SVWC’S SUSTAINABILITY STORY

Why It Matters & Where We’re Headed

Sustainability has always been part of SVWC’s story. Many of the literary voices who have graced our stage—Barry Lopez, Elizabeth Kolbert, W.S. Merwin, John Vaillant, and more—have explored the beauty of the natural world and the urgency of conservation. Now, we’re bringing those values to life in our own operations.

Our long-term goals include:

• Achieving zero waste (90%+ waste diversion) by 2027
• Becoming carbon neutral by 2030, in line with Blaine County’s sustainability targets
• Earning sustainability certification by 2030 

To get there, we’re implementing thoughtful, phased changes, focusing on waste reduction, emissions mitigation, sustainable sourcing, and community engagement. This means everything from eliminating single-use plastics to partnering with local conservation groups. 

This isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Every small step makes a difference.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Easy Ways to Reduce Waste & Carbon

Sustainability is a shared effort, and there are simple ways you can help make SVWC a greener event:

• Bring or buy a reusable water bottle – Water refill stations will be available throughout the venue.
• Sort your waste – We’re adding more recycling and composting stations, with volunteers ready to help.
• Choose sustainable transportation – Walk, bike, carpool, or take the Mountain Rides e-bus to reduce emissions.
• Reuse your lanyard – Drop it off at the end of the conference so we can keep it out of the landfill. 
• Recycle your brochure – Look for a paper recycling bin at the end of the conference or drop it off in the recycling bin at our local post office. 

Close to 2,000 attend the conference. Together, these small actions add up to big change.

PARTNERING FOR A GREENER FUTURE

We’re proud to collaborate with organizations that share our vision for a more sustainable future.

This year, SVWC will be making a donation to the Sun Valley Resort Conservation Fund, which partners with the National Forest Foundation to support local and regional reforestation projects. To amplify our impact, the National Forest Foundation will generously match our donation by 50%.

This initiative marks an important step in our journey toward measuring, reducing, and mitigating the emissions from our event.

We know that meaningful change happens through collaboration, and we’re just getting started. Stay tuned for more announcements as we continue expanding our partnerships leading up to the conference!

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE CONFERENCE

Sustainability will be woven into your SVWC experience, with several new initiatives in place:

• Expanded recycling & composting stations – Trained volunteers will be available to assist attendees.
• A reduction in single-use plastics – Compostable or reusable serviceware will be used throughout the event. 
• Responsible sourcing – We’re working with the Sun Valley Resort Food and Beverage department to source more delicious climate-friendly meal options.
• Sustainable printing – Our brochures are 100% recyclable and we work with an SGP (Sustainable Green Printing Partnership) printer that is 100% wind-powered and uses FSC-certified paper. 

JOIN US IN WRITING A MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

SVWC is about ideas that matter—and protecting the place that brings us together matters. We’re grateful for your support as we take these important steps forward.

Follow our sustainability journey in our newsletter and reach out to us directly if you’d like to get more involved! 

Together, let’s make this story one worth telling.

Photo credit (wildflowers): Barbi Reed

Photo credit (recycling): courtesy Sun Valley Resort