Eco-Friendly Edmonton

The City of Edmonton and its residents are committed to reducing waste, and have taken their collective interest even further in support of reducing their environmental footprint in day-to-day activities. Edmonton businesses have been stepping up to the plate in a big way, providing many options for buying eco-friendly products and services.

While in Edmonton, don’t miss your opportunity to make a difference!

City of Edmonton – Recycling & Waste Management: Since initiating a curbside recycling program in 1988, Edmonton has become a global leader in effective urban waste management. Through recycling, reuse and composting programs, the City diverts approximately 60% of residential waste from landfill. (The goal is to divert 90% by 2012!)

After a futile 10-year search for a new landfill site in the 1980s, Edmonton city council decided there had to be a better way, and the City decided to turn garbage into a money-making, renewable resource. Fifteen years later, Edmonton runs North America's most sophisticated waste-handling system. Visit the Edmonton Waste Management Centre and learn about composting, recycling, landfill design and biofilters. (The Rick Mercer Report visited the Waste Management Centre in 2008 – check out the video online at www.cbc.ca/mercerreport, season six, Dec. 2.)

Website: www.edmonton.ca  

Eco-Solar Home Tour: Organized by volunteers, the Eco-Solar Home Tour is a free open house tour that showcases practical examples of sustainability including renewable energy, energy security, energy efficiency, water efficiency, low emission technologies and natural landscaping. Home owners are reducing their utility bills while increasing the quality of our air. Visit the website for a detailed list of homes that have made the move to reduce their ecological footprint.

Website: www.ecosolar.ca 

Shaw Conference Centre: Edmonton’s Shaw Conference Centre (SCC) has undertaken steps to reduce the ecological impact of hosting half a million guests and over 700 events annually, and lighten the environmental footprint of operating a 250,000 sq. ft. facility in the middle of a thriving metropolis. Staff, contractors, suppliers and clients are active partners in many ongoing, environmental initiatives.

In recognition of efforts to incorporate industry environmental best practices, SCC received “Go Green” certification from the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) of Canada in 2007.

Telephone: 780.421.9797
Website: www.shawconferencecentre.com  

Take the plunge! When Edmonton’s outdoor pools pull the plug at the end of summer, the water doesn’t go down the drain. Through the City of Edmonton Water Reuse Program, the seasonal and maintenance closures of swimming pools are coordinated with parks watering operations so that the pool water can be recycled. The clean, dechlorinated water will be recycled to irrigate nearby parks rather than being drained into the sanitary sewer system.

The Water Reuse Program has been very successful and has made a positive contribution to the environment. Since the City of Edmonton initiated the program in 2006, approximately 20 million litres of water have been recycled from indoor and outdoor pools.

The Water Reuse Program has expanded from municipal swimming pools to include the YMCA and NAIT pools as well. In June 2009, the City of Edmonton awarded program team members with the Charles Labatiuk Award for Environmental Excellence, for demonstrating environmental excellence in innovating, leading and improving how the city does business.

Telephone: 780.442.5311; 780.944.7528 (Media Inquiries Only)
Website: www.edmonton.ca  

FESTIVALS

Capital EX: In Family Fun Town, a green zone at Capital EX, parents can learn alongside their kids about ways to better care for our environment. The pilot project in 2008 included a composting setup, an audit on the amount of recycled waste, composted material and garbage carted away per day, and the use of renewable energy.

Waste Management of Canada sponsors the compost and recycling project. They work with vendors and fair-goers to separate waste into organics, plastics, bottle containers, cardboard and garbage.

