YHA Alice Springs and Sustainability
Alice Springs YHA is committed to reducing its environmental footprint and being a responsible community member through a mix of conservation and sustainable practices and services. Initiatives include:
Energy/Greenhouse gas reduction:
- Photo-voltaic system generating between 10-50% of the properties energy needs – installation costs partly funded by YHA’s Sustainable Hostel Fund guest contributions.
- Low energy lighting in some areas of the property
- Motion activated lighting in bathrooms and common areas
- Air-conditioning under master control by reception
- Bathroom exhaust system only operates when bathroom lighting activated
- All unused computers and monitors turned off at night
- Promote public transport
- Bike rentals with free bike storage
Since installation, the photovoltaic system at Alice Springs YHA has generated over 20,000kWH of electricity, the equivalent of reducing over 14 tonnes of carbon generation. In 2012, Alice Springs YHA reduced its gas usage by over 100,000MJ compared to the previous year, saving over 5.5 tonnes of carbon.
Waste Minimisation:
- Recycling stations in kitchens and external areas.
- Recycle glass, plastic, aluminium and steel cans and printer cartridges
- Reduce packaging by buying in bulk
- Use partially recycled paper in the office
Water Saving measures:
- 5 star WELS rated showers
- Dual flush toilets (3/6 litre)
- Signs encouraging guests to minimise water usage in bathrooms and kitchens
- Drought resistant planting in gardens
Social Sustainability:
- Work experience is offered weekly to special education students
- Partner with local education providers
- Sponsor local community groups and events such as Rotary for the Henley on Todd regatta
- Unclaimed lost property is donated to the Kallaringi community opportunity shop
