© Dans l'bois_Flora Bidaud
A seal of approval recognizing your ecotourism activities and best practices
Ecotourism is a form of tourism that aims to help visitors discover a natural setting while preserving its integrity; that includes interpretation of the natural or cultural features of the environment; that fosters an attitude of respect toward the environment; that is based on sustainable development principles; and that generates socio-economic benefits for local and regional communities. (Source: BNQ standard 9700-060/2003, translated freely)
Our Ecotourism attestation stands as the first official standard for ecotourism products in Quebec, showcasing businesses that offer this type of activity and highlighting their best practices in sustainable development.
The attestation positions your business among the leaders in our industry who put the planet first. You’ll also benefit from comprehensive support in obtaining a sustainable development action plan, as well as showcasing your commitment to your customers.
The nine standards of the Ecotourism attestation
- The business must disclose its ecotourism values when promoting its products, regardless of the medium (website, pamphlet, etc.).
- The business must describe the ecosystem that customers will discover during their outings and activities.
- Before starting any activity, the business must make customers aware of appropriate and inappropriate conduct in the natural and cultural environments visited (code of conduct).
- With respect to travel during the activity, the business must favour the means of transportation that is least harmful to the environment and that makes the ecotourism activity as safe and rewarding as possible.
- The business takes specific measures during ecotourism outings, namely in the areas of waste reduction, recycling and recovery; use of biodegradable cleaning products; preservation of environmental, cultural and human heritage; respect for neighbouring populations; and efforts to raise the awareness of customers and staff.
- Whenever possible, the business favours the purchase of local products when preparing an ecotourism experience.
- The business has a map of its territory that identifies fragile environments and that issues guidelines for staff and participants in order to minimize its impact on these areas.
- The business identifies the plants and wildlife in the environments that are visited, as well as any inert organic material that must be protected (artifacts, rocks, etc.), in order to minimize the impact of its activities on the environment. It also makes sure that everyone keeps a reasonable distance from any animals.
- For each activity offered, the business has an interpretation plan that covers geography, ecology, history, culture, heritage, traditions, natural settings, eco-friendly conduct, respect for local communities, etc.
© Fondation sur la Pointe des pieds_Charles-David Robitaille
© Fondation sur la Pointe des pieds_Charles-David Robitaille