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