Discovery Camps are life-changing but don’t need to cost the Earth
The experiences gained at camps are life changing. It’s a time to challenge, explore and create the moments you’ll never forget.
When you camp with the Y, you’ll see how your camp experience is better for the planet. You will feel the difference that you can make towards a more sustainable future.
At the Y Discovery Camps, we’re chasing a carbon neutral experience.
We’re dedicated to mitigating climate change by reducing our carbon footprint through industry-leading sustainability initiatives, meaningful education to our guests, and onsite environmental programs.
The Y Discovery Camps are on track to become carbon neutral by 2030
Why are we passionate about reducing our carbon footprint?
This urgent call has inspired us to take immediate action across our camp network to reduce our environmental impact and do our part in leading the way towards a sustainable planet.
How will we go about it?
We’ve identified 12 key independent strategic actions to focus on. These 12 actions will result in a significant shift in all areas of our operations.
From transitioning existing energy sources to more renewable sources and embedding green education and environmental programming to our customers – it’s a holistic, long-term approach to achieve our targets.
Where will we see this action?
Our camp network of six active camps are working on site-based plans that will enable collective and individual impacts and positive changes.
12 strategic actions identified
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Our commitment to carbon neutrality
On our journey toward carbon neutrality, we’re leveraging our unique position to influence government, supply chains, the education sector, and the next generation of campers.
Y Victoria is dedicated to mitigating climate change by:
- Reducing reliance on non-renewable energy
- Minimising waste through sustainable purchasing and recycling systems
These efforts address significant risks and impacts while aligning with the YMCA 2030 target.
How we’re building a sustainable future
Every camp experience at the Y Discovery Camps is designed to deliver on the three pillars of our Camping Learning Framework:
- Healthy and Active Communities
- Inclusive Communities
- Outdoor Communities
We are committed to taking progressive climate action while empowering leaders to embrace sustainability in their own pursuits.
We’ve mapped out the most appropriate way forward with ambitious goals that can lift all boats towards a brighter and greener future.
Green education programming
Our camps provide a unique opportunity to educate students, teachers, and visitors about environmental conservation and sustainable practices.
This is supported by innovative tools like the Y Discovery Camps custom emissions and energy dashboard, which features:
- Real-time smart water metering
- Solar energy systems
- Electricity consumption tracking
- Waste and rubbish impact monitoring
These initiatives are designed to be interactive, educational and fun, promoting hands-on learning experiences that align with Y Victoria’s values and mission.
Sustainability in action
Through consultations with camp managers, we are implementing key sustainability actions including solar installations, efficient heat pump systems and other impactful initiatives.
In recent years, we’ve:
- Reduced waste emissions from 600 tonnes of CO₂ in 2023 to 370 tonnes in 2024
- Introduced the CLO-10 Compost Machine to achieve a 20kg daily food waste capacity, 80-90% waste reduction and low electricity consumption, and to transform food scraps into nutrient-rich compost for our garden beds.
- Upgraded four outdated Quantum 340L heat pumps with state-of-the-art Reclaim CO₂ 400L heat pumps equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity to reduce our environmental footprint, enhance energy efficiency and cut costs.
