Cooperative for Nature & Local Jobs | Expéditions Nouvelle Vague

Sustainable and Local Rafting: The Commitment of the Expéditions Nouvelle Vague Cooperative

Expéditions Nouvelle Vague is much more than a rafting company — it is a worker cooperative united by strong values of democracy, sharing, and innovation. Taken over by its employees, our cooperative represents a living and inspiring model of sustainable development, where adventure goes hand in hand with commitment.

We believe in responsible recreational tourism, in harmony with our land and our community. Through participatory management and an eco-conscious approach, we ensure the long-term sustainability of our activities while preserving the valley’s natural treasures. Every decision is made collectively, ensuring a balance between economic viability, social impact, and environmental respect.

Proud of our cooperative model, we are building a future together where excellence, passion, and harmony guide our growth and our whitewater experiences.

Commitment to Local Employment and Cooperative Governance

Coop ENV aligns with the Government of Québec’s 2020–2025 Action Plan for Responsible and Sustainable Tourism by integrating innovative and sustainable practices into all its operations.

After 16 years of existence, Expéditions Nouvelle Vague was taken over by its employees under a cooperative model, ensuring the long-term sustainability of 16 full-time jobs.

🔹 A successful collective buyout made possible thanks to the investment of numerous financial partners, ensuring the company’s stability and the development of new skills.
🔹 Participatory and democratic governance, where each cooperative member contributes to strategic decisions.
🔹 An elected board of directors, responsible for ensuring the sustainability and personal growth of the members.
🔹 Training and advancement opportunities, enabling young workers to quickly access management roles.
🔹 A fair and motivating work environment that preserves the company’s know-how and vision, while ensuring an equitable distribution of profits among employees.

A heartfelt thank you to all our financial partners for their support and trust!
Caisse solidaire, IQ, Fiducie du Chantier, RISQ, MRC, and Réseau COOP

Commitment to Responsible and Sustainable Tourism

Eco-Responsible Practices

Aware of the environmental impact of adventure tourism, Coop ENV has implemented several initiatives to reduce its ecological footprint:

Raising customer awareness about river preservation, in partnership with environmental organizations.
Supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by creating employment and development opportunities for young people.
Adopting the principles of Leave No Trace Canada, including waste management and the protection of aquatic ecosystems.
Collaborating with local businesses to promote a circular economy (Spa Nordique Stoneham, La Souche microbrewery).
Implementing a policy to reduce single-use plastics within its facilities.

Contribution to Sustainable Tourism in Québec

Coop ENV aligns with the Government of Québec’s 2020–2025 Action Plan for Responsible and Sustainable Tourism by integrating innovative and sustainable practices into all its operations.

Commitment to the Community and the Local Tourism Industry

A Key Player in Regional Development

Coop ENV does more than just attract visitors — it also actively contributes to the economic development of the Jacques-Cartier region and the city of Québec.

Partnerships with other local businesses to offer combined packages (e.g., spa and rafting, local microbreweries).
Creation of seasonal and permanent jobs, helping to retain young tourism industry workers in the region.
Active participation in industry associations such as Aventure Écotourisme Québec and Eau Vive Québec to promote and advocate for the sector’s interests.

Social Involvement

Coop ENV also offers opportunities to young people by supporting their entry into the workforce. Each year, it welcomes and trains new guides, allowing them to gain valuable expertise in whitewater sports and tourism management.

Commitment to Safety and Innovation

A Leader in Whitewater Safety

Safety is a top priority for Expéditions Nouvelle Vague. The company implements strict protocols to ensure the safety of both its clients and guides:

Rigorous training for guides, including certification in first aid and whitewater rescue.
Cutting-edge equipment that meets the highest safety standards.
Continuous monitoring of river conditions to adjust outings based on risk levels.

Development of New Standards

Expéditions Nouvelle Vague offers training programs delivered by the Lifesaving Society, applying the new 2023 curriculum developed by the Québec River Safety Consortium (CSRQ), composed of the Lifesaving Society, Eau Vive Québec, and Canot Kayak Québec.

As a cooperative, Expéditions Nouvelle Vague actively participates in discussions on the evolution of rafting standards in Québec. It aspires to be a key player in driving innovation and improving safety practices within the industry.

Expéditions Nouvelle Vague is much more than a rafting company. Through its commitment to eco-responsibility, local employment, safety, and innovation, it stands out as a model of sustainable adventure tourism in Québec.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a traveler looking for a deep connection with nature, Expéditions Nouvelle Vague guarantees an unforgettable experience—one that respects the environment and is rooted in the values of solidarity and excellence.

Sustainable and Local Rafting: The Commitment of the Expéditions Nouvelle Vague Cooperative

Commitment to Local Employment and Cooperative Governance

Commitment to Responsible and Sustainable Tourism

Commitment to the Community and the Local Tourism Industry

Commitment to Safety and Innovation

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