Community Initiatives

As a visitor to Whistler, you may notice many community groups, volunteer organizations and associations that are actively working to educate the public and protect the wildlife and land that we are here to enjoy. Check out our Events listings for local outings, lecture series and fundraisers. Everyone is always welcome to attend even if you are here just for a weekend.

Here are just a few of the Whistler community's recent environmental initiatives and accolades:

• Whistler2020 is the community's shared vision and plan for continued success to the year 2020 - and an ambitious step on the longer journey to a sustainable future. Rooted in Whistler's values and a science-based approach to sustainability, Whistler2020 is long-term, comprehensive, community-developed, community-implemented and action-focused. To review the vision, the plan, and broad spectrum of local sustainability performance indicators visit whistler2020.ca.
• Lower Cheakamus Neighbourhood District Energy System — An in-progress project that will see a district energy system employ 'waste' energy from Whistler's wastewater treatment plant to meet the space and hot water needs of all of the dwellings in the new Lower Cheakamus neighbourhood. Current estimates of potential greenhouse gas emission (GHG) reductions versus typical construction are 60 to 70 per cent.
• Biodiesel Bus Fleet — In summer 2007, Whistler's transit bus fleet was switched over to B5 biodiesel fuel. The change to biodiesel required no modification to the diesel engines or to the fuelling infrastructure. Moreover, since 2005 the entire municipal government's fleet of diesel vehicles also use B5 biodiesel during the winter and B20 during the summer. Replacing one gallon of petroleum diesel with biodiesel reduces GHG emissions by approximately 78 per cent.
• Whistler Green — A 'green' building standard and associated checklist has been developed in Whistler, with energy efficiency standing as a cornerstone. Whistler Green homes will set a new standard for residential construction and serve as a model for the community.
• Partners For Climate Protection Program — Whistler was recognized as an environmental leader in the country, as the first community in Canada to have completed the final milestone in the Partners for Climate Protection Program (PCP) developed by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives.
• AWARE (Association of Whistler Area Residents for the Environment) is a membership organization whose mandate is to improve the quality of life by protecting Whistler's natural heritage. Each summer, AWARE presents the Whistler Environmental Business (WEB) Awards to highlight and encourage local leaders in environmental stewardship and promote sustainable business practices.
• WORCA (Whistler Off Road Cycling Association) is dedicated to maintaining Whistler's bike trails. They sponsor trail maintenance programs and educate riders on the importance of preserving and maintaining the trails while riding.
• Whistler Museum & Archives takes an active role in the cultural and natural stewardship of Whistler and the surrounding area.
• Environmental Tourism Award — Whistler Blackcomb was honoured with the 2007 Environmentally Responsible Tourism Award at the annual BC Tourism Awards gala. The award recognized Whistler Blackcomb for its commitment to developing high levels of environmental and social stewardship programs through its Environmental Management System, in place since 1992.