Sustainability in Victoria

Sustainability at Destination Greater Victoria

We not only talk the talk, but we walk the walk. Sustainability is at the core of our values, and we are dedicated to preserving this beautiful place we call home for generations to come. In 2021, Destination Greater Victoria (DGV) achieved carbon neutrality, and following shortly in 2022, we are proudly certified Climate Positive by Ostrom Climate and Synergy Enterprises. DGV is the first destination marketing organization in North America to do so.

Biosphere certification

Destination Greater Victoria is Biosphere certified! The path to Biosphere Certification is a commitment to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. DGV’s mentorship has opened possibilities for many businesses in the destination to start their journey towards Biosphere certification. Working together on the same goal builds the foundation for a stronger, more successful future for our destination.

Sleep green

Tuck in for a great night’s sleep at one of Victoria’s sustainable hotels. Leading the way since 2009 is Inn at Laurel Point, British Columbia’s first carbon neutral hotel. Inn at Laurel Point is working towards Project 2030, the plan to advance seven of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Another leader in sustainability is Parkside Hotel & Spa. As a Climate Positive and Biosphere Certified hotel, sustainability is at their core. Parkside is the first urban hotel in the world to become members of Beyond Green. Also newly designated as Biosphere Certified is Oak Bay Beach Hotel. Victoria’s hotels are committed to our pollinators – we are the garden city after all! Hotels such as Huntingdon Manor, The Fairmont Empress, Parkside Hotel & Spa and Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites are all the buzz with their dedicated bee programs. Sleep well knowing that Victoria is doing its part, one night at a time.

Fly your way to sustainability

Harbour Air has been a leader in sustainability since 2007. The first commercial airline in the world to achieve carbon neutrality. Better than that? Harbour Air has successfully completed the first direct all-electric point to point test flight. This is a major milestone in the advancement of all-electric commercial flights.
Right out the gate at YYJ Victoria International Airport you are met with sustainability initiatives. YYJ is committed to reducing their carbon footprint, reducing its emissions by 22% since 2013 and achieving the Airport Carbon Accreditation Level 2 for emission reductions. New to YYJ this year, is a native species pollinator garden. More than 2,000 flora will be planted in 1,100 square metres of garden to help pollinators thrive.

Giving back to the oceans

Surrounded by the Salish Sea, Greater Victoria is passionate about giving back to our oceans. Seek out the Salish Sea’s marine giants, while learning how best to protect them and our blue backyard. Prince of Whales is certified Carbon Positive in 2022 and Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Watching Tours, certified Carbon Neutral and certified Platinum with GreenStep Sustainable Tourism. Our whale and wildlife watching companies are making sure to do their part for ocean conservation and sustainability through many different initiatives such as whale-friendly motors (to reduce noise), 1% for the planet, wildlife conservation fee and more!

Four wheels or two legs

Pedal your way through Victoria! There’s no better way to give back to the environment while traveling than sustainable transportation. It’s no wonder Victoria has been voted the most bikeable city in Canada, we are well equipped with bike lanes, trails and beautifully paved pathways. Not only is Victoria the most bikeable city, but also one of the most walkable cities in Canada. Grab your runners and hit the pavement. Downtown Victoria is home to many walking paths that boast incredible views like Dallas Road and the Inner Harbour, just some of the spots to get in your daily steps.

Sustainability from new heights

Immerse yourself in tranquility at the Malahat SkyWalk. This stunning 30-metre structure has sustainability at its core, and a small footprint to match! From the moment you arrive you are welcomed by nature. A wooden boardwalk that is lifted from the forest floor, takes you through native plant species and trees, and to top it off, great care was taken so that few trees were removed for the construction of this attraction. Education is a prominent piece throughout your nature walk. The Malahat Nation and SkyWalk team work closely together to ensure the traditional Indigenous names of locations on the Island are displayed proudly. The boardwalk and spiral tower were designed to be accessible for all, with its gentle slope and handrails allowing all abilities to experience the sweeping panoramic views of the Salish Sea. Don’t forget the slide on the way down! Yes, a slide! This 20-metre spiral slide might be as awesome as the view from the top.

Check out the many businesses in Victoria who are dedicated to reducing Greater Victoria’s carbon footprint here!