Regenerative travel is a new approach to tourism that goes beyond sustainable or responsible travel. While sustainable travel aims to minimize the negative impacts of tourism on the environment and local communities, regenerative travel takes it a step further by actively contributing to the restoration and well-being of those environments and communities. The idea is to leave a destination in a better condition than it was before you visited.

The key principles of regenerative travel include:

• Restoration and Conservation:
  • Actively engaging in activities that contribute to the restoration and conservation of ecosystems and natural habitats. This could involve participating in habitat restoration projects, behaving appropriately to avoid negative interactions with local wildlife, and practicing leave no trace principles.
• Community Empowerment:
  • Prioritizing the well-being and empowerment of local communities. This includes supporting local businesses, respecting local cultures, and actively participating in community development projects that enhance social and economic conditions.
• Cultural Preservation:
  • Respecting and preserving the cultural and indigenous heritage of the destination. Travelers are encouraged to learn about local first nations, traditions, language, culture and history, while avoiding activities that may negatively impact cultural integrity.
• Sustainable Practices:
  • Adopting and promoting sustainable practices in transportation, accommodation, and other travel-related activities. This includes choosing eco-friendly transportation options, staying in accommodations with environmentally friendly initiatives, and minimizing waste generation.
• Educational Experiences:
  • Engaging in educational and immersive experiences that promote a deeper understanding of the destination’s natural and cultural aspects. This could involve guided tours, workshops, or activities that educate travelers about the importance of conservation and responsible tourism, such as this quiz ;).
• Carbon Offsetting and Positive Contributions:
  • Actively seeking ways to offset the carbon footprint associated with travel by investing in carbon offset programs. Additionally, regenerative travelers may look for opportunities to make positive contributions to the local environment, such as participating in community-led restoration or supporting sustainable agriculture projects.
• Collaboration with Local Initiatives:
  • Collaborating with local organizations and initiatives that support regenerative practices. This could involve volunteering time or resources to support projects that align with regenerative travel principles.
• Mindful Consumption:
  • Being mindful of the resources consumed during travel, such as water and energy, and making efforts to minimize waste. Choosing products and services that prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility is also part of regenerative travel.

Regenerative travel aims to create a positive impact on both the traveler and the destination, fostering a sense of responsibility, connection, and contribution to the well-being of the places visited. It represents a holistic approach to tourism that seeks to regenerate ecosystems, empower communities, and enhance overall sustainability.

What is the primary distinction between regenerative travel and sustainable travel?

The Parksville Qualicum Beach area is situated within the ancestral lands of several Coast Salish First Nations, with specific ties to the traditional territories of the Qualicum and Snaw-Naw-As (Nanoose) First Nations. Here’s a brief overview of these nations:

Qualicum First Nation:
The Qualicum First Nation’s traditional territory encompasses sections of the Parksville and Qualicum Beach area, contributing to the broader cultural and linguistic fabric of the Coast Salish group. The historical language spoken in this region, known as Puntledge, Pentl’ach, or Puntlatch, extended from Comox to Parksville and Port Alberni to the islands of Denman, Hornby, Lasqueti, and Texada. 
In the 1940s, the last fluent speaker of the language passed away, leading to the language being officially declared extinct. The community was deeply saddened to learn that their ancestral language, once vibrant and integral to their identity, was deemed no longer significant. However, in recent years the community has rallied together with determination and resilience to embark on a journey to revive and reclaim their language. Today the language has been revived and is no longer considered extinct. 

Currently, The Qualicum Nation is committed to a prosperous and stable future for their families and citizens. They operate the waterfront Qualicum First Nation Campground, which offers a variety of lodging options along the shores of the Salish Sea. Additionally, a number of members of the community work to support and restore the Pacific Salmon populations at the Big Qualicum Fish Hatchery. The Big Qualicum Hatchery is engaged in a number of natural and artificial enhancement techniques to help bolster declining salmon populations. In doing so, they provide an important source of fish for local First Nations food fisheries, along with creating sustainable stocks for recreational fishers. Visitors to the hatchery can engage in a self-guided tour of the facility and explore the Big Qualicum River Regional Trail which begins from the hatchery. The trail navigates the riverside tree canopy and the 10km gravel road that provides excellent cycling opportunities for all ages. For those hoping to view salmon, mid-September to mid-November is typically the busiest time, with Chinook and Pink Salmon returning to the hatchery.

