The Land Between: Celebrating the Natural Diversity of Ontario's Highlands

In honour of Earth month, we are celebrating the marvels of the Earth and the flora and fauna that live here. When it comes to honouring diversity, Ontario’s Highlands is the perfect place to do so.

Spanning westward from the Ottawa River to the western border of Haliburton Highlands, Ontario’s Highlands is comprised of a mix of topographies that lend themselves perfectly to supporting a diverse range of wildlife and terrain. Here, rugged Canadian Sheild is complemented by lush forests, turbulent rivers and serene lakes, while rich and fertile soil is found in valleys between rolling hills and vibrant rural communities. 

Ontario’s Highlands’ remote spaces, biological diversity, and collection of small, vibrant communities make it a coveted travel destination for hikers, paddlers, cyclists, cottage-goers, fishers, and small-town lovers. The region attracts intrepid adventurers as well as those looking to its endless forests for a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

It is the uniqueness of this region that inspired the formation of The Land Between (TLB), a grassroots charity working to research, conserve, and protect the globally rare and nationally unique bioregion in Ontario’s Highlands. Founder and Chief Operating Officer, Leora Berman explained their organization refers to Ontario’s Highlands as ‘the land between’ due to its location at the junction between the Canadian Shield and St. Lawrence Lowlands, making it a region that harbors a combination of both worlds in terms of climate and wilderness. 

“Quite literally, this is  the last true wilderness landscape in the southern half of Ontario,” said Leora. 

TLB runs several programs to advance conservation of this landscape and its wildlife inhabitants, including the Blue Lakes Program as well as the popular Turtle Guardians project, which facilitates the rescue of turtles on roads and research and wetland monitoring, and the implementation of mitigations to reduce turtle mortality. 

Wild and Wonderful

Ontario’s Highlands’ ecologically diverse and varied terrain translates into a wide diversity in the numbers of species who find refuge here. Here too, both water and land species overlap to create a region with diverse animals. 

“Ontario’s Highlands has the highest habitat diversity in Canada, the only rock barrens in Ontario, and a wealth of wildlife diversity coexisting – from moose to deer to blackfly to mosquito (and yes, this is a good thing),” explained Leora.

Of course, it’s not just the landscape that makes this region so unique, it’s also the people who live here, and Ontario’s Highlands is peppered with small rural communities where small town fairs and farmers’ markets are still a thing to do on Saturdays in the summer. Here, creativity thrives, and the region is home to more artisans than any other place in Ontario. 

This region is also a last refuge for many disappearing wildlife and its biodiversity are already fragile and facing increasing threats. 

As a final sanctuary protecting and conserving the region’s wild places and wild species becomes vital. This is why Ontario’s Highlands has launched its Wander Sustainably approach to tourism, to do our part in ensuring the region’s biodiversity is protected now, for future generations. 

Come Wander Sustainably

Responsible tourism is an approach to tourism that focuses on supporting and growing the community and culture while protecting the environment and its ecosystems. It means encouraging prospective visitors to travel-plan from a new perspective and consciously seek out experience providers who care about how they impact their community and environment.

Key to wandering sustainably is being mindful of tourism’s impacts to ensure the attractions that support the wealth of experiences which draw millions of visitors here each year. 

This year, we invite visitors to Ontario’s Highlands to look for sustainable tips on our stories, identifying the best ways to lighten our footprint on our fragile ecosystems, and to also commit to supporting sustainably-minded tourism operators and experiences highlighted in our stories. 

For tourism operators and businesses, they too can become more sustainably-minded by pursuing green certification from GreenStep or other sustainable certification organizations that provide a framework for supporting sustainable transitions, or by building partnerships with organizations like The Land Between. 

Join us in wandering sustainably this year. Let’s keep Ontario’s Highlands a diverse and thriving destination for all to enjoy – now, and in the future.

 An aerial shot of a forest with a river running through it.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

REGISTER

How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

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Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.
side view of a small globe being held to a persons side, looking out into an open field

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

Resources & Programs

Inspired to Pursue Sustainability: Bonnechere Valley Inspired

Inspired to Pursue Sustainability: Bonnechere Valley Inspired

There is a newcomer to the arts scene in the Ottawa Valley: Bonnechere Valley Inspired launched in 2023 and is already making plans for rapid growth, including taking a sustainability approach to operations. 

