Tourism Leaders Commit to Measurable Sustainability Action

By james
April 23, 2026

Explorers’ Edge expands its program as operators respond to rising traveller demand for responsible experiences

EXPLORERS’ EDGE, ONTARIO — April 22, 2026 (Earth Day)

On Earth Day, a global moment dedicated to environmental action, Explorers’ Edge is highlighting significant progress in sustainable tourism across the region. Five local businesses have completed reassessments through the Sustainable Tourism Pilot Project, originally launched in 2021, demonstrating measurable improvements in environmental stewardship, cultural preservation, and community impact.

Delivered in partnership with GreenStep, which administers a globally recognized sustainable tourism certification program, the initiative supports operators in strengthening their sustainability management systems and aligning with international best practices.

The first cohort of participating businesses has now completed both an initial assessment and a recent reassessment to measure progress and ensure accountability. Their current recognition levels are:

  • Clear Lake Brewing & Muskoka Beer Spa (Torrance): Silver
  • Diamond Waters Sailing (Parry Sound): Gold
  • Muskoka Steamship & Discovery Centre (Gravenhurst): Silver
  • Sail Parry Sound (Parry Sound): Silver
  • Voyageur Quest (Northwest Algonquin Park): Silver

Building on this momentum, Explorers’ Edge is recommitting to the program in 2026 by welcoming a second cohort of operators who will undertake the sustainability pathway:

  • Northern Edge Algonquin (Northwest Algonquin Park)
  • Muskoka Soul (Gravenhurst)
  • Gnarnia Craft Ceremony Co. (Tiny)
  • North Ridge Ranch (Huntsville)
  • Canadian Raceboat Hall of Fame (Muskoka Lakes)

The GreenStep program evaluates businesses across key areas including energy and water conservation, biodiversity protection, cultural heritage, local employment and procurement, and guest and employee engagement, all within a structured sustainability management system.

As travellers increasingly seek experiences that reflect their environmental and social values, Earth Day serves as a timely reminder of the role tourism operators play in protecting natural spaces and supporting resilient communities. This growing regional commitment positions Explorers’ Edge as a leader in advancing responsible and regenerative tourism in Ontario.

“Regional operators are showing real leadership by committing to measurable sustainability practices,” said James Murphy, CEO of Explorers’ Edge. “Their progress demonstrates that responsible tourism isn’t a trend, it’s the future of our visitor economy, and our region is proud to be at the forefront of that shift.”

About Explorers’ Edge (RTO12)

Explorers’ Edge, officially known as Regional Tourism Organization 12, is the provincial tourism organization for the regions of Muskoka, Parry Sound, Almaguin Highlands, Loring-Restoule, and South Algonquin. The organization leads regenerative tourism development through innovative partnerships, sustainability pilots, and community-driven initiatives that strengthen Ontario’s rural visitor economy.

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For more information, please contact:

James Murphy

CEO Explorers’ Edge
Email: [email protected]