As the world recognizes Earth Day, the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) is shining a light on a critical intersection: the need for sustainable practices in ensuring the long-term success of Ontario’s tourism economy. In just a few weeks, TIAO will host IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism – Ontario: A Regional Event, happening May 5 & 6, 2025, at the University of Waterloo.
This two-day regional summit invites tourism operators, policymakers, academics, and innovators to come together in a shared space for learning, exchange, and collective action.
TIAO is taking the lead on a sustainable tourism initiative to progress sustainability across the province, and support Ontario in becoming the most sustainable province by partnering with GreenStep Solutions to create the Advancing Sustainable Tourism in Ontario project, a province-wide sustainable tourism initiative, to achieve Destination Certification for Tourism Regions in Ontario.
Across the province, tourism organizations are increasingly implementing sustainable approaches — from certification programs and local, ethical sourcing to investment in EV infrastructure and low-carbon transportation. These actions are laying the groundwork for broader transformation, but the journey is ongoing.
As part of its work leading the development of Ontario’s new five-year, industry-driven Tourism Strategy, sustainability has been identified as a foundational pillar, alongside workforce development, regional growth, and destination competitiveness. This reflects growing consensus across the sector: economic resilience, environmental stewardship, and social equity are deeply interconnected.
“In today’s economy, sustainability isn’t a niche idea — it’s a core part of long-term success,” says Andrew Siegwart, President & CEO of TIAO. “This event is an opportunity for us to listen, to learn from each other, and to discover new ways we can grow responsibly — together.”
Conference Highlights
Part of the nationally recognized IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism series, this Ontario-focused edition will explore the unique opportunities and challenges faced across the province. Key sessions include:
- Keynote by Dr. Daniel Scott, University of Waterloo, who’s research focuses on the transition to a low-carbon tourism economy and adapting to climate change
- Keynote by Tova Davidson, Executive Director of Sustainable Waterloo Region, on reframing sustainability through five key community and business lenses — including profitability
- Workshops on climate-smart business tools, collaborative community action, and thoughtful infrastructure
- A Current Consumer Travel Report from Environics Analytics, showing how data can be used by operators to appeal to those making sustainable travel choices
- Real-world case studies from across Ontario that demonstrate how sustainability practices are improving business outcomes and community wellbeing
Attendees will leave with new ideas, practical tools, and a stronger understanding of how tourism can align with broader provincial and federal sustainability and economic development goals.
This year’s Earth Day theme — “Our Power, Our Planet” — calls on people to unite around renewable energy solutions and triple clean electricity by 2030. For Ontario’s tourism sector, it’s also a timely reminder of the need to adapt, innovate, and build for the future.
“Tourism can be a powerful driver of positive change,” adds Siegwart. “By bringing people together, we can spark solutions that benefit the planet, our communities, and the long-term prosperity of the industry.”
Thank you to event partners Destination Ontario, Explore Waterloo Region, Sustainable Waterloo Region, GreenStep Solutions, Environics Analytics and TUG.
Event Details and Registration
Dates: May 5-6, 2025
Location: University of Waterloo, FED Hall
Register at TIAO's Website
About TIAO:
The Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) represents the voice of tourism in the province, advocating for the interests of its diverse industry membership and working with stakeholders to promote growth and create a favorable business environment.
www.tiaontario.ca
Media Contact
Madison Simmons, VP Public Affairs
Tourism Industry Association of Ontario
msimmons@tiaontario.ca
906-601-0560