As a brand-new arts and culture tour focused on the Bonnechere Valley, Bonnechere Valley Inspired invites visitors to experience the valley from a creative perspective, while supporting local artists, artisans and local food producers and celebrating community. 

For Laurel Cook, one of the founders of Bonnechere Valley Inspired, their organization is about far more than a summer art tour.  Bonnechere Valley Inspired’s mandate is to create a more healthy, creative, culturally enriched and socially connected community, all of which makes thinking about sustainability a good fit for their vision. 

“It’s not just a tour, we do things throughout the year,” said Laurel. “Everything we do throughout the year, although it helps promote the tour, every step should also take you a little bit closer to building your community.”

Laurel has a robust background in operating an arts tour – she was involved for many years with the Pakenham Maple Run Studio Tour and the Crown & Pumpkin Studio Tour, and was also the director of the Art in the Attic Show in Almonte, which she ran for 16 years before moving to the Ottawa Valley in 2020. 

After moving to the Bonnechere Valley, Laurel started getting out and meeting people and, with a group of likeminded people, pulled together the Bonnechere Valley Inspired tour which took place the first weekend in August. With a slogan of ‘Intrigue, Inspire, Ignite,’ the tour is focused on fostering creativity and community mindedness in both visitors and creators. 

“When we first got together we knew we wanted to do something more than just a studio tour that created a financial opportunity for creators…we knew we wanted to have a greater impact on our community,” said Laurel. 

In their inaugural event, the tour featured 17 stops and over 30 participants, and included a farm-to-fork dinner that naturally touched on the issues of sustainability. In October 2023, the group of eight board members decided the organization should take the 2030 Sustainability Pledge, which naturally led to thinking more about sustainability, and how to get there.

“The pledge created a guideline for what to do if we wanted to be sustainable,” said Laurel. “I think sustainability makes you think differently. Every time you do something you ask yourself, how does this make it better for the community? Writing out the action plan gave us the framework for that,” said Laurel.

The Pledge led the group to create a Sustainability Action Plan, a tool to help the organization outline how they would pursue sustainability in real time, rather than just on paper. The Action Plan outlined three sustainable pillars that impacted their organization: social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental, along with the action items they could choose to pursue to support these pillars.

“You have to wrap your head around this whole concept which is so different when it comes to sustainable tourism,” said Laurel. “Every year we will revamp the action plan, but it’s a starting point right now…we just started this tour a year ago, and we’ve come a long way in a year. Sustainability will keep us busy for the next few years.”

 A barn in a rural setting

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Let’s change the world: Greenstep program assists businesses with their sustainability journey

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other). While moving towards sustainability may seem like an intimidating process, there is good news for small business owners considering making a move in this direction – Greenstep Solutions is here for you.

Greenstep was founded in 2008 and to date has worked with 3,000 businesses to provide industry-specific assessments, certifications, tools, and consulting to help small to medium-sized businesses measure and improve their sustainability performance.

In short, they are helping businesses make the small, incremental steps needed to get big results.

“The Greenstep certification program is designed to support small to medium-sized businesses to help them along their sustainable journey,” said Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism from Greenstep Solutions.

The good news for Ontario’s Highlands’ tourism operators is that thanks to Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) partnership with Greenstep, certification is free for a select number of businesses who wish to pursue Greenstep certification (in region businesses only.) This will help our region move closer to a future where we are all working together for the betterment of our communities, and the environment.

Why Work Towards Sustainability

Working towards sustainability doesn’t necessarily mean making big changes to your operations at the cost of thousands and thousands of dollars. The beautiful part of working with Greenstep is that they are there to show you how you can achieve more in a way that’s manageable for your business.

And there are plenty of reasons to make the effort. The business case for pursuing a more sustainable business operation is clear: research shows that businesses which move in a greener direction reap economic benefits, particularly as both the consumer and labour markets preferentially seek out those businesses that are focused on and prioritize environmentally responsible principles.

