Birchwood Motel Environmental Policy

Scott Nearing's words "Do the best that you can in the place that you are. And be kind." inspire a back-to-the-land approach to our life and our business. Our aim is to preserve Midcoast Maine's classic roadside lodging as a vital, sustainable piece of local tourism heritage driven by ecologically-responsible business policy. 

Sustainable living practices to reduce waste and limit consumption are possible even for small business. Our motel began with simple steps by recycling empties and changing lightbulbs. Next came housekeeping, greening up methods with conservational practices — clothesline dryer on sunny days, encouraging towel and linen reuse, using ecologically-minded cleaning products and detergents. Recycling, appliance and light bulb replacement are now common practice at the motel. Supplies are purchased from Camden, Maine or USA businesses whenever we can.  

Green also extends outside  to the gardens, and not just in the color! Kitchen trimmings, garden clippings, newspaper, cardboard, brown bags and coffee grounds are composted. Interplantings of native Maine species, edible perennials, beneficials and medicinals surround the motel benefiting the soil and its plants and creating a healthier, more diverse environment for our home, our business, our community. We are proud members of MOFGA, Maine Birding Trail and Citizens for a Green Camden. Our landscaping incorporates organic permaculture principles to eliminate pesticides and chemicals and reduce the need for watering and weeding.