News & Resources
The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.
Information Communication Technologies at Hotels Symposium: A Route to Sustainable Development event on April 15 in Kamloops and Online
The TRU Faculty Adventure Culinary Arts and Tourism team invites hotel owners, general managers, and supervisory staff in BC to a symposium on April 15. It is free to attend online and $40 with lunch to attend in person. Sessions include a panel with members representing members Thompson Okanagan businesses: Delta Hotel Kamloops, Sandman, Doubletree, Quality Inn Vernon; and a session by FortisBC's Vladimir Kostka, Major Commercial Key Account Manager for Education and Hospitality.
The TRU Faculty Adventure Culinary Arts and Tourism team invites hotel owners, general managers, and supervisory staff in BC to a symposium on April 15. It is free to attend online and $40 with lunch to attend in person. Sessions include a panel with members representing members Thompson Okanagan businesses: Delta Hotel Kamloops, Sandman, Doubletree, Quality Inn Vernon; and a session by FortisBC's Vladimir Kostka, Major Commercial Key Account Manager for Education and Hospitality.
New 3D Virtual Tours Highlight Accessible Features at Tourism Venues in the Thompson Okanagan
TOTA and Spinal Cord Injury BC have partnered to share 22 Virtual Venue Tours of Thompson Okanagan accommodation and attractions. The virtual tours showcase priority accessible features to help people easily plan a visit based on their specific requirements.
View tours: https://ThompsonOkanagan.com/virtual-tours
Kelowna, B.C. - Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), Spinal Cord Injury BC (SCI BC), and their Access BC program have launched Virtual Venue Tours, a mapping project to improve access and inclusion for people exploring the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia. 22 tours are available on ThompsonOkanagan.com as of March 2023 showcasing priority accessible features of various accommodations and attractions in Kelowna, Kamloops, Penticton, Naramata, Keremeos, Cawston, and Chase.
The virtual platform is easy to navigate on desktop and mobile devices, allowing people to explore venues and determine whether accessible features meet their specific requirements. When planning a visit, trip planners can explore the venues virtually and make informed decisions about which ones to experience in person.
The Virtual Venue Tours project was created for the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program, which supports businesses to improve access and inclusion for visitors and staff through various services; with support from the Targeted Regional Tourism Development Initiative (TRTDI) fund from the Province of BC.
"This project will help improve access and inclusion for all visitors to the Thompson Okanagan region. We want to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the beauty of the region, and this program will make it easier for people to do so," said TOTA CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews.
At launch, these tours showcase the accessible features of the following venues who have participated in the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program or are committed to access and inclusion:
Chase:
Kamloops:
Penticton:
The 3D images were created by Jody Wall Photography, a BC-based photographer and are hosted on the TourMkr platform.
More virtual tours will be added as funding becomes available.
To view the tours, visit ThompsonOkanagan.com/virtual-tours
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About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA):
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests throughout the region, and is supported by the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Arts, & Culture. It is an industry-led organization that represents and supports all business and community tourism interests in the region, while also helping to implement provincial tourism policies.
As a Biosphere Certified Destination, TOTA is committed to working towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including goals related to access and inclusion, such as “Reduced Inequalities” and “Sustainable Cities & Communities.” becoming a world-renowned accessible tourism destination and to promote “Access & Inclusion” in all aspects of community and tourism experiences, products, and services in the Thompson Okanagan region.
Learn more at TOTABC.org.
About Spinal Cord Injury BC:
Spinal Cord Injury BC (SCI BC) is a non-profit organization based in British Columbia, Canada, that provides support and resources for individuals who have sustained a spinal cord injury, as well as their families and caregivers. The organization was founded in 1957 and has since grown to become a leading resource for those affected by spinal cord injury.
SCI BC offers a wide range of programs and services, including peer support, information and referral, community outreach, and advocacy. One of the key initiatives of SCI BC is the development of accessible technology and equipment for people with spinal cord injuries, with a focus on enhancing mobility and independence. The organization also provides education and awareness programs to promote understanding and inclusion in the community.
Learn more at SCI-BC.ca.
For more information, contact:
Ellen-Walker Matthews
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)
Free Sustainable Tourism Training Program by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada
The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) is launching a sustainable tourism training program to build awareness and capacity for tourism to develop more sustainably. The program is complementary and is available to all Canadian tourism businesses, not only TIAC members.
The program includes specialized workshops, one-on-one coaching, and certification support around several topics, provided by industry experts.
The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) is launching a ground-breaking sustainable tourism program to support communities across all 13 Canadian Provinces and Territories. The program will assist small and medium enterprises, Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs), and other tourism stakeholders and organizations across all sectors of the industry in building awareness and capacity to develop more sustainably; that is, in a manner that maximizes positive environmental, social, and economic impact while reducing negative externalities.
Participation in this program is complementary and is available to all Canadian tourism businesses, not only TIAC members.
