Recap and Program Highlights

The Circular Economy Trailblazer Program Recap

The District of Squamish recently wrapped up the Circular Economy Trailblazer Program, marking a major milestone for our community’s journey toward sustainability. This innovative program brought together changemakers across industries to explore circular economy concepts, implement practical strategies, and foster collaboration.

Here’s what we accomplished together:

  • 22 organizations registered for the Trailblazer Program, which offered 3 hands-on workshops as well as individual one-on-one support.
  • Over $110k was distributed to 13 organizations within the community to grow their circular practices and to support the integration of circularity within the community of Squamish.
  • Over 50% of participants completing the program highlighted that they had or would be changing their procurement practices as a result of the program. Changes ranged from purchasing products with less packaging, recycled content, or extended life/repair in mind, to development of new organization-wide Sustainable Procurement Plans.
  • Over 75% of CETP participants completing the program recognised new partnerships / circular collaborations as a result of the program, and 15+ new collaborations were reported as being underway or being explored.
  • Extremely well attended Kick-Off Event and Recognition/celebration event at the end of the program
  • A variety of sectors were represented, which included the building and construction industry, textiles, education, food and beverage, recreation as well as social enterprises.

Special thanks to our incredible partners, and all the passionate individuals and organizations who made this program possible! Together, we’re building a resilient, circular future for Squamish—one innovation at a time.

Unlocking Circular Solutions

Closing the intention-action gap

The District of Squamish is transitioning to a circular economy, aiming to eliminate waste and promote the continual use of resources. A circular economy is an economic system where waste and pollution are designed out, products and materials are kept in use for as long as possible, and regenerative resources are prioritized. The goal is to prevent waste and minimize the use of new materials and carbon in the production of new goods, thereby creating a more sustainable and efficient local economy.

To achieve a local circular economy, we need collective action to drive innovation and increase participation. Allow us to introduce the Circular Economy Trailblazer Program (the Program), a pivotal initiative dedicated to advancing our community's circular economy goals.

Through the Program, we aim to empower businesses and non-profit organizations to embrace circular economy principles and practices, fostering uptake within the community. Recognizing the commitment of Squamish organizations to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices, we are eager to translate good intentions into tangible actions. Through the Program, discover circular economy solutions tailored to your organization's specific needs.

The program is underway!

Currently, we are working with Squamish business and non-profit trailblazers who:

  • Are keen to improve environmental practices and reduce waste
  • Have experience in, or are interested in starting to utilize circular economy practices

What motivated their participation?

The Program is helping the trailblazers adopt circular economy principles and practices. Here are just a few of the pivotal benefits they will gain from participating in the Program and transitioning to a circular model:

  • Close the intention-action gap - identify circular actions appropriate to your business or organization
  • Demonstrate leadership in sustainable business practices
  • Promote your efforts in reducing waste and supporting your local economy
  • Attract customers who align with your values and sustainability efforts
  • Realize cost savings through efficient material usage and waste management
  • Enhance supply chain reliability and predictability
  • Explore new revenue opportunities through innovative approaches
  • Elevate your brand reputation and foster customer loyalty
  • Qualify for micro-grants to implement recommendations from the Program

How are participants being supported and actively engaged?

The trailblazers are currently participating in a series of events and workshops (see Key Dates on the right sidebar for details). They are benefiting from a range of supports, including interactive group learning sessions, personalized assessments, and implementation strategies, as well as one-on-one coaching sessions. The anticipated time commitment is approximately 25 hours over eight months from May to December 2024.

Want more information?

Have questions?

Use the Q&A tab below to ask us anything about the project or email one of the project lead.

The District is leading the project with assistance from WCS Engagement + Planning, Ecoinspire and the Share Reuse Repair Initiative.

Apply Now

TheCircular Economy Trailblazers Program Application Form survey has now concluded

The 5-minutes survey has now concluded

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