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Sustainable Tourism

DESTINATION OSOYOOS COMMITS TO SUSTAINABILITY BY SIGNING 2030 SUSTAINABILITY PLEDGE.

We are excited to announce that Destination Osoyoos (DO) has signed the Sustainable Tourism 2030 Pledge to demonstrate our commitment to improving the sustainability performance of our organization, and as a destination, between now and 2030.

The UN World Tourism Organization defines sustainable tourism as “tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities”.

Our goal is to inspire visitors to make a positive difference in our destination while also providing them with suggestions on how to enjoy our town in an eco-friendly and responsible manner. We invite all stakeholders in our region to partner with us in promoting this sustainable initiative.

DESTINATION OSOYOOS IS WORKING TOWARD OBTAINING THE BIOSPHERE CERTIFICATION

Destination Osoyoos has achieved the Biosphere Committed distinction in working to achieve the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda.

“The Sustainable Development Goals are the blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all. They address the global challenges we face, including those related to poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace and justice. The 17 Goals are all interconnected, and in order to leave no one behind, it is important that we achieve them all by 2030”. (United Nations – Sustainable Development Goals at https://sdgs.un.org/goals )

VISITOR ACTIONS


 Sustainability requires the combined contributions of all, including our valued visitors, to be embraced alongside our local community. As a guest, you have the power to contribute to the Osoyoos’ sustainability endeavours by:

Acknowledging our Indigenous Host Nations
When travelling in Osoyoos, it’s essential to begin your journey by acknowledging the privilege of travel and adhering to the guidelines and protocols established by local Indigenous communities. Learn more about the Osoyoos Indian Band at oib.ca and nkmipdesert.com.

Leaving No Trace
Adhering to the “Leave No Trace” principle is crucial for all visitors in our region. Ensure you clean up after yourself, dispose of the waste properly, minimize campfire impacts and respect wildlife. Learn more about The 7 Principles of Leave No Trace.
 

Reducing Your Consumption
To reduce your consumption, adopt simple habits like switching off lights when not in use, carrying a reusable water bottle or coffee mug, and steering clear of single-use plastic items, just as you would do at home. Learn more about reducing your consumption.

Choosing Greener Transportation
Bikes, electric vehicles, and car sharing are encouraged when visiting Osoyoos. Learn more about some options for getting around Osoyoos.

Visiting During the Off-season
Visiting Osoyoos during fall, winter, and spring is an amazing experience.

Being Respectful
Ultimately, our request for visitors is quite straightforward: show respect for the Osoyoos’s natural surroundings and its residents.

7 Affirmations for 7 Generations

The 7 Generations Pledge was created by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association to articulate guidelines for realizing sustainable tourism in the Thompson Okanagan region.

Based on the Indigenous Seven Generations Principles the philosophy recognizes that decisions an individual makes today have an impact for seven generations to come.

Therefore, individuals, businesses, and communities have a responsibility to consider the far-reaching and long term implications of our actions.

Destination Osoyoos has taken the 7 Generations Pledge.

The 7 Affirmations

1 | True Roots

Discover the soul of a place in its history

There is wisdom held in the ancestral roots of our land.  To learn the ways of the Indigenous people is to learn how to heal our past – and our future.

2 | Tread Lightly

As of this moment, you are deemed a “guardian of the land, air and water.”

Please accept this title with honour and a commitment to do everything in your power to preserve the delicate balance of our flora, fauna and the beautiful ecosystems that sustain us all.

3 | Be a Good Neighbour

Whether you’ve journeyed near or far, we invite you to feel at home in this place, and value it as we do.

We hope that you will feel as comfortable here as you do in your own home, and we know that you will regard the communities and their residents with an equal care and consideration.

4 | Travel Safely

Follow the map of your heart, but venture wisely.

This is a place where memories of a lifetime should be made. So, with blue skies above and the wind at your back, carry with you the wisdom of a seasoned traveller.

5 | Live in Harmony

Let a life outside bring you happiness inside by learning the laws of wilderness living.

Embrace a simpler existence and find peace amidst the wilderness and those of like minds. There is great reward in having the skills and knowledge to live in harmony in the greater outdoors.

6 | Choose Local

Choose to buy locally and you’ll transform riches into enrichment.

You have the ability to nourish the strength and character of the communities you visit. Be a champion for the local folks, leaving a wake of pride and gratitude along your way.

7 | Educate Others

Anything worth knowing is worth sharing.

Doing the right thing is the cost of entry and mindfulness is the ticket. Pass it on.