What was the historical extent of the language spoken by the Qualicum First Nation, known as Puntledge, Pentl’ach, or Puntlatch?

Snaw-Naw-As:
The Snaw-Naw-As (Nanoose) First Nation resides on the eastern shores of Vancouver Island, adjacent to the town of Lantzville, nestled between Parksville and Nanaimo, within the picturesque Nanoose Bay. The name Snaw-Naw-As originates from the Halkomelem term “Naus,” signifying “inside looking out,” a reflection of Nanoose Bay’s distinctive shape. Their traditional language, Hul’q’umi’num’, constitutes one of the three branches of the Halkomelum dialect spoken from Nanoose to Oregon. Historically, the Snaw-Naw-As First Nation’s traditional territory encompassed villages scattered across the mid-Island region of Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.

Referred to as the Nanoose First Nation, the Snaw-Naw-As community is part of the Coast Salish people, joining 18 other Nations in the Salish Sea. Positioned as one of the northern Coast Salish Nations on the eastern side of Vancouver Island, their cultural identity is deeply rooted in the rich heritage of the Coast Salish.

Affiliated with the Te’mexw treaty association, the Snaw-Naw-As are proud members of a non-profit society comprised of five Coast Salish Nations – Beecher Bay (SC’IA⁄NEW), Malahat, Snaw-Naw-As, Songhees, and T’Sou-ke. The Te’mexw Treaty Association was established to foster collaboration among these Nations, uniting their efforts within a single organization to collectively negotiate distinct modern treaties with the federal and provincial governments as part of the British Columbia treaty process.

The Snaw-Naw-As operate a popular oceanfront campground just north of the community of Lantzville that welcomes campers from May to November every year. The 80-site facility offers a number of fully-serviced and waterfront sites in a family-friendly environment that is well-situated for people looking to explore the incredible outdoor recreation opportunities located in the surrounding area. Be sure to stop by the Snaw-Naw-As market to fuel up and explore their collection of indigenous art, products and literature.

What is the significance of the name "Snaw-Naw-As," derived from the Halkomelem term "Naus"?

Indigenous Tourism BC has developed a series of best practices to consider when engaging with tourism on Indigenous Lands.

TRAVEL IS A PRIVILEGE.
Travel is an opportunity to discover differences and learn from them rather than bring your day-to-day life on tour. Responsible travellers respect the guidelines set by Indigenous communities and seek to understand more about historical and cultural differences. Here are some tips to help you be a responsible and respectful traveller in Indigenous territories.

RESPECT LOCAL INDIGENOUS STEWARDSHIP AND GOVERNANCE.
As stewards of the land and keepers of culture, Indigenous governance and communities guide local protocol. When visiting Indigenous communities it is important to respect Indigenous sovereignty and abide by any requests that they make of visitors to their lands. 

SEEK AND FOLLOW THE WISDOM OF INDIGENOUS GUIDES ON THE LAND.
You are a guest. Your off-the-beaten-path campsite discovery has been somebody else’s home for generations. That secret swimming spot you’ve found could be a sacred site or traditional fishing hole. The land is medicine for us all. Please avoid travel into unknown backcountry and adhere to the advice of locals. Engage with animals in a non-invasive way and only with the direction of local guides.

TRAVEL LESS. STAY LONGER.
Travel slow and take it all in. Expanding your cultural knowledge is not a contest, and a non-stop itinerary can leave you feeling like you’ve checked all the boxes but missed it all. Choose a destination that allows you to stay, learn, and contribute in one geographic area. Practice travelling with intention, not hyperspeed. 

