How Victoria, British Columbia's Urban Biosphere Certification Impacts Travelers
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Victoria, British Columbia, has become the first urban destination in the United States or Canada to earn biosphere certification from the Responsible Tourism Institute (RTI). The certification recognizes destinations around the world that have made a demonstrated commitment to environmental sustainability, cultural diversity, equity, and social responsibility. Victoria has been on a journey to be a leader in sustainable tourism among Destination Management Organizations. In 2021, Destination Greater Victoria became the first major destination organization in North America to be entirely carbon neutral, certified by the organization Ostrom Climate.
In 2022, Greater Victoria took another bold step, becoming the first to be Climate Positive. The destination goes above and beyond simply achieving net-zero carbon emissions to further create an environmental benefit by removing additional carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Victoria, British Columbia, is persistently striving to lower its carbon footprint and adopt sustainable practices with the aid of the renowned corporate sustainability management company Synergy Enterprises.
The biosphere certification, which aligns with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals, the World Charter for Sustainable Tourism +20, and the COP21 Paris Agreement to combat climate change, is the most highly sought sustainability seal of approval due to its credibility worldwide. Victoria's commitment to sustainability and achievement of the biosphere status serves as yet another reason for eco-conscious travelers to choose it as a vacation destination and support its efforts towards sustainable tourism.
According to a statement by Destination Greater Victoria, the significance of certification is enormous, as travelers and meeting planners are now taking into account factors such as the local quality of life, environmental impacts, and the impact of a destination, its DMO, and its tourism sector on local communities when deciding on their travel destinations or conference locations.
To achieve the certification, the destination and the region undergo a thorough and collaborative evaluation based on the United Nations' sustainable development goals, among other review measures. Paul Nurse, CEO of Destination Greater Victoria, emphasized the tourism sector's significant size and potential impact and the obligation to operate in a way that values the environment and the social and cultural fabric of communities. He added that Destination Greater Victoria has always been devoted to continuous innovation in destination marketing and management.
The biosphere certification is a significant achievement for Victoria, as it sets a high standard for other destinations. By prioritizing environmental sustainability, cultural diversity, equity, and social responsibility, Victoria is taking a leadership role in sustainable tourism. As travelers become more aware of their impact on the environment and local communities, they increasingly seek destinations prioritizing sustainability. Victoria’s biosphere certification assures travelers that their vacation dollars are supporting a destination that is committed to these values.
Victoria’s biosphere certification is a significant milestone in the destination’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, cultural diversity, equity, and social responsibility. It is a high standard for other destinations to follow and sets an example of sustainable tourism for the tourism industry. For travelers, it provides a clear sign that Victoria is dedicated to sustainability, making it an excellent destination for those seeking to support environmentally responsible travel.
