Ballarat, in the midwest of Victoria, Australia, has an ambitious goal: to redefine how travel can uplift regional communities, celebrate local makers, preserve cultural heritage, and balance visitation throughout the year. Deeply connected to the stories of First Peoples and generations of immigrants, this region is embracing a future where creativity, nature, and tradition inspire a new generation of travelers. As a jumping-off point for exploring the surrounding region, Ballarat offers year-round opportunities to slow down and connect more meaningfully with the land, its local produce, and its people. With landscapes cared for over tens of thousands of years, every visit is an invitation to be part of a movement that values stewardship, culture, and lasting connection.

Where the Great Dividing Range meets the sea, the Coffs Coast offers a rare blend of mountain, rainforest and marine environments within easy reach of golden beaches and vibrant coastal towns. As New South Wales’ first ECO Certified Destination, this Place of Plenty is deeply committed to protecting its diverse ecosystems, celebrating its cultural heritage, and creating sustainable prosperity for the community. Visitors can tread lightly through ancient rainforests, explore the Solitary Islands Marine Park, or take part in activities led by Gumbaynggirr People that share language, stories, and connection to Country. Whether you are here to unwind by the ocean or discover something new in nature, your visit supports the people, places and programs that safeguard the unique beauty and thriving spirit of the Coffs Coast.

In northeast Victoria, Australia, Indigo Shire is where gold rush history meets a bold new vision for a greener future. Bordered by the Murray River and the Australian Alps, the towns of Beechworth, Yackandandah, Chiltern, and Rutherglen have evolved into thriving spots for heritage, food, wine, and relaxed pace. Tourism leaders here are eagerly paving the way for a more inclusive tourism future by working closely with Indigenous groups, championing biodiversity protection initiatives, and seeking to reduce carbon emissions. It’s a great place to try out new ways of travel and living, too. An extensive cycling infrastructure connects towns, offering a low-impact way to explore the region’s history.

You might recognize Noosa, Australia, as a glamorous beach destination, but what you might not know is that 35% of the shire is protected as a National Park. Whether on land or at sea, chances are that the places you are exploring are part of the Noosa UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which covers more than 87,000 hectares of biodiversity. The community has long been protecting its diverse ecosystems from development and re-establishing wildlife corridors. Visitors can be part of this mission to lessen the impact of their trips by reducing single-use plastics, exploring car-free with free public transport, and engaging in regenerative experiences through the Tread Lightly Noosa initiative. Here, every choice you make could help ensure Noosa remains a thriving, biodiverse haven for generations to come.

Nestled in Alberta’s Canadian Rockies, Banff and Lake Louise are among the most breathtaking places on Earth. An area that has long inspired awe, it has been a sacred meeting place for Indigenous groups since well before European colonization. Set entirely within a national park, the destination exists to enable people to connect with one of Canada's most stunning environments. Locals are dedicated to protecting the landscapes that draw millions of visitors each year and as Banff and Lake Louise become more popular, there is an effort to ensure everyone can enjoy the region while safeguarding its natural wonders and wildlife. When visiting, travelers are encouraged to leave their car at home, embrace growing public transport options, and relax, all while helping preserve this place for generations to come.

Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada, is a place where rich cultural traditions, breathtaking coastal landscapes, and warm hospitality come together. The Mi’kmaq philosophy of Two-Eyed Seeing influences the stewardship of the land, blending Indigenous knowledge with modern perspectives. And the island’s more recent Gaelic and Acadian heritage is deeply woven into its arts, language and cuisine. A chance to visit Cape Breton is about more than sightseeing, every trip to this community can help preserve culture and traditions for the benefit of future generations. For travelers seeking meaningful cultural experiences, Cape Breton is a powerful reminder that honoring the past is essential to building a future where heritage, community, inclusion and stewardship thrive together.

Respect for the land shapes the story of the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast. Here, Indigenous stewardship has been woven into life for generations and a sense of resilience runs through the landscapes and the people who call this place home. It’s a region where food security, sustainable ranching traditions, and deep cultural knowledge intersect to support community and environmental health. It’s also a place where storytelling through tourism is helping to foster reconciliation. Visitors lucky enough to explore this part of Canada are often rejuvenated by the change of pace that allows them to slow down, reconnect with nature, and shift their perceptions. The majestic Cariboo Chilcotin Coast region stands as a lighthouse for anyone seeking a healthier and stronger connection to nature and the history that binds us together.

