Heeman’s recognized with award at Ontario Southwest Tourism Conference

Owner Will Heeman accepted the Sustainability Trailblazer of the Year award on behalf of Heeman’s Greenhouse in Thorndale during the Ontario Southwest Tourism Conference in London earlier this month.

By Nancy Abra

At the Ontario Southwest Tourism Conference held earlier this month in London, Heeman’s Greenhouse received the Sustainability Trailblazer of the Year award.

In Will Heeman’s acceptance address, he expressed key points regarding the importance of sustainability in business and tourism, his family legacy, and building on what was started by his grandparents over 60 years ago.

Besides being a destination for visitors to experience various activities and tastes they offer, Heeman also emphasized, as farmers, they are stewards of our land.

“It is ours to protect, nurture and invest in for the long term,” he said. “That means investing in renewable energy, using biological controls (in the greenhouses), supporting pollinators and designing systems that reduce waste while enhancing our guests’ experiences.

“If we do our jobs right today, we give our kids, the fourth generation, the chance to carry on this legacy tomorrow. Sustainability is not separate from tourism. It is what makes tourism worth sustaining. Being here tonight and learning about the incredible work happening across Ontario’s southwest reminds us that innovation and responsibility truly do go hand in hand.”