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    Working Toward Environmental Resilience

    ITBC collaborates on climate action to protect cultural heritage, support resilience, and help Indigenous tourism lead through environmental challenges.

ITBC recognizes that environmental resilience is essential to the long-term sustainability of First Nations and Indigenous tourism businesses. Collaborating with the broader tourism industry on climate initiatives and preparedness ensures that Indigenous tourism is not only protected but also positioned to lead in adapting to environmental challenges. By integrating First Nations and Indigenous knowledge and practices into these efforts, ITBC helps safeguard cultural heritage and the natural landscapes supporting tourism.

Indigenous people in a canoe

B.C. Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative (B.C.T.C.R.I)

The B.C.T.C.R.I, a $3 million initiative funded by the B.C. Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport aims to create a resilient tourism sector that adapts to climate change. ITBC is actively involved in several project groups, contributing Indigenous perspectives and practices emphasizing environmental stewardship and long-term sustainability. This collaboration helps build a stronger foundation for the tourism industry while ensuring Indigenous communities are at the forefront of climate adaptation strategies. The impact is twofold: protecting cultural landscapes from the effects of climate change while ensuring the tourism sector remains competitive and resilient.

People hiking on a tour

Emergency Preparedness

ITBC actively promotes emergency preparedness within First Nations and Indigenous communities to safeguard people, lands, and tourism businesses from natural disasters, including wildfires. By encouraging Indigenous tourism operators to develop proactive emergency plans, ITBC supports the ability of communities to recover quickly from disruptions. This initiative protects significant cultural areas and ensures the economic stability of First Nations- and Indigenous-owned businesses. ITBC’s leadership in this area helps Indigenous communities strengthen their resilience, showcasing innovation in blending traditional knowledge with modern preparedness strategies.