Sustainability


The VanderMarck understands the importance of preserving the environment. Green practices in maintenance, services, logistics, products, and supplies have been implemented to increase the hotel’s sustainability and significantly reduce our environmental impact. Our core efforts revolve around reducing waste, saving energy, and conserving water.

Our Commitment to Sustainable Tourism

The VanderMarck Boutique Hotel has signed the Sustainable Tourism 2030 Pledge, reaffirming our commitment to continually improving our sustainability performance between now and 2030.

Sustainable tourism means taking responsibility for the environmental, social, and economic impacts of travel — and making choices that benefit our guests, our community, and our surroundings.

Here are some of the ways The VanderMarck is already putting sustainability into action:

Supporting Local
  • We prioritize local vendors, makers, and service providers whenever possible — from in-room amenities like loose-leaf tea, olive oil, and dry cleaning services to artwork by local photographers showcasing the natural beauty of our area.
  • We collaborate with small, owner-operated businesses in Downtown Collingwood, helping direct visitor spending into the local economy.
Minimizing Our Environmental Impact
  • Our property underwent a full adaptive reuse of a historic Victorian home, reducing demolition waste and preserving heritage architecture.
  • Suites feature energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, low-flow fixtures, and air purifiers to reduce energy use.
  • We use refillable bath amenities to minimize single-use plastics.
  • Nespresso coffee pods are collected and returned to the supplier for responsible recycling of aluminum and coffee grounds.
  • Guest communication — including check-in, guides, and receipts — is primarily digital, reducing paper waste.
Respecting Cultural & Natural Heritage
  • We promote Collingwood’s cultural sites, trails, and natural attractions, encouraging guests to explore respectfully and sustainably.
  • This includes the partners featured in our guest packages, from local artisans to heritage sites and cultural experiences, helping guests connect with the region while supporting businesses that preserve Collingwood’s cultural and natural heritage.
Enhancing Accessibility & Inclusivity
  • Our Coach House retreat and meeting space was designed with step-free access and includes a handicap-accessible washroom to accommodate guests with mobility considerations.
  • We regularly review our digital and on-site experience to ensure clear communication, easy navigation, and an inclusive experience for all visitors.
Continuous Improvement
  • We monitor utility usage and operational impact to identify opportunities for greater efficiency and reduced emissions.
  • As part of the pledge, we are working toward a formal Climate Action Plan to guide long-term sustainability improvements.

In Partnership with