Sustainability Spotlight: Alaska Alpine Adventures

Our Sustainability Spotlight series is aimed at broadening the conversation surrounding sustainable tourism for visitors and businesses by sharing the stories of our Adventure Green Alaska certified businesses. To learn more about Adventure Green Alaska certification please visit our about page.

About Alaska Alpine Adventures

Alaska Alpine Adventures was founded with a passion for exploring Alaska’s wildest and most remote landscapes while preserving them for future generations. For over 25 years, we have specialized in small-group, guided wilderness expeditions, taking guests deep into national parks like Lake Clark, Katmai, and Gates of the Arctic. Our mission is to provide transformational experiences that connect people with nature, foster personal growth, create lasting memories – all while maximizing the tenets of sustainable tourism. 

How long has your business been implementing sustainable practices?

Sustainability has been at the heart of our operations since day one. From the beginning, we have prioritized Leave No Trace principles, low-impact camping techniques, and responsible wildlife viewing. Over the years, we have expanded our efforts to include carbon footprint reduction, waste minimization, and supporting local communities through ethical partnerships and sourcing. As a proud 1% for the Planet member, we have donated over $125,000 to conservation non-profits, reinforcing our commitment to protecting Alaska’s pristine wilderness.

What advice do you have for tourism businesses that are beginning their sustainability journey?

Start with small, meaningful changes and build from there. Sustainability isn’t about perfection—it’s about process and progress. Begin by adopting Leave No Trace principles, reducing single-use plastics, and sourcing locally whenever possible. Educate both staff and guests on responsible tourism, and be transparent about your efforts. Collaboration is key—partner with like-minded organizations, seek certifications like AGA, and continuously look for ways to improve. Most importantly, integrate sustainability into your company culture so it becomes a natural part of your day to day operations. 

What sustainable practice is your business most proud of?

We take immense pride in our commitment to low-impact adventure travel. By limiting group sizes, carefully selecting gear and supplies, and training our guides in sustainable practices, we ensure that our trips leave minimal impact on the environment. Additionally, our partnership with 1% for the Planet allows us to support conservation efforts directly, with over $100K contributed to environmental non-profits. Our guests appreciate that their adventure not only enriches their lives but also helps preserve Alaska’s wilderness for future explorers.

Which pillars of the Adventure Green Alaska program align most with your business?

Our business aligns most closely with the Local Economies and Communities and The Environment pillars.

  • Local Economies and Communities: We support local Alaskan businesses, hire local guides when possible, and promote cultural & community exchange through authentic experiences.
  • The Environment: We operate with strict Leave No Trace ethics, reduce waste, and advocate for conservation efforts that protect Alaska’s delicate ecosystems. Through 1% for the Planet, we actively fund organizations working to safeguard these wild spaces.

Collaboration with Adventure Green Alaska

Becoming a certified Adventure Green Alaska business has strengthened our reputation as a leader in sustainable adventure travel in Alaska. It reassures our guests that their experience is both environmentally responsible and socially conscious—aligning perfectly with their values. The program has also connected us with a network of like-minded businesses, providing opportunities for collaboration and growth. Ultimately, AGA certification, alongside our 1% for the Planet membership and ongoing conservation donations, helps us inspire trust, attract like-minded travelers, and continue making a positive impact on Alaska’s wild places.

To learn more about Alaska Alpine Adventures, visit their Green Business profile and their website.

28 Businesses Receive Adventure Green Alaska Certification

The Adventure Green Alaska program has awarded fourteen new certifications and fourteen certification renewals to the spring 2025 cohort. Adventure Green Alaska certified companies subscribe to the belief that outstanding businesses can be sustainably operated to benefit employees and visitors, and have voluntarily met standards for certification.

Adventure Green Alaska welcomes Explore Kenai, LLC, Borealis Basecamp, Northern Epics, Wild Coast Excursions, Alaska Raptor Center, Alaska Fjordlines, Inc., Breathe Alaska, LLC, Lady of the Sea Adventures, Cycle Alaska, Alaska Luxury Tours, Traverse Alaska, Ruby Range Adventure, Bear Creek Winery, LLC, and Murphy Dome Yurt as newly certified businesses!

Additionally, Adventure Green Alaska congratulates Wings Airways, Adventure Sitka, LLC, Kantishna Roadhouse, Visit Cordova, Stillpoint Lodge, McCarthy River Tours, Denali Education Center, Alyeska Resort, Orca Island Cabins, NorthStar Helicopters, Alaska Nature Guides, Chena Outdoor Collective, Talkeetna Air Taxi, and Alaska Travel Connections on completing the steps for renewal as AGA-certified businesses!

Click here to read the full press release.