City of Vernon’s Free TOTA Biosphere Enrollment Program

TOTA Biosphere Commitment Program

The TOTA Biosphere Commitment Program provides regional tourism businesses with the opportunity to differentiate their operations and stand out from others by implementing sustainable practices outlined in the program. You are offered access to valuable tools and resources to enhance your operational practices while contributing to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The program is structured so you can continue to achieve steps at your own pace to become Biosphere Committed and eventually Certified. Your involvement in this program demonstrates to mindful travellers and locals in the Thompson Okanagan that you are taking action to preserve this region and beyond for generations to come.

For a limited time, the City of Vernon has partnered with the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) to offer first year enrollment in this program for FREE to the first fifteen businesses that register.


September 24th & 25th TOTA Biosphere Program Webinar

Join TOTA and the City of Vernon for an introductory webinar of the Biosphere Commitment Program on September 24th, 2025 at 9:00 am, or September 25th, 2025 at 11:00 am.

Tourism Businesses in Vernon have the opportunity to join one of these two webinars to learn more about the Biosphere Program.

What to Expect from the Webinar:

  • Live Platform Walkthrough: We will guide you through the user-friendly online platform, demonstrating how to track your progress, access resources, and work towards your sustainability goals.

  • Your Role in the Program: Understand the clear and manageable expectations for participating businesses and how TOTA will support you every step of the way.

  • Q&A Session: There were be time for your questions to be answered by our team.

Register Today:

Enrollment Eligibility for the City of Vernon’s Free TOTA Biosphere Enrollment Program

You must meet the following criteria:

  • Business is located within the City Limits of the City Vernon

  • Must be a Tourism Business: Retail, Food and Beverage Industry, Accommodations, Attractions and Tours, etc.

Indigenous peoples, 2SLBGTQI+, persons with disabilities, and workers 55+ are all encouraged to apply.