The program includes specialized workshops, one-on-one coaching, and certification support around the following topics:
SDG Decade of Action Planning
Fast Track to Sustainable Tourism & Pathway to Net Zero Carbon
Flourishing Business Strategy for Tourism
Regenerative Event Management
The Pathway to Regenerative Trails Tourism
Strong Farm & Rural Shores - Rural Community Strategy
These topics will be reviewed in the virtual Sustainable Tourism Symposiums. The Western symposium is on January 10, 7:45 AM - 2:30 PM PST.
Further resources, tools, and materials will be available to participants to continue support once the program is complete.
If you have any questions about the program or how to register, contact TIAC at contact@tiac-aitc.ca or (613) 238-7887.
New Biosphere Committed Company: Travel Penticton
Travel Penticton has become a member of the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program, joining over 80 other organizations in working towards sustainable and responsible tourism practices.
Read on to learn about Travel Penticton’s role as a destination marketing organization, including their current sustainability initiatives and motivation for joining Biosphere.
Travel Penticton has become a member of the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program, joining over 80 other organizations in working towards sustainable and responsible tourism practices.
Read on to learn about Travel Penticton’s role as a destination marketing organization, including their current sustainability initiatives and motivation for joining Biosphere.
About Travel Penticton
Travel Penticton is the Destination Marketing Organization for Penticton and area, charged with the task of providing destination marketing and awareness to potential travelers on a regional, provincial, national, and international level. Travel Penticton proudly acknowledges that they work on the traditional unceded territory of the Syilx-Okanagan People.
Tourism is the third largest contributor to the economy in Penticton and a robust and sustainable tourism sector will contribute significantly to the City’s long term prosperity. They have always encouraged members and stakeholders to invest in sustainable initiatives and felt it important to lead by example by joining the Biosphere Commitment Program.
For Travel Penticton, sustainability means they can ensure the longevity of the tourism sector by protecting the natural environment, maintaining a healthy and stable workforce, and creating a community that is welcoming and accessible to all.
Travel Penticton has already made concerted efforts to reduce carbon emissions produced by visitors who drive and fly into Penticton annually through the "Fuel Free…Almost" initiative. This program encourages visitors, once they have arrived, to leave their vehicle keys in the hotel safe and explore the region by foot, pedal, or paddle.
Travel Penticton is also working on several other sustainability initiatives relating to health and wellness of both visitors and employees, including:
Became Rainbow Registered, signifying that visitor centres and offices are deemed safe spaces for members of the LGBTQ2+ community.
Held training and workshops for employees and members covering a wide range of environmental, social and economic topics.
Work closely with the City of Penticton and Penticton Indian Band to address and advocate for policies that have a significant impact on the tourism sector such as diversity, equality, accessibility, affordable housing, and community development.
About the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program
Biosphere is a Sustainable Tourism System certified by the Responsible Tourism Institute, an international certification body that maintains a Memorandum of Understanding with UNESCO, is affiliated to the World Tourism Organization, and is a member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. The system is aligned with the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris COP21 Accord to Fight Climate Change.
TOTA’s Biosphere Commitment Program allows tourism industry stakeholders within the Thompson Okanagan to become involved. The Commitment Program follows a simple process in order to be recognized as a Biosphere Committed Company.
New Biosphere Member: Little Straw Vineyards
Little Straw Vineyards is the newest member of the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program. Read on for information about Little Straw, including their rich history, new ownership, and motivation for joining Biosphere.
Little Straw Vineyards is the newest member of the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program. Read on for information about Little Straw, including their rich history, new ownership, and motivation for joining Biosphere.
About Little Straw Vineyards
Little Straw Vineyard is a family-owned winery established in 1996. Wines vinted from the hot summer grapes of 1994 made up the first commercial releases. The winery is well known for the remarkably popular white blend “Tapestry” and for producing the only Auxerrois Icewine in Canada.
The majority of grapes come from their own vineyards situated on the lower slopes of Mount Boucherie in West Kelowna, British Columbia. Little Straw offers a wide range of small-lot wines, with something to appeal to almost every palate.
The winery is currently moving towards sustainability and organic.
Reasons for Joining the Biosphere Commitment Program
The ownership changed at the end of 2021 to Karnail Singh Sidhu, who also owns Kalala Organic Estate Winery. Karnail has been always passionate about being organic, sustainable, and eco-friendly. Kalala Organic Estate Winery has been a part of the Biosphere Commitment Program for a while now, and shares the same values as Biosphere.
The central vision of the Little Straw is to be a leader in environmentally sustainable agri-tourism business in BC. Little Straw really values being environmentally sustainable, keeping the environment in mind with every business decision. For instance, the majority of organic waste from the winery is used in the vineyards as nutrient manure.
Little Straw proactively tries to get certified, especially regarding environmental sustainability. For instance, listing certified organic and Biosphere Committed Company logos will stimulate the wine and agriculture industries and consumers.
The new owners have big plans for Little Straw. Joining the Biosphere Commitment Program will be one of the first steps they take for sustainability. The winery is also in the process to become certified organic, which takes approximately three years.
