Green Initiatives
Carbon Offsetting
Gabriola Sea Kayaking is working towards becoming carbon neutral in 2009. While we recognize that this alone is not the solution to climate change, we feel that everybody has a small role to play, this is part of the answer and action is better than no action. We’ll keep you posted this winter as we come closer to reaching our goals and setting up our program for 2009.
Carpooling
Gabriola has always encouraged ridesharing among guests to travel to paddling destinations and we commonly coordinate and organize carpooling from the office. In 2008 we added a carpooling application through social networking site facebook for you to be independent in getting where you need to go. You can check it out at Carpooling, under the Community on the top menu bar.
Recycling
Our office program is pretty straightforward. All paper/plastic/metal/tin products are separated & recycled.
On the water - In 2008 we began to do a better job out in the feild by separating the recyclables from garbage and compost. We strongly encourage guides & guests to reduce, reuse and recycle.
Composting
Last year we were using our next door neighbours' compost (...thanks Laurie & Diane!) however a new composting facility now exists at our Gabriola office and is ready to go for the 2009 season.
Local and Organic Foods
Where and whenever possible, we strive to buy local and/or organic foods and support the producers and suppliers of local and organic products. However, we do realize the difficulty for us and our guests, to consistently find what we need to supply our respective kayaking pantry’s.
For 2009 we'll be bringing Salt Spring Coffee aboard as our main Java supplier and carry more locally produced Gabriola Island specialty items like Gabriola Island Chocolate and Garlic.
Energy Efficiency at the Office
Gabriola Sea Kayaking is run out of a small energy efficient building thoughtfully designed, contracted and landscaped with drought resistant plants by Matt's dad Gerry Bowes, and built by freinds, neighbours and local tradesmen.
Water Conservation
Gear and Equipment
We purchase ethically sourced products and buy as locally as possible.
Advertising
In 2008 we used 100% recycled cardstock for our business and plaque cards plus good old word of mouth. This batch of Gabriola swag should last us another year or so.
In the next round, we've sourced out synthetic “paper” made out of non-toxic and child safety tested plastic resins and inorganic fillers creating product which can be melted down and reused in perpetuity —made and remade as ‘paper’ or other products. We'll let you know how it goes.
We're also debating the idea of all web based advertising in the future.