Huntingdon Hotel and Suites and Pendray Inn and Tea House exterior view from Belleville Street

Making a Difference: The 2030 Pledge

Huntingdon Hotel and Suites proudly embraces the Sustainable Tourism 2030 Pledge. This pledge, based on globally recognized sustainability standards, reaffirms our commitment to elevating the hotel's environmental, social, and economic impact. As a participant in this initiative initiated by the United Nations in 2021, we are not merely pursuing "green" practices; we are dedicated to achieving excellence in sustainable hospitality. 

Dr. Bonnie Henry's memorial engraved on a stone in the garden at Huntingdon Manor
Bench overlooking the garden & crops at Huntingdon Manor
Women setting up bags for gardening on a sunny day at Huntingdon Manor
Close-up of fresh herbs & crops in the outdoor garden at Huntingdon Manor

Community Garden

The Inaugural Project 

In partnership with the James Bay Neighbourhood Association, the Huntingdon Hotel and Suites introduced the Dr. Bonnie Henry Commemorative Community Garden. Born amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, this sanctuary was created to support those most affected, providing fresh produce, a place of solace, and promoting mental well-being. With foundational support from Victoria’s Food Eco District, we began with 12 plots to serve our community's needs. This initiative symbolized a place of hope, kindness, and unity during challenging times. Therefore, we aptly named it "The Dr. Bonnie Henry Commemorative Garden" in recognition of Dr. Henry's reassuring voice of hope when it was most needed and her mantra, "Be Kind, Be Calm, and Be Safe."

The Story of our Community Garden 

Since its inception, the garden has undergone a remarkable transformation. It expanded from 12 to 25 plots, with three designed for accessibility. Recognized as an official community garden by the City of Victoria, it has evolved from a temporary response to the pandemic into a permanent fixture at the Huntingdon Manor Hotel.

The garden serves as a symbol of innovation and community cooperation. As the first private business in Victoria to initiate such a project, we have set a precedent. We have demonstrated how businesses can reimagine their green spaces, not just as aesthetic enhancements but as communal assets that uplift the spirit and well-being of the community.

Join Our Green Journey 

Experience the tranquility and sense of community the garden provides. Local residents interested in joining the waiting list can contact us at bonniehenry.communitygarden@gmail.com for more information.

Biosphere Certified

Huntingdon Manor Hotel is distinguished with a Biosphere Certification, a rigorous accreditation that underscores our commitment to sustainability across economic, socio-cultural, and environmental spheres. Aligned with the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals, this certification scrutinizes our operations to ensure optimal balance between guest satisfaction, community enrichment, and planetary stewardship. Learn more.

Learn More about Biosphere Certified


 

Green Key Status

The Green Key Eco-rating program is recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). This 5-grade rating system is designed to acknowledge hospitality properties that are committed to improving their environmental performance. As of 2018, we are proud to have earned a 4 Green Key status. Our goal is to continue to focus on developing our green and social initiatives over the coming years.  

 

Close-up of various herbs & plants in a garden at Huntingdon Manor Hotel

EcoFund Verified by GreenStep Solutions

Our dedication to environmental stewardship is unwavering. Since March 1st, 2021, we proudly hold the distinction of being an EcoFund Verified business—a program endorsed by the BC Hotel Association—where we champion sustainable practices. We wholeheartedly invite our cherished guests to be a part of this transformative journey. With each night of your stay, a modest EcoFee of $2.50 is applied, directing funds towards significant carbon reduction initiatives. This undertaking has propelled various projects, including our comprehensive transition to energy-efficient LED lighting, a $45k investment, the replacment of new highly efficent boilers, a $90K investment, our innovative beekeeping program, and the installation of EV charging stations.

To ensure transparency and effectiveness, we collaborate with GreenStep Solutions, an external entity, to implement and oversee an array of conservation projects within our premises, spanning energy savings to waste reduction. They not only streamline our initiatives but rigorously verify their impact in reducing our environmental footprint. We are committed to providing an informative annual report, showcasing our achievements and forthcoming projects, accessible to our valued guests and stakeholders. Based in Kelowna, BC, GreenStep Solutions stands at the forefront of enhancing businesses' sustainability metrics. As a Certified B Corporation, they harness 100% renewable energy through Bullfrog Power. To delve further into their commendable efforts, please visit www.greenstep.ca.

We Cherish our Community 

  • Home of our lovely Community Garden
  • Elimination of single-use and unnecessary packaging 
  • Use of eco-friendly, locally-made toiletries from Soap Exchange  
  • Switched to zero emission solar powered yard care through local provider Garden Made  
  • Working closely with Victoria Women’s Transition House to raise money through donations and special fundraising events  
  • Sustainability action plan with key goals and objectives, overviewed by a Sustainability Committee representing all departments. 
  • Reducing Food waste through partnership with Too Good To Go 
  • Supporting local artists, charities, and non-profit through donations and gifting numerous certificates annually