EEEKTips on how to be a “Sustainable Tourist” in the West End

With Earth Day upon us, we thought it might be worthwhile to showcase a number of sustainable businesses and tourism options in the West End.

Sustainable tourism has picked up in popularity over the last few years, as more and more travellers recognize the need to reduce their environmental footprint and decrease the negative impacts they have on the destinations they visit.

Here in the West End, we recognize the beauty of where we live and hope to never take it for granted. The West End is fortunate to be a highly walkable neighbourhood, with a Walk Score rating of 94 (the 2nd highest in the city!).

All three of the neighbourhood’s commercial streets are well connected and positioned for the sustainably-minded visitor, and many of our area businesses have a strong commitment to environmental practises.

The West End is also home to 8 bike rental shops in the neighbourhood, which can help you explore the city on your own time using Vancouver’s extensive network of protected bike lanes.

One of the best ways to celebrate Earth Day and travel responsibly is by choosing a sustainable hotel. The Listel Hotel on Robson is one of the city’s top boutique hotels with an “Environment Matters” program, striving to reduce their overall environmental impact and promote best practises in sustainability. In addition to being a zero-waste facility, the Listel Hotel has had a solar energy program since 2008.

Stanley Park: The West End’s Backyard

One of the West End’s crown jewels is Stanley Park, a 1000 acre national heritage site and one of the world’s most beloved urban parks. The park is home to countless walking trails through forested areas, but the 8.8 kilometre Seawall is the real star. This flat and easy route connects from both Davie/Denman and Denman/West Georgia, which allows you to load up on picnic supplies before your ride and treat yourself with a refreshing drink afterwards.

Earth Day 2016

To celebrate Earth Day, the Stanley Park Ecology Society will be hosting numerous activities on Saturday April 23. Vancouver-West End MLA Spencer Chandra Herbert will join the Park Board Chair Sarah Kirby-Yung at 11:00am to kick off the events and unveil the Nature House’s newest “Conservation Corner” exhibit. Activities range from a Lost Lagoon walking tour (including a visit with the resident beaver inhabitants), invasive species removal, children’s crafts, and free refreshments.

Eating with a Conscience

Looking to support sustainable food systems while you’re at it? These West End establishments all operate with sustainability at top of mind. Check them out while you’re out exploring the neighbourhood.

• Sushi Itoga – A proud Ocean Wise partner.
• Forage – One of Vancouver’s most sustainable (and delicious) restaurants.
• Ritual – No tipping aloud! Ritual supports living wages for staff members and local community organizations instead.
• Exile Bistro – Farm to table. Forest to table.
• Whole Foods Market – Lots of organic and sustainable food options available.
• Pomme Natural Market – A “new natural grocery experience.” How can you go wrong with that?