ACRF is excited to kick off our ‘Supporter Spotlight’ series! The lower income fuel-switching projects performed by ACRF are generously supported by local businesses who are critical to the success of the Fund. Over the next couple of months, ACRF will post ‘Supporter Spotlight’ pieces on these southeast community heroes, highlighting their businesses as well as their commitment to driving local change for good.
Gastineau Guiding Company (GGC) is a family-owned business that has been in operation in Juneau since 1994. GGC offers a variety of whale watching tours and on-shore excursions, led by passionate and experienced guides. They have a strong commitment to community, conservation, and innovation in environmental practices.
“With over 32 years of experience, Gastineau Guiding Company offers small-group experiences that foster a deeper understanding of the connection between Juneau’s land and sea,” said GGC Director of Sales and Marketing, Ashlynn Antoni. “We remain dedicated to our founding principles of ‘Safety, Service, Sustainability, and a Sense of Wonder’, which continue to guide every aspect of operations and ensure that each guest enjoys a memorable, responsible, and inspiring experience.”
GGC is a leader in sustainable tourism in Juneau and has implemented many sustainability practices over the years. To reduce landfill burden, GGC separates and recycles all customer waste and became one of the first Juneau tourism operators to partner with Juneau Composts. By encouraging guests to BYORB (bring your own reusable bottle), providing access to water fountains, and using compostable cups, GGC has reduced their plastic water bottle use on tour by 82% in the last two years. A company goal is to provide guests with fully plastic-free packaged snacks by 2026!
Along with these waste-reduction practices, GGC also minimizes their carbon footprint as much as possible. Bicycles are provided to employees each tour season to encourage car-free commuting, a recently-purchased electric vehicle assists with dock operations, and vehicle and vessel oil is recycled for heating oil in their shop during winter.
“As part of this ongoing commitment to sustainability, Gastineau Guiding is proud to collaborate with the Alaska Carbon Reduction Fund, a partnership that reflects our shared goal of reducing environmental impact and advancing responsible practices across Alaska.”
Their commitment to sustainability doesn’t stop here. GGC was among the first Alaska tourism companies to achieve full accreditation as a Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) – recognized organization. The company has also been certified through the Alaska Travel Industry Association’s Adventure Green Alaska program. GGC employs a dedicated sustainability coordinator to ensure continued improvement of their sustainability practices. All staff receive training that covers topics like climate research, conservation, and sustainable practices.
GGC plays an active role in sustainable tourism and community stewardship by hosting, participating in, and supporting community events and organizations. They host annual beach cleanups and educational experiences for Juneau schools, along with supporting local volunteer organizations, such as WhaleSENSE, the Southeast Alaska Whale Watching Association, and many more.
ACRF is so thankful for Gastineau Guiding’s partnership. Their support has helped carry out the program’s primary goal of lowering heating costs and increasing the use of clean energy in Southeast Alaska lower income homes.
