Whether you’re visiting Park City for a day, staying for a week, or living, it’s vital to participate in the stewardship of our mountain town.
Sustainable practices such as leaving no trace on trails, buying local, and using e-bikes or public transportation instead of driving are simple ways to make a big difference in preserving the unique beauty and spirit of this community.
One local Parkite, Anna Robertson, is a vocal proponent in urging people to consider how their actions impact the environment around them. After an award-winning career in the media industry in both New York City and Los Angeles, Anna co-founded The Cool Down, a climate content brand on a mission to create a “cleaner, cooler future.”
What sparked your interest in climate change?
My interest in covering extreme weather grew during my 10 years in Los Angeles. My family had to evacuate from wildfires in the middle of the night. We had friends who lost their homes to wildfires. Sometimes we couldn't send the kids to school because the air quality was poor. A light bulb went off in my head, and I was concerned that not many people were engaged in the climate topic. I became passionate about connecting the dots and telling stories that could help people connect in ways that don’t feel so overwhelming.
What is The Cool Down?
The Cool Down is the first mainstream climate brand, serving as a guide for individuals seeking choices that are healthier for their families, financially beneficial, and environmentally friendly. We started The Cool Down because we felt that climate communications was broken — it was all doom and gloom.
Our mission is to simplify climate communication, highlighting innovation and practical solutions that empower people to make positive changes without feeling overwhelmed. We are also a climate insights business, assisting companies in transitioning to the clean economy.
Since moving to Park City, how have you seen the community working to combat climate change?
Park City has emerged as a leader in prioritizing sustainability, particularly through initiatives like Mountain Towns 2030. It’s great to see that the community is committed to transitioning to renewable energy by 2030 and increasing its focus on sustainability in tourism campaigns.
While there is room for improvement, such as increasing composting and reducing reliance on single-use plastics, Park City's efforts are commendable. We’re so lucky to have nonprofits like Recycle Utah leading the way. However, there’s a challenge that lies in educating second homeowners about sustainable practices.
What does sustainability mean to you?
Sustainability is a broad term that, in my opinion, needs to become more human and relatable. To me, it transcends environmentalism and is about living responsibly in a way that supports the world around us. Sustainability, in the context of Park City, involves making choices that support the tourism industry, which is vital for our community, while ensuring the preservation of our beautiful environment.
What is the number-one way visitors can have a more sustainable vacation in Park City?
The key is to embrace the principle of "Leave No Trace." Visitors should be mindful of their impact on the destination, considering aspects like waste, food choices, and how they can leave the place better than they found it. This approach ensures that Park City remains a pristine destination for future visits.
Whether you’re on vacation or at home, reducing your food waste is one of the biggest individual actions a person can take to be more environmentally friendly. Check out The Cool Down’s guide to changing the way you buy, cook, eat, and reuse food here.
Rapid-fire Round:
Top hidden gem in Park City?
Park City Library, with its events, workspaces, and focus on sustainability, is a fantastic community connection point.
Go-to coffee spot?
Hill’s Kitchen or Five Seeds.
Sustainable dining recommendation?
Rebekah’s Kitchen offers healthy home-cooked meals delivered to your door in sustainable glass containers — perfect if you’re coming for an extended visit.
Date-night restaurant?
Twisted Fern.
Favorite family-friendly activities?
We love to hike Moose Hollow trail in Jeremy Ranch, do the Mountain Coaster and Alpine Slide at PCMR, and ski at Deer Valley or Canyons.
Thank you Anna for your time and your dedication to spreading awareness about we can all make positive change in our community!
