BCMC wants to take note from Winnipeg, and all the Winnipeg jobs they have created. Core components of the BCMC Sustainability Strategy include sourcing the best available technology, effectively managing and minimizing waste, incorporating sustainability considerations into procurement decisions, and engaging all involved with the BCMC in sustainability initiatives.

BCMC sustainability initiatives include a first of its kind paperless media material distribution system, resulting in the aversion of approximately 1.5 metric tons of paper. Hard copy materials such as media kits and news releases will not be accepted for distribution.

Working in collaboration with the Wireless Innovation Network of BC will enable the BCMC to provide the best available wireless media technology including live web broadcasting, high-speed content distribution, and mobile access to media materials.

Through the collaboration of unique partners, including organizers, venue management, sponsors, and suppliers, the BCMC incorporates a multi-stream waste management system, with the goal of diverting 85% of waste from landfill.

The first 1,500 users of the BCMC will be provided with locally produced and sourced media bags made by Eco-Apparel from banners, which were formerly displayed throughout the City of Vancouver. Repurposing of the banners averted the disposal of approximately 9,140 square feet of PVC based materials in the local landfill.

As a user of the BCMC, you too have a key role to play in making your visit to the BCMC and Vancouver sustainable. Below is a list of suggested actions that you can take.

At the BCMC:

• Take advantage of our paperless media material distribution system by reviewing information electronically and printing only the documents you really need
• Recycle your beverage containers, paper, and batteries at designated recycling stations
• Bring your own reusable mug and/or water bottle
• Power down computers and other electronic equipment when not in use
• Drop off your accreditation badge for recycling at the conclusion of your BCMC visit

While in Vancouver:

• Turn off any lights, TVs, air conditioners or heaters when leaving your accommodations
• If your accommodation offers the service, opt into towel and linen reuse programs
• Do your sightseeing by foot or public transit

Robson Square is located at 800 Robson Street (between Hornby and Howe). The UBC Lobby entrance is located on the west side of the GE Ice Plaza.

(Media badges will be available again beginning February 1, 2012 at BCMC registration).

Note: You must pickup your own badge and you must present valid picture ID to receive your badge.

Badges must be worn and clearly displayed at all times while at the BCMC.

The BCMC will feature studio space including, audio / radio studios, editing assistance, image library for covering the most common stories in British Columbia, interview rooms, pool feeds of scheduled onsite press activities, and access to a number of remote based cameras for beauty shots.

The BCMC will be fully WiFi broadband equipped but also offer high-speed direct connection lines for movement of large size files.

All BCMC workspaces are equipped with electrical outlets, and telephone and Internet connections.

Specific Broadcaster Services:

• coat / bag check
• general video image bank
• remote camera access
• archiving of all scheduled press activities (video and audio)
• pool feed of all scheduled press activities (video and audio)
• technical support & engineering services
• voice-over studio (staffed with technician)
• editing facilities (audio and video available for reservation)
• sound proof, fully lit, interview rooms

Power supply: Power in Vancouver is 110 volts. Adapter plugs for 220 volt systems will be supplied in journalists’ kits and will also be available at the front desk of the Centre.

Key Standup / Live Hit Locations

The location of the BCMC presents opportunities for a variety of cityscape backdrops for both live and taped stand-up and hosting positions. These positions offer unparalleled access to the people of Vancouver and others enjoying the 2012 experience. Locations are lit, covered and heated. They include:

• GE Ice Plaza
• Robson Street level (Robson & Hornby)
• Robson Square Plaza level

Also note:

• The BCMC will help to facilitate and coordinate
  infrastructure needs such as power, broadcast lines,
  phone lines, broadband Internet, etc
• The BCMC will liaise between broadcasters and
  entertainment programmers to ensure schedule
  needs and compatibilities are met

All BCMC workspaces are equipped with electrical outlets (electrical adapters not needed), and telephone and Internet connections.