Cochrane, Alberta, is one of the fastest growing communities in Canada and is perfectly positioned between Calgary and the iconic nature of Banff National Park. This unique setting offers visitors an alternative experience, one that helps urban travelers reconnect with nature and connect with where their food comes from. As more visitors explore the region’s national parks, Cochrane is becoming a welcoming stop for those seeking a different kind of adventure. And with tourism here still in its early stages, the community is shaping it from the ground up by building experiences based on their shared values. In Cochrane, you are not just passing through, you are part of growing something meaningful for the future of this community.

Jasper, Alberta, is building a strong, resilient future. Nestled within a national park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper integrates environmental stewardship into every aspect of its community and visitor experience. Visitors can take part by joining guided glacier hikes that support climate research, or even by lending a hand to maintain trails and habitats. Located on the traditional lands of the Anishinabe, Aseniwuche Winewak, Dene-zaa, Nêhiyawak, Secwépemc, Stoney Nakoda, Mountain Métis, and Métis Peoples, a visit here inspires travelers to connect with the cultural knowledge that has long protected these landscapes. Jasper is also a growing hub for climate learning and scientific collaboration. In Jasper, protecting the planet is not just a goal, it is a way of life.

Prince George is an ideal basecamp for exploring Northern British Columbia and the adventures it is home to. Here, visitors are already playing a key role in writing a new chapter for this city as many locals look to tourism as a way to transition from past industries. This town is already re-thinking energy, with an innovative system that uses waste from a nearby timber mill to heat buildings. As one of the first communities in Canada to create an adaptation plan addressing forest fire risks, Prince George is setting a precedent for how a place can responsibly host and take care of visitors. A small passionate group is currently building new attractions that improve the community’s wellbeing, create jobs and attract visitors. Every visit here supports a community that is redefining what it means to flourish in the North.

When you support Canadian producers and experiences in Ontario's Southwest, you are contributing to a more resilient local economy and helping to protect the area's natural and cultural heritage. The tourism businesses here are passionate about giving visitors the chance to slow down and connect with its authentic local culture. London, the area’s largest hub and a UNESCO City of Music, is the gateway to abundant nature and agritourism experiences just beyond its borders. Long Point Biosphere, a globally significant area with diverse landscapes and more than 350 species of birds, is home to the largest sand spit formation in the Great Lakes. As this dynamic region grows in popularity, the tourism industry is welcoming visitors who pledge to travel responsibly.

The Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia is famous for its sunshine, lakes and wine. Its mountains, hills, wild grasslands, rivers and lakes invite visitors to explore, reconnect with nature and learn from those who have cared for this land since time immemorial. With farm-fresh food and wine, cycling on old rail lines, and learning through Indigenous-led experiences, the region connects travelers with its history and its living culture. As the first destination in the Americas to earn Sustainable Tourism Accreditation from Biosphere International, the Thompson Okanagan is weaving stewardship into all aspects of its tourism industry and guiding businesses through the TOTA Biosphere Commitment Program. Together with its communities and Nations, the region is building a future where people and nature thrive side by side.

The War in the Woods shaped the Tofino we know today. This Indigenous-led movement protected Meares Island and became one of Canada’s largest peaceful acts of civil disobedience. Today, this small British Columbia community remains deeply committed to protecting the lands that have cared for them across the centuries. With just over 2,000 residents and 41 non-profits, Tofino’s passion for conservation, culture, and community runs deep. Here, “re-Indigenization” is leading the way toward a revival of language and culture that has flowed into Indigenous-led stewardship and a dynamic working relationship between Tla-o-qui-aht and Ahousaht communities, allies and visitors. Many in Tofino’s tourism industry are committed to ensuring every trip helps visitors learn from and give back to the land and its people.

Whistler, British Columbia, is more than a world-class ski and bike destination. It is demonstrating how mountain communities can balance tourism with care for people and the planet. As one of Canada’s most visited resort communities, Whistler is weaving environmentally friendly activities into as many aspects of its tourism industry as possible. Locals benefit from this, too. From car-free transit and a growing e-bike network to energy-efficient buildings, habitat restoration, and waste reduction programs, the town is reimagining what responsible tourism looks like. Whether you choose to explore on two wheels, take a scenic hike, or simply relax knowing you are supporting a destination working to minimize its impact, every path you take in Whistler leads to a better future: for the local community and the planet.

Copenhagen invites you to experience a different way of living, one that can stay with you long after your trip. Locals believe travel can spark change and are eager to share their way of life. Here, once-polluted waterways are now clean enough for year-round swims, cycling is second nature, and community well-being shapes daily life. Dive into this spirit with GreenBike tours, GreenKayak’s litter-cleanup-for-rental program, electric ferries, and the Danish Architecture Center for a glimpse into the future of urban living. Programs like CopenPay even reward good deeds with travel discounts. In Copenhagen, you will find more than a city break; you will find a fresh perspective that just might reshape your everyday life.

