TOTA + Vernon Biosphere

For Immediate Release

November 26, 2025

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association Partners with the City of Vernon to Provide Free Biosphere Program Enrolment for Local Tourism Businesses 

Fifteen Businesses will Receive Complimentary First-Year Access to the Regions’s Leading Sustainability Program 

Kelowna, B.C. - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), in collaboration with the City of Vernon, is inviting Vernon tourism businesses to enrol in the TOTA Biosphere Commitment Program. The first year is offered at no cost to the first 15 eligible businesses that register. The initiative supports Vernon’s growing commitment to sustainable business practices and helps operators strengthen their appeal to values-driven travellers and community members.

The Biosphere Commitment Program provides a practical, internationally recognized framework that guides businesses in advancing their environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals. Through accessible tools and resources, participants can measure their progress, enhance operational practices, and work toward official Biosphere Certification based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Following a successful renewal audit, the Thompson Okanagan has once again been confirmed as a Biosphere Gold Certified Destination, a designation the region has held since 2017. Across the region, 42 businesses are currently Biosphere Committed and 16 have achieved full Biosphere Certification, demonstrating significant leadership in sustainable tourism.

“We are excited to work with the City of Vernon to expand access to the Biosphere Program,” says Mike Overend, Director of Destination Development and Stewardship, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association. “This partnership provides access to one-on-one support for local businesses, helping them build a stronger sustainability foundation and work toward a designation that is globally recognized.”

Interested  businesses can attend an introductory webinar hosted by TOTA, offering live platform demonstrations and guidance from TOTA’s sustainability team. Sessions will help operators understand program expectations, navigate the user-friendly platform, and ask questions during an open Q&A. The next webinar is scheduled for December 3, 2025. 

The timing also coincides with International ESG Day on November 30, which highlights the global importance of responsible business practices and encourages organizations to strengthen their environmental, social, and governance commitments.

“Supporting sustainable business practices is core to Vernon’s Climate Action Plan. Our partnership with TOTA’s Biosphere Program helps local businesses make green transitions and continue working toward their sustainability goals,” said Sierra Lammi, Climate Action Project Coordinator, City of Vernon.

Tourism businesses located within the City of Vernon in the accommodations, attractions, retail, food and beverage, and tour operators sectors are encouraged to register. Indigenous peoples, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, persons with disabilities, and workers 55+ are all encouraged to apply. Register here. 

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About Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association: 

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a not-for-profit society that represents a geographic area nestled in the Southern Interior of British Columbia, Canada. The region’s name is derived from two major geographic features: the Thompson River and Okanagan Lake. TOTA plays a support, leadership, and growth role in the tourism industry as a regional destination management organization. It aims to stimulate ongoing sustainable growth by embracing the value of tourism through community engagement, innovative leadership in promoting authentic experiences, and inspiring creative collaboration. Key initiatives include; Biosphere Certified Gold Destination, 7 Generations Pledge, and Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism. 

For more information about TOTA visit TOTABC.org, or visit the consumer facing website ThompsonOkanagan.com. Connect socially at @Thompson_Okanagan 

The 7 Affirmations for 7 Generations Thompson Okanagan Regional Pledge

Join the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association in safeguarding our beautiful region for future generations. Inspired by Indigenous philosophy, the 7 Affirmations for 7 Generations Regional Pledge highlights our shared responsibility: the actions we take today impact the next seven generations and beyond. Commit today to caring for and respecting the land and communities of the Thompson Okanagan. Sign here. 

Media Contact: 

Krista Lochhead 

Hatch Comms

krista@hatchhos.com 

778.227.2396