STAY AND SPEND LOCALLY.
Follow an itinerary that contributes economically or otherwise to the local community. If you can book accommodation at an Indigenous lodge instead of a multi-level hotel or eat a meal with your Indigenous host instead of stopping for fast food, please do. Set a goal to put your travel dollars in the pockets of your Indigenous hosts.

INTERACT RESPECTFULLY WITH INDIGENOUS LANDS.
Visitor activity can create additional challenges or increase vulnerability for the Indigenous community you are visiting. Wildfires, stranded or injured backcountry visitors, and increased pollution to waters and lands place extra strain on Indigenous communities and resources. If you just can’t keep away from the wilderness, please enrich your experience by increasing your respect for the water, plants, and animals that have sustained the people for millennia. Take direction for your adventure and wildlife experience from local Indigenous guides.

COME PREPARED AND THINK SUSTAINABLY. 
Another negative impact of travel is an increase in carbon emissions. You can’t build relationships or deepen knowledge as you zoom past en-route to the next too-short experience. Stay local and consider moving between places in alternate ways to increase the time you have to learn and engage. Walking and water tours are kinder to the environment and offer a higher return to hosts and your travel party.

According to Indigenous Tourism BC’s best practices, why is it recommended to "travel slow and take it all in"?

The Parksville Qualicum Beach area spans from Nanoose Bay to Deep Bay and inland to Cathedral Grove. The region encompasses some of Vancouver Island’s most welcoming communities and stunning natural phenomena. From the towering ancient cedars of Cathedral Grove to the endless sandy beaches of the stunning east coast of Vancouver Island, the area is a popular destination for both local and international travellers.

In the summertime, Parksville Qualicum Beach is one of the sunniest and warmest spots on Vancouver Island. The calm, warm waters are perfect for swimming and splashing. When low tide hits, the beaches here widen and expand, for plenty of space to explore. Visitors enjoy the beaches and coastlines year-round for sunset strolls, world-class birding, boating, and fishing.
Rathtrevor Provincial Park is one of Vancouver Island’s most popular beach destinations for families and campers looking to explore the sandy shoreline and vibrant tidepools that expose themselves at low tide.

Each year over 100,000 people attend the Parksville Beach Festival, known around the world for their Master Sculptor sand sculpting exhibition. Running for five and a half weeks from mid-July through August, the family-friendly event kicks off with the sculpting competition and features weekend concerts, daily buskers, an artisan market and a music festival.

What is the geographical extent of the Parksville Qualicum Beach area, as mentioned in the provided information?

The MABR is situated within the traditional territories of seven First Nations communities and spans approximately 1200 square kilometres. The vertical elevation ranges just over 2100 meters from the highest peak on Mt. Arrowsmith (1817m) to 300 meters into the Salish Sea. This vertical range makes the MABR unique among Canadian Biospheres.

The geographical boundary is defined by five watersheds: Englishman River, Little Qualicum, French Creek, Nanoose Creek, and Bonnell Creek.

UNESCO (United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organization)  Biosphere Regions are areas of global ecological significance that make an ongoing commitment to the United Nations to strive for sustainability. They are not parks, and they have no legal authority. They are places where people are inspired to find ways to live and work in harmony with nature. 
The Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region was officially designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2000.

The MABR works collaboratively with First Nations, Community Groups, Businesses and Governments to find innovative ways to achieve a balance between the needs of humans and nature. They have developed a number of resources that can be used by the community to engage with their environment, and host events every year focused on education and sustainability. Head to their website to explore their programming, learn more about their mandate, and explore their 10 Amazing Places in the Parksville Qualicum Beach area.

For those looking for a scavenger hunt style adventure, the Official Amazing Places GeoTour takes you on a geocaching journey through the diverse landscapes of the region. Written by knowledgeable locals, the GeoTour Field Guide not only helps you locate each of the caches, it will provide you with meaningful insights into the places you visit and detailed maps of each location. The Amazing Places Geotour provides a full day of fun for explorers of all ages. For those that find all the caches and manage to solve the clues are eligible for a prize: ​​a customized Amazing Places Geotour geocoin! 

