Introduction Travel Alberta Tourism marketing agency for the Government of Alberta Nicola Alexander European Business Development Director Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Events
Introduction Sustainability and Travel Alberta Members including Hotels & Venues have sustainability programmes; Banff Lake Louise Edmonton Calgary Fairmont Hotels & Resorts Banff Centre Edmonton Shaw Centre Case study Calgary
CASE STUDY Calgary A Green City In 2008, City of Calgary launched 10 year strategic vision Aggressive plan for Calgary to become global centre for all things energy Sustainable and Renewable Energy (SURE) industry group created to help achieve this goal, covers wind energy, solar, biofuel, hydro, as well as environmental technologies and waste management
CASE STUDY Calgary - A Green City Ranked the top (1 st ) Eco-City Worldwide in 2010 City-wide sustainability initiatives including: Renewable energy projects Energy efficient street lights Calgary s CTrains powered by wind generated electricity (zero emissions) Green Key rating amongst hotels
CASE STUDY Calgary - A Green Meeting Destination To uphold and enhance Calgary s status as a green destination, through meetings & events 40+ Hotels have Green Key Designations Calgary TELUS Convention Centre BOMA Go Green Certification MICE venues with sustainability initiatives include Calgary Zoo, Stampede Park and Telus World of Science
CASE STUDY Calgary Successes & Benefits Commitment to sustainability can help Calgary distinguish itself from other cities & win business Support companies to uphold their own sustainability goals when planning meetings in Calgary Attendees are confident in the knowledge that the environmental impact of the meeting they are attending has been minimised
CONCLUSIONS Sustainability initiatives among partners help Travel Alberta market our destinations such as Calgary for events Sustainability is led by initiatives, commitment and continuous improvement is required To maintain Calgary s reputation, on going sustainability initiatives will be required
Introduction Vancouver
Introduction Vancouver
Vancouver Spectacular by Nature
ACTIONS Hired an energy specialist in partnership with BC Hydro with the mandate to guide member hotels, restaurants and attractions in energy efficiency and conservation initiatives
ACTIONS Assist members by identifying projects and strategies that will manage their energy consumption and realize financial savings
ACTIONS Developing our own comprehensive 2020 GreenCity program
WHY - Vancouver the Greenest City by 2020. 10 key targets 1. Green economy 2. Climate leadership 3. Green buildings 4. Green transportation 5. Zero waste 6. Access to nature 7. Lighter footprint 8. Clean water 9. Clean air 10. Local food
HOW Tourism Vancouver Sustainable Tourism Initiatives 1. Hired an energy specialist 2. Strive for zero waste 3. Go Green commuting subsidy 4. Teleworking and video conferencing 5. Use double-sided printing 6. Compiled a Conservation Library 7. Created Ambassadors for Conservation Award
HOW Ambassadors for Conservation CONSERVATION PLEDGE: A true conservation ethic and commitment to sustainability A commitment to reserve time throughout the year to ensure an ongoing and valuable contribution to the initiative. A willingness to be profiled as an advocate for sustainable tourism and share my experiences An eagerness to promote sustainable tourism at relevant events, meetings, social gatherings, and social media sites A conservation pledge to reduce energy consumption, cut back on carbon emissions, and/or use resources in a sustainable manner
Benefits Spectacular by Nature is a core element of what sets Vancouver apart and sustainable management of our impact on the natural environment is valued highly. By managing the growth in energy demand we can offset the need for new sources of supply, which invariably have a much higher impact and cost than conservation.
POSITIVE EFFECT ON DELEGATES From the arrival at the airport to the day of departure, there is a comprehensive strategy shared by the industry and local government to make Vancouver the most sustainable destination
Thank You Any questions? Nicola Alexander European Business Development Director Travel Alberta Dorte Schultz Ottesen International Sales Manager Tourism Vancouver