YMCA Discovery Camps’ Commitment to Sustainability

YMCA Discovery Camps: A Commitment to Net Zero by 2030

YMCA Discovery Camps, spread across six beautiful locations in Victoria, have always been dedicated to providing enriching experiences for youth and families. Now, they are embarking on an equally enriching journey towards environmental sustainability with the ambitious goal of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2030.

Six Camps, One Mission.

"Our 92-kilowatt solar system will offset more than 80% of the carbon emissions from our annual grid electricity use, further solidifying our commitment to a sustainable future" - YMCA Representative

Under the project management of Island Energy's sustainability and procurement team, YMCA Discovery camps are installing the following solar system sizes in the next 3 months to reduce their carbon footprint as a part of their 12 strategic action areas

Read more online here: https://camps.ymca.org.au/environmental-commitment

• Anglesea: 1535 Great Ocean Rd, Anglesea VIC 3230 (91.08 kW)

• Lake Dewar: Myrniong: 339 Garrards Ln, Myrniong VIC 3341 (60.72 kW)

• Manyung: Mount Eliza: 25/35 Sunnyside Rd, Mount Eliza VIC 3930 (82 kW)

• Mount Evelyn: 70 Tramway Rd, Mount Evelyn VIC 3796 (30 kW)

• Lady Northcote: Glenmore: 1273 Glenmore Rd, Glenmore VIC 3340 (80 kW)

• Howmans Gap: Falls Creek: 2587 Bogong High Plains Rd, Falls Creek VIC 3699 (62 kW)

These locations are not just scenic retreats but also sites of pioneering sustainability efforts in the school camp and outdoor education sectors.

Enphase Micro-inverters installed across these key school camps to reduce costs and improve safety with AC inverters

Enphase key team members presenting on Micro-inverters installed across these key school camps to reduce costs and improve safety with AC inverters

"The renewable energy produced by our 92-kilowatt solar system can power approximately 844 school bus trips from Melbourne to Anglesea and back each year, promoting sustainable transportation" - YMCA Camp Representative

Strategic Planning begins with Expert Guidance

The journey towards Net Zero began with comprehensive strategic planning. YMCA Discovery Camps partnered with experts, including the consulting arm led by Joel Thompson from Island Energy, to create a tailored roadmap for sustainability. This strategic plan focuses on:

• Renewable Energy Integration: Transitioning to solar power and other renewable energy sources.

• Energy Efficiency: Implementing energy-efficient technologies and practices.

• Sustainable Practices: Promoting water conservation, waste reduction, and environmental education.

Early Achievements and Milestones

Early milestones include:

• Installation of significant solar power systems, such as the 91.08 kW system at Anglesea and the 30 kW system at Mount Evelyn.

• Energy audits and upgrades to energy-efficient appliances and lighting.

• Introduction of smart water meters to monitor and reduce water usage.

These efforts have not only reduced the camps’ carbon footprints but also inspired staff and campers to adopt sustainable practices.

Where to from here?

"YMCA Discovery Camps are proving that dedication and strategic planning can lead to meaningful environmental change. Their journey towards Net Zero 2030 serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for other organisations".  - YMCA Camp Representative