Website: www.capitalex.ca  

Edmonton Folk Music Festival: Since the early 1990s, The Edmonton Folk Music Festival has worked hard to minimize their impact on Gallagher Park and the Cloverdale community. Preservation of the park, in cooperation with the City of Edmonton and the Cloverdale community has always been a festival commitment. Early efforts focused on minimizing the environmental impact included five strategies:

• Recycling. The Site Environment crew collects recyclable items to minimize garbage sent to the landfill. (In 2000, the festival partnered with Clean It Green It, a subsidiary of KC Environmental, to aid with the composting of organic waste generated during the festival.)
• Temporary walkways, funded in part by the Edmonton Community Foundation, minimize damage to the park. 
• Bike lock-up service, enabling patrons to bicycle to the site rather than drive. 
• Garbage collection. During the festival, the morning clean-up crew, called EnviroPower and staffed by youth volunteers, scours the park picking up garbage. The Site Environment crew monitors the park during the day and evenings. 
• Restoring Gallagher Park. The festival is committed to leaving the park in the best condition. This includes removing facilities and equipment in a timely manner and restoring the grass.

In 1995, the Folk Music Festival started a plate program to reduce waste generated by concessionaires and the festival volunteer kitchen. With support of the Edmonton Community Foundation, the festival bought 5000 washable plates. Providing these plates to concessionaires facilitated implementing a “No Styrofoam” policy on site.

In 2007, in cooperation with Big Rock Breweries, the festival started using Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) beer cups. PLA, a resin derived entirely from natural corn materials, is 100% renewable through annual corn harvests and fully compostable in municipal and industrial facilities.

Also in 2007, the festival installed solar panels to power their merchandising tent and to run lights and cash registers.

Website: www.efmf.ab.ca  

Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival: The Edmonton International Fringe Festival is North America's largest live theatre event, and only second in the world to the original Edinburgh Fringe Festival. It attracts over 500,000 visitors to over 1,000 live theatre experiences each year. The Fringe’s “Green Revolution” includes: reducing dependence on the power grid by introducing solar and LED lighting, setting up water stations for patrons to refill bottles, an increase in recycling stations including compost bins and bio-degradable cutlery, plates and cups from vendors.

Telephone: 780.448.9000
Website: www.fringetheatreadventures.ca

Green Festival, Devonian Botanic Garden: Held in July, the event is aimed at helping consumers become more environmentally friendly. This educational festival focuses on ways to live ‘green’ including composting, recycling, environmentally-friendly gardening, carpooling, using green energy and even housecleaning with more eco-friendly products.

Telephone: 780.987.3054
Website: www.devonian.ualberta.ca  

Servus Heritage Festival: Edmonton’s Heritage Festival offers over 60 pavilions representing over 80 cultures with over 500 ethnic cultural performances and a countless selection of foods from around the world. The festival continues to be ‘green ’using biodegradable knives, forks, spoons, plates, bowls, cups and napkins. ENMAX supplies wind power and the Edmonton Transit System provides Park n Ride service to the park. There are also gated bicycle compounds at each end of Hawrelak Park.

Website: www.heritage-festival.com  

OUT ON THE TOWN

In Edmonton there’s no reason not to shop for products and services that promise sustainability. Whether you are shopping for unique gifts, grabbing a bite to eat, or treating yourself to a new haircut and style, Edmonton offers several places where your choices can truly make a positive difference.

The Beauty Parlour: Opened in 2009 in Old Strathcona, the Beauty Parlour was designed with eco-friendly practices in mind. The salon's water heater is solar-powered and the Beauty Parlour was built almost entirely from locally sourced, salvaged material. The wood flooring and wall panels were reclaimed from a defunct grain elevator in Innisfail, and the retro hydraulic salon chairs and sit-down blow-dryers are second-hand. The stylists work only with eco-conscious hair products made with natural and organic ingredients.

Telephone: 780.429.4242
Website: www.organicbeautyparlour.com  

Black Gold River Tours: Black Gold River Tours’ invested in a new trim kit in 2009, and with a fully computerized craft they are running their boat at optimum performance, reducing fuel consumption and ultimately their environmental footprint. They use only hard plates, cutlery and glasses to reduce throw-away, and have partnered with Ducks Unlimited to assist in their fundraising efforts for conservation projects.

Telephone: 780.987.0410
Website: www.blackgoldrivertours.ca  

Carbon Environmental Boutique: Open in 2009, Carbon Environmental Boutique is located in the core of Edmonton on the beautiful, historically-preserved 104th Street Promenade. The business was established to offer sustainably-made items to urban professionals and homemakers who wish to practice clean, green living. Carbon Environmental stocks eco-friendly merchandise from unique manufacturers, craftsmen and designers.

