Carbon-neutral Okanagan tour company recognized for focus on sustainability

It’s about showcasing the region’s natural beauty sustainably.

That’s the goal of Summerland's Ogopogo Tours, which won the Tourism Excellence Award at the Penticton and Wine Country Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards. Sponsored by Travel Penticton, the award denotes substantial contribution to Penticton tourism.

“Having enjoyed my life in this wonderful and diverse region, it’s my pleasure to share it with guests from around the globe,” said CEO Darren Sweet. “I wanted to make a living while doing no harm. Our company has been sustainable and carbon-neutral since we launched in 2015. Sustainability goes beyond emissions to include sustainable relationships with guests, local businesses, the tourism industry and our community.”

Ogopogo Tours works with the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association to support sustainability as a foundation of business decisions.


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Parker Crook

Parker Crook

Parker Crook is a Saskatchewan-born reporter who began his career in journalism while studying the craft at SAIT in Calgary. After cutting his teeth at the school news outlet as the Opinions Editor, Parker landed a position at a Vernon newspaper and worked his way up to the editor’s chair. Parker strives to tell stories that have a genuine impact on the community he calls home. And, from courtroom dramas to on stage antics, Parker believes meaningful stories can be found just about anywhere.