Empowering Sustainable BC Businesses
Welcome to the BC Tourism Sustainability Network, a dynamic industry support program powered by the BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative. This business sustainability program is dedicated to assisting tourism operators in seamlessly integrating sustainability into their operations, fostering a positive impact on the environment, our communities, and our shared prosperity.
The BCTSN offers meaningful, one-on-one support and resources for all tourism operators, regardless of prior sustainability experience. We help businesses define a clear roadmap to integrating sustainability in their operations, strategy, and storytelling.
Each participating business is matched with a seasoned program advisor, who conducts a thorough needs assessment for your organization’s sustainability journey. Subsequently, a tailor-made sustainability roadmap is crafted, delivering comprehensive resource guides and videos to support businesses in their chosen focus areas, and access to other complimentary BCTSN services, such as sustainability workshops, personalized audits and assessments, recommendations for certification programs, and information on available funding opportunities.
Join the BC Tourism Sustainability Network today, and let us support you on the journey towards a more sustainable future.
Sustainable & Regenerative Tourism
Taking action toward creating more sustainable and regenerative tourism options is crucial for addressing some of the most pressing environmental, social and economic challenges of our time.
UN Sustainable Development Goals
The 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a useful framework for incorporating sustainable tourism efforts. However, committing to one or two goals is enough to drive change!
Climate Action 101
By implementing effective strategies to reduce and mitigate the carbon footprint of tourism and promote sustainable practices in the industry, we can encourage people to think about the planet when making travel decisions.
Energy Management
Energy management is an essential component of sustainable tourism. It can minimize tourism’s environmental impacts, reduce operating costs, and enhance visitor experiences. However, there is no one size fits all approach.
Water Management
Sustainable water management practices safeguard our planet’s vital water resources and ensure that tourism does not threaten freshwater ecosystem health or community access to potable water. Conscientious water usage provides numerous benefits to the tourism industry.
Waste Management & Circular Economy
Proper waste management reduces the impacts of waste on human health, the environment and the economy. The tourism industry can have a significant impact on waste generation. In fact, visitors often consume more resources than locals, producing up to twice as much waste as local residents in some areas.
Responsible Purchasing for Tourism
Responsible sourcing of products and services minimizes environmental and social impacts and keeps money circulating in the local communities. By adopting responsible purchasing practices, tourism businesses can reduce their environmental footprint and support local communities.
Food Waste
Food Waste poses a significant challenge in the tourism sector and requires a collaborative effort from all parties involved. The key principles of “Reduce, Repurpose, and Recover” lay the foundation for effective food management programs.
Sustainable Storytelling & Business Case
Sustainable storytelling isn’t just about captivating; it’s about connecting, inspiring, and honouring the diverse voices and values within communities.
Alternative Transportation
Transportation in tourism carries a hefty carbon footprint. Reduce emissions through embracing alternatives, evaluating existing programs, setting goals, and collaborating locally.
Acknowledgements
Building a sustainable tourism industry together.
The BC Tourism Sustainability Network (BCTSN) is a collaborative tourism support program powered by the BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative and its partner organizations, including Destination BC, the six Regional Destination Management Organizations (RDMOs), Indigenous Tourism BC, and the BC Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture & Sports.
The BCTSN is designed and delivered by the tourism industry for the tourism industry, combining the sector’s specialized understanding of its own needs and nuances with the expertise of sustainability experts. The BCTSN was created in 2022 by the BC Regional Tourism Secretariat (BCRTS) in partnership with regional tourism associations 4VI, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast, Kootenay Rockies, Northern British Columbia, Thompson Okanagan, and Vancouver, Coast & Mountains.
Ready to make a positive impact on the environment and your business?
Join the free BC Tourism Sustainability Network and receive customized support and resources for your sustainability journey. Take the first step towards a more sustainable future today.