This inquiry uses the ethical argument that everyone bears responsibility for the current climate crisis as inspiration to examine the whitewater rafting industry in the Sea to Sky of British Columbia. The Sea to Sky, an area north of Vancouver, is known for its natural scenery and tourism value. It is also where the author has been employed over the summer and his first-hand knowledge is used in this project to provide extra depth of understanding. Using the existing literature, this thesis argues that rafting operations have both a self-interest in developing, and duty to develop, environmentally responsible practices. Through interviews and qualitative analysis, this thesis investigates environmentally responsible behavior practiced within the Sea to Sky’s rafting industry, and the motivations that operators feel concerning the environment. The thesis examines existing practices in adjacent industries to gain perspective on the themes identified in the primary research. Conclusions are created through a comparison of the current practices of the Sea to Sky’s rafting industry and suggestions are generated for companies seeking to improve their own environmental practices.
