MEMBER TALKS
DISCOVER Y
UR
sustainable
CORPORATE LANDSCAPE This article is part of Credit Valley Conservation’s Greening Corporate Grounds Take Sustainability Outside series. We’re challenging businesses to think outside the box when it comes to corporate social and environmental sustainability.
DEBORAH KENLEY
Senior Coordinator, Greening Corporate Grounds Credit Valley Conservation
Our last article talked about why businesses need a sustainable landscaping plan. Unlike conventional landscaping, sustainable landscaping uses nature to support biodiversity, reduce the effects of extreme weather and protect the environment. If knowing where to start seems daunting, here’s five ideas to help you set the vision for your sustainable corporate landscape.
SIZE DOESN’T
MATTER
Property size, proximity to natural areas and current landscaping determine what projects are best for your property. A small patch of grass can become a pollinator garden; a large open area can be a future prairie meadow. Maybe you’d like to focus on preventing pollution or
managing stormwater on your property. Perhaps you’re considering a green roof. There’s a unique opportunity for every property, large or small.
LET YOUR VISION
BE YOUR MISSION Align your project with your corporate social responsibility mission. Consider your brand when choosing an aesthetic direction. If employee well-being is a key pillar of your corporate strategy, engage staff and create native pollinator gardens. Connect green spaces with paths for employees to enjoy. Book an on-site planting event or design charrette with us to get started.
CONSIDER LAND
AND WATER
Understand the natural features on your property. Focus projects on areas most vulnerable to the effects of climate change and unpredictable weather events. For example, plant trees to increase shade or retrofit your parking lot with green infrastructure to prevent flooding.
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CONNECT | 2020 ISSUE 2
