Black Rock Oceanfront Resort is setting a new standard for sustainability with a Refillable and Zero Waste model that will minimize the resort’s ecological footprint, take a load off the landfill, reduce plastic waste, and support local entrepreneurs. Black Rock is one of the first resort’s in Canada to adopt such a model and has partnered with two forward-thinking small businesses, The Den and Mint Cleaning, to make this dream a reality.
“The Zero-Waste dream started with a conversation. It reflects how we feel about the natural environment and our desire to protect the rainforest and ocean,” says Adele Larkin, General Manager of Black Rock Oceanfront Resort. “It’s better for community, environment, visitors and staff.”
Black Rock guests are now enjoying 100% refillable bathroom products supplied by The Den, including Oneka shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotions, Cascades paper products, and Tru Earth laundry strips. Den co-owners Kristen O’Keefe and Diane Rudge call the partnership a win-win-win that supports community, sustainability, and small business.
“We believe supporting local businesses is essential for the success of the community we live in. When everyone is striving in their individual pursuits, the greater community here feels that momentum,” O’Keefe says.
At the same time Mint, a cleaning service products company founded by two Ucluelet moms, is providing all-natural carpet deodorizer, essential oil-based air freshener, all-purpose cleaner, and other earth-friendly biodegradable cleaning products. It’s healthier for staff and visitors, knowing that all products have been selected with their well-being top of mind.
Black Rock guests can now take a sustainable piece of the West Coast home with them when they shop at Forage, the newly opened in-house gift shop in partnership with The Den, Foggy Bean Coffee Company, Ocean Pet Supplies and other boutique Ucluelet businesses.
“As a tourism destination we all recognize that the reason people come here is because they enjoy pristine natural spaces,” Larkin says. “This understanding is at the heart of all the decisions we make for our businesses, guests, staff, and the environment.”
