The Canadian region of Thompson Okanagan reaffirms its leadership in sustainable tourism by renewing its Biosphere certification and obtaining the Biosphere Gold Destination distinction. This international recognition rewards its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), business participation, and the preservation of its natural environment.
The Thompson Okanagan region, located in the Canadian province of British Columbia, reaffirms its leadership in sustainable tourism by renewing its Biosphere Destination certification and additionally obtaining the new Biosphere Gold Destination distinction. This recognition, granted by the Responsible Tourism Institute (RTI), distinguishes territories that have not only implemented verifiable sustainable practices but have also actively engaged their business and social fabric in the responsible management of the destination.
With this renewal, Thompson Okanagan continues to consolidate its standing as an international benchmark in sustainable tourism, demonstrating that the balance between economic development, environmental conservation, and social well-being is possible when sustainability is integrated as a strategic pillar of tourism.
In 2017, Thompson Okanagan became the first destination in the Americas to receive the Biosphere Destination Certification, a distinction that marked a turning point in the region’s tourism development model. Since then, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has led a continuous improvement process aimed at strengthening sustainability across its three fundamental pillars: the environment, culture, and the local economy.
Achieving the Gold level recognizes that the destination has not only maintained its institutional commitment, but has also succeeded in directly involving local businesses, fostering a business ecosystem that adopts sustainable practices aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a nonprofit organization that acts as the driving force behind regional tourism development. Its mission is clear: to promote responsible economic and social growth guided by the principles of regenerative tourism and sustainable innovation.
As a signatory of the Glasgow Declaration, TOTA actively works to reduce emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, leading by example and encouraging collective action across the sector.
In addition, the association has become a global benchmark by demonstrating that sustainable tourism is not limited to environmental conservation—it also requires a deep transformation of the economic and social model of destinations.
Nestled among mountains, valleys, and lakes, Thompson Okanagan is a region of natural contrasts that invites visitors to rediscover tourism from a more conscious perspective. Its vineyards, natural parks, and rural communities promote authentic experiences that connect travelers with nature and local culture.
From ecotourism on the lakes to sustainable wine routes and greenways built on former railway lines, the destination shows that traveling responsibly does not mean sacrificing comfort, but rather giving meaning to the journey.
Because every action counts—cleaner rivers, healthier soils, stronger communities—in Thompson Okanagan, tourism is conceived as a tool for regeneration and balance.
The Biosphere model implemented by Thompson Okanagan allows for transparent evaluation and communication of the degree of alignment with the 17 United Nations SDGs, integrating sustainability into public policies, destination management, and collaboration with the private sector.
This Gold certification not only guarantees the application of sound environmental practices but also the promotion of participatory governance, the preservation of cultural heritage, and the social inclusion of local communities.
It is a comprehensive management model that positions Thompson Okanagan at the forefront of responsible tourism in Canada and around the world.
From Biosphere, we extend our sincerest congratulations to the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and to all public and private stakeholders who made this achievement possible. Their leadership demonstrates that sustainable tourism is not a one-time recognition, but a continuous process of commitment, innovation, and improvement.
The Biosphere Gold Destination distinction consolidates Thompson Okanagan as an international model of sustainable tourism—one capable of inspiring other destinations to follow its example and move forward together toward a more just, resilient, and sustainable future.