About the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program
Biosphere is a Sustainable Tourism System certified by the Responsible Tourism Institute, an international certification body that maintains a Memorandum of Understanding with UNESCO, is affiliated to the World Tourism Organization, and is a member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. The system is aligned with the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris COP21 Accord to Fight Climate Change.
TOTA’s Biosphere Commitment Program allows tourism industry stakeholders within the Thompson Okanagan to become involved. The Commitment Program follows a simple process in order to be recognized as a Biosphere Committed Company.
Tackling Food Waste: Sustainable Solutions That Will Improve Your Bottom Line
Originally published in InnFocus Magazine Summer 2022.
While recycling, saving water, and reducing electricity are among the many important steps toward being sustainable, are you aware of the impact food waste has on the climate crisis? Ben Liegey is on a mission to expand our collective understanding of food waste prevention and help hospitality operators improve their bottom line in the process. (Author: Kelsey Millman)
Originally published in InnFocus Magazine Summer 2022.
Article by Kelsey Millman
While recycling, saving water, and reducing electricity are among the many important steps toward being sustainable, are you aware of the impact food waste has on the climate crisis? Ben Liegey is on a mission to expand our collective understanding of food waste prevention and help hospitality operators improve their bottom line in the process.
“Food waste generates 8% of total anthropogenic GHG emissions globally, meaning that if food waste was a country, it would be the third highest emitter of CO2 in the world, behind USA and China,” says the food waste expert and co-founder and CEO at Rethink2gether. “Globally, food waste prevention is the number one solution to fight climate change, and emissions caused by food waste can be drastically reduced through simple steps.”
Liegey’s Vancouver-based company works directly with accommodators across the province to reduce food waste through a tailored action plan that will result in annual savings.
“An average restaurant in BC experiences approximately 50K in food waste per year—30% of which is completely avoidable,” he says. “3% of hospitality businesses in British Columbia measure food waste currently,” and Rethink2gether wants to increase that number by providing the expertise, training, technology, and a certification program—The PLEDGE™ on Food Waste—to set operators on their path to savings. He adds, “hospitality businesses can cut food purchasing costs by 3-7% and expect an average of 30% less food waste after a year of using our services, meaning 15K can go back into your pocket.”
Although cost savings and protecting the planet are clear benefits of reducing food waste, Liegey also points to ethical food waste prevention as a means to attract and retain workers, as today’s workforce is “looking for work that has meaning.” Particularly for those within the culinary space, Liegey suggests, “if you show your employees you care about the environment, and the treatment of food, you can attract people who are needed in the industry right now.”
But employees are not the only group of people looking to engage with foodconscious businesses. He notes, “According to a recent booking.com poll, 83% of global travellers think sustainable travel is vital. If you want to drive revenue and guests to your hotel, being sustainable is really a no-brainer.”
Fortunately for us all, food waste prevention is becoming part of a larger conversation— something Liegey is excited to see. “We are witnessing governments around the world beginning to take action,” he says. “France is one of the first countries to officially adopt anti-food waste laws.” Anticipating that this will be a growing trend, it creates an opportunity for operators to be leaders in this space, being among the first to implement food waste prevention practices.
Sandman Hotel & Suites Kelowna Pilot Project
In BC’s hotel community, one such leader that has emerged is Sandman Hotel & Suites Kelowna. The property recently participated in a first-of-its-kind Energy, Waste & Carbon Reduction Pilot Project, pioneered by the BC Hotel Association, in partnership with FortisBC, GreenStep, and Rethink2gether.
Through this ground-breaking program, all aspects of the property’s hotel and dining operations have been scrutinized by analysts as they measure the property’s carbon footprint, while conducting comprehensive energy, waste, and water audits. This was all done with one aim in mind—to identify energy conservation and sustainability opportunities.
For Rethink2gether’s part, Liegey explains, “We trained the entire team on-site, and arranged food waste segregation bins to separate different food waste streams that include preparation, spoilage, and plate waste.” Once the measuring systems were in place, over the course of a week, the Rethink2gether team began “analyzing food waste data to identify food efficiency opportunities—compared against industry data—and shared a detailed three-month action plan that will help the property identify up to tens of thousands in cost-savings from food waste reduction alone.”
To support this program, the Sandman Hotel & Suites Kelowna added a $2 Eco Fee to all guest bookings as of February 15, 2022. Funds go directly into a Sandman Hotel Group Green Fund—administered by GreenStep—to support the implementation of future sustainability projects and opportunities at the hotel.
While the sustainability collective hopes to roll this pilot project out across BC, Liegey says there are steps that hotel operators can immediately take to support food waste reduction—and it begins with a pen and paper. “The most important step in food waste prevention is to begin measuring,” he says, and operators do not need any specific technology to get started. “You have in your hand a very easy way to create significant savings and leverage the number one solution to fight climate change. Alternatively, if you want to explore food waste monitoring technology, you can also try Food Intel Tech for free for 45 days.”
Liegey also encourages hospitality operators to explore Rethink2gether’s website for free training, resources, and to explore The PLEDGE™ on Food Waste, with 4 levels of certification and 95 criteria solely focused on food waste.
