Our Outlook on Green
Crystal Cove Beach Resort is committed to lowering our eco-impact on the environment wherever and however possible, and we are very proud to be the recipient of the TripAdvisor Gold Level Green Leader Award.
Crystal Cove Beach Resort is also a registered Ocean Friendly Business with Surfrider Pacific Rim, which means we are working to lower our plastic footprint, divert waste from landfill, and adopt measures to protect the ocean, beaches and waves.
You can do your part when you visit by remembering to bring your own mug, reusable water bottle, reusable bag, reusable container and cutlery if you plan to enjoy the Bean at the Cove coffee bar. You can also make a positive difference while you're here by picking up any litter or marine debris that you find on any beaches or pathways.
Below you will find some of our environmental programs at work.
Rainwater Collection
Rainwater is collected from run off and stored in large tanks and then used to water the gardens, conserving this valuable resource that is in such high demand during our busy summer season.
We are honoured to have won the 2018 Ecostar Award for water conservation, this award is given to "an organization or business that has made dedicated effort to conserve drinking water, with measurable results." The Vancouver Island EcoStar Awards recognize outstanding environmental achievements and leadership by businesses, organizations and individuals.
New Vegetation
We are continually planting new vegetation in locations appropriate to their needs which lessens their demands for water and added nutrients. Increasing density helps to stop soil erosion, improve air quality, provides valuable habitats, and makes our grounds look beautiful.
Composting
Compost bins in our cabins allow our guests to reduce their carbon footprints and lower the amount of garbage going into landfills. We are then able to use the compost in our gardens and reduce the amount of organic fertilizer needed.
Curbing
Curbing around our garden beds improves water retention and prevents soil erosion. We also use natural materials such as slate and rock to pave our walkways and help with drainage.
Organic Fertilizers
Organic fertilizers are made up of matter like weeds, stubble from farms, animal dung. When these substances are used as fertilizers, they increase the fertility of the soil naturally and are non-toxic. While on site you may notice our gardener spraying the plants with a "compost tea".
Low Flush Toilets
Low flush toilets require less water, conserving this valuable resource.
Power-smart Appliances
These appliances use less energy than their standard counterparts, putting less strain on environmentally damaging hydro stations.
Energy Saving Light Bulbs
LED lighting has been installed wherever possible.
Tile & Wood Flooring
These types of flooring do not need replacing as often as carpet or linoleum, reducing the amount of waste and resources consumed to make new flooring. They also contribute to a healthier living environment.
Laundry Exchange Bins
By asking guests to put only the towels and linens they need changed into our towel bins, we cut down on the amount of laundry to be done. This conserves the amount of water and detergents being used.
Re-useable Mop Heads
Mop heads that can be washed and re-used equates to less garbage in the landfills and fewer resources consumed to make new ones.
Bio-degradable Cleaning Products
These cleaners break down into harmless by-products reducing chemical pollutants in the environment.
Recycling
To keep useable waste out of harmful landfills, to help re-circulate materials, and to reduce consumption of valuable natural resources.
Battery-powered Golf Carts
Use a renewable resource (electricity) to keep our resort functioning with zero emissions.
Re-usable Grocery Bags
In each cabin you will find complimentary grocery bags to help reduce the need for plastics.
Paperless Confirmations
To reduce our paper needs we provide reservation confirmations by email.
Biodegradable & Glass Straws
Our Bean at the Cove coffee bar offers fully biodegradable cornstarch straws with our cold drinks, and we have a selection of re-useable glass straws available for purchase.