TOTALLY RESPONSIBLE
Be a well-informed globetrotter!
Whether you choose to explore Québec’s bustling big cities or the wide variety of its vacation resorts, admire the majesty of the St. Lawrence River or venture into the great outdoors, you can help preserve its natural treasures and resources:
By finding out about the cultural values and practices of your destination;- By respecting the natural environment of the places you visit;
- By choosing products that are reusable, durable and recyclable;
- By choosing energy-efficient transportation (public transit, cycling, walking) and encouraging carpool;
- By disposing of recyclables and garbage in the areas provided;
- By buying goods and services from companies that respect the environment;
- By buying local products that promote the economic development of the region you visit;
- By respecting the privacy and well-being of others;
- By reducing pollutants generated by your trip;
- By encouraging those around you to do the same.
Responsible businesses
Three organizations were named recipients this year of the Prix Transat pour le tourisme durable. This sustainable tourism award, presented for the very first time as part of the Grands Prix du tourisme québécois, supports the ministère du Tourisme’s sustainable development action plan for tourism, which draws on Québec’s Sustainable Development Act and the government’s resultant sustainable development strategy.
Or : Action plans d'eau Plein air, St-Alban (Québec)
This organization, which manages the rivière Sainte-Anne gorges, is focused on sustainable development. Three key initiatives that it promotes are buying local, actively working to protect farmland and building close ties with regional communities. Its environment-friendly, sustainable and intelligently designed Éco-chalet sets a standard for this type of structure.
Argent : Vert et mer, Fatima (Îles-de-la-Madeleine)
This eco-adventure specialist for small groups invites you to discover the archipelago – and, in particular, the Réserve écologique de l’île Brion – on foot, on a bicycle or in a kayak. An adherent of the Leave no Trace ethic, this organization uses a biodiesel-fuelled vehicle and offers eco-friendly yurt accommodations.
Bronze : Hôtel des Seigneurs St-Hyacinthe****, St-Hyacinthe (Montérégie)
This hotel, which uses the services of an environmental technician, recovers recyclable materials (2,200 tons since 2004) and follows stringent water and energy management practices. It participates in a number of community activities and offers attractively priced environmentally-themed group packages.
