Happy July! We’re in the thick of summer now—a time for road trips, patio lunches, and enjoying all the amazing outdoor spaces our communities have to Eeoffer. As we’re out and about, shopping and dining, we’re constantly interacting with local businesses.
We often hear about the negative impacts corporations can have on the environment, and it’s a critical conversation to have. But today, let’s flip the script. Let’s talk about the unsung heroes: the local corporations and businesses that are actively choosing to be part of the solution.
More and more companies are realizing that being a good neighbour means caring for all members of the community, including the furry, feathered, and finned ones.
What Does a “Wildlife-Friendly” Business Look Like?
It’s not always a splashy headline. Often, it’s a series of small, meaningful choices that add up to a big impact. When you’re looking for businesses that truly care, here are a few things to watch for:
- Direct Support: This is the most visible one. It’s the local coffee shop that has a donation jar for the nearby wildlife rescue, or the construction company that sponsors the rehabilitation of an injured owl. It’s a business dedicating real dollars to help the organizations on the front lines.
- Sustainable Practices: A company that cares about wildlife also cares about its habitat. This can look like a restaurant that commits to sustainable seafood, a clothing store that prioritizes natural, biodegradable fibres, or a company that uses minimal, non-toxic, and recyclable packaging.
- Bird-Friendly Buildings: In urban areas, window collisions are a massive threat to birds. A truly forward-thinking company will invest in bird-safe glass or apply simple, effective decals to its office windows to prevent these tragic accidents.
- Employee-Led Initiatives: Look for businesses that give their employees paid time off to volunteer for environmental causes. A team from an accounting firm spending a day cleaning up a local riverbank is a powerful statement.
Our Role in This: Vote with Your Wallet
As consumers, we have incredible power. Where we choose to spend our money sends a clear message. When we make an effort to support a business that is investing back into our ecosystem, we’re “voting” for a better, more compassionate community.
So this summer, let’s be curious. Before you buy, take 30 seconds to look at a company’s “About Us” or “Sustainability” page on their website. Do they mention any local partnerships or environmental commitments?
And if you know of a local business that is doing great work—whether it’s sponsoring your local SPCA or just diligently using non-plastic packaging—give them a shout-out! Thank them in person, leave a positive online review, or post about them on social media. By celebrating the good, we encourage more businesses to follow their lead.