Our Impact on the Big Sur Coast
How we support our community and care for the land we call home.
Rooted in Community and Responsibility
Big Sur is a place defined as much by its people as its landscape. It is vast, rugged, and remote, with a small population spread across a wide stretch of coastline and no central hub or local government. In many ways, it is a community that relies on those who live and work here to support one another.
At Treebones, that responsibility has always been part of how we operate. From the beginning, our goal has been to contribute meaningfully to the place we call home while caring for the land in a way that feels thoughtful and lasting.
Community Impact in Big Sur
We are an active part of a small and self-reliant community. Over the years, that has meant stepping into roles where support is needed, contributing time and leadership across local organizations, and focusing our giving on the people and efforts that help sustain Big Sur.
Involvement
Our involvement extends beyond the property, supporting the people and organizations that sustain Big Sur.
- Coast Property Owners Association
- Henry Miller Memorial Library Board
- South Coast Land Use Advisory Committee
- Big Sur Coastal Trail development (executive committee)
- Big Sur Unified School Board (former service)
- Big Sur Volunteer Fire Brigade
Community Giving
We focus our giving on the local community we are part of.
- Big Sur Volunteer Fire Brigade
- Big Sur Education Initiative
- South Coast Land Trust
- Big Sur Health Center
- Ventana Wilderness Alliance
- Annual Big Sur Jade Festival
- Community auctions and local support efforts
Supporting the Arts
The arts are an important part of life in Big Sur and the experience we share with guests.
- Henry Miller Memorial Library
- Big Sur Fashion Show
- Big Sur Short Film Festival
- Big Sur Food and Wine Festival
Environmental Responsibility
Before Treebones was ever built, we made a decision to approach the land with care. We often describe that idea as “perching lightly,” a way of thinking about how to exist here without overbuilding or overusing what makes this place special. That approach continues to guide how we operate. It is not a fixed set of rules, but an ongoing process. We regularly reassess what we are doing, look for ways to reduce our impact, and remain open to ideas from both our team and our guests.
Waste and Materials
- We recycle cans, bottles, paper, cardboard, glass, plastic, and batteries
- Compostable and recycled materials are used wherever possible
- Even small choices, like using pasta for coffee stir sticks, reduce waste
Food and Sourcing
- Kitchen scraps are composted or fed to our chickens
- An on-site organic garden supplies much of our produce
- Additional ingredients are sourced locally whenever possible
Energy and Infrastructure
- The property operates completely off the grid
- Clean-burning micro turbines and solar provide electricity
- Low voltage and downcast lighting reduce light pollution
- Skylights and efficient systems help lower energy demand
Reuse and Building Practices
- Recycled steel from the oil industry is repurposed on site
- Materials and appliances are donated or shared with the community
- Many elements are fabricated locally through the Treebones Forge
Transportation and Daily Operations
- A fleet of electric vehicles is used on property
- Staff live on site, reducing daily commuting and emissions
Retail and Purchasing
- The retail shop prioritizes American-made and Fair Trade goods
