Canada’s tourism industry is showcasing its offerings to over 500 international travel agents and tour operators at the Rendez-vous Canada convention in Edmonton. However, the industry is grappling with a significant challenge: wildfires fueled by climate change are raging just a few hundred kilometers away.
The hot and dry weather conditions in Western Canada have sparked a massive fire southwest of Fort McMurray, forcing over 6,000 people to evacuate their homes. This area had previously been devastated by a major wildfire just eight years ago.
In 2023, Canada experienced its worst wildfire season ever, with over 6,400 fires burning across the country. While this season started out slower, it escalated quickly over the weekend, with major fires causing evacuations and threatening communities in both British Columbia and Alberta.
Beth Potter, president of the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, emphasizes the severe direct and indirect impacts of wildfires. Media coverage of fires in specific regions can lead to international visitors perceiving the entire country as unsafe, resulting in cancellations and a decline in tourism revenue.
A survey conducted by Destination Canada revealed that over half of Americans considering a trip to Canada within the next six months were reconsidering their plans due to the wildfires. Almost 40% indicated that the fires would have a significant impact on their decision-making.
Federal Tourism Minister Soraya Martinez Ferrada highlights the importance of addressing international perceptions. Last summer, Germany issued a travel advisory warning its citizens against travel to Canada due to the wildfires. In response, Martinez Ferrada suggests providing more specific information about the vastness of Canada and the limited impact of fires in certain areas.
Beyond wildfires, climate change is also affecting cold-season tourism. Warmer winters have resulted in the closure of the Rideau Canal and the melting of the ice hotel in Quebec City, reducing tourism revenue during these seasons.
The changing weather patterns are also leading to increased caution among travelers, who are delaying bookings until they are certain that weather conditions will be favorable. This makes it difficult for operators to plan staffing and resources effectively.
In addition to these challenges, tourism operators are facing higher insurance costs or are unable to secure coverage altogether. The insurance industry is reassessing risks associated with severe weather events, leading to increased premiums or the denial of coverage for some businesses.
The government and stakeholders are working to address these concerns and mitigate the impact of wildfires and climate change on the tourism industry. However, Martinez Ferrada acknowledges that there is no quick solution and that ongoing efforts are necessary to support the industry’s resilience.
