Whistler stays green
Sunday April 25, 2010 - Email this article to a friend

The Canadian resort has won another green award. Whistler Blackcomb has been named as one of the country's greenest employers for the second year in a row.

Whistler Blackcomb has renewable energy projects and encourages its staff and guests to become environmental stewards.

It is of course always slightly awkward to talk about preserving the environment when dealing with ski resorts as by definition they are not very environmentally friendly.

They scar the landscape, use large amounts of power and of course people usually need to fly to them. Sometimes, as in Whistler's case, a considerbale distance.

However, things can be done and the environmental damage reduced.

Whistler appears to be ahead in this area once again.

The company received special recognition for its involvement in the Fitzsimmons Creek, Run-of-River project.

It is located in the middle of the ski area underneath the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola.

Green Whistler The hydro-powered renewable energy plant became operational earlier this year and produces enough energy to match the total annual energy consumption of the ski area's operating footprint including lifts, mountain restaurants, and snowmaking.

Last year its food and beverage division, which includes 18 restaurants, reduced its waste by 75 per cent.

"We are thrilled to accept this award on behalf of our 3,800 employees," says Dave Brownlie, President and Chief Operating Officer at Whistler Blackcomb.

"This recognition could not be possible without the dedication, passion and commitment our staff and guests have shown to reducing waste and conserving energy. This is an award that we all can be proud of."

The staff participate in a range of environmental programs, carpooling groups, energy conservation programs and community efforts, such as the Habitat Improvement Team.

To date, Whistler Blackcomb employees have also donated $250,000 to the Whistler Blackcomb Environment Fund, that funds green projects in the community.

"We are very grateful and inspired by the recognition," says Arthur DeJong, Whistler Blackcomb's Mountain Planner and Environmental Resource Manager.

"Of course, with this award comes the humility of knowing we have so much further to go."

In harmony with nature