Hauraki Coromandel, known for its beaches, forests, and rich Māori heritage, is dedicated to preserving its environment while guiding visitors toward meaningful connections and transformative experiences. The principle of kaitiakitanga, caring for and protecting the land, sea, and community for future generations, sits at the heart of everything they do. Visitors can actively participate in the restoration of native plants and animals, especially the native kiwi. With the Kaitiaki tree planting program, predator control, and opportunities for visitors to support both the environment and the community, Hauraki Coromandel is leading the way with stewardship.

You might have heard: Queenstown’s ambitious tourism businesses are leading the way toward building a carbon-zero future by 2030. A famous New Zealand destination known for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventure, locals here are passionate about protecting the nature that makes this place so special. They are happy to host anyone curious to see what a decarbonized future can look like. Through initiatives like the Love Queenstown fund, every visit can give back to the community and its causes, directly supporting conservation projects and climate action. Here, every visit is a chance to learn, contribute, and be part of a movement to help this region and your home transition to a more environmentally-friendly future.

Cape Town, South Africa, is a place of striking contrasts: where mountains meet the sea, and deep-rooted history meets a forward-looking spirit. It is known for natural beauty, but what makes it truly remarkable is the work being done to create a city that is more equitable, sustainable and resilient. Tourism plays a vital role in this mission by providing economic opportunities to communities and serving as a catalyst for innovation and inclusive growth. From community-led tourism in townships to eco-conscious stays, travelers are invited to be part of the growing green economy that is helping Cape Town recover from past challenges like severe drought and systemic inequality. Visiting here goes beyond seeing the sights. It is about standing with a place that is building a better way forward.

Famous for its accessible nature and laid-back lifestyle, Bend, Oregon, in the United States is a place where the environment and community are already being made stronger because of tourism. The tourism board here is working hard to attract visitors from nearby towns and urban areas in order to keep the carbon footprint of every stay as low as possible. Here, every dollar a visitor spends contributes toward a thriving future for the town, its biodiversity, and beyond through the Bend sustainability fund. The fund has already donated nearly US$3,000,000 to local causes and neighboring Indigenous groups in the three years since its inception. A trip to Bend is a must for anyone wanting to feel like their trip is contributing to something bigger.

If you haven’t spent much time in Grand Junction recently, you are missing out. It is home to Nature’s Trifecta (Colorado National Monument, the Grand Mesa, and Rattlesnake Arches), the second highest concentration of natural arches in the world. It is also turning a lot of heads for its spectacular wines. The community here is proud of the place they call home and are proud that tourism is helping the city flourish during its transition from a fossil-fuel dependent economy. To help prevent overcrowding as the region gets more popular, tourism businesses are contributing toward creative ways to disperse travelers. Every visit to this corner of Colorado is a chance to support a community turning the page to a new future and create meaningful connections to the dynamic landscapes in the American West.

Just an hour from Chicago and over the Illinois state line, Indiana Dunes is home to more than 15,000 acres of protected dunes, wetlands, prairies, and forests along Lake Michigan’s southern shore. Shaped by a powerful legacy of grassroots conservation, this region continues to invite visitors to give back. Whether joining a drop-in volunteer effort or arriving car-free via the South Shore Line, travelers have an easy and climate-friendly way to connect with the landscape and the rich biodiversity that thrives here. For those looking to support a destination rooted in stewardship, culture, and community, Indiana Dunes offers more than just an escape; it is a chance to become part of an enduring movement to protect and preserve one of the Midwest’s most remarkable natural areas.

Local efforts in Keweenaw, Michigan, are shaping a healthier future that protects nature, history and community. Tucked between the largest freshwater lakes on Earth and rugged, ancient landscapes filled with waterfalls, the community is working on a large-scale forest acquisition program. So far, 33,000 acres have been transferred from a for-profit forestry operation to a locally controlled community coalition. Keweenaw is also home to the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge, the first privately owned and internationally recognized Dark Sky Park. From its rich mining heritage to its forward-thinking approach to solar energy and outdoor recreation, Keweenaw proves that small places can have a big impact. It offers travelers the chance to be part of something meaningful.

Only 25 minutes south of Orlando, Kissimmee blends Central Florida’s wild beauty with a cultural landscape shaped by generations of cattle ranchers and a large Latino population. From Disney Wilderness Preserve to tree planting and composting programs, it is also a destination taking real action to restore its environment. In 2024, Kissimmee became the first destination in Florida to join the Global Destination Sustainability Index, reinforcing its long-term commitment to people, place and planet. Visitors can explore natural spaces home to birds like reintroduced red-cockaded woodpeckers or take part in festivals, rodeos and cultural events that bring Kissimmee’s stories to life. Whether relaxing by the lake or joining a conservation effort, a trip to Kissimmee shows how simple actions at home or on the road can add up to meaningful change.

