| Green Travel News |
Wednesday, November 10th is an international day of action to help protect the world environment. World Responsible Tourism Day, now in its 4th year, is the only global event of its kind sponsored by BBC World News and the United Nations World Tourism Organization. An expo in London is expected to draw tourism organizations from around the globe to mark the day and discuss strategies and practical implementation of sustainable tourism practices.
What exactly is sustainable tourism, you might ask. In 2002, 280 representatives from all sectors of tourism from 20 countries, meeting in Cape Town, South Africa, agreed that it:
- minimizes negative economic, environmental and social impacts
- generates greater economic benefits for local people and enhances the well being of host communities; improves working conditions and access to the industry
- involves local people in decisions that affect their lives and life chances
- makes positive contributions to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage, embracing diversity
- provides more enjoyable experiences for tourists through more meaningful connections with local people, and a greater understanding of local cultural, social and environmental issues
- provides access for physically challenged people
- is culturally sensitive, encourages respect between tourists and hosts, and builds local pride and confidence.
