Sustainable & Responsible Travel: Ottawa

Gatineau Park

A vast conservation area managed by the NCC, protecting ecosystems.

Rideau Canal

An UNESCO World Heritage Site with efforts to preserve its heritage.

City Parks

Managed for public enjoyment and urban biodiversity. Keep clean.

Environmental Impact

Minimize your footprint and support Ottawa's green initiatives.

Waste Management

Ottawa has a comprehensive recycling program.

Recycling Practices

Program: Blue bins for recycling.
Organic Waste: Green bins.
General: Black bins for garbage.
Public Bins: Widely available.

Reduce & Reuse

Simple actions for less waste.

Eco-Friendly Habits

Water: Carry a Reusable water bottle, refill from tap.
Plastics: Avoid excessive single-use items.
Shopping: Bring a Reusable shopping bag.
Water Use: Responsible use encouraged, shorter showers.

Carbon Offset Options

Consider offsetting your travel emissions.

Offset Your Journey

Flights: Purchase carbon offsets if flying.
Airline Options: Some airlines offer direct offset programs.
Provider: Consider a dedicated carbon offset provider.
Terrapass for carbon offsetting.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Choose businesses committed to sustainability.

Sustainable Practices

Accommodation: Look for environmental certifications (e.g., Green Global).
Tours: Choose operators emphasizing sustainable practices.
Example: Minimizing waste, supporting local conservation.
Eco-Friendly Stays: Ecobnb for sustainable accommodation.

Sustainable Gear & Products

Outdoor Gear

Shop responsibly for your adventure needs.

Patagonia

Reusable Products

Reduce waste with reusables.

Package Free Shop

Conscious Travel

Your thoughtful choices contribute to the preservation of Ottawa's natural beauty and community.

Cultural & Economic Responsibility

Engage respectfully and support the local economy during your visit.

Cultural Preservation

Support efforts to maintain Ottawa's heritage.

Preserving Heritage

Support: Initiatives that preserve historical buildings.
Explore: Heritage sites, traditional events.
Context: Canadian Museum of History's First Peoples Hall.
Acknowledge: Canada's bilingualism.

Respectful Interactions

Interact politely and considerately.

Engage Politely

Manners: Be polite and patient.
Attempt: Basic French phrases can show courtesy.
Privacy: Mindful of residential areas, avoid photographing private property without consent.
Sensitive Areas: Photography restricted in government/some museum areas.

Community-Based Tourism

Directly benefit local residents.

Support Local

Choose: Local businesses, artisans, family-owned restaurants.
Avoid: Large international chains.
Benefit: Tourism revenue remains within the community.
Ethical Travel: G Adventures for ethical tours.

Ethical Shopping

Shop with purpose and integrity.

Conscious Purchases

Seek: Shops featuring fair trade products.
Support: Local artisans directly.
ByWard Market: Often features locally made goods and crafts.
Conservation: The Rainforest Site supports conservation.

Giving & Awareness

Contribute thoughtfully and be aware.

Labor Laws

Canada has strong labor laws and social protections.

Avoid Exploitation

Steer clear of any services or interactions that appear exploitative.

Charitable Giving

Choose reputable local charities addressing community needs.

Positive Footprint

Your travel choices leave a positive mark on Ottawa's people and environment.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel