Predator Ridge Resort recently achieved GreenStep Sustainable Tourism Bronze Certification, a testament to their existing and planned sustainability efforts to make their business more sustainable. Predator Ridge is also an EcoFund Verified property, helping to fund projects that reduce their greenhouse gas emissions over time. Read on to hear more from Resort General Manager, Rod Cochrane, about their green initiatives:
Tell us a bit about your business. What makes you different?
At Predator Ridge, we’re more than just a premier destination – we’re stewards of the incredible land we are fortunate to call home. Our commitment to sustainability is woven into every aspect of our operations. From our eco-friendly irrigation systems that utilize 100% recycled water, to our energy-efficient building practices, we strive to preserve the natural beauty of the Okanagan while providing a world-class experience for our guests. What sets us apart is our dedication to integrating sustainable practices seamlessly into our guests’ experiences, ensuring that luxury and responsibility go hand in hand.
Why is sustainability important to you/your business?
We believe that our business can thrive only if the environment around us does too. The stunning landscapes of the Okanagan Valley are what make Predator Ridge a special place, and it’s our responsibility to protect them. We continue to build sustainability practices into every facet of our operations and grow our commitment to preserving the integrity of our local ecology and responsible tourism for a promise of a greener future. By implementing sustainable practices, we not only ensure the longevity of our operations but also contribute to the well-being of the broader community and future generations. For us, sustainability is a commitment to preserving the integrity of our local ecology and promoting responsible tourism.
Why did you join GreenStep Sustainable Tourism?
The Sustainable Tourism program provides us with the tools, resources, and support to measure, manage, and improve our sustainability efforts continuously. Being part of Sustainable Tourism also allows us to collaborate with other like-minded organizations, share best practices, and contribute to the collective goal of making the Thompson Okanagan region a leader in sustainable tourism. It’s an opportunity for us to be held accountable, stay ahead of the curve, and demonstrate our commitment to a greener future.
What sustainability related projects, policies or initiatives do you most want travelers to know about?
We’re proud of several key initiatives that highlight our commitment to sustainability:
- Green Building Practices: All new buildings and renovations are constructed with energy efficiency in mind, utilizing materials and technologies that reduce environmental impact.
- Eco-friendly Irrigation: Our golf courses are maintained with 100% recycled effluent water, significantly reducing our reliance on fresh water sources.
- Waste Reduction: We’ve implemented extensive recycling and composting programs across the resort, and our guest rooms feature refillable amenities to minimize single-use disposables.
- Local Sourcing: We prioritize local and seasonal ingredients in our dining experiences where we can, supporting local farmers and reducing our carbon footprint.
What are some goals and/or actions you plan to take in the future to further increase the sustainability of your business?
Looking ahead, we’re committed to expanding our sustainability efforts even further. Some of our current and future projects include:
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- Wildfire Prevention: We’re enhancing our wildfire prevention strategies, including expanding the use of advanced detection system, SenseNet, and supporting local fire services to protect our natural landscapes.
- Sustainable Land Use: The development plans of Predator Ridge include the preservation of green spaces, with over 50% of the resort’s land left undeveloped. This careful planning ensures that the natural habitat and biodiversity are maintained as we build out the future of our community.
- Promotion of Active and Low-Impact Transportation: Guests are continually encouraged to explore the 1,300 acres of our resort and its surroundings by foot, e-bike, or using electric golf carts, which significantly lowers vehicle emissions. We also offer a variety of electric vehicle charging stations throughout our resort. At Predator Ridge, our vision is to be a leader in sustainable tourism, ensuring that our beautiful natural surroundings are preserved for generations to come while offering an unparalleled experience for our guests.
