With summer having disappeared in a flash and the transition to fall in full swing, things are looking a bit different for tourism businesses in the Thompson Okanagan: while some continue to thrive, others are struggling and downsizing. As we enter into this shoulder seasons time, the region is experiencing a different kind of tourist season and the rebuilding process is slow, but steady.
Many experts agree that a green economic recovery will help businesses save money while also meeting important environmental goals. Greenstep is proud to be involved in a number of programs being delivered across the Thompson Okanagan region, aimed to assist business owners on this path. After all, protecting and enhancing our environment for all to enjoy was a top priority before the pandemic hit and it will remain a top priority as we move into the fall and months.
Participation in the programs outlined below is completely free! We hope that this support will help provide a helping hand to our business colleagues as they work to get back to a new normal in our shared home of the Thompson Okanagan. Please read on to learn more about these programs, and how you can get involved.
Sustainability Assessments for Tourism Businesses
In partnership with the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), FortisBC, the BC Hotel Association and others, GreenStep is delivering the Eco Efficiency Program to tourism businesses based within the Thompson Okanagan Region. The goal of this program is to support the tourism sector in achieving energy efficiency by identifying operational inefficiencies, providing tools to address them, and ultimately reducing utility bills.
The Program includes an onsite assessment of energy, water and waste practices, followed by a detailed report including the results and recommendations from the assessment, and access to GreenStep’s EcoBase carbon software to calculate the participants’ carbon footprint. Training and tools will also be provided to help participants implement recommendations and measure their carbon footprint.
Available to all of TOTA’s Biosphere Committed members, tourism-based businesses within the Thompson Okanagan Region are encouraged to reach out to TOTA’s Energy Analyst to discuss eligibility and alternatives for non-committed members.
Here’s how to sign up:
Visit totabc.org/eco-assessment for more information, or contact TOTA’s Energy Analyst for more information.
Complimentary Waste Audits Throughout the RDCO
The Regional District of the Central Okanagan has engaged GreenStep Solutions to facilitate a study of recycling practices at multifamily residential properties throughout the region. As part of this study, Greenstep Solutions is offering a limited number of free, onsite waste audits and infrastructure assessments to eligible properties.
Here’s how to sign up:
Please reach out to us directly and our assessors will get you booked into the calendar!
(portions of this blog appeared in our previous blog post: What’s Green In the South Okanagan: Summer/Fall 2020)
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