What sets the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region apart from other Canadian Biospheres?

The Parksville Qualicum Beach area is home to an impressive collection of organizations committed to the arts, culture and conservation. Depending on your interests and the season in which you visit, you have many opportunities to deepen your understanding of this remarkable region.

If you have an interest in local history, a visit to the Parksville Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of early settlers. Continue to ignite your curiosity and learn about natural history with a visit to the Qualicum Beach Museum where you can explore numerous displays including a permanent exhibit dedicated to the Qualicum First Nation.

If you are passionate about nature and conservation, then a self-guided tour of the Deep Bay Marine Field Station is an excellent opportunity to learn about marine conservation issues and how you can help protect the marine environment. During the summer season, spanning the May long weekend to the first weekend in September, the facility is open to the general public. Engaging touch tanks, captivating aquaria, and enlightening exhibits stand ready to unveil the marvels of local marine life. You can also take a peek into the research labs from the viewing mezzanine and gain insights into ongoing studies that revolve around shellfish aquaculture.

If you enjoy the intersection of carefully curated gardens and towering old-growth trees a visit to Milner Gardens and Woodland is a must-do during your time in Parksville Qualicum Beach. The gardens, developed by Veronica and Ray Milner, are renowned for the juxtaposition of an English country garden against a Pacific Northwest backdrop. Just prior to Veronica’s passing in 1998, the gardens were transferred to Vancouver Island University. The university’s goal is to maintain the gardens for education purposes for students in the Horticultural programs and for the community’s benefit. Visitors to the gardens can enjoy scones in The Camellia Tea Room and explore the open rooms of the house which contain many historical photos including mementos of visits from members of the Royal Family. 

Founded in 1985, the North Island Wildlife Recovery Association (NIWRA) is a non-profit, world-class rehabilitation facility situated on 8 acres of immaculately manicured grounds, caring for animals with all types of needs, including birds with broken wings, orphaned black bears, electrocuted eagles and much more.  A visit to their facility allows you to learn about their rehabilitation program, meet one of their 60 resident, non-releasable animals and directly support their vital work.

Where can visitors learn about marine conservation issues and explore engaging displays of marine life through a self-guided tour during the summer season?

It is no secret that British Columbia is home to some of the most remarkable natural landscapes in the world. Each year, hundreds of thousands visit the province, with a significant percentage choosing to engage with some element of outdoor recreation, whether it be hiking, skiing, whale watching, kayaking, sport fishing or camping. The burden of the increased pressure on the natural resources cannot be overlooked. The Don’t Love it to Death organization is a fantastic resource. Visit their website to educate yourself on ways to mindfully explore and mitigate negative impacts.

A large portion of the wilderness surrounding Parksville Qualicum Beach is managed by Mosaic Forest Management. The company seeks to mitigate risks to the landscape and its resources while still permitting public access where possible. Mosaic Forest Management typically allows access to their lands for the public on weekends. At other times the forestry gates are typically locked and access is prohibited. Be sure to check if your planned hike requires gate access and make sure to research the opening hours if so.  

Wherever you plan to recreate outdoors during your trip to Parksville Qualicum Beach, make sure to abide by the seven Leave No Trace principles. By following these simple rules, you’ll help to minimize your impact on our environment and keep these spaces beautiful for everyone. 

Plan ahead and prepare: Before heading out on an adventure, whether it’s to the peak of Mount Arrowsmith or a walk in Englishman River Falls Provincial Park, ensure that you are well-prepared with the correct equipment and knowledge. Use resources like AdventureSmart to ensure you are informed before heading outdoors. Check park regulations before planning your trip and ensure that your group size and route plan are appropriate. Our weather can change rapidly; make sure you pack for all conditions. 