Of course, the reason to consider a more environmentally conscious approach goes beyond the direct benefits to your business, and veers into the realm of responsibility. Tourism makes up eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, worldwide, and the reality is that every business, no matter their size, can do their part to improve that outcome.

“There are many really serious global issues affecting both our communities and our industry and it really is our responsibility to improve and reduce the negative impacts that tourism has on our environment and our communities,” said Jennifer.

Benefits of Certification

According to Jennifer, getting certified adds a little extra authority to your claims of sustainability. When it comes to Greenstep certification, going through the process can help businesses understand where they are in their sustainability journey and how they compare to international standards while identifying low-hanging fruit opportunities for improvement.

It can also help a business maintain a competitive advantage at a time when visitors are preferentially seeking to support those who are prioritizing responsible tourism practices.

“As businesses work their way through Greenstep’s assessment they will get a better understanding of how they’re performing across the four categories of sustainability, management, social and economic, natural and cultural, and environmental,” said Jennifer.

About the Process

The process for certification is not complicated. Businesses can expect to follow the following short process:

  1. Assess your business’ performance in terms of sustainability using globally-recognized criteria.
  2. Have a one-on-one consultation with a Greenstep advisor to understand your business model and sustainability priorities.
  3. Supply evidence based on assessment results.
  4. Receive an Action Plan for improvement over the next two years.
  5. Achieve formal certification and grading designation to showcase your efforts.

Getting Started: Baby Steps

Getting started with Greenstep is easy!

  1. Take the assessment.
  2. Sign the 2030 pledge, a free tool that allows businesses to publicly commit to measuring and improving their sustainability performance before 2030. Then share this on your website and social pages.

Interested in learning more? Here are five key steps to creating an impact plan and sustainability strategy for your business.

For a full program overview, please view the pdf here or contact the OHTO Industry Team by email here.

Sustainability is on the minds of the world right now. Individuals, small businesses, larger corporations, and governments are all striving to become more eco-conscious to be kind to the earth (and each other).

Resources & Programs

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

Shifting to Sustainable Operations at Home & in Business: How to Get Started, Where to Go Next

By Ange Defosse, Creator of Harlowe Green

You’ve worked hard to build your business, and the last few years have proven that to operate during these wild times, adaptation is the key to being able to stay afloat and (hopefully!) thrive. Many in our industry are becoming fatigued at the thought of new pivots, procedures, changes, and in general with the ever-evolving landscape that is business right now.

An emerging trend asking individuals, businesses and operators to shift quickly is the sustainability sphere - and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

More and more customers and clients are demanding sustainable practices and the businesses who’ve shifted are demonstrating a new standard of operations. We know that more than ever, we need to make changes across the board - in our own lives, and those at work.

So, how can we approach making changes to our business and our lifestyles, yet again, after so much change within the last few years, in an area that may seem overwhelming to get started with? When it comes to shifting our processes and procedures, it can be a foggy path forward and that path also seems to be rife with greenwashing, decisions that seem to require an immense amount of knowledge and consideration, and the crossover is significant in terms of other areas of impact. 

These changes are important, but they also affect your bottom line and your limited time and energy for implementing change, staff training and customer education.

Getting Started with Making Sustainable Changes

Often, and in most cases for big changes, getting started can be the hardest part. Here are a few pieces of advice to give you an avenue to begin these changes, big or small.

1. Shift Beyond the Mindset of Perfection
It is so common for many that considering any kind of change feels overwhelming and futile in the face of the laundry list of to-dos that loom at the starting line. Considering just how much plastic exists in the whole scope of your home or business all at once can make trying to change one thing at a time seem silly. 

Just remember that no one can get it right straight away, or even be able to afford that. Looking at one area or aspect of change at a time reaps more rewards by the end of the year than burning out at the get-go.

2. Enlist Help
The realm of green and eco-living can be intense, and you may feel like there is too much to know. You’re already an expert in your business and shouldn’t that be enough? Of course! Enlisting the help of others who have and can do the research for you about best practices in your business is a best practice in itself. 