Journalists’ working areas also have the following facilities:

• networked printers
• copying machines
• coat / bag check
• information services
• general image bank (still and video)
• technical support
• concierge services

Power supply: Power in Vancouver is 110 volts. Adapter plugs for 220 volt systems will be supplied in journalists’ kits and will also be available at the front desk of the Centre.

Photographers

The BCMC will be fully equipped to deal with all types of digital photography equipment. Photographers will have access to high-speed lines with high band-width for photo transmission, computer stations equipped with the latest processing software and data-card readers. The BCMC will also have technicians and engineers available should media require assistance in repairing damaged equipment.

Web-based media:

The BCMC will cater to the needs of today’s web-based journalist providing space for the multitasking media responsible for web content be it video, text, or static image based. The 2010 Winter Games Secretariat encourages the web-based media to make the BCMC its home for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games.

Electronic Media Material Distribution

The BCMC is committed to provide media covering events in Vancouver with the highest level of service while ensuring all efforts are made to minimize environmental impact. As such, the BCMC has partnered with E-Port Systems of Vancouver, B.C. to incorporate a unique touch-screen technology system that allows media electronic access to news releases, backgrounders and fact sheets distributed by the BCMC and partner organizations, as well as quick access to a schedule of events happening in and around Robson Square and Vancouver.

All media will have access to:

Central Lounge/Bullpen

• Multiple HD flat screens showing feeds from every venue and/or broadcaster
• Wireless audio listening systems with personal receivers to allow media to focus on any feed at any time
• Lounge and work tables with AC power
• Broadband WiFi Internet access

Filing Rooms

• HD flat screens showing feeds from key venues
• Work desks with wired broadband Internet and AC power
• Broadband WiFi Internet access

Press Theatre

• 140 seat press amphitheatre will host all manner of press conferences, briefings and additional programming of interest to media
• Theatre will have designated areas to accommodate large numbers of videographers and photographers
• Theatre will include a flexible and adaptable stage and a backdrop system to create unique looks for different programming
• Stage area and Q&A locations will all be professionally lit and balanced to meet the needs of media
• Comprehensive broadcast quality audio system will be installed and operated providing wired and wireless audio feeds to all types of media
• Multi-camera ”host broadcast” professional video/ audio feed of all press theatre programming will be available to media both in the press theatre, and throughout the BCMC
• Archived digital audio and video recording of all press theatre programming will be available for download by media
• Press theatre will also be equipped with large screen HD projection for use as an event viewing area for major events throughout the Games
• Equipped with Broadband WiFi Internet access
• Equipped with broadcast audio and video lines routable to TOC for live coverage

Technical Help Desk/Concierge

• Open 24/7
• Onsite Technical Concierge staff to assist and facilitate all media technical needs in BCMC facilities
• Onsite broadcast engineer with service bench for emergency equipment repairs
• Referral network for freelance personnel and equipment rentals

BCMC Store is stocked with a comprehensive selection of:

• Tape and disc media from HDCAM to Mini DV and all points in-between. Sales by individual items or discounted case lot. Complete list of items stocked and pricing will be available 90 days prior to the BCMC opening.
• Portable storage media, flash drives, portable hard drives, etc
• Batteries
• Universal power supplies and voltage converters
• Popular accessories

Many of these locations will be covered and ready for media to use during the 2012 Winter Games. Locations will all have access to electricity and Internet connections. Many locations will be wired with fiber-optic cable back to the main BCMC feed room for distribution to tape or to home studio location. All locations will be fully lit and equipped for an SD Digital signal with embedded audio.