Travel and camp on durable surfaces: When you’re out on the trail, stick to existing trails where possible. Do not leave the trail and cause braiding. If there is no trail, travel on gravel, rock, dry grasses or snow. If you’re camping in the backcountry, camp on established sites where possible. If you must camp in an unestablished site, try to pick a camping spot without vegetation. Protect riparian areas by camping at least 70 metres from lakes and streams.

Dispose of waste properly: If you pack something in, make sure you pack it out. This includes trash, both organic and inorganic, toilet paper and hygiene products. To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 70 meters away from streams or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater. If you’re using soap make sure it’s biodegradable.

Leave what you find: The key idea behind leave no trace practices is to leave places as you find them. When camping, don’t create structures or create fire rings. Replace anything you move to clear your tent site. Leave natural objects as you find them, and don’t pick flowers or take souvenirs from the trail. If you find an object of interest, take a photo rather than taking the object.

Minimize campfire impacts: Campfires can have lasting impacts in the backcountry and potentially be catastrophic for our forests and community. Check for fire regulations before lighting a campfire as the region is often subject to fire bans for the majority of the summer season. Use existing fire rings where possible and make sure your fires are properly extinguished.

Respect Wildlife: If you see wildlife on your adventures, observe it from a distance. Do not follow or approach wildlife. Do not feed animals. Feeding wildlife can be harmful to their health and can alter their natural behaviours. Keep your garbage secure to avoid feeding them accidentally. Keep your pets under control or leave them at home.

Be considerate of others: Respect others and protect the quality of their experience. Locals and visitors value Parksville Qualicum Beach wilderness and natural surroundings; avoid playing loud music or disrupting the sounds of nature. Be courteous and kind; yield to others on the trail.

In Leave No Trace practices, which principle emphasizes observing wildlife from a distance, avoiding approaching or following them, and securing your garbage to avoid feeding them accidentally?

Parksville Qualicum Beach is one of the best places to Camp on Vancouver Island, with an abundance of beautifully located Campsites and RV parks ranging from fully serviced RV sites and Rustic Cabins to beachfront tent spots.

Whether you prefer provincial parks, privately owned family-friendly RV Parks, or the Indigenous Owned Snaw-Naw-As and Qualicum First Nations Campgrounds, it is important to remember to book ahead, respect the rules, and always keep a clean campsite. Be sure to follow all parking restrictions when visiting the communities and to only dispose of your waste and recycling in designated bins. A Sani-Dump and freshwater fill site is located at Rathtrevor Beach Campground and is available for a small fee during the hours of 6 am – 11 pm.

If you plan to Camp during your visit to Parksville Qualicum Beach be sure to take the pledge of the Campers Code. The Camper’s Code has 9 rules that are really easy to follow. When all campers follow them, these good things happen: Camping continues to be enjoyable for all; Nature remains pristine and beautiful; People camping in the same area become friends; Animals stay wild and free.

What is important to remember when camping in Parksville Qualicum Beach?

The Parksville Qualicum Beach area is home to healthy populations of Black Bear and Cougar. When visiting the area, it is unlikely that you will encounter these elusive animals, but it is important to remember that they live here. Make sure to take appropriate precautions and know how to behave if you do encounter wildlife.

Head to Wild Safe BC to learn how to reduce conflict with wildlife during your travels. They offer a number of educational articles and videos on how to reduce your risk when visiting the remarkable natural landscapes in our Province. Remember to always plan ahead, secure attractants, and pay a visit to the local Visitor Centre for up-to-date information about wildlife sightings in the area.

If you observe an animal that appears threatening, persistent or aggressive call 1-877-952-7277 (RAPP) or *7277 on your cell – Available 24hr for reporting incidents to the Conservation Officer Service.

What is emphasized as important when visiting the Parksville Qualicum Beach area regarding the local wildlife, particularly Black Bears and Cougars?

Visiting one of the magnificent beaches in the Parksville Qualicum Beach area is a highlight for many visitors during their trip. While the beaches are expansive and are a great family-friendly activity, it is important to keep a few things in mind when visiting.

