Non-profits Reduce Emissions, Boost Climate Resilience

The Valemount and Area Recreation Development Association is taking a range of steps to upgrade its office building, including adding LED lighting, attic insulation, solar panels and an air-source heat pump. It is also installing sprinklers for wildfire protection and a pump to drain water that may pool at the front of the building.

“We want our office building to reflect our values by reducing energy consumption and being more resilient to climate change and emergencies,” said Curtis Pawliuk, Executive Director. “By retrofitting our building, we want to lower our energy and maintenance costs, create a more comfortable environment for our staff to work in, and reduce our environmental footprint.”

With no fire protection in the area, the Wasa Recreation Society is adding fire-resistant exterior siding to the Wasa Community Hall. At the same time, it is improving the hall’s insulation and installing new energy-efficient windows.

“Climate action is a task for all of us, and it concerns all of us,” said Karen Markus, Project Lead. “The purpose of this project is to improve our energy efficiency and add resiliency against climate change by addressing the problem of wildfire. Plus, we may become an example that will encourage others to take action on their own properties—another way to make a difference.”