As Liegey states, “Climate action begins with each of us, and food waste prevention is a tasty way to improve your bottom line.”
Sustainable Companies in the Thompson Okanagan Now Listed in Biosphere Search Engine of Sustainable Consumer Choices
The BiosphereSustainable.com website is now available, which allows people to learn about the good practices and sustainable efforts of companies and destinations around the world, showing how they contribute to the fulfilment of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda.
Biosphere has launched a new website, BiosphereSustainable.com, allowing people to easily learn about the good practices and sustainable efforts of companies and destinations around the world. The website has listings of companies participating in the global Biosphere Community and transparently shows contributions to the fulfilment of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda.
Companies that are part of the Biosphere Community, including companies in the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program, can showcase their sustainability efforts through the new website so people around the world can quickly and easily search and discover their work to improve local life, environment, economy, employment, education, ecosystems, and other sustainability issues.
The Biosphere system is an independent, objective, impartial, and transparent verification methodology with an external auditing team of professionals to validate the sustainable efforts implemented by each entity, based on the indicators, criteria, objectives, and sustainability goals of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The website is adapted for those with general knowledge in sustainability, to help people make responsible, ethical, and sustainable consumption decisions. With more informed and aware societies, it will become easier for each person's consumption decisions to reflect their values, achieving a real involvement on the part of society to act more responsibly and adopt more sustainable models.
For more information about the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program, visit TOTABC.org/biosphere-commitment or email Biosphere@TOTABC.com.
Interested in Joining the Biosphere Commitment Program?
Book a Biosphere Introduction Presentation →
For Biosphere Committed Companies:
Book a Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle Platform Walkthrough →
Electric Vehicle Charger Rebates for British Columbians
The Province and Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) are making it more affordable for people to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in their homes, businesses, and communities. BC residents, businesses, and municipalities can receive rebates for EV charging stations through the CleanBC Go Electric EV Charger Rebate and Fleets programs.
The Province and Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) are making it more affordable for people to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in their homes, businesses, and communities. BC residents, businesses, and municipalities can receive rebates for EV charging stations through the CleanBC Go Electric EV Charger Rebate and Fleets programs.
For a limited time, funding will cover as much as 75% of eligible purchase and installation costs for EV charging stations.
Businesses can apply for a rebate of up to $5,000 per station, as well as 5 hours of free support services from an EV Charging Station Advisor.
Fleet operators can get combined rebates from NRCan and the Province for a Level 2 charging station as much as 75% to a maximum of $5,000 of purchase and installation costs, and 75% to a maximum of $75,000 for a direct-current, fast-charging station.
P.E.A. (People. Environment. Achievement.) Awards | Submit Nomination by August 31, 2022
P.E.A. (People. Environment. Achievement.) Awards is the UK’s leading sustainability and climate awards, honouring the individuals and teams behind the products, services, and businesses that are changing the face of our planet.
The P.E.A. Awards identifies and celebrates the green heroes who are taking matters into their own hands and providing inspiring alternatives to business as usual. These sustainability pioneers are recognised and rewarded at a glamorous green carpet event. Winners will receive a high-profile editorial in My Green Pod magazine distributed online to over 7 million people.
It is free to nominate yourself, a colleague, a team, a product, or a business in multiple categories. Nominations close August 31, 2022.
P.E.A. (People. Environment. Achievement.) Awards is the UK’s leading sustainability and climate awards, honouring the individuals and teams behind the products, services, and businesses that are changing the face of our planet.
Awards are given to Earth ambassadors who are committed to revolutionizing old models and systems across sectors ranging from finance and energy to music and art.
The P.E.A. Awards identifies and celebrates the green heroes who are taking matters into their own hands and providing inspiring alternatives to business as usual. These sustainability pioneers are recognised and rewarded at a glamorous green carpet event.
Prizes and Benefits
Winners will receive a high-profile editorial in My Green Pod magazine distributed online to over 7 million people. Other prizes, donated by the P.E.A. sponsors, will be announced on the night!
How to Nominate
It is free to nominate yourself, a colleague, a team, a product, or a business in multiple categories.
Nominations close August 31, 2022.
UNWTO Awake Tourism Challenge & Startup Support Program to Accelerate Sustainability
The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has launched the Awake Tourism Challenge, a competition and program to find and support innovative startups working to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Deadline to submit your application: October 15, 2022
The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has launched the Awake Tourism Challenge, a competition and program to find and support innovative startups working to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Eligibility:
Startups from all walks of life, from all over the world and all economic sectors are invited to participate.
Participating startups will be assessed according to their:
Contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals
Ease of value capture via collaboration with the startup
Potential business impact
Maturity of the product/technology
Maturity of the team and the organization
Partnership readiness
Categories:
Local community involvement.
Green and blue economies.
Ecological and Sustainable Capital Creation.
Tourism Tech for Good.
Tourism Education.
Women Empowerment.
