Dedicated to shifting the impact of tourism by making it easier for people to learn about and engage in regenerative travelling practices, Re:BC is an app making waves in sustainable travel. Founder, Hollie Galloway, tells us about the company’s mission and its plans for a sustainable future.
The concept of being a tourist and venturing to new and exciting destinations is one that has been popular since the earliest documented memories of mankind.
From sailors traversing the globes to discover new cultures, to families packing into an overcrowded van for extended road trips, to young adults leaving the comfort of home for the first time to gain a sense of independence and cognisance of the world around them, travel is an integral part of the human experience for many.
While there is a plethora of benefits that result from engaging in touristic experiences, such as expanding one’s worldview, experiencing the natural wonder of stunning landscapes, meeting new people, and providing business to independent storefronts and organisations, there has been increased recognition of the negative impacts tourism can have on local communities and ecosystems.
Overcrowding, pollution, desecration of ecosystems, and damage to cultural heritage sites are just a few of the negative effects tourism has fuelled.
That is why awareness and support for sustainable tourism are growing exponentially in the travel sector.
One such organisation looking to make a difference in the fight for accessible sustainability is Re:BC, a community-driven company dedicated to developing regenerative travel initiatives and promoting responsible recreation in British Columbia (BC).
“Our mission is to support the development of tourism into a force for good by encouraging visitors to participate in activities that have a positive impact on local communities and the environment,” opens Hollie Galloway, Founder of Re:BC.
“Our key facilities include a comprehensive app that guides tourists and residents alike to participate in sustainable practices and community-driven projects across the province.”
Unlike traditional travel apps, Re:BC’s offering is not just about the destination; it’s about the journey, the people, and the environments encountered along the way.
The organisation is committed to going beyond the ordinary by ensuring that every trip leaves a lasting, positive impact on the places visited by working with communities to promote travel that adds value, minimises environmental footprints, and fosters a deep respect for local cultures.
TRANSCENDING TRADITIONAL TOURISM
“The inspiration for the Re:BC app was born out of a critical need to redefine the relationship between tourism and community well-being in BC,” explains Galloway.
As the tourism industry has long been a cornerstone of the province’s economy, attracting millions annually to its distinctive landscapes and vibrant cities, it has also brought challenges such as environmental degradation and cultural displacement, particularly in areas heavily reliant on visitor spending.
To combat this, Re:BC was created to empower travellers to participate in regenerative travel initiatives. The app helps ensure that tourism supports local economies, enhances cultural heritage, and conserves natural resources.
“Our platform allows users to engage with projects that not only enrich their travel experience but also contribute positively to the destinations they visit,” details Galloway.
With a mindset of transcending traditional sustainable tourism by fostering positive outcomes, the organisation prioritises projects that rejuvenate the social, ecological, and economic fabric of local communities.
Its approach facilitates profound, beneficial interactions between visitors and destinations through activities that promote environmental preservation and enhance community well-being.
“From volunteering with not-for-profit organisations, donating leftover groceries to food banks, to prioritising local and Indigenous-owned businesses, we offer detailed insights that enable travellers to make meaningful contributions during their visits,” prides Galloway.
Re:BC highlights eco-friendly practices in its communities by educating both locals and visitors about the challenges of environmental degradation facing many regions. The app itself offers detailed, location-specific overviews on topics including invasive species management, wildlife conservation, backcountry best practices, the principles of Leave No Trace, and further links to resources to learn more about actions that can be taken to make a difference.
“This approach not only informs but incentivises sustainable behaviour, fostering a community of informed and responsible travellers who contribute positively to the ecosystems they visit,” she adds.
Through actively encouraging and rewarding travellers for their proactive contributions towards regenerative practices, Re:BC is redefining how individuals perceive responsible recreation.
“Re:BC arose from an imperative to support tourism growth in ways that are beneficial and sustainable for the community, culture, and environment”
Hollie Galloway, Founder, Re:BC
How is Re:BC working towards redefining responsible travel?
Hollie Galloway, Founder:
- “Encouraging positive actions: We motivate visitors to engage in behaviours that have a beneficial impact on the environment and local communities. These include participating in community-led conservation projects, supporting local and Indigenous-owned businesses, and adhering to regenerative practices that restore and enhance local ecosystems.
- “Rewarding regenerative choices: Through the Re:BC app, travellers earn rewards for their regenerative actions. These rewards not only incentivise good practices but also enhance the overall travel experience, making responsible recreation both fulfilling and enjoyable.
- “Aligning with visitor values: By aligning our initiatives with the values of modern travellers, who are increasingly conscious of their ecological and cultural footprints, Re:BC taps into a vital market trend. We not only meet the demand for regenerative travel options but also lead the way in setting new standards for what it means to explore in a way that actively improves destinations.
