Spring officially arrives this weekend. We can sense new beginnings and a renewed connection to nature. Relaxation in the heart of a natural setting is at the core of Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain’s philosophy. We encourage you to take time to appreciate the sights, sounds and aromas of nature to enhance your health and well-being.  Spring is also a good time to recognize how our actions impact natural surroundings. Everyday there are opportunities to tread a little lighter and do our part. Scandinave Spa has implemented the following initiatives to reduce our footprint and to encourage you to help.

Forest Conservation
A portion of the Spa property includes Silver Creek Wetland and plays a vital role as a habitat and spawning ground for a diverse variety of birds, fish and plant species. The significance of this watershed and the intensification of land development in the region is one of the reasons for the Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain has maintained and protected its natural forest. We encourage you to learn more about the Silver Creek Wetland here or by wandering down our certified Forest Bathing Trail to appreciate the natural surroundings in a safe, accessible environment.

Refillable Water Fountains
To reduce single use plastics, Scandinave Spa installed water refill stations throughout the facility in 2009. Over the past 5 years, these refilling stations have saved approximately 680,000 single use plastic bottles from landfills. To keep hydrated, Guests are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle with them when visiting. Scandinave Spa Signature Water Bottles are available to purchase from our Boutique both online and upon arrival.

Recycling & Composting
Minimizing waste in all areas of the business is a Spa goal. In the Spa Bistro, guests can enjoy locally prepared food in compostable eat-in or take-away packaging provided by our suppliers. All other garbage, organics, and recyclables are sorted and disposed by staff daily. With this in mind, we encourage guests to reduce their waste and to take it home to recycle and dispose of there.

Other Initiatives

• Towel usage has an impact on our environmental footprint. Similar to conservation programs in hotels and resorts, we ask guests to consider limiting the number of towels they use during their visit.
• Compostable bags are available for wet bathing suits post visit. Please ask for one at reception. They are also available in the change rooms.
• Due to COVID-19 and an increase in the disposal of masks and wipes, we have partnered with Town of Blue Mountains to educate our guests on their environmental effects. These products do not biodegrade quickly. Please limit what you use and do not flush them down the toilet.
• To effectively capture and re-use excess heat energy from one pool to another, the Spa installed a heat exchange system in 2014. As a result, in certain seasons of the year, the energy demands of operating the Scandinavian Baths is significantly reduced.

Beyond the Spa
While every day is a chance to respect our planet, the months of March and April are known for two special awareness events:

Earth Hour
Earth Hour is an annual event that takes place each year on the last Saturday in March, bringing people together across the globe, turning off their lights to show support for the Planet. It is easy to participate from the comfort of your own home. Just turn off the lights from 8:30pm-9:30pm (in your time zone) and enjoy the quiet serenity in your neighbourhood. More information can be found here.

Earth Day
Earth Day has been an annual event on April 22 since its inception in 1970. This year celebrate by taking a walk in a forest or limiting your footprint with some easy household initiatives. Learn more here.

Other Ways to Get Involved

• Getting involved with a local impact event this year.
• Join the 31-day Protect Nature Challenge #protectnature.
• Learn about a new green industry in your province or Canada.
• Get inspired by others who are pursuing environmental work.

Looking Ahead
Living consciously and considerately each day is something we can personally work on. Our actions and intentions matter to our communities and our surroundings. Spending time in nature can help us feel more connected and can provide deep benefits to our physical and mental well-being. Start by setting realistic “go-green” goals and taking notice of small opportunities to change; you just may find your efforts will blossom into something with great impact.