Benefits:
Benefits for winning startups include but are not limited to:
Pitch at a UNWTO Demo Day.
Curated mentorship programme including one-on-one and in-group sessions focused on Intellectual Property (IP), sustainability, business and leadership.
Connection to the UNWTO Innovation Network for meeting public and private stakeholders to explore funding and piloting opportunities.
Potential matchmaking with partners to scale up the startups, including investors, corporations and governments.
Potential seed funding.
Deadline to submit your application: October 15, 2022
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Rebates for British Columbians
The Province and Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) are making it more affordable for people to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in their homes, businesses, and communities: BC residents, businesses, and municipalities can receive rebates for EV charging stations through the CleanBC Go Electric EV Charger Rebate and Fleets programs.
For a limited time, funding will cover as much as 75% of eligible purchase and installation costs for EV charging stations.
Businesses can apply for a rebate of up to $5,000 per station, as well as 5 hours of free support services from an EV Charging Station Advisor.
Fleet operators can get combined rebates from NRCan and the Province for a Level 2 charging station as much as $5,000 of purchase and installation costs, and $75,000 for a direct-current, fast-charging station.
The Province and Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) are making it more affordable for people to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in their homes, businesses, and communities: BC residents, businesses, and municipalities can receive rebates for EV charging stations through the CleanBC Go Electric EV Charger Rebate and Fleets programs.
For a limited time, funding will cover as much as 75% of eligible purchase and installation costs for EV charging stations.
Businesses can apply for a rebate of up to $5,000 per station, as well as 5 hours of free support services from an EV Charging Station Advisor.
Fleet operators can get combined rebates from NRCan and the Province for a Level 2 charging station as much as 75% to a maximum of $5,000 of purchase and installation costs, and 75% to a maximum of $75,000 for a direct-current, fast-charging station.
As many as 450 EV chargers will be installed through the program.
To learn more about home and workplace EV charging-station rebates, eligibility and application processes, visit: https://goelectricbc.gov.bc.ca/
To learn more about the Fleets program, visit: https://pluginbc.ca/go-electric-fleets/
To learn more about Natural Resources Canada’s Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program, visit:
https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy-efficiency/transportation-alternative-fuels/zero-emission-vehicle-infrastructure-program/21876
To learn more about the 2021 annual ZEV update that tracks B.C.’s progress toward its ZEV targets, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/electricity-alternative-energy/transportation-energies/clean-transportation-policies-programs
To learn more about the suite of CleanBC Go Electric programming, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/zeroemissionvehicles
To learn more about the CleanBC plan, visit: https://cleanbc.gov.bc.ca/
South Okanagan Food & Drink Experience Development Program Event: Tasting the Okanagan Through the Ages
Tasting the Okanagan Through the Ages is an event created through the South Okanagan Food & Drink Experience Development Program which occurred between September 2021 - January 2022 in partnership with TOTA, Destination BC, and the Culinary Tourism Alliance.
Join Chef Aman Dosanj of the Paisley Notebook pop-up series for an immersive dining experience on Covert Farm's 650-acre, fourth-generation farm. The event will guide guests through a multi-course food and wine paired sensory journey of our bountiful region.
Chef Aman Dosanj
Food & Drink Experience Development Pilot Program
The Culinary Tourism Alliance (CTA), in collaboration with Destination British Columbia (DBC) and the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), delivered a Food & Drink Experience Development Pilot Program in the South Okanagan. The pilot program initiated in May 2021 and concluded in February 2022.
Goals of the Experience Development Pilot Program
To support selected businesses with the creation and delivery of a new, market-
ready food & drink experience to offer both locals and visitors to the South
Okanagan
To contribute to the development of new food tourism experiences that will add
to the destination’s overall value proposition, help visitors connect to the region
in a more meaningful way, and encourage repeat visitation and referral
To summarize learnings from the experience development pilot program that
may inform future experience development supports provided by DBC, which
align with the implementation of the Invest in Iconics Strategy across British
Columbia.
The first participant, Covert Farms Family Estate Winery, has now launched their event they created during this pilot program. Their event Tasting the Okanagan Through the Ages is an immersive dining experience with Chef Aman Dosanj of the Paisley Notebook pop-up series.
Tasting the Okanagan Through the Ages
The night will begin with a welcome reception, where guests can take their seat and enjoy free time to play farm games and explore. Next, you will hop aboard their vintage cherry red trucks for an open-air tour of their regenerative farm and vineyards. Here, they will discuss the rich history of the Syilx Okanagan Nation and neighboring Indigenous cultural site nʕaylintn, and then forage for traditional plants, some of which will be featured in the night’s dishes.
Chef Aman will guide guests through each of her incredible dishes along with the ingredients used, including organic fruits and vegetables grown right here on our farm and meats raised at the estate. Each dish will be paired with Covert Farms Estate wines by winemaker and farmer, Gene Covert, all of which are made with regenerative viticulture practices, using minimal intervention and natural fermentation when possible.