“By integrating these strategies, Re:BC is not merely encouraging responsible recreation; we are defining it, creating a model where regenerative tourism becomes the norm, supported by tangible rewards and aligned with the values and desires of today’s travellers.”
REDIFINING TOURISM AND WELL-BEING
“We recognise that the majority of today’s travellers aspire to explore sustainably without harming their destinations, and we are committed to creating tangible ways for them to do so,” insights Galloway.
As an interactive way to foster a deeper connection with BC and its people and promote a more thoughtful and sustainable approach to tourism, Re:BC has recently developed the Destination Quiz campaign within its app.
The various quizzes are comprehensive, hands-on, and have been developed in collaboration with the communities they feature, seeking to educate visitors about their destinations. Not only do the quizzes provide key insights and local tips about ways to positively contribute to the local area, but they also outline unique challenges that tourism has brought to specific communities.
Participants who complete the questions and check in through the app during their visit are even rewarded with a pair of Canadian-made wool socks from Canadian B-Corp, Ecologyst.
Specifically, Destination Quiz introduces users to the Indigenous communities of the area, offering insights into local languages, lands, and history, alongside shining a spotlight on Indigenous-owned businesses, encouraging economic support and cultural exchange.
“This summer we will be incorporating volunteer-focused initiatives into the app, where visitors can explore opportunities to support not-for-profit organisations during their travels and get rewarded for their actions,” enthuses Galloway.
Additionally, Destination Quiz guides visitors to cultural organisations and activities such as museums, community centres, and art walks, enhancing travellers’ interactions with the local culture. By showcasing what makes each community special, the app encourages a deeper, more respectful engagement with each destination.
“Through these features, Re:BC aims to transform tourism into an opportunity for meaningful cultural exchange, ensuring visitors leave with a greater respect and appreciation for the places they explore,” she asserts.
In order to extend these regenerative goals and provide exciting rewards for travellers looking to participate, Re:BC collaborates with community tourism organisations, not-for-profits, and marketing groups.
Partnerships with organisations including Tourism Revelstoke, Parksville Qualicum Beach Tourism, Tourism Squamish, Tourism Sun Peaks, Southern Gulf Islands Tourism, Tourism Prince George, and Destination British Columbia allow Re:BC to deeply engage with and support the communities it works with by aligning initiatives with local needs and opportunities.
“Together, we not only enhance the tourism experience but also effectively spread the word about regenerative practices,” details Galloway.
“This collaborative effort is vital for fostering a sustainable tourism model that benefits both the environment and local economies across BC.”
TIPS FOR SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL
- Bring your own reusables.
- Follow the seven principles of Leave No Trace.
- Shop at local and independent stores.
- Spread awareness of your sustainable travel on social media to encourage others.
- Tour responsibly by choosing eco-friendly companies.
- Reduce carbon emissions by using public transportation.
- Be mindful and respectful of local communities.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen.
- Visit national parks and protected areas.
- Travel during the off-season to minimise overcrowding.
CREATING A MEANINGFUL CULTURAL EXCHANGE
“Our vision for the future of tourism in BC is to nurture a thriving industry that not only supports ecological and cultural preservation but is also community-led and respects the unique challenges faced by the region, while contributing to economic prosperity at both local and provincial levels,” inspires Galloway.
The primary way this vision for a sustainable future can be met is through the actions of the tourists themselves.
Tourists visiting BC play a pivotal role in fostering and promoting regenerative tourism experiences. Specifically, by sharing their journey and choosing to highlight sustainable behaviours, such as visiting less crowded destinations, participating in local conservation efforts, or supporting Indigenous and local businesses, they significantly impact the perception and practices of travel.
“Ultimately, every shared story or social media post has the potential to inspire change. As visitors to the province choose to travel responsibly and share these experiences authentically, they help cultivate a global community that values and actively contributes to sustainable and regenerative tourism practices,” expands Galloway.
Through being an active participant in regenerative tourism, alongside the effort from industry-changing companies such as Re:BC, the future of sustainable, respectful tourism is growing brighter by the day.
“I am constantly inspired by the stunning landscapes, vibrant communities, and incredible people I meet while travelling across this remarkable province. Together, I believe we can foster a tourism industry that not only sustains but actively supports the growth and preservation of what makes BC so unique,” prides Galloway.
Looking ahead, Re:BC is aiming to expand its community partnerships, providing more visitors with the tools needed to engage in regenerative tourism effectively, alongside enhancing its education efforts to deepen understanding and appreciation of the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
“We are actively seeking collaborations with organisations to offer incentives that encourage visitors to participate in and support these initiatives, fostering a more sustainable and enriching tourism environment across BC,” concludes Galloway.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveller seeking regenerative adventures or an organisation eager to shape the future of responsible tourism, Re:BC is here to help create meaningful connections, foster respect, and make a lasting impact on cherished landscapes.
