The path to embed sustainability in Canadian tourism companies

Abstract

PurposeThis paper aims to determine a uniquely Canadian training path for tourism companies to follow to embed sustainable tourism practices in their companies.Design/methodology/approachThe foundation of this paper was laid by conducting in-depth executive interviews with leading tourism companies in Canada. Based on the interviews, an eight-question survey was developed and sent to 22 Canadian tourism companies with a response rate of 36 per cent. The results of best practice research conducted in the UK and Ireland were considered in relation to implementation in Canada.FindingsThis paper suggests a Canadian process and key concepts to consider for embedding sustainability in tourism companies.Practical implicationsThis paper provides a practical training process, geared for Canadian tourism companies, that embeds sustainability in all divisions of the company. A step-by-step process is described that all tourism companies, no matter their size, can use to embed sustainability.Originality/valueThis paper draws upon the author’s experience in working with Canadian tourism companies and incorporates best practices shared in a partnership with The Travel Foundation. As the paper represents both original research and industry best practice, it is of interest to academics, tourism training centres and tourism companies in Canada. Learning an effective and efficient process developed specifically for Canadian tourism companies will allow companies to economically embed sustainability and ultimately create a unique market position for the company.