Whale Watching on Pacific Marine Circle Route
About Us

Sustainable Tourism

Greater Victoria is a Biosphere Certified Destination!

So, what does that mean? Travellers around the globe are seeking out sustainable and eco-friendly travel options that match their values. The Responsible Tourism Institute’s Biosphere Certification is a guarantee of environmental, economic, and socio-cultural balance that meets the needs of modern travellers; indicating continuous improvement towards the “Horizon 2030” sustainability objectives established by the United Nations. Biosphere Certification is a commitment to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations, the World Charter for Sustainable Tourism +20, and the COP21 Paris Agreement to combat climate change. Biosphere is the first sustainability certification aligned with the 2030 agenda and aims to promote sustainable development actions and programmes in tourism destinations.

Pins of orca

Greener Together

Making a destination great takes all of us. Travellers around the globe are seeking out sustainable and eco-friendly travel options that match their values. Each year, more than 30 million tourists visit Biosphere destinations and companies. Your participation in the Biosphere program helps our destination stand apart from other Canadian and international destinations. It’s easy, it’s free for the first year, and it’s the right thing to do. The path to Biosphere certification is a straightforward process with great benefits to our members. Your participation is free for the first year, the only investment is your time. There’s no need to take on extensive new projects, you’ll receive recognition for the great work you’re already doing.

When you’re on an island, sometimes you go it alone. But here, we always go it alone together.

Greater Victoria's Biosphere Portal

We're not far away, just further ahead. We take care of each other and our home. Throughout our history, our creativity and ingenuity have sparked new ideas and innovations. Our commitment to sustainability, ocean research and technology continue to show how we can lead the world from our little piece of it. Learn more about Destination Greater Victoria's Biosphere journey and follow us on our path to Biosphere certification.

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Climate Positive and Green Business Certified

Being an Ostrom Climate Positive Certified company showcases our pride in leading the way towards a sustainable future. This esteemed designation underscores our commitment to our community and the environment, ensuring that our operations benefit both people and the planet. By adopting forward-thinking practices, we inspire eco-conscious travelers and set a high standard for the entire industry.

Being BC Green Business certified while representing Victoria, BC, embodies our unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. Our dedication to saving water, reducing and diverting waste, reducing carbon, and conserving energy ensures that we preserve our natural beauty and promote a healthier, greener community. This certification reflects our forward-thinking, community-minded spirit, inspiring both residents and visitors to join us in creating a sustainable future.

Destination Greater Victoria is honoured to be based on the traditional territory of the Lekwungen-speaking peoples of the Songhees Nation and Xwsepsum Nation, whose historical relationships with the land continue to this day.