Due to its Indigenous heritage and unparalleled natural beauty, protecting Tofino is a necessity. In order to do this, Tofino has many sustainability plans and regulations in place. The district wants to continue to grow and become a healthy and rejuvenated city for residents and locals. Listed below are some of Tofino’s best sustainability practices:
Transportation
Tofino has recognized the importance of alternative forms of transportation to reduce greenhouse emissions. The city offers “the Tofino Bus” which is a daily express service for residents and tourists who are wanting to travel between Victoria, Port Alberni, Ucluelet and Tofino. Additionally, while parking is available in Tofino, it has been limited in order to promote less driving. They also have well-maintained bike paths as well as a new multi-use pathway that is currently being built. This new path will connect the town of Tofino to most of the beaches along the coast and it will travel through the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. This encourages surfers and other visitors to travel by bike or on foot in a more natural, engaging and active way. (Tofino Vision to Action Sustainable Community Action Plan, 2014, p.10)
Solar & Sustainable Materials
Tofino is a leader for renewable energy, becoming a SolarBC community in 2008. During the tourist summer months, solar energy is used by tourism businesses to meet increased hot water demands. In addition, infrastructure and construction projects are attempting to use more sustainable materials. This is being done in hopes of making Tofino more economically viable and energy-efficient.
Pesticides & Waste
In 2009, the District of Tofino passed a bylaw regulating the nonessential and cosmetic use of pesticides on residential and public lands. The bylaw aims to protect the landscape by reducing the use of harmful chemicals that can affect wildlife, quality of food, and water sources (Tofino Vision to Action Sustainable Community Action Plan, 2014, p.12). The Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District is personally responsible for solid waste, recycling services, regional park services and regional planning. Since Tofino relies on tourism, implementing a good recycling program will help minimize the impacts of waste from visitors.
Eco-tourism and Indigenous offerings
Eco-tourism activities are immensely popular in Tofino with lots of visitors actively seeking them out. Along with wanting to provide visitors with tourism products that promote environmental protection, Tofino strives to promote Indigenous culture. The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), along with Indigenous Tourism BC are actively trying to promote the representation of indigenous culture in the region.
local business Spotlight: The Ecolodge at Tofino Botanical Gardens
The Ecolodge at Tofino Botanical Gardens is an Eco-friendly lodge located on 12 acres of pristine rainforest garden. The Ecolodge is perfect for the conscientious traveller looking for a sustainable accommodation option.
It’s a perfect place for group retreats, family reunions or just the solo traveller looking for an escape. With plenty of learning opportunities such as yoga classes and Clayoquot Sound cultural history, the lodge is actively trying to encourage a deep connection with place.
Tourism Tofino. (n.d.) Ecolodge At Tofino Botanical Gardens. https://tourismtofino.com/plan-your-trip/business-directory/ecolodge-at-tofino-botanical-gardens/