Carbon Environmental Boutique offers sustainable eco-furniture, lighting and artwork, organic mattresses and bedding, luxury organic personal care items, rare gifts, recycled jewellery and natural yoga supplies, as well as air purification items, natural cleaning products, green building supplies, home improvement products, a large section for baby and mama, and a thought-provoking book and documentary hideaway.

Telephone: 780.498.1900
Website: www.carbonboutique.com  

Earth’s General Store: Earth's General Store first opened in 1991 to assist Old Strathcona shoppers in finding products that reduced waste, made without harmful chemicals, and were created through sustainable practices. The shop’s staff is available to offer helpful information in reducing one’s ecological footprint.

Telephone: 780.439.8725
Website: www.earthsgeneralstore.ca  

EatLocalFirst.com: The website helps you connect to local food suppliers, producers and sellers. EatLocalFirst.com includes a food and drink list of all members with information on what they sell and produce and where to find them.

Website: www.eatlocalfirst.com  

HealthFare Restaurant: HealthFare first opened in August 2008 in south Edmonton to offer an alternative to fried, over-salted foods.  Displaying the calorie count of their menu items, HealthFare proudly serves nutritious meals of which Mother Earth would approve!  A new location opened in downtown Edmonton in 2009. HealthFare's eco-friendly roundup:

• Chairs are made of recycled plastic and aluminum
• Benches and panels are Kirei Board - made from sorgham. (These stalks were otherwise burned, emitting pollution and greenhouse gases.)
• Tables are made of reclaimed wood from local sources
• Tankless water heater reduces energy consumption by 50%
• Low-watt lighting creates energy savings of up to 75%
• Eco-friendly take-out materials are made from renewable resources

Telephone: 780.489.8746 (south side)
Website: www.healthfare.ca   

Lucid Lifestyle: Open since fall 2008 in Old Strathcona, Lucid Lifestyle is an ideal shopping destination for the environmentally and socially conscious consumer who loves style and sustainability. They offer organic cotton, sustainable and natural fibres, and fair-trade products.

Telephone: 780.953.4376
Website: www.lucid-lifestyle.com  

Organic Roots: Organic Roots began in 1995 as a herbal and supplement store (formerly Herb ’N’ Health) located on Whyte Avenue. Herb ’N’ Health became an innovator in the area of bulk herbs and essential oils. In the spring of 2002 Herb ‘N’ Health transformed itself into Organic Roots – a health food and supplements store, and educational centre.

Telephone: 780.413.1730
Website: www.organicroots.ca  

Original Fare Restaurants: Original Fare is a select group of independent restaurants within Edmonton that are committed to promoting, preserving and protecting culinary diversity. The restaurants are independently owned and operated and encourage social responsibility and awareness as well as support regional cuisine and products. Visit their website for a full list of partner restaurants.

Website: www.originalfare.com  

Planet Organic Market: Planet Organic specializes in natural and organic food for three reasons: to contribute to the personal well being of the customers, to protect the health of the Earth, and to make eating a robust and joyful event. Planet Organic Markets stocks organic gourmet groceries and fresh produce, and are committed to ensuring that 100% of fruits and vegetables sold are certified organic. There are two locations in Edmonton, downtown and on the south side.

Telephone: 780.452.4921 (downtown); 780.433.6807(south side)
Website: www.planetorganic.ca  

Segway Edmonton: Segway Edmonton’s River Valley tours have arrived! New in 2009, visitors can now experience this great technology while gliding through North America’s largest urban parkland. It gives you a feeling of freedom and enjoyment. For several years, Segway Edmonton has been working hard to bring this opportunity to the public. Being the first tour of its kind in Canada, they offer an experience of Edmonton’s local sights and sounds that is sure to make a lasting impression.