The beaches around Parksville Qualicum Beach are not monitored by a lifeguard and the consumption of alcohol and cannabis is not allowed. Make sure to protect yourself from the sun by wearing clothing that helps to block UV rays and consider using certified Reef Safe sunscreens that are formulated to limit the amount of chemicals leaching into the marine environment.

Make sure to abide by all leash regulations and seasonal beach closures when exploring with your pet. The beaches around Parksville Qualicum Beach close to pets every spring to ensure that dogs do not disturb the Brant Geese who stop over in the area on their annual migration.

Beach fires are not permitted in the region as the area is contained within the Parksville-Qualicum Wildlife Management Unit. This designation recognizes the globally significant abundance and diversity of the natural resources of the area. Remember that the beach habitat that you enjoy as part of your visit is a critical habitat for many species of plant, fish, bird and animals. Their survival depends on the conservation of this habitat so be sure to behave respectfully, follow all regulations and signage and practice leave no trace principles. 

Why are the beaches around Parksville Qualicum Beach closed to pets every spring?

The many people recreating in our region create a dangerous scenario for forest fires.
Fire bans are increasingly common during the summer months, and it is everyone’s responsibility to practice fire safety. Be sure to check the Government of BC’s website to find out about current forest fire bans in your area. 

To help prevent wildfires, never leave your campfire unattended. Make sure it is completely out before you leave. If you are in an established campground or Provincial Park, do not gather wood, break off branches, or damage live trees in any way to build your fire. 

• Be aware of fire bans.
• Don’t light fires on flammable materials such as tree roots or grass.
• Use stones to create a fire ring.
• Never leave a campfire unless 100% extinguished.
• Have water on hand to douse a fire.
• Be aware that winds pick up quickly. 
• Report Wildfires. 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on a cell.

What is a crucial practice to prevent wildfires, as emphasized in the provided information?

Spreading Invasive Species:
Every one of us in BC can play our part to stop the spread of invasive species and protect our province. When you’re recreating in Parksville Qualicum Beach, follow these simple steps to help prevent the spread of invasive species. 

• Arrive with clean gear; 
• Stay on designated trails and keep your pets on the trail;
• Remove plants and seeds from your boots and gear before leaving trails

When visiting parks and trails in the area, there may be areas that are closed to help prevent the transmission of invasive species. Be sure to obey all signage and keep out of restricted areas.  By being mindful and practicing these simple steps, outdoor recreationalists can stop the spread of invasive species and protect our valuable natural resources. 
Boats and other watercraft, including kayaks and canoes, easily and frequently carry invasive species from one body of water to another. These aquatic invaders are entering BC’s beautiful lakes, streams, and wetlands. Boaters, anglers and paddlers can all take action now to help stop the spread by practicing Clean Drain Dry. As individual recreationists, marinas, and stewardship groups, we can all help to reduce the spread of harmful aquatic invasive species such as Zebra and Quagga mussels, Largemouth bass, and Eurasian watermilfoil.
When transferring your watercraft from one body of water to another: 
CLEAN – Inspect and clean plants, animals and mud from watercraft, trailer and gear.
DRAIN – Drain all water from your watercraft, trailer and gear (e.g. buckets, well, bilge, ballast etc.)
DRY – Dry all parts of your watercraft, trailer, and gear completely between trips

What action is recommended to outdoor recreationalists to prevent the spread of invasive species when visiting parks and trails in Parksville Qualicum Beach?

Parksville Qualicum Beach is a tight-knit community with a number of sustainable transit options available to explore the area.

If you are coming from Vancouver, consider taking the Hullo passenger ferry which offers direct service from downtown Vancouver to Downtown Nanaimo. From there, either explore the Car Sharing Options, utilize the BC Public Transit Network, or book a ticket with the Island Link Bus. If you are bringing your bicycle, Hullo Ferries and BC Public Transit Buses have infrastructure available to transport your bicycle.

