Biosphere Certification Accelerator Program

The Biosphere Certification Accelerator Program is a Cohort-based system that allows members to be guided through the Biosphere Certification process with continued assistance from DGV and other Biosphere Certified industry professionals.

This 15-week program is structured to help members focus their time and energy toward certification with continuous help and resource access along the way. Through this program, participants will be paired with a Biosphere Certified Mentor specific to their industry who will be available to help answer questions throughout the program.

A group of friends rides bikes along the Selkirk Trestle in Victoria, BC

Sectors

This program will be available for DGV member businesses in the following sectors for Cohort 1:
• Accommodation
• Food & Beverage
• Attractions & Experiences

As the program grows, we will be able to open up participation to other sectors of member businesses.

A pair of people meet outside the Victoria Conference Centre in Victoria, BC

Benefits

Members will receive an industry-specific toolkit during this program to get them started. They will also have the opportunity to meet with others from their sector, also working towards Biosphere Certification, to collaborate and share ideas. Through the multiple sessions set up throughout the program, members will have the opportunity to ask questions, learn about industry best practices, and work through the certification process with continued assistance.

Meet the mentors

Huntingdon Hotel and SuitesBiosphere Certified and the 2019 Greenest Lodging Ecostar Award winner, Huntingdon Hotel and Suites are one of Victoria's premier sustainable accommodation providers.
Big Wheel BurgerBiosphere Certified, Big Wheel Burger is Canada's first carbon neutral fast food restaurant and supports The Great Bear Rainforest Carbon Project.
Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Watching ToursBiosphere Certified, Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Watching Tours is Canada's first third-party verified carbon-neutral whale watching company.
A group meets outside the Victoria Visitor Centre in Victoria, BC

Program structure

Participation in this program will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis. There will be 4 participant spots per program sector specified for a total of 12 spots available within this first Cohort. If you wish to participate in this program and your sector is full, you will be added to the waitlist for a future Cohort.

Download program schedule
A beekeeper tends to the hives at The Parkside Hotel & Spa in Victoria, BC

What is Biosphere?

Biosphere is a third-party certification started by the Responsible Tourism Institute, which focuses on showcasing the social, economic, and environmental work a business or destination is doing. This certification verifies work done in these areas to validate sustainability claims while providing legitimacy to customers. Biosphere also provides a roadmap for current and future actions a business can take in line with the sustainability objectives established by the United Nations.

A view of downtown Victoria, BC and the Johnson Street Bridge

Sustainability strategy

The "Destination Greater Victoria Sustainability Strategy 2024" outlines the organization's commitment to sustainable tourism development, aiming to establish Greater Victoria as a globally recognized leader in this field. It highlights the alignment of sustainability with community values and business success, reflecting the organization's ongoing dedication as demonstrated in previous strategic plans. Through highlighting goals and objectives, this strategy continues to guide DGV's work in social, economic, and environmental sustainability and destination stewardship.

A woman arrives at Oak Bay Beach Hotel in Victoria, BC

Benefits of becoming Biosphere Certified

The Biosphere Certification offers businesses a unique opportunity to differentiate themselves as a verified sustainable entity in the market. By obtaining Biosphere Certification, you can increase your visibility and position your business at the forefront of the sustainability movement. With free access to the platform through Destination Greater Victoria, typically valued at $550 yearly, you'll receive comprehensive support, including a toolkit, mentor assistance, and a DGV staff member to help guide you through the certification process. Additionally, your sustainability milestones will be showcased in our newsletter and featured in a special section for Biosphere businesses on our website, along with highlights on our social channels.

A couple dines on the patio at Glo Restaurant + Patio in Victoria, BC

Program entrance requirements

Your business must fall within the 3 business sectors listed to participate in Cohort 1

• Accommodation
• Food & Beverage
• Attractions & Experiences

You must try to commit to coming to our main 3 program sessions

Apply today

If you are interested in signing up for this program to be part of our first Cohort, fill out the application form provided. If you are interested in learning more about this program, reach out to Sarah Fallavollita, the Destination Stewardship & Sustainability Specialist at DGV directly. Applications will be accepted from January 10th – February 7th, 2025.

Get connected

Want to do Biosphere outside of the Accelerator? Contact Sarah.

FAQ

Destination Greater Victoria is honoured to be based on the traditional territory of the Lekwungen-speaking peoples of the Songhees Nation and Xwsepsum Nation, whose historical relationships with the land continue to this day.