Protecting Highlands
Sustainability at 200 Main
At 200 Main, we believe in taking care—of our guests, our town, and the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains we call home. That’s why we’ve woven thoughtful, sustainable practices into everyday experiences, from energy-saving efforts to eco-friendly touches that help protect the Highlands we all love.
Gardens
Three sustainable farms with organic vegetable and herb gardens supply five restaurants, reducing the impact of produce transportation. These gardens rely on natural composting.
Guest Involvement
Through a $1 per stay opt-out donation during our reservations process, 200 Main guests support the Highlands Nature Center and Biological Station. As of January 2023, this has resulted in $105,350 of contributions through the generosity of our guests since 2011.
Community Efforts
Employees participate in the annual Highlands Plateau Pick-Up, removing litter from area roads and highways.
Golf
Old Edwards Club golf course added filtered water stations to replace all plastic bottles.
Transportation
200 Main offers guests electric car charging stations, and many employees within walking distance choose to walk to work instead of driving or carpool with the employee shuttle.
We actively encourage guests to participate in sustainability efforts through posted literature and empower our dedicated internal Green Team to drive continuous improvement. Our staff regularly researches and purchases from environmentally responsible companies, and we've conducted energy assessments with Waste Reduction Partners to further reduce our impact. Additionally, a partnership with Western Carolina University's Natural Resource Conservation and Management Program facilitated innovative student-led research, identifying fresh approaches to green hospitality.