Today, Destination Greater Victoria has announced the capital city has received a unique Biosphere Certification by the Responsible Tourism Institute (RTI).
The Biosphere Certification represents leading environmental initiatives, a focus on ecological well-being, while driving economic development for the community.
Joining an elite group of international tourism destinations recognized for their commitment to principles of environmental sustainability, cultural diversity, and social responsibility, Victoria has been recognized after completing a rigorous and collaborative assessment of the capital’s environment practices.
In alignment with the 17 sustainable Development Goals adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, the Biosphere Certification is the first sustainability certification aligned with the 2030 agenda that aims to promote sustainable development actions and programmes in tourism destinations.
In 2018, the City of Victoria launched the Climate Leadership Plan which is a roadmap to reducing community-wide emissions by 80% from 2007 levels by 2050 and making the switch to 100% renewable energy.
Additionally, efforts to reduce environmental impact at YYJ airport have been ongoing for over a decade. Since 2013, Victoria Airport Authority has reduced its emissions by 22%, reduced emissions per passenger by 19% and has restored over 1,500m of creek to date and water use is approximately 40% below the North American per passenger airport average.
“Today’s celebration marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter on our sustainability journey,” says Paul Nursey, CEO of Destination Greater Victoria.
“While Biosphere certification will provide long-term economic benefits to Greater Victoria, just as importantly it provides a platform and action plan for us and our members to continue improving our sustainability practices and maximizing the positive contributions we make every day as community partners.”
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