The Canadian region of Kootenay Rockies reaffirms its leadership in sustainable tourism after successfully renewing its Biosphere Destination certification. This international recognition endorses its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and its ongoing efforts to promote a responsible, inclusive, and environmentally respectful tourism model that benefits local communities.
The Kootenay Rockies region, in the Canadian province of British Columbia, continues to strengthen its leadership in responsible tourism after successfully renewing its Biosphere Destination certification, granted by the Responsible Tourism Institute (RTI).
This renewal reinforces its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and reaffirms the role of the Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association (KRTA) as a key player in promoting a sustainable, inclusive, and respectful tourism model.
The renewal of the Biosphere certification reflects the positive results of the latest audit, which verifies the proper implementation of sustainable policies in the region. This recognition ensures that the destination continues to uphold its commitments, actively working to balance environmental conservation with the economic and social development of its local communities.
For this reason, we want to congratulate the entire team at the Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association (KRTA) and the entities that make up this destination for their continuous effort, long-term vision, and commitment to ongoing improvement in sustainability.
This commitment positions the Kootenay Rockies as an international benchmark in regenerative tourism, thanks to its focus on preserving natural and cultural heritage, educating visitors, and supporting local economies.
Located in the heart of British Columbia, the Kootenay Rockies region is a natural mosaic of contrasts. Glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, boreal forests, cold deserts, and former mining towns transformed into vibrant tourist communities. Here, sustainable tourism is not a trend but a way of life—respecting the rhythms of the land and the needs of its people.
The Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association (KRTA), a nonprofit regional organization representing more than 800 tourism businesses and local operators, has made sustainability the core of its strategy. Its work includes educating visitors in responsible practices, reducing carbon footprints, promoting the circular economy, and collaborating with local businesses to integrate Biosphere principles throughout the entire tourism experience.
The region has skillfully leveraged its natural resources to create a development model that prioritizes conservation and community participation.
The Biosphere Certified label confirms that Kootenay Rockies is verifiably implementing measures aligned with the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in areas such as climate action, responsible production and consumption, equal opportunity, and the conservation of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.
This achievement not only brings international recognition to the destination but also strengthens its reputation among travelers, investors, and tourism operators who value transparency and accountability in management.
It also promotes collaboration between the public and private sectors, creating a strong network of stakeholders committed to tourism that generates social, economic, and environmental well-being.
At Biosphere, we emphasize the importance of more businesses, accommodations, and local organizations joining the Kootenay Rockies Biosphere Destination program by adopting its methodology and management tools to measure, communicate, and improve sustainable impact in the territory.
With this renewal, Kootenay Rockies not only maintains its place in the international network of Biosphere sustainable destinations but also strengthens its role as an inspiring model for other regions around the world seeking to integrate sustainability into their tourism strategy.
From the Responsible Tourism Institute (RTI) and Biosphere, we celebrate this new achievement and reaffirm our commitment to continue supporting Kootenay Rockies on its path toward a more sustainable, equitable, and regenerative future. Its success demonstrates that tourism can be a powerful tool for positive transformation when managed with vision, collaboration, and responsibility.