Recap of IMPACT Sustainable Tourism Conference 2022
Last week, several TOTA team members attended the annual IMPACT Sustainable Tourism Conference in Victoria. The spirit of this internationally informed, Canadian-focused event is to educate, unite, commit, and take action towards the development of tourism as a financial and social force for good.
Over the course of 2.5 days and more than 20 sessions, the conference presented the sustainability challenges faced by the tourism industry worldwide. Inspiring examples were shared of companies working towards regenerative tourism, and they called on tourism professionals to commit to meaningful action.
We have summarized some key highlights…
Last week, several TOTA team members attended the annual IMPACT Sustainable Tourism Conference in Victoria. The spirit of this internationally informed, Canadian-focused event is to educate, unite, commit, and take action towards the development of tourism as a financial and social force for good. Monitoring and measuring success through the lens of environment, community, culture, and economy (also known as planet, people and prosperity by the BC Ministry of Tourism, Art, Culture, and Sport).
Over the course of 2.5 days and more than 20 sessions, the conference presented the sustainability challenges faced by the tourism industry worldwide. Inspiring examples were shared of companies working towards regenerative tourism, and they called on tourism professionals to commit to meaningful action.
Key highlights from IMPACT:
Regenerative Tourism
The COVID-19 pandemic and climate change have converged to cause great disruption, however we are now in the midst of what is being referred to as the Great Restart, an opportunity to reassess the ways in which we do business and refocus efforts to prepare for the future.
This requires significant intentional change and an urgency to incorporate sustainable and regenerative practices into the core of business planning and operations.
Tourism can strive to regenerate - meaning to protect and strengthen - land and communities, creating net positives for both. Working collectively, we can minimize the negative impacts and amplify the many benefits, to be equitably enjoyed by residents and guests.
What does regenerative tourism look like in action?
Work to attract “High Values Guests,” meaning visitors that generally stay longer, support local businesses, and strive to minimize their individual impact on the destination and community.
Incorporate sustainable technology and practices into your business that improve the guest experience and reduce costs.
Make it easy to choose and provide education for guests to reduce carbon emissions, such as lower emission transportation methods, foods, and energy sources.
Employ creative thinking around partnerships and collaboration, job sharing, and cross training to attract tourism professionals seeking full time, long-term employment.
Industry certifications and frameworks which help destinations and companies build a foundation of practices that meet (or exceed) industry sustainability standards and communicate commitments to partners and customers.
Collaborate with the scientific community to better understand tourism’s positive and negative impact. For example, researchers could study aspects of the tourism business to make improvements and help develop educational tourism experiences that share their knowledge and appreciation with guests.
Develop infrastructure and experiences that help to lengthen the tourism season and encourage dispersion.
Indigenous Reconciliation
Indigenous reconciliation was woven throughout the entire conference, and underscored the importance of DMOs and businesses developing an Indigenous strategy and creating relationships with local nations working in collaboration to share stories and promote Indigenous services and experiences.
How can tourism be a powerful cultural and economic tool to take action towards reconciliation? Some examples for non-Indigenous entities include:
Work to learn from Indigenous people and the sustainable practices at the core of their way of life
Acknowledge the local nation and their history in tourism experiences and content.
Become a Friend of Indigenous Tourism BC to begin collaboration towards mutual success and that contribute to reconciliation through the support of Indigenous tourism.
Create an Indigenous Ally Program and share a portion of profits with local Indigenous bands, which can provide reliable income to employ Indigenous forest guardians.
Thompson Okanagan Commitment to Regenerative Tourism
While sustainability has been a key aspect of TOTA’s destination management strategy since 2012, it’s inspiring to see sustainability develop as the foundation of tourism in British Columbia, Canada, and other destinations around the world.
The TOTA team is eager to further incorporate regenerative tourism best practices into the Thompson Okanagan region, in order to continue as a competitive tourism destination and inspire others to plan the future of their destination through a sustainability lens.
If you want to discuss sustainable tourism and how your business can get started or build on an existing foundation, contact the TOTA Destination Stewardship team at Biosphere@TOTABC.com.
Reminder: Green Wine Future Virtual Conference, May 23-26
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is taking part in the upcoming virtual Green Wine Future Conference from May 23 to May 26.
Registration for one day of the conference is $47 USD. Through TOTA’s partnership, Thompson Okanagan stakeholders get a 55% discount by using the code TOTA55.
Green Wine Future Virtual Conference
May 23 - 26
North America Segment: Monday, May 23 | 2:00 - 6:30pm PT
Register with TOTA Discount Code
Registration for one day of the conference is $47 USD. Through TOTA’s partnership, Thompson Okanagan stakeholders get a 55% discount by using the code TOTA55.
About Green Wine Future
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is taking part in the upcoming virtual Green Wine Future Conference from May 23 to May 26. The event is the most ambitious environmental conference ever organized for the global wine community and will launch as a fully online gathering.
The Green Wine Future Conference will address critical topics of sustainability, climate crisis, biodiversity, wine tourism, regenerative agriculture, carbon amelioration, hydric resources, energy efficiency and create truly green business opportunities to respond to current world conditions. Speakers will present information through video footage, documentaries, and live broadcasts from vineyards and wineries.