With five lakes, more than 200 miles of bike paths, and 270 public parks, Madison, Wisconsin, is designed for exploration that treads lightly on the planet. The city where the first Earth Day took place, Madison has long been at the forefront of green innovation. From car-free transportation options to zero-waste shopping to farm-to-table dining, this college town is redefining what it means to travel responsibly. But Madison’s dedication to living well extends beyond infrastructure. It is about community and inclusivity. The city is home to a thriving LGBTQ+ community. The city's message to the world: everyone is welcome in Madison. From its lakes to its lively streets, Madison is a place where everyone belongs, and where the future looks greener every day.

Mammoth Lakes is not only a stunning adventure destination in the mountains of California’s Eastern Sierra; it is home to a dynamic community directly supported by tourism. Visitors like you help to keep its shops, restaurants, and adventures thriving for everyone to enjoy. Leaders in the community here are passionate about protecting Mammoth Lakes’ nature and community. The local tourism organization, Visit Mammoth, is funding new housing developments to ensure the town remains affordable for its workforce. Other organizations are diligently working on the Mammoth Donut, a project that aims to create a firebreak for the town by restoring forests to healthier density. Every trip to Mammoth Lakes helps keep its community strong, its forests healthy, and its spirit alive for generations to come.

Marquette, Michigan, nestled along the stunning shores of Lake Superior in the United States, is not only a top destination for outdoor adventure but also a beloved place for reunions with friends and family. With its growing popularity comes a shared commitment to protect the landscapes that make it special. That is why the Respect Marquette County Coalition helps visitors explore responsibly while ensuring a great experience for all, even in peak seasons. By managing high-traffic areas and promoting sustainable recreation, the region’s tourism industry and outdoor-loving community are working together to preserve trails, lakes, and forests for generations to come. Your adventure in Marquette is not just about the views; it is about leaving the land as beautiful as you found it.

In Park City, Utah, stewardship is already an easy part of every visitor’s experience. You can park the car and power up hills via the nation’s first public, electric-assist bike share. Free year-round transit connects Old Town, ski resorts and nearby communities. This is a place where accessible nature meets community and arts. Dive into the vibrant arts scene at permanent galleries and studios, or join events like the Latino Arts Festival or Art on the Trails, where the best of all Park City has to offer comes together. Behind the scenes, more than 80 projects are tackling affordable housing, sustainable transit, resource protection, waste reduction, and equity to keep Park City resilient and welcoming. Visiting soon? Be Mountainkind: travel thoughtfully, support local culture, and help preserve this mountain town’s spirit.

Tourism businesses in Port Aransas, on the gulf coast of Texas, feel a deep responsibility to protect fragile ecosystems and community wellbeing amid climate change. Lucky to be home to rare and diverse wildlife, this destination aspires to be a beacon of environmental conservation in the gulf region. Research and conservation efforts here work to protect countless marine species and coastal initiatives welcome volunteers to rehabilitate areas seeing negative impacts from nearby extractive industries. A visit to Port A also gives back as businesses collect tourism donations to provide teacher stipends, facilitating better educational opportunities for youth. Port Aransas prioritizes environmental stewardship and community resilience, ensuring future generations can enjoy its natural beauty and welcome visitors who share this commitment.

Surrounded by water, mountains, and forests, Seattle, Washington, is where innovation meets nature. It is home to tech industry leaders who have the influence and talent to shape a brighter future by reducing environmental impacts. Beyond the tech scene, Seattle’s neighborhoods are passionate about protecting biodiversity, uplifting marginalized voices, and fostering inclusion. Attractions lead in marine conservation and work to safeguard local wildlife. As a key port for Alaska cruising, Seattle is addressing the carbon footprint of long-haul travel, developing programs at airports and cruise terminals to reduce their environmental impacts. This city proudly forges its own path, committed to people, wildlife, and landscapes.

Taos, New Mexico, is showing the world how generational wisdom can guide a healthier future for everyone. A trip to Taos is a chance to see centuries-old conservation and resourcefulness in action. Here, adobe buildings use local materials to provide natural avenues of climate control. The Earthship movement sits at the intersection of art, circular economies, and off-grid living. And the local ski hill became the first in the country to use an electric snowcat. To better understand Taos, though, we need to get back to understanding this town’s connection to water. The acequias, centuries-old community-managed irrigation canals, are living examples of how communities can preserve fragile resources for generations. Today, visitors can witness this legacy firsthand and take lessons home that can shape how they relate to any environment.