OG Straws Joins Whistler Chamber of Commerce: Bringing Carbon-Negative Solutions to Whistler's Sustainability Vision

We're thrilled to announce that Naturally OG Straws by Shaffer Farms has officially joined the Whistler Chamber of Commerce, marking an exciting new chapter in our commitment to sustainable hospitality solutions.

A Natural Partnership

Whistler has long been recognized as a global leader in environmental stewardship and sustainable tourism. From pioneering the Whistler 2020 sustainability strategy to becoming one of the first resort communities to commit to ambitious climate action goals, Whistler sets the standard for how mountain communities can thrive while protecting the environment.

That's why joining the Whistler Chamber of Commerce feels like coming home. Our carbon-negative rye straws align perfectly with Whistler's eco-conscious values and commitment to reducing environmental impact across all sectors of the community.

Carbon-Negative Straws for Whistler's Events

We're particularly excited about the opportunity to supply Whistler's prestigious gala events, conferences, and hospitality venues with our premium natural straws. Here's why OG Straws are the perfect fit for Whistler's sustainability vision:

🌱 Carbon-Negative Production

Unlike paper straws (carbon-positive) and plastic alternatives, our rye straws are produced through regenerative agriculture practices that result in net carbon sequestration. Every straw used at a Whistler event actively contributes to climate action goals.

❄️ Mountain-Tested Performance

Whistler's events demand reliability. Our professionally cured rye straws maintain structural integrity throughout extended galas, outdoor festivals, and après-ski celebrations—no soggy, collapsing straws to interrupt the guest experience.

🏔️ Heritage Meets Innovation

Since 1807, Shaffer Farms has been cultivating sustainable solutions. Our 200+ years of agricultural heritage combined with modern environmental standards creates a product that honors both tradition and innovation—values Whistler holds dear.

✓ PFAS-Free & Compostable

Zero forever chemicals. Fully biodegradable in industrial composting conditions. Our straws meet the highest environmental compliance standards, aligning with Whistler's commitment to protecting pristine mountain ecosystems.

Supporting Whistler's Sustainability Goals

Whistler's environmental initiatives have set ambitious targets:

• 80% reduction in GHG emissions from 2007 levels
• Zero waste to landfill goals
• Protection of natural ecosystems and biodiversity
• Sustainable tourism that preserves the mountain environment

OG Straws directly supports each of these goals. Our carbon-negative production reduces emissions, our compostable straws divert waste from landfills, our regenerative agriculture protects ecosystems, and our premium quality enhances sustainable hospitality experiences.

From Gala Events to Everyday Excellence

We envision OG Straws becoming the standard for Whistler's hospitality industry—from the Whistler Excellence Awards Gala to intimate mountain bistros, from conference centers to après-ski lounges. Every venue that chooses our straws makes a statement about their commitment to environmental responsibility.

Imagine guests at Whistler's signature events enjoying their cocktails with straws that:

• Won't collapse mid-event (unlike paper alternatives)
• Actually reduce carbon in the atmosphere
• Tell an authentic Canadian heritage story (Est. 1807)
• Photograph beautifully for social media and event coverage
• Align with Whistler's world-class sustainability reputation

A Commitment to the Community

Joining the Whistler Chamber of Commerce isn't just about business—it's about becoming part of a community that shares our values. We're committed to:

• Supporting local events with sustainable solutions
• Collaborating with Whistler businesses to reduce environmental impact
• Contributing to climate action initiatives through carbon-negative products
• Educating the hospitality industry about truly sustainable alternatives
• Building long-term partnerships with Whistler venues and event organizers

The Road Ahead

This is just the beginning. We're working closely with Whistler event planners, hotels, restaurants, and conference venues to ensure our carbon-negative straws become the standard for sustainable hospitality in the Sea-to-Sky corridor.

Whether it's a 500-person gala at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, an intimate wedding at Nita Lake Lodge, or après-ski cocktails at Creekside, OG Straws are ready to support Whistler's vision of world-class hospitality that doesn't compromise on environmental values.

Thank You, Whistler

To the Whistler Chamber of Commerce, the business community, and everyone working to make Whistler a model of sustainable tourism—thank you for welcoming us. We're honored to contribute to Whistler's environmental legacy and excited to support the community's ambitious sustainability vision.

Here's to carbon-negative celebrations, pristine mountain environments, and a future where every event makes a positive impact on our planet.

— The Team at Naturally OG Straws by Shaffer Farms