Founded on the vision to develop highly-efficient, zero-emission transportation solutions using dynamic stabilization technology, Segway’s research and development has been focused on creating devices that take up a minimal amount of space, are extremely manoeuvrable and can operate on pedestrian sidewalks and pathways. It does draw electric power during recharge, but that electricity produces 14 times less greenhouse gas emissions than driving a car. Segway Edmonton is the leading dealership in Canada and is run by Enviro-Glide Rentals Inc.

Telephone: 780.995.7347
Website: www.segwayedmonton.com  

Southgate Centre: Southgate Centre is proud to be a “green mall” where 25% of the property is powered by wind turbines to reduce greenhouse emission.

Telephone: 780.435.3721
Website: http://southgate.shopping.ca  

Wild Prairie Soap Company: Wild Prairie Soap Company offers an extensive selection of handmade, natural products which are both good for the body and the environment. Located on Whyte Avenue, Wild Prairie Soap Company uses natural ingredients so all of the products are biodegradable. The soap making process is environmentally safe, and the product packaging is recyclable. Bring in your empty containers for recycling and receive 10% off the same product.

Telephone: 780.439.6640
Website: www.wildprairiesoap.ca  

en Santé Winery: en Santé Winery is Alberta's first and only organic fruit cottage winery located in the town of Brosseau area, about two hours northeast of Edmonton. The Chrapko family has been producing organic fruits and wines for over a decade. They boast a long, proud tradition of honest, hand-crafted, environmentally-friendly food production. Visit the website for a list of Edmonton stores carrying their product.

Telephone: 780.657.2275
Website: www.ensantewinery.com  

FARMERS’ MARKETS

Farmers’ Markets are not only one of the best ways to spend a summer afternoon but you can also shop guilt free by supporting local vendors. Find local fruits and vegetables, free range chicken, organic bison, recycled jewellery, handmade books and so much more.

There are eight farmers’ markets within the city of Edmonton, and another eight more surrounding the city, all approved by Alberta Agriculture (www.agric.gov.ab.ca). Approximately 80% of the product is made, baked, or grown in Alberta.

City Market: The City Market Downtown on 104th, Edmonton’s original farmers’ market, has been a part of Edmonton's downtown culture for more than a century. Renowned for a great selection of farm-fresh produce, dairy, meat, eggs and cheese, vendors also offer an eclectic mix of handcrafted jewellery, delectable baking, unique fashions & accessories, original artwork and stylish home décor. Today, the City Market attracts thousands of visitors from across Edmonton and surrounding communities each weekend throughout spring and summer (May to October).

Telephone: 780.429.5713
Website: www.city-market.ca  

Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market: Open year-round, the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market has been a popular Saturday tradition for residents and visitors for over 20 years. The market boasts 130 vendors, offering everything from fine hand-crafted furniture to wild game, to local, fresh fruits and vegetables. (The Old Strathcona district is known for its shopping, theatre, and more than 100 restaurants and nightclubs. Old Strathcona was recognized by Air Canada’s EnRoute magazine as one of Canada’s top five coolest neighbourhoods.)

Telephone: 780.439.1844
Website: www.osfm.ca  

ECO TRANSPORTATION

Short of walking or bicycling, public transportation is one of the most eco-friendly forms of transportation in Edmonton.

Edmonton Bicycle Commuters’ Society: The Edmonton Bicycle Commuters’ Society (EBC) works to promote and facilitate cycling as everyday transportation in Edmonton by providing bicycle services and resources including free workshops, bike repairs, low-cost bikes, and more.

Part of EBC’s mandate is to reduce the environmental impact of people moving around Edmonton. Riding a bike is one of the easiest ways to reduce your ecological footprint, and when it’s time to say goodbye to your two-wheeled friend, EBC is there! Donated bikes are assessed and either refurbished, rebuilt, or recycled depending on their condition. In 2006, EBC expanded their recycling program by partnering with the Alberta Recycling Management Authority, Mountain Equipment Coop, and a number of bike stores in Edmonton to collect and recycle old bicycle tires.

