Food, Lodging & Grounds►Sustainability
We take care of the land that takes care of us.
Common Ground Center is literally built on our deep commitment to offering a gathering space for the community that works in harmony with the natural surroundings, with practices that protect the land, air, water, and people.
Our site demonstrates our commitment to the environment. Through our green building practices, solar power, and low carbon footprint we set an example for the hundreds of families that attend our programs each year.”
– Co-founder Peg Kamens
Land
- A huge portion of our campus – 560 acres – was given over to the Vermont Land Trust so as to never be developed.
- We gratefully acknowledge the Native Peoples, the Ab’naki, on whose ancestral homelands we gather.
Energy
- Our electricity is 100% solar-powered, with solar panels located on site.
- We conserve energy through the use of efficient appliances, well-designed systems and extra insulation throughout the campus.
- The wood-fired brick oven, used throughout the season, runs on fuel sustainably harvested from our woodlands.
- By sourcing as much of our food and supplies locally as possible, we conserve fuel to maintain a low carbon footprint.
- Solar tubes on the roof of the Eco-Lodge heat the hot water used in the building.
People
- We buy locally made goods wherever possible.
- We support the livelihoods of our community by hiring our neighbors and purchasing food from local, family-owned farms.
- CGC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Materials
- The Eco-Lodge was built entirely with lumber harvested from the grounds, and includes hemlock and white pine along with beech, red oak, maple and black birch. See more details about the construction of the Eco-Lodge
- Furniture and fixtures are made from wood and stone harvested on the grounds, or reclaimed from local barns and beaches
- Recycled doors, windows, furniture and more are prominent throughout cabins and gathering spaces.