A Leader in Sustainability
Explore the innovative practices that have propelled Destination Greater Victoria to the forefront of regional sustainability.
As travelers from around the globe are seeking out sustainable and eco-friendly travel options that match their values, Destination Greater Victoria works to build and promote the destination’s credentials in providing sustainable accommodations, attractions, experiences, dining, and transportation. As a result, Destination Greater Victoria has proudly led the Biosphere Certification process for Greater Victoria, which includes a commitment to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations, the World Charter for Sustainable Tourism +20, and the COP21 Paris Agreement to combat climate change.
In addition, Destination Greater Victoria is one of four founding partners and a co-organizer of the annual IMPACT Sustainability Travel and Tourism Conference in Victoria, which is now in its seventh year. This conference inspires the tourism industry to impact global change and lead the world in a new age of environmental and social responsibility through a four-day event that includes expert speakers, workshops, breakouts, and experiential tours, where industry players can learn from tourism leaders about industry-leading sustainability practices. The IMPACT Conference aims to drive, spark, and demonstrate innovative and collaborative sustainability solutions for positive tourism development across Canada, through dialogue, recommendations, and action.
As part of its sustainability efforts, Destination Greater Victoria partnered with Peninsula Streams, a local ecology-focused NGO working with Indigenous partners, to help restore critical beach habitat in Victoria’s middle harbor. The project reestablished and naturalized the shoreline, stewarding the return of forage fish to this component of the ecosystem. The site also has considerable significance for the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations who, with the restored backshore, can now once again conduct traditional canoe landing ceremonies at this culturally significant site.
The Destination Effect is a joint initiative by Destinations International and Tempest. To share your destination's success story, please email join@destinationeffect.com.
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