ACCOMPLISHMENTS TO DATE (through February 2008)

Following is a list of changes and adaptations made by of the Shambhala Sustainability Initiative which are positive steps forward in realizing our sustainability vision. This list will be updated as we progress through our Action List.

Sustainability Workshops

Workshops were regularly offered to explore and define Shambhala’s sustainability vision. The  community workshops use The Natural Step, which is the core framework of the Atlantic Canada Sustainability Initiative and is used by governments, businesses and organizations around the world.

Community Sustainability Gatherings

A series of Shambhala community gatherings were successful in bringing forth the Halifax Shambhala Centre Sustainabiliy principles, objectives as well as an action plan that will guide sustainability for the Shambhala community.

Halifax Shambhala Centre Sustainabiliy Principles, Objectives and Action Plan

These will be submitted to the forming Shambhala Governing Council as one of the first acts of business for them to address.

Shambhala Centre Energy Efficiency Building Audit

Clean Nova Scotia consultants have completed a Shambhala Centre Energy Efficiency Audit Report. This provides instrumental knowledge for remediating energy efficiency issues.

Green Purchasing Guidelines

Provides suggestions to “going green” when shopping and orderings for the Centre and creating momentum towards systemic changes.

Monthly Communications

There is now a monthly sustainability column in the Banner newsletter.

Bio-Diesel Fuel

Halifax Shambhala Centre heating fuel is now supplied by Wilson Fuels. The fuel is processed from the discarded fish parts of a local pharmaceutical fish oil manufacturer and is 20% bio-diesel. We are working to make this fuel available to community members at a preferred group rate.

Hot Water Insulation

The Shambhala Centre hot water heater now has an insulation blanket and we are insulating the heating pipes in the furnace room.

Energy Conservation

We have shut off  a continuously running fan that was expending warm air from the building.

Signage

Signs have been placed throughout the Shambhala Centre as reminders to maintain our sustainability practices.

Boycotting Disposables

Shambhala Centre Management has instituted a policy to discontinue use of disposable plastic and Styrofoam dining receptacles and flatware in the building. We will add to our current stock of dishes and rent necessary service-ware for large gatherings. Members are encouraged to bring service items with them for feasts.

Recyclable Copier Paper

The Shambhala Centre is now using 100% recyclable paper at a nominal additional cost.

Water consumption

Toilets are now set to use less water with each flush.

Outreach

Regional Sustainability

The Shambhala Centre is an engaged participant in meetings of the Atlantic Canada Sustainability Initiative seeking to promote sustainability in organizations and governments across Atlantic Canada.