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Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

British Columbia, Canada

Protected Areas

Adhere to park rules; stay on marked trails in provincial parks like Myra Canyon.

Waste Management

Utilize designated recycling and organic waste bins to minimize waste.

Water Conservation

Be mindful of water usage, especially in summer, as the Okanagan Valley is a dry region.

Environmental Considerations

Conscious choices protect Kelowna's natural environment.

Leave No Trace

Practice responsible outdoor ethics.

Outdoor Guidelines

  • Pack out everything you pack in.
  • Minimize impact on vegetation and wildlife.
  • Stay on marked trails.
  • Respect fire bans.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Support sustainability in your daily activities.

Sustainable Practices

Carbon Offset Options

Mitigate your travel carbon footprint.

Reducing Emissions

  • Offset flight emissions through programs like Terrapass.
  • Consider carbon offsets for car rentals.
  • Support reforestation initiatives.
  • Many airlines and agencies present offset choices.

Ethical Tour Operators

Choose companies prioritizing ethical and sustainable practices.

Responsible Choices

  • Look for operators with environmental certifications.
  • Select those committed to local community welfare.
  • Consider ethical tour operators like G Adventures.
  • Support brands like Patagonia for sustainable gear.

Supporting Conservation

Directly contribute to environmental protection.

The Rainforest Site

Purchases support rainforest conservation efforts.

Visit their site

Local Initiatives

Inquire at visitor centers about local conservation groups.

Tourism Kelowna sustainability

Mindful Travel

Every choice a traveler makes can positively influence Kelowna's environment and communities.

Cultural Sensitivity

Engage respectfully with Kelowna's cultural heritage.

Kelowna occupies the traditional unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan People.

Acknowledge History

  • Recognize the importance of traditional lands.
  • Learn about their ongoing contributions to the region.
  • Seek out local cultural centers for learning opportunities.

Respectful Interactions

A polite and friendly demeanor is universally appreciated.

General Conduct

  • Be polite and respectful in all interactions.
  • Maintain personal space.
  • A friendly attitude often fosters positive encounters.
  • Avoid loud or disruptive behavior in quiet settings.

Be aware of and avoid practices that may be exploitative.

Animal Welfare

Avoid activities that involve the exploitation of animals.

Ethical Tourism

Support ethical tourism practices and businesses.

Direct Support

Direct donations to reputable organizations are often effective.

Economic Impact

Community-Based Tourism

Seek initiatives that directly benefit local residents.

Local Engagement

  • Look for tours or activities managed by community groups.
  • These initiatives often reinvest profits locally.
  • Seek out local projects with social or environmental goals.
  • Ask Tourism Kelowna for information on such ventures.

Fair Trade & Ethical Shopping

Make purchasing decisions that promote ethical production.

Conscious Consumption

  • Seek shops promoting fair trade goods.
  • Look for products that indicate local sourcing.
  • This supports fair compensation for producers.
  • Explore artisan markets for local crafts.

Supporting Local Businesses

Direct your tourist dollars to local entrepreneurs.

Dining Choices

  • Choose local restaurants over large chains.
  • Purchase produce from local fruit stands.
  • Buy wines directly from local wineries.

Shopping & Services

  • Buy from independent boutiques and galleries.
  • Book tours with local operators.
  • This supports local jobs and entrepreneurs.

Avoiding Harmful Practices

Ethical engagement during your travels.

Responsible Choices

  • Be aware of practices that might be exploitative.
  • Avoid any activities that involve animal exploitation.
  • Report any suspicious activities to local authorities.
  • Direct donations to charities often prove more effective than street giving.

Long-Term Benefits

Your travel choices contribute to community resilience.

Sustainable Future

  • Support businesses that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability.
  • Help preserve the region's unique culture and environment.
  • Foster a positive relationship between visitors and locals.
  • Contribute to a and thriving destination for future generations.

Reporting Concerns

Environmental Issues

Report littering, illegal dumping, or fire ban violations to authorities.

Unethical Practices

Inform Tourism Kelowna or relevant local bodies about any concerning activities.

Support Local

Choosing local businesses directly feeds into Kelowna's economic well-being.