There are a number of incredible initiatives dedicated to preserving our planet. Here we highlight a handful of these resources that offer valuable insight.

Sustainable Travel International (STI)

STI's mission is promoting responsible travel and ecotourism, supporting sustainable development, and helping travelers and travel providersprotect the cultures and environments they visit.

STI created and supports the carbon calculator we have available on our website. To find out your carbon footprint, click here.

Zerofootprint

The primary solution for individuals and organizations to combat global warming is to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.  When greenhouse gas emissions can’t be eliminated entirely, a status of carbon neutrality can be obtained by purchasing carbon credits.  This is system where a voluntary tax is paid (calibrated by the amount of greenhouse gas emitted) to an organization that invests this money in projects such as renewable energy technology, planting trees, etc.  Purchasing carbon credits is not meant to be an alternative to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but is a means of supporting the costs of transitioning to a carbon-neutral world while individuals, companies and countries work to truly reduce and eliminate their emissions. 

We use Zerofootprint to offset the carbon expenditures we can't eliminate so that we are carbon neutral. And they do more than provide carbon offsets, they also offer great tips for consumers and businesses to reduce their environmental impact.

David Suzuki Foundation

David Suzuki is a world-renowned geneticist, academic and broadcaster, not to mention a well-loved national icon who was voted one of the top ten greatest Canadians ever. His foundation targets a broad spectrum of environmental issues, including global warming, ocean conservation, sustainabe living, by working on government policy, scientific research and public awareness.

Sign up for their Nature Challenge and learn about simple changes you can make in your daily routine to help protect nature, not to mention improve your quality of life.

Better Environmentally Sound Travel (BEST)

For over 15 years, Vancouver-based BEST has been working hard to lead the transformation to sustainable transportation. They go beyond organizing public participation events, such as Bike to Work Week and Reclaim The Streets, and are leaders in various initiatives to creat more cycling paths and better public tranportation.

Their website tells you pretty much everything you need to know about cycling.  The information is very comprehensive, with topics that include how to choose the right bike, cycling in the rain, cycling with kids, etc.  It is one of the best unbiased cycling resources.

Trans Cananda Trail  

Infrastructure for cycling, walking and other forms of human-powered transportation is one of the most important factors in inspiring people to leave their cars.  Canada is currently constructing the world’s longest trail which will connect all three coastlines.  This trail will be open for cycling and walking, with some sections suitable for rollerblading and skateboarding.  To plan your next vacation or incorporate the trail in your commute to work, check out the Trans Canada Trail website.