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VANCOUVER, BC - May 29, 2023: 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. Furthermore, the organization proudly announces its achievement of the prestigious Biosphere designation.
"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 honored 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 proudly announces its achievement of 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.”
Through the strategic partnership with the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, the BCHA gains access to global networks of sustainability leaders, cutting-edge research, and collaborative initiatives that address both environmental and social challenges. These partnerships enable the BCHA and its members to foster innovation, share best practices, and pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient future for the hospitality industry.
“We need to accelerate the transition to a more sustainable hospitality sector that gives back to the destination more than it takes," said Glenn Mandziuk, Chief Executive Officer of Sustainable Hospitality Alliance. "Essential to achieving this ambition is ensuring that hospitality professionals have the tools and resources to translate this vision into practical action which is relevant to their own businesses and communities. We are pleased to support the development of the sustainability playbook to inspire and guide every hotel in British Columbia, and beyond, on their journey to Net Positive Hospitality.”
BCHA's sustainability initiatives offer additional benefits to hotels. The GoGreen Program provides hotels with a complimentary Energy Analysis conducted by BCHA Energy Specialist, Dylan Tomlin. With 98 energy assessments already completed, this in-depth analysis identifies energy consumption patterns and savings opportunities. Additionally, BCHA collaborates with GreenStep's EcoFund program, enabling hotels to invest in large-scale energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction projects that simultaneously cut costs and reduce their carbon footprint. Partnerships with GreenStep Solutions and BetterTable.ca provide the sector with education, training, and resources related to sustainability, while close collaboration with the Hotel Association of Canada supports the Green Key program.
To learn more about the BC Hotel Association Sustainability initiatives, and participate the BCHA GoGreen program, click here. To learn more about the BC Hotel Association or to inquire about becoming a member contact Samantha Glennie at samantha@bcha.com.
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