The District Municipality of Muskoka launched the business stream of its Climate Hero program on February 25, 2026, to help companies in Bracebridge and across the region protect the local environment. The initiative provides tools for local businesses to track their efforts in saving energy and reducing waste.
The program uses a badge system that awards bronze, silver, and gold status based on the steps a company takes. Simple actions to earn a bronze badge include starting a litter-less lunch program, organizing car-pooling for employees, or allowing staff to work from home to reduce driving.
Businesses that want to reach the gold level can choose larger projects, such as the riverbed erosion control and electric shunt truck used by the Kimberly-Clark plant in nearby Huntsville. When local companies take these steps, residents can expect to see cleaner water in lakes and local services that are better prepared for heavy storms.
The Muskoka Watershed Council is now working to encourage more business owners in the community to sign up and start reporting their progress. The district has set aside $297,927 in its 2026 budget to fund the staff members who will oversee these environmental projects and help coordinate the program across the region.
