Eco-Friendly Stays
- theforesthilllodge
- Nov 4
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 7
Our time at the Lodge, amongst the trees and wildlife, has made us increasingly aware of our environmental impact. It has also reminded us of the influence we have, as a destination where people reconnect with nature.
In renewing parts of the Lodge, we have been on a path of minimizing our footprint wherever possible: maintaining original features, sourcing new items locally and choosing materials for longevity.
Did you know, a portion of the energy used on the grounds comes from our solar panels? We make more than we use, so can also contribute this back to the community grid. We also have a complimentary electric vehicle charger onsite for guests, so bring your adapter and plug in during your stay!
This year, we also began sourcing our hand soaps and surface cleaners through the Refillery on Queen in Lakefield. This locally owned store offers clean products in refillable containers, reducing single-use plastics. We have recently integrated their dish and laundry soaps too, and we’re exploring shampoo and conditioner options for next season.
How do you play a part?
With highlighting eco-friendly approaches at the Lodge, I thought I would also share some helpful tips for you during your time away. In learning more on this, I came across the 5Rs, an update to the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle I grew up with.
The 5 Rs: The Guiding Principles to Reducing Waste
Refuse what you don’t need (flyers, straws, free disposable products…).
Reduce your consumption, and buy only what’s necessary.
Reuse instead of buying new, favoring durable and reusable items (such as water bottles, cloth shopping bags, stainless steel cutlery etc).
Return to the earth (compost) organic waste whenever possible.
Recycle what you cannot reuse or avoid buying, following local recycling rules.
Here are some specific examples that came to mind for your time away:
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle Our water is potable and tested monthly, so skip the plastic (and weight of lugging water!), and fill your reusable bottle during your stay.
Pack reusable bags or a backpack They are handy for day trips, shopping, or carrying snacks and souvenirs from town.
Use zero waste toiletries Bring your favourite products in reusable containers instead of buying the single-use mini versions (and again, we may have you covered on this one next season!)
Eat Locally
Enjoy a meal at one of the many local restaurants nearby rather than ordering takeout. This is a win win win, with no dishes, no prep and less waste.. Explore some offerings in Lakefield, Buckhorn and Peterborough as a start.
Shop Locally It is always nice to pick up local foods and products to enjoy during your time away and take home. We are lucky to have the Lakefield Farmer’s Market every Thursday during our season, and many other local farms within an arms’ reach where you can purchase food to enjoy during your stay.
Tidy Your Trash Thank you to all of our guests who already do this so well! Each of our cottages includes recycling and waste bins, with helpful images of what to put where. This way we can ensure that only things that need to go to the landfill do.
All of these seemlingly small actions do add up. We are proud to do our part to protect our environment and deeply appreciate our guests who share these values.
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