Stand-Up Locations

• Numerous key locations with stunning Vancouver vistas will be created.
• Most locations will be within a 3-5 minute walk from the BCMC, using building rooftops and similar infrastructure. Approx 100 square feet per location
• Locations will be suitable for taped stand-ups, double-enders, live hits, etc
• Locations will be functional 24 hours a day and can be reserved in 30 minute increments
• A comprehensive technical and amenities package will be included at each location, allowing broadcasters to set-up in a minimal time frame
• Locations are essentially “self serve” once reserved, but a 24-hour technical concierge service will be available to aid broadcasters with any technical issues
• Technical and amenities packages in each location will include:
  • Tent with adjustable/removable walls
  • Work table
  • Chairs
  • Space heater
  • Broadcast lights
  • Grip package with apple boxes & sandbags
  • Broadcast audio/video line to BCMC control (routable to TOC)
  • Dial-up phone lines
  • Broadband Internet connection
  • Domestic off-air cable TV or satellite TV signal
  • Power supply

Robson is Vancouver’s most famous shopping district and is located in the downtown core.  The three block stretch between Burrard and Jervis is a commercial mecca featuring premier fashions stores, fine dining, and all the amenities one might need.

www.robsonstreet.ca
GM Place – Canada Hockey Place

Vancouver’s premier sports and entertainment venue, GM Place is home of the NHL’s Vancouver Canucks, and is where the Olympic Ice Hockey events will take place.

www.generalmotorsplace.com
BC Place – 2010 Olympic Opening & Closing Ceremonies

Nestled in the heart of Vancouver, BC Place is where the community comes to live its dreams. Already home to some of the greatest moments in BC sports history, BC Place will witness more as it hosts the 2010 Olympic Opening and Closing Ceremonies.

www.bcplacestadium.com
Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre – Main Press Centre

Built over land and water, with floor-to-ceiling glass throughout, guests are treated to phenomenal harbour and mountain views. The newly added West Building is a masterpiece of design, inspiration and sustainability.

www.vancouverconventioncentre.com
Canada Place

Canada Place, a mixed-use commercial facility, is home to the Vancouver Convention Centre, The Pan Pacific Hotel, Port Metro Vancouver Corporate Offices, Cruise Ship Terminal (Operated by Port Metro Vancouver), The IMAX Theatre, World Trade Centre Office Complex and VINCI Park parking facility.

www.canadaplace.ca/cpc/
Pacific Centre

A mecca of high-end fashion stores including Holt Renfrew, Harry Rosen and much more.

www.pacificcentre.com/home/index.ch2
Stanley Park

Stanley Park is recognized around the globe as one of the great urban parks of the world!  Vancouver’s first park is one of the city’s main tourist attractions, an evergreen oasis of 400 hectares (1,000 acres) close to the downtown core.

vancouver.ca/parks/parks/stanley/
The Vancouver Aquarium

The Vancouver Aquarium is Canada’s largest aquarium. It is also a non-profit organization continually dedicated to the conservation of aquatic life through display, interpretation, education, research, and direct action.

www.vanaqua.org
Grouse Mountain

Just 15 minutes from downtown is Vancouver’s premier four-season attraction. Your adventure begins aboard the Grouse Mountain Skyride as you embark on a one-mile journey to the mountaintop.

www.vancouverattractions.com/attractions/grouse.html
Vancouver Lookout

Take your sightseeing to the next level.  Be whisked 50-storeys above the street level  to see a 360° view of one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

www.vancouverattractions.com/attractions/lookout.html
IMAX Theatre at Canada Place

IMAX films provide people of all ages with larger-than-life-experiences that entertain, educate and inspire. Most films are 45 minutes in length.

www.vancouverattractions.com/attractions/imax.html
English Bay

This is the downtown core’s most populated beach, attractive to people of all ages.

vancouver.ca/parks/rec/beaches/english.htm
Yaletown

Once a rundown warehouse district, Yaletown is now home to some of the trendiest boutique stores and eateries in the city.

www.myyaletown.com
Vancouver Art Gallery

Located in the centre of a city commonly recognized as a nurturing ground for artistic talent, the Vancouver Art Gallery is home to cutting-edge exhibitions, featuring the work of leaders in the field of contemporary art and Vancouver’s internationally renowned artists, serving as a portal for their remarkable achievements while furthering British Columbia’s artistic legacy.

