Stories from the Trails: How Pacific Destination Services Balances Wild Beauty with World-Class Events
Story submitted by PDS
Often, sustainability is associated with environmental impact. In business events, destination management companies like Pacific Destination Services (PDS) also consider community and cultural impact.
“Sustainability isn’t a box to check, it’s a mindset,” says Bronwyn Slade, Director of Global Business Development at PDS, a Banff & Lake Louise Tourism member. “Every decision we make, from the materials we use, to the way we move people, is rooted in respect for the land and the community.”
A ‘business event’ is a carefully curated experience that can range from a conference to a luxury retreat and exclusive hospitality, all designed to create moments of awe in iconic destinations. These events bring groups to places like Banff and Lake Louise for work-related gatherings and are instrumental to the destination’s economic health.
In this place, where wild beauty meets world-class hospitality, PDS is demonstrating that sustainability and excellence can go hand in hand. Through thoughtful planning and collaboration, events are being designed to protect the natural capital and celebrate local identity.
Here's how PDS is supporting the destination’s vision to Lead Tourism for Good, one business event at a time:
Nature leads the way
Elk rutting season, which takes place from mid-August to October in Banff, also happens to be the peak time for corporate groups, some of whom want to use outdoor spaces for events. During this time, PDS will pause tent construction near forested areas to allow nature to take its course.
“It’s not a disruption; it’s part of the plan,” says Bronwyn. That approach is part of the PDS standard to be in sync with nature.
Building for the future
When a client of PDS’s, whose program attracts 900 guests, fell in love with the idea of a custom rodeo at a local ranch, PDS built additional permanent grandstand seating to accommodate the large crowd. These seats continue to be enjoyed by groups of all sizes to this day.
Fresh catering approach
An easy way for business events clients to participate in PDS’s sustainability efforts is through considerate menu planning: enhancing flavour and variety while reducing food waste.
PDS partners with catering companies that focus on locally sourced ingredients and adopt the 100-mile food concept. This means that wherever possible, food and ingredients must be sourced within a 100-mile radius.
This strategy highlights sustainability and supports local producers, while showcasing Banff’s regional culinary identity.
Event Produced by PDS
Hyper-local décor
Traditionally, linens are associated with fine dining and elegant events.
“Since Banff and Lake Louise are blessed with breathtaking scenery, expansive skies, and forests, we recommend highlighting these natural elements at our clients' events, instead” shared Bronwyn. “Here, guests enjoy dining at wooden tables, which provide a refined look and feel.”
Curated décor is a vital element in any PDS-designed event. Living greenery introduces an outdoor vibe into a ballroom or event space and adds a strong sense of place.
Used for entrance treatments, pathways, and stage enhancements, living trees and plants not only produce oxygen but also provide authentic scent and texture, and they can be reused multiple times during the program.
These examples not only support a nature-positive approach but also enhance the overall visitor experience.
Reducing resources
Maintaining a human touch is essential to PDS.
“If feasible, we encourage walking groups to venues, and along the way, our friendly Travel Specialists dressed in sharp PDS uniforms act as ‘human arrows’, guiding guests safely to their destinations.”
This also supports the destination’s goal to encourage active modes of transportation to and within the national park.
“We further lessen our environmental impact with double-sided printing, implementing composting and recycling initiatives at our events where available,” she said. “We recommend reusable water bottles as gifts and provide water stations on-site to reduce the use of single-use plastic bottles.”
A lasting impact
From legacy infrastructure to locally sourced meals, PDS’s approach to sustainability is holistic and heartfelt. While they bring economic impact by helping draw visitors in a quieter season, they also work to connect visitors meaningfully with the destination.
“We work in protected environments,” Bronwyn says. “That means building with intention, sourcing locally, and always honouring the land. The impact we leave stays in the landscape, in the community, and in the memory of every guest.”
Protecting the ecological integrity of Banff National Park is a shared source of pride for those who live, work, and do business here. Fostering tourism that enhances the natural legacy of this place is not only integral to its future, but also a responsibility embraced by those shaping experiences here.
Among them, PDS stands out as a destination management company committed to respecting, honouring, and supporting the natural environment, cultural diversity, and local business community in Banff. It’s their way of leading tourism for good.