TOTA is supported by several provincial and regional funding partners, including Destination British Columbia and Wine Growers British Columbia; and host wineries who will showcase the Thompson Okanagan wine region: Mission Hill Family Estate Winery, CedarCreek Estate Winery, and Monte Creek Winery. Other Thompson Okanagan wineries are invited to participate and represent the Thompson Okanagan wine region by hosting a Green Wine Future Virtual Trade Booth.
Thompson Okanagan Wine for the Planet Documentary
The conference includes the premiere of the Wine for the Planet docuseries, including a short documentary about the Thompson Okanagan wine region unveiled on May 23. The docuseries shows the support of the wine industry towards the most sensitive parts of the planet such as ice caps and glaciers, rainforest, marine environments, and areas sensitive to flooding and water scarcity.
Watch Thompson Okanagan Press Conference Recording from April 20
TOTA and Wine for the Planet hosted a Special Press Event at the BC Wine Information Centre in Penticton on April 20.
Green Wine Future founder, Pancho Campo, shared his work around the world and offered insights of what to expect at this year's Green Wine Future Conference. Several industry leaders and enjoy a small sampling of some of the area's various wine varietals.
Sustainable Energy Tips for Tourism Businesses
Energy is used every day to modulate temperature, light indoor and outdoor environments, heat water, and run appliances.
According to Natural Resource Canada more than 60% of the total energy consumption in a building is utilized for space heating.
The following energy efficiency tips can help in reducing your business’ energy consumption and will bring added benefits of cost saving and reducing your carbon footprint:
Regularly maintain and replace worn caulking and weatherstripping around windows and doors to seal gaps and cracks.
Install programmable thermostat to turn down the heat to about 17 degree Celsius after business hours and in unoccupied or less frequently used areas.
Upgrade to LED lighting to enhance your indoor atmosphere and save energy costs.
Replace standard incandescent bulbs with Energy Star rated LED bulbs and T12 fluorescent lamps and high performance T8 or LED lighting.
Have appliances serviced regularly to keep them operating safely and efficiently.
Energy is used every day to modulate temperature, light indoor and outdoor environments, heat water, and run appliances.
According to Natural Resource Canada more than 60% of the total energy consumption in a building is utilized for space heating.
The following energy efficiency tips can help in reducing your business’ energy consumption and will bring added benefits of cost saving and reducing your carbon footprint:
Regularly maintain and replace worn caulking and weatherstripping around windows and doors to seal gaps and cracks.
Install programmable thermostat to turn down the heat to about 17 degree Celsius after business hours and in unoccupied or less frequently used areas.
Upgrade to LED lighting to enhance your indoor atmosphere and save energy costs.
Replace standard incandescent bulbs with Energy Star rated LED bulbs and T12 fluorescent lamps and high performance T8 or LED lighting.
Have appliances serviced regularly to keep them operating safely and efficiently.
How to Make Easter More Sustainable
As a Gold Certified Biosphere Destination, we encourage and challenge tourism professionals to hop on the sustainability path this Easter for a more eco-friendly holiday weekend.
Traditions such as Easter Egg Hunts produce unnecessary waste and there are sustainable alternatives.
TOTA has compiled the following tips to make Easter celebrations more eco-friendly
As a Gold Certified Biosphere Destination, we encourage and challenge tourism professionals to hop on the sustainability path this Easter for a more eco-friendly holiday weekend.
Traditions such as Easter Egg Hunts produce unnecessary waste and there are sustainable alternatives.
TOTA has compiled the following tips to make Easter celebrations more eco-friendly:
Buy local products or experiences for Easter baskets
Recycle - where ever possible, egg foil from your Easter egg chocolates is recyclable
Buy organic or fair trade chocolate and look for local chocolatiers
Buy local, free range, organic eggs and decorate with natural dyes
Try eco-friendly alternatives to Easter basket grass and plastic eggs
Compost egg shells
Avoid food waste - be aware of gathering numbers and share leftovers
Reduce Single Use Plastics
Choose reusable decorations, baskets, and outfits
Buy local produces and vegetables to balance out sweets
Cariboo Chilcotin Coast and Kootenay Rockies Tourism Regions earn Biosphere Certified Destination Designation
Congratulations to the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast and Kootenay Rockies tourism regions on earning the internationally recognized Biosphere Certified Destination Designation from the Responsible Tourism Institute.
Biosphere Destinations are committed to continuous improvement guided by the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations, which include combating climate change, protecting the environment, supporting decent work and economic growth, and respecting cultural and social values.
Congratulations to the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast and Kootenay Rockies tourism regions on earning the internationally recognized Biosphere Certified Destination Designation from the Responsible Tourism Institute.
Biosphere Destinations are committed to continuous improvement guided by the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations, which include combating climate change, protecting the environment, supporting decent work and economic growth, and respecting cultural and social values.
