Climate Change Data

IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism

Climate Impact & Sustainability Data (2020)

Reporting Period: 2020

Environmental Metrics

ESG Focus Areas

  • Climate Change
  • Biodiversity
  • Circular Economy
  • Indigenous Tourism
  • Social Equity
  • Accessibility
  • Emergency Preparedness
  • Regenerative Tourism

Environmental Achievements

  • Minimized emissions by hosting at a BOMA BEST Platinum conference center with energy and water conservation initiatives.
  • All events were within walking distance.
  • Meals featured low-carbon proteins.
  • Conference emissions, including attendee travel, offset by carbon credits from Offsetters, supporting projects in Canada and Uganda.

Social Achievements

  • Welcomed by Songhees Nation representative and featured performances by Lekwungen Traditional Dancers.
  • Showcased local food and drink providers.
  • Incorporated Indigenous knowledge and perspectives throughout the conference.
  • Focused on creating a legacy of regenerative tourism in Canada, bringing together diverse voices.

Governance Achievements

  • Integrated tourism into the provincial emergency system in BC (first province to do so).
  • Established a tourism emergency management committee in BC.
  • Collaborated with various levels of government and stakeholders.

Climate Goals & Targets

Environmental Challenges

  • Climate change impacts accelerating faster than projected, making travel more unpredictable and dangerous.
  • Growing consumer awareness of travel's environmental impact ('The Greta Effect').
  • Varying degrees of industry connectivity to scientific research and consumer insights.
  • Pressure on Indigenous communities to meet growing demand for Indigenous tourism experiences.
  • Lack of balance between community needs and tourism development.
  • Challenges in transitioning to a circular economy due to waste management infrastructure limitations and regulations.
  • Need to address the 'invisible burden' of tourism's hidden costs.
  • Workforce challenges in the tourism industry, including filling job vacancies and retaining employees.
Mitigation Strategies
  • Advocating for regenerative tourism and transformative travel experiences.
  • Focusing on restorative climate action plans.
  • Leveraging consumer and scientific research to drive sustainable strategies.
  • Developing strategies for sustainable destination management, including visitor dispersion and resident education.
  • Investing in education and auditing to transition towards zero waste.
  • Building partnerships with non-profits and stakeholders.
  • Integrating tourism into emergency preparedness systems.
  • Developing and implementing strategies to address the invisible burden of tourism.
  • Addressing workforce challenges through competitive wages, benefits, and career growth opportunities.

Supply Chain Management

Responsible Procurement
  • Purchasing products designed for circularity.
  • Minimizing packaging.
  • Using compostable materials.

Climate-Related Risks & Opportunities

Physical Risks
  • Extreme fires
  • Melting of Antarctica
  • Australia’s bushfires
  • Permafrost loss
Transition Risks
  • Regulatory changes
  • Market shifts
  • Cost of alternative fuels
Opportunities
  • Development of energy-efficient products and services
  • Investment in renewable energy projects
  • Opportunities for climate positive initiatives

Reporting Standards

Frameworks Used: UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Certifications: BOMA BEST Platinum, LEED Gold