This Earth Day, Watermark Beach Resort in Osoyoos, British Columbia, is leading the way in responsible tourism having recently achieved Biosphere Sustainable Certification through the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association and 3 Green Key accreditation from Green Key Global.
The globally recognized Biosphere certification, led by the Responsible Tourism Institute, requires certified organizations meet strict criteria across 17 interconnected areas including climate action, clean energy, cultural preservation, and economic inclusion.
The Thompson Okanagan region was the first Biosphere Certified Destination in North America, and Watermark Beach Resort is the first hotel in the South Okanagan to receive the prestigious certification
Watermark has also achieved 3 Green Key accreditation from Green Key Global, certifying the resort is taking significant steps to protect the environment and that it implements strong environmental programs, best management practices, training programs and engineering solutions which benefit the environment and the local community.
At Watermark, sustainability is embedded into daily operations. These accreditations validate years of efforts in operating responsibly while delivering an exceptional guest experience. Key sustainability initiatives at the resort include:
- Programs to reduce electricity and water consumption
- On-site EV charging stations supporting low-emission travel
- Comprehensive recycling and waste reduction programs
- Partnerships with local farmers, wineries, and suppliers
- Eco-friendly, refillable guest amenities that reduce single-use plastics
- Ongoing carbon footprint tracking and reduction strategies
- Active community partnerships that support local culture and economy
- Low chlorine salt-water swimming pool
- English language classes for staff where English is not their first language
For travellers, these sustainability certifications provide confidence that their stay supports a lighter environmental footprint while contributing to the long-term health of the region.
