The BC Hotel Association (BCHA) is taking a significant step forward in its commitment to sustainability by launching innovative initiatives aimed at greening the accommodation sector. With two strategic partnerships with the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance and Biosphere Tourism, along with the introduction of the BCHA Sustainability Playbook, the BCHA is spearheading a remarkable shift towards eco-friendly practices and reduced operational costs.
“The BCHA has wholeheartedly supported British Columbia’s accommodation community in becoming leaders in establishing a net positive hospitality sector that will support our provincial climate action goals through our GoGreen Program, and we are thrilled to unveil our Sustainability Playbook which builds upon that important work” said In Ingrid Jarrett, president and CEO of the BCHA. “We feel honoured to partner with the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance and Biosphere Tourism, two internationally acclaimed organizations that share our vision of sustainability. Together, we will create an ecosystem of knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and transformative change, propelling the accommodation sector towards a greener future.”
The BCHA Sustainability Playbook represents a transformative resource designed to guide hotels towards operational excellence and sustainable practices. Packed with practical strategies, industry insights, and proven methodologies, the playbook equips hoteliers with the necessary tools to navigate the complexities of sustainable hospitality. By implementing the playbook’s innovative recommendations, hotels can unlock operational efficiencies, reduce waste, conserve energy, and enhance the overall guest experience.
In addition to the Sustainability Playbook, the BCHA has achieved the coveted Biosphere designation, a testament to its unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship, sustainable practices, and responsible tourism. Through its partnership with Biosphere Tourism, the BCHA empowers hotels to define, organize, and communicate their sustainable goals and priorities. These personalized sustainability plans, structured around Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and United Nations goals, not only highlight best practices but also improve market positioning, attracting a growing audience seeking more sustainable experiences.
“By joining forces, we are setting out on a path to excellence, where environmental conservation and the well-being of local communities are key priorities,” said Patricio Azcárate Díaz de Losada, general secretary at Biosphere Tourism. “Together, we are on a mission to build a legacy of responsible tourism that will leave a positive footprint on our world, inspiring others to join in this transformative vision.”
