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Biosphere Certification Support Program

Biosphere Certification offers businesses a unique opportunity to increase visibility and position themselves at the forefront of the sustainability movement. At no cost, members can access the Biosphere platform through Destination Greater Victoria.

HomeBiosphere Certification Support Program

We offer guidance through the certification process via 1-on-1 support and/or the option to join our cohort-based Biosphere Certification Accelerator Program.

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 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 Destination Greater Victoria Employee offers support to a member in Victoria, BC

1-on-1 support

The DGV Sustainability Team is here to provide individual guidance as you move through the Biosphere Certification process. Please reach out to Jenny Thomson at [email protected] if you have any questions!

Contact Jenny
A Destination Greater Victoria employee walks with a client at the Victoria Conference Centre in Victoria, BC

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 6-month 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 who will be available to help answer questions throughout the program.

A group meets outside the Victoria Visitor Centre in Victoria, BC

Accelerator benefits and program structure

Participants will receive an industry-specific toolkit during this program to get them started. They will also have the opportunity to meet with others also working towards Biosphere Certification, to collaborate and share ideas. Through the multiple sessions offered throughout the program, participants will have the opportunity to ask questions, learn about industry best practices, and work through the certification process with continued assistance. Participants will also leave with a deeper understanding of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) and how to apply them to their business practices. With this program already included as a DGV membership perk, this program and access to the Biosphere Certification are free for all participants.

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.
Truffles CateringTruffles Catering is a newly Biosphere Certified business, obtaining certification though Cohort 1 of the Biosphere Certification Accelerator Program.
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 Destination Greater Victoria employee and a client review some documents at the Victoria Conference Centre in Victoria, BC

Apply today

If you are interested in learning more about this program and joining our third cohort in Fall 2026, reach out to Jenny Thomson, Destination Stewardship & Sustainability Specialist at Destination Greater Victoria.

Program dates and further details coming soon!

Application form

Get connected

Want to do Biosphere outside of the Accelerator?

Sustainable tourism at Destination Greater Victoria

Learn more about DGV’s sustainability goals, find plans, reports & strategies, and see what sustainable tourism means to Greater Victoria as a destination.

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.