TUI Canada consists of the brands First Choice Canada and Signature Vacations. Our Sustainable Development Committee was set up in 2006 to work closely with colleagues, consumers and partners on sustainable development. The committee initially consisted of directors and managers, but will be extended to customer-facing staff with an interest in sustainable development.

Climate Change

We have been working to mitigate the environmental impact of our offices by launching a Green Office guide, starting a recycling programme (with all proceeds benefiting the Hospital for Sick Children), putting lighting sensors and timers in common areas, installing double-sided printing as standard, and starting a carpooling incentive, now used by approximately 5-6% of colleagues.

Destinations

In conjunction with TUI UK & Ireland, we are encouraging all suppliers to sign up to the Travelife Sustainability System and incorporating the sustainable development contract addendum.

Colleagues participated in extra ‘casual dress days’ for charitable partners and donated to various charitable drives including food and clothing. Charities have included Second Harvest, Breakfast for Learning, CURE Foundation and Dress Your Best. To date, TUI Canada has raised over $8,000, 150 pounds of food and 15 bags of clothing for charitable partners.

Our People

In September 2008, the results of our internal survey revealed that 85% of colleagues agreed that “TUI Canada acts responsibly on environmental matters” and 80% agreed that “TUI Canada acts responsibly in the local communities in which we operate”.

On 20 August 2008, approximately 175 colleagues participated in First Choice Canada Cares Day. The day educated colleagues on the achievements of the Sustainable Development Committee and we held seminars on how everyone can make a difference within the office and at home.

Our Customers

TUI Canada involves customers in sustainable development issues in a number of ways. In our Summer 2008 Tropical Sun Brochure, we highlighted First Choice Canada’s sustainable development achievements as one of the key marketing messages, and we added a volunteer holiday tour in Costa Rica to our products. The Signature Vacations website features a section on Responsible Travel Partners, highlighting resort partners with good sustainability standards.