Our webinar will provide some areas to find more help, offload the research and work, and you may already have members of your team or circle with an understanding of your business with great ideas to get started. Working within a community for long term change has a higher staying power than going it alone, gets the job done, and cuts off the need for you to know absolutely everything yourself.

3. Start with the Easiest Things First
Usually, the simplest things are different for every person and every business, and that’s the beauty of this tip - just do the easiest things first! Once momentum builds and you can see the power behind the shifts, approaching the harder habit changes and more intense learning/relearning processes becomes more manageable, as there are fewer things to tackle overall, and you’ve built some confidence. 

This tip goes hand in hand with dropping the perfectionist mindset, as it makes way for the opportunity to fail, reflect, adapt and simplify things in a way that best suits you - you choose where to start first and where to go next.

4. Try a Waste Audit at Home or in your Business
It can be tough to provide a blanket tip or ‘swap’ that can fit every individual out there, but the more of us who begin working on this in our own ways, the more achievable change becomes. But, what happens when you don’t know what’s easiest or best for you to tackle first to achieve the greatest impact? 

A waste audit can provide a snapshot of where you’re at specifically, and sort out areas that you can work on one at a time. You can even choose the simplest ones first for faster change like we just mentioned! Performing a waste audit can help you to figure out where to start even if you have no idea where to begin, and gives you a means of seeing how far you’ve come over time. To learn how to do your own, join our webinar!

What’s Next? Register for our Expand Your Knowledge Webinar!

Shifting to Sustainable Operations in Your Business
Wednesday, January 31 | 10:00 - 11:30 am
Register online

Join Ange Defosse, entrepreneur and creator of Harlowe Green, as she leads you through actionable steps to get you started on your sustainability journey. Ange has years of experience helping a myriad of people work towards sustainable habit changes, and some key roadblocks to getting started are quite common.

This session will address ways to overcome the common obstacle of getting started and where to begin:

  • Explain the sustainability trend and the fundamental shift in consumer expectations happening now
  • Present concrete strategies for getting started with a waste audit or GreenStep assessment, or a business process/procedure that you’re hoping to update
  • Provide the necessary background information for understanding how to make sustainable decisions on the fly, in everyday situations, and in rethinking home and business processes
  • Demonstrate the shifts that can be implemented with clear examples to help you understand things on a functional level
  • Show some ways that you can make these changes work for you, and how to bring your customers, clients, staff, and operations into the spotlight for your work in this area
  • Dispel the stress of getting it right, right away

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How to Connect with Ange

You can learn more about Harlowe Green’s mission and products at harlowegreen.com and read some blog posts to inspire and support individual change. Follow our Sustainable Stories in the Downtown Kingston blog, Instagram @harlowe_green, at our events page on our website for more local happenings, or consulting work at harlowegreen@gmail.com.

Skill Development

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

Anupaya Cabin Co.: Sustainability in motion

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big change the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time.


It was in 2021 that the trendy and chic accommodation, Anupaya Cabin Co., first opened its doors in Deep River, Ont. A spin-off of their popular retail business, Anupaya Quality Goods. Anupaya Cabin Co. was focused on capturing the Ottawa and Toronto market for visitors looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.


Formerly an old hunting and fishing lodge, Anupaya Cabin Co. was fully renovated to create a minimalist atmosphere of Zen-like, cozy, beachfront cabins nestled along the Ottawa River, giving every guest a view of their own slice of Ottawa Valley heaven. 


After purchasing the property in 2021, the couple set out to renovate the original lodge in record time in order to be able to open for the summer season.

“We renovated six cabins in six weeks,” said Shannon. “Being a seasonal resort, we HAD to have a positive season on the books and it was absolutely insane…we had volunteers and friends who used up all their vacation time to help us paint and renovate. It was some busy and chaotic and bananas. But we did it!”


Shan’s husband grew up in Deep River, but they met while living in Montreal, and she explained there was a bit of culture shock transitioning from the big city to a small country town like Deep River. But after the initial shock wore off, she fell in love with the landscape of the Ottawa Valley. As a former urbanite, Shan was in the perfect position to judge how guest’s experience would be received by an urban demographic, and was confident this area would appeal to the Ottawa and Toronto markets.


