Sustainable & Responsible Travel: Winnipeg

Protected Areas Support

Support Manitoba's Provincial Parks (e.g., Birds Hill, Grand Beach) and National Parks (e.g., Riding Mountain). Follow park rules, stay on trails, dispose of waste properly, and do not disturb wildlife.

Waste & Water Management

Use designated recycling bins (often blue). Reduce waste with reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and shopping bags. Be mindful of water consumption, even with abundant freshwater resources.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Consider offsetting flight emissions through reputable carbon offset programs. Prioritize public transit, walking, or cycling. Seek hotels with environmental certifications or those that visibly promote sustainable practices.

Cultural Sensitivity

Engage with Winnipeg's diverse heritage with awareness and respect.

Cultural Preservation Efforts

Support institutions dedicated to preserving Manitoba's diverse heritage.

Support Heritage Sites

Visit museums and cultural institutions.
Be mindful of local customs, especially at community events.
Support organizations working to protect unique prairie and wetland ecosystems.

Respectful Interactions

Guidelines for polite engagement and etiquette.

Practice Good Conduct

Practice polite and patient interactions. Canadians are generally reserved but friendly.
Avoid making assumptions about cultural identity.
Be mindful of privacy in residential areas or during private ceremonies. Some cultural sites have specific photography rules.
When visiting religious sites, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered). Maintain quiet and respectful behavior.

Environmental Impact Choices

Conscious decisions regarding your footprint.

Sustainable Practices

Offset your flight emissions through reputable carbon offset programs like Terrapass.
Use public transit, walk, or cycle to lower your carbon footprint from local transportation.
Reduce waste by using reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and shopping bags.
Look for certified fair trade products.

Ethical Shopping & Support

Supporting local economies and ethical sourcing.

Shop Responsibly

Support local artisans directly by purchasing crafts at markets like The Forks.
Prioritize local restaurants, cafes, and shops over large international chains.
Inquire about the origin and production of goods for ethical sourcing.
Consider items from The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood).

Ethical Business Partners

Eco-Friendly Accommodations

Find places to stay that prioritize sustainability.

Explore Ecobnb

Ethical Tour Operators

Choose tour companies committed to responsible travel.

Discover G Adventures

Mindful Travel

Your choices as a traveler contribute to the impact on Winnipeg. Choose to travel thoughtfully and respectfully.

Economic Impact & Charitable Giving

Support the local economy and community in meaningful ways.

Community-Based Tourism

Ensure tourism revenue directly benefits the community.

Direct Local Support

Try to support local businesses, artisans, and family-run establishments.
Prioritize local restaurants, cafes, shops, and tour operators over large international chains.
Inquire about the origin and production of goods to help ensure ethical sourcing.

Ethical Shopping Practices

Make purchasing choices that reflect fair trade and ethical standards.

Conscious Consumption

Look for certified fair trade products if available.
Support local artisans by purchasing crafts at markets like The Forks or from independent galleries in the Exchange District.
Purchase sustainable outdoor gear from retailers like Patagonia.

Avoid Harmful Practices

Be aware of situations that may be exploitative or unethical.

Vigilance & Reporting

Canada has strong protections. Be aware of any situations that seem exploitative, like begging scams or unverified charities.
If you have concerns, report them to local authorities or tourism information centers.
Do not engage with begging scams.

Appropriate Charitable Giving

Direct your generosity effectively.

Effective Donations

If you wish to donate, do so through established local charities or non-profit organizations.
This ensures your contribution reaches those in need through organized support programs for poverty, homelessness, or substance abuse.
Consider reusable product companies like Package Free Shop.

Environmental Products

Consider supporting organizations that contribute to conservation efforts.

Outdoor Gear

Patagonia specializes in sustainable outdoor clothing and gear. Visit Patagonia

Carbon Offsets

Terrapass provides tools to calculate and offset your carbon footprint from travel. Offset with Terrapass

Conservation Shopping

The Rainforest Site supports rainforest conservation through various products. Shop for a cause

Positive Footprint

Be a thoughtful traveler. Your choices contribute to Winnipeg's well-being and environment.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel