In support of sustainable BC businesses
Welcome to the BC Tourism Sustainability Network, powered by the BC Regional Tourism Secretariat and supported by regional tourism associations across British Columbia. This free tourism sustainability program is helping tourism businesses incorporate sustainability into their operations and create a positive impact on our communities, the environment, and their bottom line.
The BCTSN offers meaningful, one-on-one support and resources to all tourism operators, regardless of their prior experience. We help businesses define a clear roadmap to integrating sustainability in their operations, strategy, and storytelling.
Each participating business is paired with a Program Advisor who completes a needs assessment for your business and then creates a customized roadmap to sustainability. This plan includes high-value resource guides and videos to support businesses in their chosen focus areas, such as energy, waste, water, and carbon footprint.
In addition, sustainability subject matter experts from Synergy Enterprises will host a series of masterclass-style workshops. These engaging sessions will be open to all businesses participating in the program and dive deeper into the three core pillars of sustainability – People, Planet, and Prosperity.
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.
Acknowledgements
Building a sustainable tourism industry together.
The BC Tourism Sustainability Network (BCTSN) is a collaborative program powered 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. 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. By working together across the province, BC’s Regional Destination Management Organizations are maximizing their collective expertise and resources and leveraging the local knowledge and long-standing relationships they’ve held across the province for over 50 years.
The BC Tourism Sustainability Network is made possible due to the funding and support of our generous partners:
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.