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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.

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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.

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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.

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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
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Biosphere Certification Accelerator Program

Available exclusively to DGV members at no cost, the Biosphere Accelerator program supports businesses at any stage of their sustainability journey, whether they are Biosphere Committed, Biosphere Linked, or new to the platform.
 
This 10-week cohort-based program is structured to help members focus their time and energy toward certification with continuous help and resource access along the way. Participants will gain access to interactive learning sessions, one-on-one support, and opportunities to share and celebrate sustainability achievements through DGV channels. To apply, scroll down to the application form below.

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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.

Our mentors

Our Biosphere Certified mentors provide practical guidance, answer questions, share industry best practices, and help mentees navigate the certification process by drawing on their own real-world sustainability and Biosphere certification experience.
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.

Apply today

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What you need to know

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.

Running on select Thursdays from Sep. 24 to Nov. 26, 2026, the Biosphere Accelerator Program offers practical guidance, peer collaboration, expert mentorship, and industry-specific tools to help participants progress toward Biosphere Certification.

The program includes three 1.5-hour main sessions, three 1-hour optional working sessions, and ongoing support throughout the certification process. Participants can expect to dedicate approximately 2–3 hours per week, including program sessions and independent work. Apply now!

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.