Our Commitment to Sustainability

YWCA Hotel is passionate about protecting the environment and committed to becoming a sustainable organization. Our goal is to achieve a 15–20% reduction in our energy usage by 2010 and a 75% reduction in our greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2012.

Over the past few years, we have integrated a variety of green practices into our operations:

• A waste reduction strategy to increase recycling and reduce garbage output
• Retrofit of the YWCA Hotel, including working with the BC Hydro Power Smart Program to:
  • replace all refrigerators and install energy efficient lighting, saves 30% electrical energy through reduced consumption
  • install a new boiler system that will cut green house gas and carbon emissions by 75%, switches energy sources to clean power so greatly reduces GHG production
  • install low-flow showerheads to reduce water consumption and waste water treatment
• The use of Green Seal approved products, which are 100% recyclable
• A recycling program in the workplace
• The use of recycled or post-consumer recycled paper products in our print materials
• Participation in the Translink Employer Transit Pass Program
• Education and awareness campaigns directed toward staff and guests

By taking these measures, YWCA Hotel has embarked on an ambitious goal to become a leader in sustainable community development and a model for sustainable businesses.

For more information, contact Ted Cathcart, Operations Manager at 604 895 5792.