Protecting the Nature that Shapes Us

Celebrate Earth Day by Exploring Sustainable Tourism in Ontario’s Southwest

Since 1970, Earth Day has been a global call to action for environmental protection. But sustainability isn’t just a one-day event—it’s a mindset we should embrace year-round. Here in Ontario’s Southwest, our natural environment is at the heart of what makes this region an incredible place to live and visit. With more than a dozen National Parks, Ontario Parks, Nature Reserves, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, and 50 Conservation Areas—plus over 900 km of Great Lakes shoreline, all within the biodiverse Carolinian Zone—our landscapes truly shape who we are.

Many businesses and organizations across the region are committed to sustainability, embedding eco-friendly practices into their tourism experiences. Here are just a few of the ways they’re making a difference.

 

Sustainability in Action: Local Businesses Leading the Way

 

Ottercreek Woodworks – Handcrafted with Purpose

Located in Oxford County, Ottercreek Woodworks is known for crafting high-quality charcuterie boards and offering From Tree to Table, an Ontario’s Southwest Signature Experience. This hands-on workshop allows visitors to create their own custom board while learning about sustainable woodworking. Every step of their process prioritizes sustainability, from responsibly sourcing wood through urban removal, windfall, and sustainable logging practices to giving back by planting a tree through One Tree Planted for every board sold.

 

 

Heeman’s – A Greener Greenhouse

In Middlesex County, Heeman’s operates as a garden centre, farm, and retail space that integrates sustainable practices into daily operations. They use beneficial insects instead of pesticides in their greenhouses and have water retention and recycling initiatives in place to conserve resources.

 

 

Long Point Eco-Adventures – Adventure with Impact

True to its name, Long Point Eco-Adventures is dedicated to sustainability. This glamping and adventure destination is EcoStay certified, meaning they actively reduce energy use, conserve water, and manage waste responsibly. A portion of each glamping stay supports the EcoStay Motherland Reforestation Project, helping offset carbon footprints.

 

 

The Long Point Biosphere Reserve: A Commitment to Conservation

This region is home to the Long Point Biosphere Reserve, a globally significant ecological area designated by UNESCO. It boasts Canada’s highest densities of wildlife and plant diversity. Biosphere reserves commit to conservation, sustainable development, and ongoing environmental education, making Long Point a must-visit for nature lovers.

 

Growing Chefs – Cultivating the Next Generation

Educating the next generation about sustainability is key to long-term environmental protection. Growing Chefs engages children through educational programs and camps, teaching them where food comes from, how to grow it, and how to cook with sustainability in mind.

 

Sustainability on Tap

 

• Charlotteville Brewing Co. - As a Long Point Biosphere Amazing Place and recipient of the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario’s sustainability award, Charlotteville Brewing Co. integrates sustainability into its farming and brewing practices. They are actively researching carbon sequestration and applying these learnings to enhance their farm’s environmental impact. Learn more about their approach here.

 

 

• London Brewing Co-op follows a “plough-to-pint” philosophy, using local, organic ingredients to brew sustainable beer. One of only two organic-certified breweries in Ontario, they prioritize sustainability every day. Their brewing process uses 40% less water than the industry average, and they make environmentally responsible choices like using recycled packaging. With 38% of their malts sourced from local craft maltsters and 58% of their hops grown in Ontario, they ensure their beers truly reflect the region.

 

 

The commitment to sustainability in Ontario’s Southwest extends beyond beer. Our region’s rich agricultural heritage is matched by passionate chefs, winemakers, and food producers dedicated to farm-to-table dining, reducing food waste, and supporting local ecosystems. Whether you’re exploring wineries, farmers’ markets, or farm-to-table restaurants, you’ll find sustainability woven into every bite.

 

Protecting Our Parks and Natural Spaces

 

Our provincial parks and conservation areas play a critical role in preserving biodiversity and educating visitors about environmental stewardship. Many parks offer programming that highlights conservation efforts, sustainable outdoor recreation, and ways to reduce human impact on fragile ecosystems. Find a National Park, Ontario Park, or Conservation Area near you and discover how they’re protecting nature for future generations.

 

 

Take Action for a Sustainable Future

 

We are happy to welcome visitors to experience the beauty and memories that our home has to offer. To ensure Ontario’s Southwest can continue to be enjoyed by future generations, we ask that you please sign the Responsible Travel Pledge.