These days, businesses from fast food restaurants to big box stores are claiming to be "sustainable." But what does the word really mean? At Wesgroup, we use the term "sustainable" to refer to the tangible measures we take to help preserve (or enhance) the ecologic balance of a site, and or community.
Many of our properties, for example, have undergone dramatic environmental improvement following extensive site remediation. We also know that one of the most effective ways to make a positive environmental difference is by reducing the use of cars and trucks. That's why our development projects incorporate the principles of Smart Growth, an urban planning approach that seeks to create compact mixed-use neighbourhoods that help people live more life, in less space.
Several site-specific eco-initiatives have also been implemented, including:
- Transit-oriented neighbourhood planning
- Alternate energy programs
- Storm water filtration systems
- Restoration of fish and wildlife habitat
- Transport reduction strategies
Through these measures, and others like them, we can make a positive difference – for generations to come.