If you plan to fly, check out Iskwew Air, the first Indigenous Woman owned airline. They offer direct scheduled service between Vancouver Airports South Terminal and Qualicum Beach Airport. Iskwew Air is committed to becoming a completely carbon neutral airline.  Currently they are offsetting all of the fuel used in every flight and doing their part to exist gently on the planet.

Parksville Qualicum Beach is home to a number of excellent Mountain Biking and Cycling Trails. For the sightseer, the Coombs to Parksville Trail and Parksville Qualicum Beach link route provide low-traffic options for you to explore the region. If a more challenging ride is your preference, the Hammerfest trail network is a popular area with trails to suit all rider levels. If you are looking to rent a bicycle, Take Off Adventure Rentals and Go Bike Go Play are two excellent local businesses with a variety of options to suit all cyclists. Be sure to call ahead, they require advance notice in the winter season and are often busy during the summer.

Parksville Qualicum Beach has a number of sustainable transit options for a convenient and eco-friendly way to navigate the area. Which of the following statements is incorrect regarding transportation in the region?

Supporting businesses that are committed to sustainable practices is a meaningful way to positively support the community. There are a number of businesses in Parksville Qualicum Beach:

Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort
This iconic oceanfront resort has been awarded with multiple Green Key designations, a standard for environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism industry. Tigh-Na-Mara is also working their way through the 17 Sustainable Development Goals established by the United Nations in an effort to achieve Biosphere Certification.

Ocean EcoVentures
Ocean EcoVentures is committed to education, research, sustainability and conservation. From recycling office products, to choosing green power sources, to partnering with local conservation organizations, every aspect of their operations is evaluated to ensure it meets their sustainability goals. When you choose to head out on the water with Ocean EcoVentures you can be sure that they are providing an epic experience without compromising their keen consideration for conservation.

Shades of Green Eco-Store & Refillery
Shades of Green is an ECO conscious shop located in the heart of Parksville BC, Vancouver Island. Specializing in plastic free alternatives, zero-waste products, sustainably made, natural fibre clothing, natural and locally made body products and more!

Bare Eco Refillery
Bare Eco Refillery is a refill + zero waste essential store in Qualicum Beach, British Columbia. They sell a wide variety of refill items including hand soap, shampoos & conditioners, dish soap, laundry detergent and much more.

Alcove Homegrown Living
Alcove Homegrown Living is a boutique shop in the heart of Qualicum Beach, British Columbia. We sell beautifully curated, artisan-made products created within 150km of our store, including alternatives to single-use items. We also have a Refill Bar with a sustainable skincare product line made using simple ingredients that are sourced from local suppliers, as well as refillable shampoo, conditioner and body wash.

Natural Evolution Hair Salon
Natural Evolution is a salon with a conscience. Committed to lessening their impact on the environment, this green business certified salon is able to divert 85 – 90 % of their waste from the landfill and is recognized by the Surfrider Foundation as an ocean-friendly operation. Stop by for a service or visit their refill station for planet-friendly beauty products.

Which business in Parksville Qualicum Beach is committed to education, research, sustainability, and conservation, evaluating every aspect of their operations to meet sustainability goals?

Parksville Qualicum Beach is a community committed to accessibility. Attractions such as the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre and the Qualicum Beach Museum have been designed with accessibility in mind and allow for inclusive exploration with paved pathways, accessible washrooms and chair lifts available to navigate stairs.

The Oceanside Route at Qualicum Beach offers a paved pathway, making it accessible for individuals using mobility devices. This scenic route provides stunning views of the sandy beach and the Coast Mountains. Stretching from end to end, the pathway includes benches at regular intervals for relaxation. Picnic tables and grassy lawns along the route contribute to a pleasant atmosphere, complemented by nearby restaurants, a concession stand, and beachfront accommodations. In the summer, both the beach and pathway are popular for strolling, dog walking, and people-watching. A wheelchair-accessible washroom building with a change room is available for those gearing up for a swim, accompanied by ample angled parking, including accessible spaces.

