Blending Tradition with Award-winning Innovation

Throughout BC, you will discover not only individual Indigenous hosts but entire First Nation communities managing tourism on their lands. In these places, the symbiosis of people and planet is palpable; the natural landscape is bountiful or at the very least in a state of revitalization. Resource stewardship and restoration projects are an integral part of destination management—from debris clean-ups to invasive species removal—and in some cases, you as a guest are welcome to get involved in these initiatives. Wildlife enthusiasts come from all over the world to encounter our wildlife. Indigenous knowledge of millennia-long coexistence with wolves, bears, whales, and other wildlife means you can be confident that tours protect and preserve habitat, animal and human safety, and natural behaviours.

Many of us think solely of the environment when it comes to sustainability and stewardship. But for Indigenous Peoples, these principles of restoration and preservation extend beyond our waterways and forests, flora and fauna, to language and culture. In some cases, such as the Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks in Tofino, you are warmly encouraged to take a place-based pledge of respect for not only wildlife and place but people and culture too, before stepping foot on the Tribal Parks lands. We invite you to witness and celebrate these Indigenous perspectives of what it means to be a respectful visitor.

Beyond the rich traditions of sustainability, adapting to present-day climate concerns has led communities to utilize modern technology to further their positive impact for both the planet and their communities. Innovations like small-scale hydroelectric projects have allowed award-winning hosts to make strides toward hyperlocal, renewable energy production, replacing the need for diesel generators in remote locations and adding a unique storytelling and tour opportunity to stays.

We invite you to visit us with an enthusiasm to learn from Indigenous Peoples about Indigenous perspectives of sustainability and stewardship. To lean into shared practices with an open mind and allow them to shift your outlook and own ongoing efforts of sustainability once home.