Northern Edge Algonquin has received national recognition for its sustainability and inclusion practices.
Officials said the organization received GreenStep’s Sustainable Tourism Pathway recognition, becoming the first business in Canada to achieve Level 5 standing, the highest level within GreenStep’s updated sustainability framework.
“Northern Edge Algonquin is a remarkable example of sustainability leadership in tourism. Achieving Level 5 on GreenStep’s Sustainable Tourism Pathway means demonstrating leadership in measurable, outcome-oriented impact, not just good intentions. What stood out to us was the depth and consistency of their practices across every area of the assessment,” said Amélie Chanda, Senior Program Manager, Sustainable Tourism & Climate Action at GreenStep. “They are, in fact, the first business to reach Level 5 since the launch of our Pathway program in 2025, and that milestone speaks for itself. We’re proud to have them as part of our network.”
GreenStep’s Sustainable Tourism Pathway, launched in 2025, evaluates tourism organizations across more than 85 indicators related to environmental stewardship, community impact, governance, purchasing practices, staff engagement, and long-term planning.
According to GreenStep website, Level 5 is awarded to organizations that demonstrate excellence across all pillars of sustainability while acting as innovators and role models within Canada’s tourism sector.
Officials said some of the initiatives that helped the organization earn the award include an off-grid solar energy system, local purchasing practices, sustainability training programs, community partnerships, environmental stewardship practices, and guest education initiatives.
Additionally, officials said the organization received Rainbow Registered accreditation through the Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce (CQCC), marking a week of independent third-party recognition focused on both sustainability and inclusion.
“We’ve never pursued sustainability or inclusion because we were looking for recognition. These practices are simply the right things to do. What makes this achievement meaningful is that it reflects the collective efforts of a team that genuinely cares—about people, about community, and about the land we’re privileged to steward,” shared Todd Lucier, Northern Edge Algonquin Co-Founder. “The acknowledgement is an honour, but the real accomplishment is building a culture where these values are lived every day.”
The Rainbow Registered is national accreditation program for businesses and organizations committed to creating welcoming and inclusive experiences for 2SLGBTQIA+ people, and participation was supported through FedNor-funded programming.
To earn the award, officials said the organization had to review and document policies, staff training, guest communications, accessibility practices, and organizational commitments related to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