Parksville’s Community Beach Park provides access to a spectacular sandy beach which stretches way out at low tide, an ideal setting on warm summer days. Throughout the park there are shady, grassy areas and picnic tables for making the most of your time. Public restrooms and change rooms, which are wheelchair accessible, are located near the boardwalk, and are clean and frequently maintained. The concession stand is a popular place on warm days and there are several dedicated accessible parking spots.

Wheelchair-accessible businesses, like Q Burger in Qualicum Beach, contribute to the inclusive environment. Q Burger, known for locally sourced burgers and craft beers, features a level, industrial-modern space with a west coast vibe. The restaurant is designed to comfortably accommodate maneuverability with moveable tables and chairs. The accessible bathroom includes a universal height toilet and grab bars. Accessible parking, though popular in the summertime, is available nearby.

For those seeking accessible dining and accommodations, the Bayside Oceanfront Resort in Parksville stands out. The resort offers an upscale restaurant and lounge with panoramic shoreline views, along with nearby accessible washrooms. Well-appointed rooms are thoughtfully designed for accessibility, providing a comfortable retreat after enjoying a meal with a view.

Where can you find accessible bathrooms in Parksville?

When considering ways to positively impact the community you’re visiting and lighten your carbon footprint, one of the best—and tastiest—approaches is to indulge in locally grown food. The Parksville Qualicum Beach area, boasting a long growing season and mild climate, nurtures an abundance of local agriculture.

Embark on your own farm tour through the community, visiting family-operated establishments like Little Qualicum Cheeseworks, BoMé Cheese, Silver Meadows Farm, and Springford Farm Market. For those who prefer perusing markets stocked with local products, a visit to the renowned Coombs Old Country Market, famous for its "Goats on the Roof," is a must. Naked Naturals Whole Foods, with locations in Parksville and Qualicum, offers a variety of organic and vegan options alongside locally sourced produce.

Farmer’s Markets stand out as enjoyable and sustainable sources for meals. Discover food and locally crafted items at the Qualicum Beach Farmers’ Market on Veterans Way every Saturday year-round and at the Errington Farmers’ Market Saturdays from May through September. Another seasonal delight is the annual Summer by the Sea Market in Parksville (June through August).

For a farm-to-table dining experience, consider restaurants like Realm Food Co., a cozy eatery serving nourishing comfort food, and De L’ile Restaurant, which features a seasonal menu showcasing the best of locally grown and foraged ingredients.

When seeking locally grown produce and handmade crafts in Parksville Qualicum Beach, which farmers’ market operates year-round on Saturdays and is located on Veterans Way?

Heading home after an adventure-filled trip and finding yourself with more groceries than you need? Don’t let those extra items go to waste – consider making a difference by donating them to the local food bank.

In Canada, the challenge of food waste persists as millions of metric tons of edible food are discarded annually. Despite its status as a developed nation, Canada grapples with the dual issues of food insecurity and widespread food waste. Factors such as overbuying, misleading expiration dates, and cosmetic imperfections contribute to the unnecessary disposal of perfectly edible items, exacerbating environmental concerns and the number of people facing hunger.

Thankfully, initiatives across the country, including food banks and community organizations like the Parksville United Way, actively work to redirect surplus food to those in need, preventing it from reaching landfills. Increased public awareness and advocacy for responsible consumption are vital components of addressing this challenge, fostering a collective effort to create a more sustainable and equitable food system for all Canadians.

For the  Parksville Qualicum Beach area, you can donate food or consumable household items at the Food Bank Office (886 Wembley Rd, Parksville, BC, 250-248-8793) and at the North Island Wildlife Recovery (1240 Leffler Road, Errington, BC V0R 1V0). Ensure items are unopened and within their expiry dates. Consider contributing unused toiletries, especially those extras from hotels or ones you didn’t use – they’re in high demand and greatly appreciated!

What is NOT mentioned as a factor contributing to food waste in the Parksville Qualicum Beach area?

Consider the knowledge you have gained from this quiz. Will you take the pledge to  travel regeneratively and make a positive impact on the environment and community?

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