Vancouver

Sustainable Destination Development

2017 was declared by the UN as the international year of sustainable tourism development. The declaration states that tourism has a role to play in reaching the Sustainable Development Goals through: (1) Inclusive and sustainable economic growth (2) Social inclusiveness, employment and poverty reduction (3) Resource efficiency, environmental protection and climate change (4) Cultural values, diversity and heritage (5) Mutual understanding, peace and security.

Destination Vancouver’s Destination Development department is building on the direction of the Tourism Master Plan. Developed in 2013 the plan provides direction on the consensus between the stakeholders in the city as to where to influence the development of amenities, facilities, products, services, policies and initiatives that support Vancouver (the destination) to deliver exceptional experiences for visitors, and enhance residents’ quality of life and well-being.

The sustainable destination development program is an initiative that builds on the successful Destination Vancouver energy specialist program.

Developed through a partnership with BC Hydro that ran for four years (2012-2016). Over that period the Destination Vancouver worked with member businesses to develop energy conservation initiatives saving over 7.5 GWh of energy. These projects not only saved Member businesses money but also helped contribute to the city's Greenest City goals.

To continue move forward Destination Vancouver now has a Sustainable Destination Manager on staff. They are available to our members to meet and discuss ways he can assist with developing sustainable solutions for your business. The services to members include: Performing a baseline energy, water or waste study of your business with historical data analysis and benchmark comparisons. Identifying energy, water, waste or carbon emissions conservation opportunities for your business. Support developing the business case and finding appropriate third party certification for sustainable measures relative to your company. Helping you find technical contractors or other service providers to implement projects. Assisting with finding incentives, grants and rebate applications and documentation.

If you are looking for new opportunities to develop the positive impact your business can achieve please contact us.

Gwendal Castellan
Manager, Sustainable Destination Development
604.631.2875
gcastellan@destinationvancouver.com