“We saw that there was a gap in the market. There were a ton of rustic hunting and fishing lodges, but the area was missing a more elevated experience. We wanted city folks to come and enjoy our wild spaces, while still enjoying a luxurious stay. Really delicious, organic beds and have higher-end accommodations,” said Shannon. “This area is so, so special and we felt really pulled to share it.”

Certifying with Greenstep

Anupaya began their sustainability certification journey in pursuit of B Corp certification, something Shannon describes as “Greenstep on drugs” referring to its far more in depth certification process. Shannon explained the B Corp certification process took two years, and was started back before Anupaya Cabin Co. was founded, and when Anupaya Quality Goods was their only business.

Shannon was delighted to learn the Greenstep certification would be a little easier to navigate.

“What I found really wonderful about Greenstep is it’s focused on tourism…with other certification programs it’s this huge, overwhelming thing to step into it. It’s geared more towards BIG BUSINESS, it’s a lot of money and a lot of time and can be really prohibitive for small businesses. With Greenstep it feels so personal. So attainable. You have these direct conversations, Zoom calls, phone calls, you feel like you are held throughout the process, it’s very collaborative and supportive.”

Among the changes implemented by Anupaya include changing all lights to LED, adding timers to lights to reduce time spent turned on, installing low flush toilets, using Energy Star appliances, creating on-site permaculture gardens and even a composting system for every cabin on the property.


“The whole thing with certification is about measuring. Having tangible proof.” Shan explained. “We have to weigh how much waste we are producing at Anupaya. How much water we use. How much garbage is going out. How much we are recycling and composting. Having those numbers allows us to see where we are, where we wanna go and then making a plan to get there.”


Shan calls the accountability piece of Greenstep certification “really cool” especially for corporations where it’s easy to let things slide. In Shan’s case, she and her husband have kept the long term goals in mind for their business.


“Growing Anupaya in a way that is sustainable for us, the longevity of our company, that was a decision we made when we decided to keep it a family business,” Shan explained. “We had some offers for seed funding and vendor backing, but it never felt like a fit for us because it’s never been about the bottom(less) line. Yes, we need to be profitable to make an impact, but it’s always been about connect with folks and protecting our wild spaces. So doing business on our own terms has meant that we have to go a little bit slower, and while that can be a little frustrating, it also feels very congruent and aligned for us.”
 

Baby Steps

With the Greenstep certification behind them, Shan is not resting on her laurels and understands that true sustainability is about continuity, and for Anupaya Cabin Co. the journey will never end, just lead to new destinations. Reigning in her enthusiasm for taking on new projects is one thing she has learned is necessary in order to prevent burnout.

“I have so much energy to put into this place but we’re trying to make peace with our pace,” Shan said.

The couple has had discussions about getting solar panels for the business, which they ultimately decided to put on hold for the time being. Shan noted acknowledging their limits also falls in line with Greenstep’s philosophy.

“That’s really beautifully aligned with Greenstep. It’s not about perfection, you don’t have to have a score of 100 to become certified. It's that the intention is there, the desire to do better, and then taking the necessary steps to get there.”

Shan’s advice to other business owners considering exploring Greenstep certification is simple: Just take one (green) step at a time. “You don’t have to be this massive, multi million dollar company to do good. Quite the contrary. Start small, and little by little, you’ll get there,” Shan said.

About Greenstep Certification

The Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization is working with Greenstep Solutions to provide a limited number of free spaces for financial support to complete a Sustainability Lens Assessment, Diagnostic Review and Sustainable Tourism Certification. 

For more information read the program overview here or contact Kasey Rogerson here.

Two resident goats explore the river bank

Guests enjoying the water

Chicken coop

Room features

Guest Bedroom

View of Deep River and landscape from Anupaya Cabin Co.

The owners of Anupaya Cabin Co., Shan and Pete MacLaggan, would surely agree that small steps have the capacity to create big changes in the world. An understanding that individual choices can make a difference for the environment is why the couple first partnered with Greenstep Solutions to improve the sustainability of their business, and do their part to save the planet, one day, one stay, at a time

Anupaya Cabin Co., Deep River

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