Edmonton, Alberta, has successfully secured the Destination Global Biorisk Advisory Council® (GBAC) STAR™ Accreditation. It is the first Canadian destination to secure the accreditation. Explore Edmonton, Edmonton International Airport, Edmonton Destination Marketing Hotels (EDMH), Oilers Entertainment Group, TRAXX Coachlines, Edmonton Convention Centre and Edmonton EXPO Centre call collaborated on the city-wide project. Edmonton is just one of only four destinations throughout North America, to have obtained the accreditation.
On the back of the accreditation, Explore Edmonton has launched a promotional campaign and platform Visit Safely in Edmonton: From Touchdown to Takeoff to encourage business travel, meetings, conventions and major events to return to Edmonton following Covid-19 related cancellations and postponements. The campaign showcases the health and safety and outbreak prevention measures that will be in place at participating properties across the city. In addition, Explore Edmonton and EDMH are offering incentives for event planners who are considering Edmonton as their host destination.
“For over a year, Edmonton’s tourism and hospitality industry has experienced widespread travel restrictions, event postponements and cancellations,” said Maggie Davison, interim CEO, Explore Edmonton. “As we reopen, our industry must show solidarity and collaboration in our commitment to providing a safe experience for business travellers and events returning to Edmonton. Our Destination GBAC STAR™ Accreditation proves that we are prepared to responsibly open for business, reigniting our industry and positioning Edmonton among the safest business event and travel destinations in North America.”
To obtain GBAC STAR™ Accreditation, facilities must demonstrate compliance with 20 specific elements including maintaining strict cleaning protocols, disinfection techniques, infectious disease prevention planning, staff training and more.
“The pursuit of GBAC STAR™ Facility Accreditation by various venues in Edmonton is a testament to the city’s commitment to a heightened level and ongoing priority of cleanliness that citizens, visitors, and staff now expect,” said GBAC executive director Patricia Olinger. “Through the GBAC STAR accreditation, they are showing their dedication to the next step in infection prevention post-pandemic: cleaning for health.”
