YMCA Victoria Discovery Camps: Emissions Reduction Project
- Joel Thompson
- Aug 2, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 26
YMCA Discovery Camps, spread across six beautiful locations in Victoria, have always been dedicated to providing enriching experiences for youth and families. Now, they are embarking on an equally enriching journey towards environmental sustainability with the ambitious goal of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2030.
Six Camps, One Mission.
In September 2021, the YMCA Victoria Discovery camps undertook a preliminary feasibility study into their carbon emissions. Third-party Sustainability consultants worked with the project leadership team, led by Joel Thompson to prepare a business case for an emissions reduction program.
"Through the research our team identified key opportunities for the Y to not only reduce their carbon footprint and GHG emissions, but also become more profitable whilst undertaking an environmental action plan." - Joel
Commitment to Carbon Neutrality
The YMCA Discovery Camps are on a mission to become carbon neutral by 2030, with an interim goal of achieving a 30% reduction in carbon emissions by 2025.
"Camping is life-changing and doesn’t need to cost the Earth"
The experiences gained at camps are life changing. It’s a time to challenge, explore and create the moments you’ll never forget. When you camp with the Y, you’ll see how your camp experience is better for the planet. Students and user groups will truly feel the difference that they can make towards a more sustainable future.
"Collaborating with YMCA Victoria Discovery Camps, our team identified key strategies to not only significantly reduce carbon emissions but also enhance profitability through sustainable practices. This project showcases the Y's commitment to environmental stewardship accompanied by our expertise in delivering renewable energy and carbon reduction solutions that benefit the planet, staff, clients and the tens of thousands of young people that attend camps each year"
Why emissions reduction is crucial
Environmental issues are among the most pressing concerns for today’s youth, who are calling for urgent action. YMCA Discovery Camps recognise the need to address these concerns by actively reducing their carbon footprint and fostering an environment of sustainability.
Introduction to YMCA Discovery Camps Emissions Reduction
YMCA Discovery Camps in Victoria are committed to reducing their environmental impact through various sustainability initiatives. By setting ambitious goals and integrating green practices, these camps aim to lead by example and educate their guests on the importance of environmental stewardship.
Over the last 3 years, the sustainability team has worked closely with the key stakeholders at YMCA Victoria from executives, to camp managers, external third parties and volunteer and employed camp leaders and staff.
Through stakeholder engagement, we have been able to support the YMCA's strategic goals and objectives as well as secure significant investments to implement key action areas outlined below:
12 Strategic Actions for Sustainability:
Measure and monitor energy consumption
Install renewable energy systems (solar, hydro)
Transition gas appliances to electric
Achieve CA Certification
Phase out energy-inefficient appliances
Electrify 80% of energy sources
Develop waste reduction programs
Phase out fossil fuels
Take selected buildings off the grid
Embed green education programs
Appoint sustainability champions
Explore innovative carbon offset purchasing
The YMCA Discovery Camps Victoria emissions reduction project exemplifies the organisation’s commitment to sustainability and environmental education. By pursuing these ambitious goals, the camps are making a significant positive impact and setting a standard for others to follow. To learn more about their initiatives, visit their Environmental Commitment page.
Read more from the YMCA camps website here: https://camps.ymca.org.au/environmental-commitment
