Announcements
Check out some exciting updates from Synergy Foundation and our programs:
Introducing BC Green Business
On its tenth anniversary, the Vancouver Island Green Business Collective is expanding provincewide under the new name BC Green Business to help more businesses across the province take climate action! The sustainable business certification program, an initiative of non-profit Synergy Foundation and supported by Strategic Partner Vancity Credit Union, has been helping small-to-medium sized businesses across Vancouver Island since 2013 to reduce their environmental footprint and enhance their social initiatives.
The program provides practical and affordable ways for members to reduce their environmental impact and contribute to their local communities. Businesses can be certified as Silver, Gold or Green (the highest level) and, in eligible regions, can also be certified as an Ocean Friendly Business based on ‘Surfrider Approved’ actions that focus on direct and positive impact for our oceans.
The provincewide expansion is accompanied by a new relationship with Surfrider Canada as part of the Ocean Friendly Business designation as well as a new sector-specific checklist aimed at Food & Beverage Processors. This is the seventh checklist available through the program, joining those geared toward Fleet-based businesses, Grocery Stores, Offices, Restaurants & Cafes, Retailers, and Spas & Salons.
Learn more by reading the press release below:
“When we think about the companies responsible for carbon emissions, people often focus on larger corporations, but smaller businesses have a crucial role to play, and collectively, the power of local businesses can be immense. Our hope is this program will give small business owners the opportunity to forge the path to net zero, save money, attract new clients, and overall strengthen their business in the face of climate change.”
- Andrea Harris, VP of Impact Strategy, Vancity Credit Union
"Synergy Foundation continues to demonstrate impact through its engagement with a diversity of stakeholders across British Columbia."
- Paul Shorthouse, Board Chair,
Synergy Foundation
2022 Impact Report
Synergy Foundation is excited to share its 2022 Impact Report! Check out what the organization has been up to in 2022 within each core program, and how it is continuing to catalyze the green economy across British Columbia.
Report highlights include:
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Oversaw the creation of 11,840 square feet of new pollinator garden space on Southern Vancouver Island, with the support of 550+ volunteer hours
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Worked with 160 businesses to enhance environmental performance through the Vancouver Island Green Business Collective
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Lead 17 ventures through the Project Zero Incubator program
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Launched the Circular Economy Accelerator Program in partnership with the Vancouver Island Coast Economic Developers Association
Read the Impact Report to gain further insight into what Synergy accomplished with its network in 2022.
2021 Impact Report
Synergy Foundation is pleased to present its first Impact Report! This report captures our 2021 progress on climate driven initiatives and the perseverance of businesses and communities to steer towards a more regenerative future, even during a time of great uncertainty.
Report highlights include:
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Oversaw the creation of 3,147 square feet of new garden space on Southern Vancouver Island, with the support of 650+ volunteer hours
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Supported the Ditidaht Community School to launch their own recycling depot to serve their 200-member community
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Lead 14 ventures through the Project Zero Incubator program
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Hosted workshops and events for 1,622 attendees
Read our Impact Report to gain further insight into what we accomplished with our network in 2021.