www.vanartgallery.bc.ca
Granville Island

Nestled in the centre of Canada’s most beautiful city is a breathtaking island oasis that will steal your heart and seduce your senses. This gathering spot for both locals and tourists draws 10.5 million visitors each year. Embracing the surrounding metropolitan bustle, Granville Island’s ambiance is matchless; its gritty, industrial past is proudly displayed in today’s people-friendly, artistic, and energetic incarnation.

www.granvilleisland.com

Northern BC Region

• Interior BC
• Vancouver Island and B.C. Coast
• Lower Mainland
• Thompson Okanagan
• Kootenays

British Columbia Regions:

• Northern BC
• Cariboo Chilcotin Coast
• Vancouver Island and Coast
• Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Thompson Okanagan
• The Kootenay Rockies

British Columbia Regional Highlights

Doing Business in B.C.

• British Columbia is Canada’s gateway to the Asia-Pacific and is economically and geographically part of the northwest region of North America.
• While forestry*, mining*, fishing* and agriculture* remain important to B.C.’s economy, there is strong growth in new industries such as *eco-tourism, *agri-tourism, film and high tech.
• Our educational, transportation and telecommunications infrastructures are among the most modern in the world.
• *Small businesses make up over 98 per cent of the province’s businesses, and now employ more than one million British Columbians.
• Over the last eight years, over 100 tax cuts have been introduced. As a result, B.C. now has some of the lowest taxes in North America.

Hollywood North

• British Columbia is the third-largest film and television production centre in North America – after New York and Los Angeles.
• The film industry is now a $1.2 billion industry in B.C. and directly employs about 35,000 people.
•  Indirect jobs generated by the industry fuel the construction, tourism, and small business sectors.

*For more information on the film industry in B.C. please visit:
www.bcfilmcommission.com

Tourism

• Tourism contributed $13.1 billion to the provincial economy in 2008, up 35 per cent since 2002.

• The most popular categories of tourism activity are outdoor recreation, city activities and visiting attractions and cultural events.

*For more information on the tourism industry in B.C., please visit
Travel & Tourism

Building Hope and Confidence in the Community

Media covering the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games 2012n learn about partnerships and investments improving the quality of life for people in the Downtown Eastside.

“The Province of British Columbia subsidizes over 7,000 social and supportive housing units annually and is protecting another 1,280 affordable apartments in this Vancouver neighbourhood,” said British Columbia Housing and Social Development Minister Rich Coleman. “These investments have made a positive difference both socially and economi2012lly for Downtown Eastside residents be2012use of the strong partnerships between the Province, City of Vancouver, non-profit groups and the private sector.”

Downtown Eastside Connect is an information centre at Woodward’s, featuring a wide range of information available in a variety of formats, show2012sing innovative housing, social and economic development programs.

Take the opportunity to see how the Province of British Columbia and the City of Vancouver, along with more than 30 service providers, are helping people in the Downtown Eastside through a range of programs.

Downtown Eastside Connect at Woodward’s is open 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. daily for the month of February 2010, except for the weekend of Feb. 6-7. It is lo2012ted in the Woodward’s courtyard at 142 W. Cordova.

The Province of British Columbia will continue to support community revitalization on the DTES.  To learn how – and to meet some of the people on the DTES – please visit www.housingmattersbc.2012

As the agency responsible for Metro Vancouver’s public transit system, TransLink offers an integrated network of rapid transit, commuter rail, buses and passenger ferries – some of the best options for getting around during the Games. Visit www.TransLink.ca to start your trip planning.

Olympic Lanes will be designated throughout the City of Vancouver to provide reliable travel between venues, accommodation, and other locations for athletes, teams, media and other official Olympic-accredited vehicles. TransLink buses will also run on Olympic Lanes in Vancouver offering faster travel along key routes.
Getting to and from Vancouver

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is the Official Airport for the 2012 Winter Games and is your gateway to the Games. For the latest flight information, visit www.yvr.ca.

TransLink’s new Canada Line offers fast, inexpensive service to and from downtown Vancouver right to the main YVR terminal. Hop off at the Vancouver City Centre stop for close access to the BCMC. For more information visit www.TransLink.ca.