HeliCat Canada Unveils Unique Carbon Offset Strategy A Wildlife & Environment Research Fund Project
HeliCat Canada and its member organizations have taken proactive steps towards sustainability, continually pushing innovation in efficient and renewable energy use wherever possible. Understanding the realities of Heli and Cat-ski operations, carbon offsets are an essential tool for HeliCat members and guests to compensate for emissions that currently cannot be eliminate through other means. The purpose of the HeliCat Canada carbon offset strategy is to provide a simple, industry-specific manual that guides the Canadian HeliCat industry, member operations and guests to effectively navigate the carbon offset world, use carbon offsets to achieve net zero GHG emissions, and achieve other sustainable targets.
HeliCat Canada and its member organizations have taken proactive steps towards sustainability, continually pushing innovation in efficient and renewable energy use wherever possible. Understanding the realities of Heli and Cat-ski operations, carbon offsets are an essential tool for HeliCat members and guests to compensate for emissions that currently cannot be eliminate through other means.
The purpose of the HeliCat Canada carbon offset strategy is to provide a simple, industry-specific manual that guides the Canadian HeliCat industry, member operations and guests to effectively navigate the carbon offset world, use carbon offsets to achieve net zero GHG emissions, and achieve other sustainable targets.
How to Make St. Patrick's Day Eco-Friendly
St. Patrick’s Day is annual celebration of Irish culture on March 17, featuring green outfits, decorations, beer, and food. Like other holidays, celebrations may result in consumerism and unnecessary waste.
As a Biosphere Destination, we encourage and challenge tourism professionals to make St. Patrick’s Day more eco-friendly and greener this year, and every year.
TOTA has compiled tips to make St. Patrick’s Day even greener with a few eco-friendly activities or actions.
St. Patrick’s Day is annual celebration of Irish culture on March 17, featuring green outfits, decorations, beer, and food. Like other holidays, celebrations may result in consumerism and unnecessary waste.
As a Biosphere Destination, we encourage and challenge tourism professionals to make St. Patrick’s Day more eco-friendly and greener this year, and every year.
TOTA has compiled the following tips to make St. Patrick’s Day even greener with a few eco-friendly activities or actions:
Eat green - make food and beverages with local produce, reduce food waste, and compost what can’t be used.
Drink green local and/or organic beer.
Decorate green - use biodegradable or reusable decor, rather than single-use plastic decorations. If needed, Recycle paper, cardboard, and hard plastic decorations.
Host events outside in the fresh air to improve health and wellness.
Plant something green in the garden.
Encourage guests to use green transportation options, like bikes, buses, shuttles, or carpooling.
Dress green - Sell green clothing made of responsibly sourced and sustainable materials, such as organic cotton and wear reusable outfits.
B.C. Launches Plan to Revitalize Tourism, Creating Opportunities for People
B.C. has launched a new three-year roadmap for rebuilding and revitalizing tourism, creating jobs and opportunities for people and communities in every part of the province.
The renewed Strategic Framework for Tourism responds to the call to action from the sector to support its recovery from COVID-19. It outlines a roadmap for a more resilient tourism sector by rebuilding to 2019 levels by 2024.
B.C. has launched a new three-year roadmap for rebuilding and revitalizing tourism, creating jobs and opportunities for people and communities in every part of the province.
The renewed Strategic Framework for Tourism responds to the call to action from the sector to support its recovery from COVID-19. It outlines a roadmap for a more resilient tourism sector by rebuilding to 2019 levels by 2024.
Requested by B.C.’s tourism industry leaders and the Tourism Task Force, the update of this framework focuses on provincial priorities of putting people first; lasting and meaningful reconciliation; equity and anti-racism; a better future through fighting climate change; and a strong, sustainable economy that works for everyone.
To continue to support tourism businesses in B.C. to come back stronger, the Province is investing $1 million toward investments in event-bid preparation and sponsorships to attract large-scale arts, culture, and sport events, and public conferences and exhibitions.
Investing now in event programs will kick-start the events industry’s recovery and will position B.C. as a safe, world-class, event-hosting jurisdiction once again. This is in addition to the $8 million government recently announced for the Business Events and Conferences Restart Fund to help restart business travel by attracting and hosting business events, conferences and exhibitions.
The Tourism Task Force emphasized how challenging it has been for industry to find the skilled workers it needs. This is why government is investing a further $2 million for post-secondary education and training to support B.C. students who enrol in tourism and hospitality certificate, diploma or degree programs, tourism-related apprenticeships, and trades training and development programs. This program, will prioritize students who are Indigenous, immigrant, or refugee applicants, as well as those from rural or remote locations, and people with accessibility needs. More details will be provided soon.
As part of the Province’s continuing tourism recovery initiatives, government has committed $6 million this year through 2024 for Destination BC to market B.C. as a destination of choice in the highly competitive international market.
This funding builds on the $570 million the B.C. government has invested in recovery supports for the tourism sector, including the Small and Medium Sized Business Recovery Grant and the Circuit Breaker Business Relief Grant that are providing funding to nearly 8,200 tourism and hospitality businesses.