Easy to Implement!
We’re excited to share some easy, eco-friendly tips that you can follow without having to give up your shopping sprees. Be a Difference Maker and make sustainability the new trend.
Before we dive into the tips, let’s talk about why sustainability matters—even when shopping. Being eco-conscious doesn’t mean giving up on your favorite stores; it’s about making smarter choices. Here at Hillside Centre, we believe you can have your cake and eat it too—shop till you drop but keep the planet happy!
Tip #1: Opt for Reusable Shopping Bags
Find your Style & Ditch the Plastic
Single-use plastic bags are prohibited, by the City of Victoria, but switching to reusable shopping bags is one of the easiest ways to start being more sustainable. Not only do reusable bags reduce waste, but they also come in various stylish designs that can complement your shopping attire.
If you forgot your reusable bag, see our team at Guest Services for a tote. One per person, please. Receipt required.
Tip #2: Support Eco-Friendly Stores
Discover Green Brands
Many of our stores carry brands that are committed to sustainability. By supporting these brands, you are not just buying a product; you are voting for a greener future. These brands often use recycled materials and ethical business practices that help reduce the environmental impact.
Tip #3: Learn About Our Initiatives
We are proud to announce the Difference Makers program at Hillside Centre. This innovative initiative focuses on sustainable retailers at Hillside Centre, and those retailers that are making a difference in our community.
The honeybees are back at Hillside Centre. Since 2022, we have worked with Alveole and converted our rooftop into a home for the bees. By adopting honeybees, we are helping change people’s perspective on the urban environment and reconnecting our community with the subtle wonders of nature.
Hillside Centre has a wonderful program for children under 10, called the Hillside Sea Rangers Kids Club. The program focuses on education, engagement, and the importance of sustainability. We run many programs throughout the year including beach clean-ups, ocean discoveries and many other events with community partners.
Find out more about our other green initiatives HERE.
Tip #4: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – Right Here!
Recycling Made Easy
Did you know that Hillside Centre has several recycling stations throughout the mall? We make it easy to recycle packaging from your purchases. Next time you stop by, make use of these facilities—it’s a small step that can make a big difference.
Innovative Recycle & Upcycle Events
Keep an eye out for our upcycling workshops and events. These are fantastic opportunities to learn how to give your old items a new life. Plus, they’re a great way to engage with the community and have some fun while learning about sustainability.
We recently wrapped up our Coats for Kids program where we collect new and gently used winter coats and donate them to Victoria Coats For Kids; a nonprofit organization that has been serving Victoria families for over 20 years.
Did you know that you can pick up a complimentary WIN (Women in Need) clothing bag at Guest Services? Fill it with your gently worn clothing or fashion accessories. For your convenience, you can return your WIN bag back to Guest Services.
Tip #5: BikeLife
Opt to Ride instead
In 2023, Hillside Centre piloted a bike valet service, where users can bike to the shopping centre and valet their bicycles while shopping. We were thrilled to see so many community members take advantage of this service. Participation was amazing in 2023, so we are excited to bring back our bike valet service for 2024.
Tip #6: Go Digital! Less Paper & Plastic, More Trees!
Embrace E-Receipts
Many stores at Hillside Centre now offer the option to receive digital receipts instead of paper ones. Opting for e-receipts is an easy way to reduce paper waste. Plus, with a little digital organization, it keeps your purchases all in one place-perfect for the savvy shopper! Easier for returns too!
Online Newsletters
Subscribe to our ShopTalk newsletter for the latest news on sustainability initiatives and upcoming events at the mall. This is a great way to stay informed and engaged without the clutter of paper flyers.
Digital Gift Cards
Everyone loves receiving a gift card! The fun and excitement of a shopping trip where you know you get to treat yourself. In 2023, we introduced digital gift cards. Now you can purchase your gift cards online, saving another piece of disposal plastic from the landfill. The perfect gift and less plastic, the best solution!
Share Your Ideas
We love hearing from you! If you have ideas on how we can improve our sustainability efforts, drop us a message or visit Guest Services. Your input can help us grow and make our shopping centre even greener.