Introduction to the BruceGreySimcoe Seven 'Key Principles':
As we work towards a balanced approach to sustainable tourism, there continues to be an opportunity for us to inspire and educate visitors to the region. To do this, we have created a “Visit Responsibly” framework and tools for easy and consistent implementation by tourism stakeholders. At the heart of the BruceGreySimcoe 'Visit Responsibly' framework are seven key principles that will serve as the foundation for fostering sustainable tourism in the region. These principles have been developed in consultation with engaged tourism stakeholders and are designed to ensure consistent messaging while allowing the flexibility needed to meet the unique needs of different businesses and destinations in the region.
We encourage all tourism stakeholders to use this framework and align with regional sustainable tourism goals. To learn more about RTO7’s Sustainable Tourism goals and initiatives, please visit our Sustainable Tourism page.
The Importance of These Key Principles
By adopting these principles, you’ll contribute to:
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Preserving our region’s natural and cultural heritage.
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Supporting local communities and economies.
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Building a welcoming environment where visitors and residents feel connected and valued.
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Enhancing the experience for both visitors and residents through thoughtful and responsible tourism practices.
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Providing consistent “Visit Responsibly” messaging across the region.
Key Principles & Definitions
SHARE THE 'VISIT RESPONSIBLY' MESSAGING
The toolkit below has been designed to assist tourism stakeholders and operators to amplify the 'Visit Responsibly' messaging in the region. We understand that every business and destination is unique. That’s why these principles are:
Customizable: Adapt the principles to address the specific challenges or opportunities relevant to your organization or location. If just one or two of the key principles resonate with your unique needs, use just those principles. You do not need to include all seven in your communications.
Not One-Size-Fits-All: There’s no rigid template; instead, you have the freedom to implement these principles in a way that resonates with your values and goals.
Stakeholder Toolkit:
Promote the BruceGreySimcoe ‘Key Principles’ in your marketing efforts
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The "Key Principle" icons are currently in the design stage and will be available for download with guidelines for use in March 2025.
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Download the 'Key Principles' including consumer copy and bulleted short-form.
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Download images from the RTO7 Sustainable Tourism database to use in your marketing collateral, social media, or website.
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Review the ‘Best Practices’ for positive social media engagement (coming soon).
Help us share the message
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Encourage visitors to check out #BGSResponsibly travel hub: BruceGreySimcoe.com/Visit-Responsibly
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Link to the page on your consumer facing channels (website, social media, etc.)
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Make sure to tag @BruceGreySimcoe and use the hashtag #BGSResponsibly in your post.
Declare your commitment to sustainability by taking the Sustainable Tourism 2030 Pledge