Destination Canada’s business events team has launched a "Sustainability Storybook," the latest resource from its “Canadian Business Events Sustainability Plan.” This sustainability storybook shares initiatives from communities that actively host business events and presents turnkey solutions to inspire and challenge business events decision makers, planners, sustainability professionals and host destinations globally. It was presented at the recent American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) annual meeting and expo, where Destination Canada was ASAE’s sustainability partner. Life-sized displays of the many sustainable initiatives were shared within the Sustainability Story Pavilion, open to over 5,000 global delegates.
Launched in 2022, Destination Canada’s “Canadian Business Events Sustainability Plan” was a first-of-its-kind program aimed at improving the economic, socio-cultural and environmental sustainability practices of business events. The plan, which focuses on international association conferences, trade exhibitions, workshops, seminars, corporate meetings and incentive group events, caught international attention due to Destination Canada’s openness for sharing best practices and learnings. It was also created by Destination Canada to be shared as an important best practice to help the global business industry achieve its goal of net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming.
Canada’s “Business Events Sustainability Plan” and the storybook are also inspired by Destination Canada’s 2030 strategy, “A World of Opportunity,” which aims to transform Canada’s tourism industry with a regenerative approach that creates sustainable, meaningful experiences for travelers and tangible economic, sociocultural and environmental benefits for all.
Examples of the initiatives shared within the storybook, which is available on the official Destination Canada website include:
- Upcycled Event Furniture, Ottawa, Ontario – Upcycled furniture rentals, like those from LouLou Lounge, can elevate the experience of conference attendees and showcase the sustainability of event organizers. This furniture made from locally sourced reclaimed maple wood includes bars, cruiser tables, communal tables, coffee tables and end tables, with integrated LED lighting, designed to support responsible consumption, climate action and a unique event ambience.
- Indigenous Fashion Showcase, Banff and Lake Louise, Alberta – Created in collaboration with Indigenous designers such as Stephanie Crowchild, founder and owner of Stephanie Eagletail Designs, along with artisans and community leaders, the vibrant fashions celebrate Indigenous culture and leave a lasting impact on event attendees. Whether featured as an art installation at a cocktail reception or as the highlight of the conference agenda, these authentic designs are rooted in the cultural heritage of Indigenous communities. They offer a striking way to support decent work, reduce inequalities build partnerships and illuminate events with a deeper cultural understanding.
- Local Pop-up Markets, Winnipeg, Manitoba – Showcasing local makers, producers and artisans, the bespoke pop-up markets at Winnipeg’s RBC Convention Centre provide a place for conference attendees to shop local, without even leaving the venue. The selection of vendors represents the city’s kaleidoscope of communities and includes Indigenous- and Black-owned small businesses. Offering new connections and unique gifts, these markets are a memorable way to support local economic growth and responsible consumption, and empower attendees to share in that experience.
For more information, visit www.destinationcanada.com.
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