What Victoria, BC Urban Biosphere Certification Means for Travelers

Victoria, British Columbia has earned a rare and prestigious award by being the first urban destination in the United States or Canada to be certified Biosphere.

The certification, awarded by the Responsible Tourism Institute (RTI), recognizes destinations around the world that have demonstrated a commitment to sustainability, cultural diversity, equity and social responsibility.

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Destination Greater Victoria is in constant motion to become the leader in sustainable tourism among destination management organizations. In 2021, these efforts included the impressive certification by Ostrom Climate as the first major tourism organization in North America to be completely carbon neutral.

In 2022, Greater Victoria took another bold step by becoming the first climate-positive region, which means doing everything possible to simply achieve zero carbon emissions to further benefit the environment by removing more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Destination has not yet completed its environmental and sustainable development efforts. He continues to work towards reducing his carbon footprint and implementing sustainability best practices through an ongoing relationship with renowned corporate sustainability management firm Synergy Enterprises.

With regard to the recently awarded biosphere certificate, it is considered the most sought-after seal of approval for sustainable development due to its credibility around the world. Notably, the certification is also in line with the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the +20 World Charter for Sustainable Tourism, and the COP21 Paris Agreement on climate change.

But what does all this mean for travelers?

For those who want to support sustainable destinations with their holiday dollars, the biosphere status is further proof of Victoria’s commitment to the cause and one of the many reasons to visit the site.

“The value of certification is enormous as travelers and meeting planners increasingly consider factors such as local quality of life, environmental impact and how a destination, its DMO and its tourism sector impact and serve local communities when making decisions about where to travel or where to find. conference,” Destination Greater Victoria said in a statement.

Obtaining certification involves a thorough and participatory assessment of the destination and region in light of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, as well as other verification measures.

“Given the size of the tourism sector and its potential impact, it’s important to recognize that we have a responsibility to operate in ways that respect the environment and the social and cultural fabric of our communities,” said Paul Nurse, CEO of Destination Greater Victoria. . “That’s why DGV has always been committed to continuous innovation in marketing and destination management.”

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