Telephone: 780.433.2453 (EBC); 780.439.8725 (EBC Media Inquiries)
Website: www.edmontonbikes.ca  

Edmonton Transit System (ETS): ETS operates a variety of public transportation services including buses, Light Rail Transit (LRT), and Disabled Adult Transportation Services (DATS). ETS is now testing hybrid and clean diesel buses. The LRT runs on rails from the north end of the city, passing Rexall Place, downtown and to the South University Campus.

Website: www.takeets.com  

Highlevel Bridge Streetcar: Service over the High Level Bridge began in 1913, and is an eco-friendly alternative to gas-guzzling vehicles. From the heart of Old Strathcona to downtown and back, across the top of the High Level Bridge - 46 metres (152 feet) above the North Saskatchewan River, the highest river crossing by streetcar in the world - the Edmonton Radial Railway Society takes passengers on a trip back in time. The view, unobstructed in every direction, is truly breathtaking.

Telephone: 780.437.7721
Website: www.edmonton-radial-railway.ab.ca  

Top Gear Scooters: All you need is a Class 5 license to rent a scooter that gets 100 miles per gallon. Cost is approximately $80 a day. The vibrant store features Vespa and Derbi scooters along with clothing and accessories.

Telephone: 780.438.8399
Website: www.top-gear.ca  

ECO-FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION

The Hotel Association of Canada's (HAC) Green Key Eco-Rating Program is a graduated rating system designed to recognize hotels, motels, and resorts that are committed to improving their fiscal and environmental performance. Based on the results of a comprehensive environmental audit, hoteliers are awarded a 1 to 5 Green Key rating.

It is important to note that the Green Key Eco-Rating Program is a voluntary, self-administered audit designed to assist a hotel in determining its current environmental footprint. www.hacgreenhotels.com  

Edmonton hotels with a 3 key rating or more:

Campus Tower Suite Hotel
Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel
Comfort Inn Edmonton West
Crowne Plaza-Chateau Lacombe
Delta Edmonton Centre Suite Hotel
Delta Edmonton South Hotel & Conference Centre
Edmonton Marriott at River Cree Resort (Enoch)
Executive Royal Inn West Edmonton
The Fairmont Hotel MacDonald
Holiday Inn Express Downtown
Mayfield Inn & Suites West Edmonton
Radisson Hotel Edmonton South
Ramada Hotel and Conference Centre / Edmonton Inn
Rosslyn Inn & Suites
Royal Inn Express Hotel (Spruce Grove)
Sandman Hotel Edmonton
Sawridge Inn - Edmonton South
The Sutton Place Hotel Edmonton
Travelodge Edmonton South
Travelodge Edmonton West
Varscona Hotel on Whyte
The Westin Edmonton

PACKAGES

Going Green with the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts began its approach to responsible tourism in 1990 with the introduction of the Green Partnership program - an industry-leading initiative to reduce its impact on the environment through energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management and community outreach. The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald’s Forest Green Package includes:

• Accommodation for one night with a complimentary upgrade to the Spectacular River Valley View Room 
• Full breakfast for two in the Harvest Room or in-room dining. As part of Fairmont's commitment to environmental stewardship, our menu contains locally sourced, organic or sustainable items wherever possible. 
• Food and beverage gratuities 
• Complimentary bottle of organic wine 
• Tree planted in your name as a "thank you" at Carbon Farmers Inc / Alberta. A gift certificate will be sent to you following your stay. (www.thecarbonfarmer.ca) 
• Optional delivery of daily newspaper 
• Optional towel / linen service 
• Complimentary parking for Hybrid vehicles

This package is available until December 31, 2010 and is subject to availability.

Website: www.fairmont.com/macdonald

Check out this video! Edmonton Eco-Adventures on Vacations Canada TV.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Amy Wolski
Travel Media Relations Manager, External Relations 
780.969.0481
awolski@edmonton.com

Bin Lau
Director of Communications, External Relations
780.969.0463
blau@edmonton.com

Jenifer Christenson
Executive Director, External Relations 
780.917.7890
jchristenson@edmonton.com