Last updated on March 22, 2024.
Caring for our planet is a collective effort that requires us to make conscious decisions about how we use and invest our resources.
This Earth Day, Vancity invites you to join us in supporting the 2024 Earth Day theme “Planet versus plastic.” From how we invest our money to how we choose to live, there are many ways each of us can do our part and build an equitable, green, and prosperous future.
Here are a few ways you can go green this Earth Day and invest in a better planet, today.
1. Greening your finances.
Every financial decision you make has an impact on the environment. From choosing a low-carbon vehicle to banking with a credit union that supports sustainability initiatives — every choice matters.
This Earth Day, pledge to make more eco-friendly financial decisions. Shop local and support sustainable businesses that use environmentally-friendly practices, such as using recycled materials or reducing waste. Look for certifications such as B Corp or Fair Trade to ensure that the businesses you support are committed to sustainability.
Greening your finances also means using green banking services, like paperless statements and mobile banking. This not only helps conserve natural resources but it can also make managing your finances easier.
Plus, with the use of online tools such as budgeting apps, you can better track where your money is going and ensure you are making smart financial decisions for yourself and the planet.
2. Green your business.
If you’re a business owner, consider joining Vancity’s Green Business Program this Earth Day. The program helps members make big or small changes to their operations that positively impact the environment and save them money at the same time.
Whether you’re taking steps to reduce energy consumption, investing in renewable energy sources like solar power, or implementing green practices in your workplace, such as composting and recycling, the Green Business Program is an excellent way to drive meaningful change for our planet.
Vancity also invests in businesses that are producing green products and services. This includes clean technologies like waste, water and energy efficiency, and renewable energy.
We also invest in businesses that are actively improving their environmental performance — especially in the area of energy-efficient buildings, which has a large impact on climate change. Data from the Government of Canada has shown that 13% of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions come from the building sector, and over 78% of building emissions come from space and water heating equipment.
Learn more about Vancity’s energy-efficient business financing, community grants, and green business success stories this Earth Day.
3. Bank carbon-neutral.
Climate change is one of the most important issues facing our planet today. The more we can successfully reduce our reliance on, and output of, carbon emissions, the healthier our planet will be.
Carbon neutrality is a key objective of Vancity’s commitment to sustainability. We have been carbon-neutral since 2008 and work tirelessly to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions while offsetting those that cannot be eliminated.
We measure and track our energy use, transport, fuel consumption and waste generation to identify ways to reduce these impacts. Once all possible reductions are made, we purchase offsets from emission-reducing activities others have undertaken.
For our members, this commitment brings confidence in knowing your actions are helping to protect the environment. Not to mention, trust that your banking partner is doing its part, too.
4. Choose an enviro Visa.
Did you ever think a credit card could be used to help the environment? Well, when you choose an enviro™ Visa*, you earn rewards with each purchase, and at least 5% of all profits are donated to local environmental projects.
Plus, for every dollar spent on eligible purchases, Vancity Rewards™ points are earned that can be redeemed for cash back‡, travel, charitable donations and gift cards.
Learn how an enviro Visa can empower you to be a part of meaningful environmental change today.
5. Make sustainable choices at home.
Fighting climate change starts at home. Commemorate Earth Day by making small changes that can add up over time. This can include:
- Switching to LED bulbs and energy-saving appliances
- Installing a heat pump in your home
- Improving insulation and air sealing
- Investing in high-efficiency windows
- Replacing old appliances with Energy Star-certified models
If you need assistance in making these changes, Vancity offers flexible loan options for planet-wise renovations that boost the energy efficiency of your home, and help you play a part in building healthy communities and a low-carbon future.
The Vancity Planet-Wise Transportation Loan also provides financing for low-emission vehicles, such as pedal bikes, e-bikes, scooters, electric cars and hybrids. Plus, you can even get a loan to purchase charging stations or conversion kits — all of which help reduce your carbon footprint.
6. Invest in your values.
One of the easiest ways to invest in our planet is by investing in companies and organizations that share your values. At Vancity, we take a leadership position on climate change — meaning we don’t provide services or capital to oil, gas, or coal companies.
We also offer socially responsible investing through our Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) funds. These funds use environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria to select investments that benefit humanity. This includes companies that support the Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations.
Invest in our planet, invest in our future.
On Earth Day, and every day, Vancity and its members are working together to make a difference in the world. We are proud to be part of a growing community committed to investing in an equitable, green and planet-friendly future. Join us in creating a greener future and become a financial force for change — speak to a Vancity wealth management professional today.
enviro™, Carbon Counter™ and Vancity enviroFund™ are trademarks of Vancouver City Savings Credit Union.
* Trademark of Visa Int., used under license.
‡ Vancity membership required for certain cash back rewards. Must have a Vancity deposit account to redeem for cash. Additional terms and conditions apply.
