How to tell tour groups are really environmental-friendly
Looking for tour operators who are really eco-friendly? And how do you know it?
Trusted Adventures travel alliance says membership is one element of proof from companies committed to conserving the natural environment and local cultures.
“The companies that comprise the Trusted Adventures Alliance have made responsible tourism practices a way of life in the operation of their business. While others may treat it as a fad or trend, our members see it as their social and environmental obligation,” said Dave Wiggins, Executive Director of Trusted Adventures LLC.
“Just because a trip is labeled as an “Eco” adventure doesn’t always mean they are earth-friendly,” Mr Wiggins points out. “Adventure travel is not truly green unless the operators actively conserve and respect the natural environment.”
The seven member companies of Trusted Adventures promote responsible travel that brings economic support to local communities through tourism while preserving the community’s heritage and natural resources, he said. And they prove this commitment with tangible grassroots efforts, according to Mr. Wiggins.
For example, Western River Expeditions has initiated a $1 per guest, per day contribution to the Grand Canyon Fund, which awards grants each year to researchers who are working to protect this national treasure.
Western also participates in the Collaborative Alternative Motorboat Propulsion Research and Implementation Project, which is working to develop cleaner means of propelling motorized river boats. They have had limited success with electric motors and hope to achieve a hydrogen powered motor in the near future.
ROW Adventures, another Trusted Adventures company, is a supporting member of Idaho Rivers United, a group dedicated to protecting the state’s rivers.
Trusted Adventures companies actively support many local and global environmental conservation organizations every year including: Sustainable Travel International, The International Ecotourism Society, Center for Responsible Tourism, Conservation International, The Nature Conservancy, Rainforest Alliance, Galapagos Conservancy, Native Energy, and others.
Trusted Adventures LLC was established in 2005 as an adventure travel consortium.
Report by David Wilkening
David
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