Our Commitment to the Environment

Today more than ever, the stunning natural beauty of the Gatineau park continues to inspire the Mill’s commitment to sustainable principles and effective environmental management.

In 2001, during the Mill’s transformation into a country inn, great effort was made to preserve the building’s heritage and re-use many of its components.  Much of the original stone masonry was retained and the sections that were removed to make way for doors and windows were recycled into building the foundation. Some of the Mill’s original mechanical components today serve as landscaping ornaments, and even the original leather belts that used to turn the mills were adapted into the guest room door numbers.

In 2009, the Green Key Eco-Rating program for hotels awarded the Mill 3 Green Keys, recognizing the Mill’s environmental efforts. Participation in the Green Keys program prompted the establishment of a formal set of environmental policies addressing commitments in energy and water conservation, waste management, proper handling of hazardous and toxic substances, eco-purchasing and community involvement and support.

So it comes with no surprise that the new Eco River Lodge expansion is as green as it gets. The new 13 guest room and conference centre building is designed and constructed with high hopes of gaining LEED certification - the standard in environmental performance.

LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is an internationally recognized green building certification system, attesting that a building was designed and built using established strategies aimed at improving energy savings, water efficiency, CO₂ emissions reduction, improved indoor environmental quality, and stewardship of resources and sensitivity to their impacts.

Need a charge?

A first in the capital region and an integral part of our vision and commitment to the environment, the Wakefield Mill offers an EV electric charge terminal for electric cars, and is available to all of our hotel guests.

The level 2 charging terminal is located in the new Eco River Lodge area and depending on your vehicle; can fully charge your vehicle within 5-7 hours.

In celebration of our recent 10^th anniversary, the Mill is offering all overnight staying guests free vehicle charging until December 31, 2011.

Upon certification, the new Eco River Lodge will be the only LEED certified hotel in the National Capitol Region.