Global awareness of human impact on the planet has reached an all time high. We have realized that Earth’s resources are no longer limitless. As a result, changes are being made.

Global warming is no longer shunned by business or heads of state, while the travel industry has rallied to set up many viable eco-friendly ventures. Travelers are also doing their part, aligning their purchasing decisions with their values and buying products and services that positively impact the environment and communities.

But for all of this perceived progress on national and international scales, only a fraction of travel and tourism companies are actively engaging in sustainable business practices.  And many are putting their sustainability initiatives on the backburner with the economic slowdown. Sustainability can and should be seen as an integral part of any business in good times and bad.

Given the exponential growth in consumer interest and demand for corporate responsibility, now is the time to accelerate progress for those who are truly focused on long-term value. 

Corporate responsibility has become a competitive advantage, so putting more effort into and applying more resources toward sustainability initiatives during trying times will enable those who take a leadership role to reap enhanced rewards in terms of cost efficiencies and a loyal customer base.

In this issue, there are ways we can enact change locally and on a global scale. Whether it is via donations to the disaster addled areas of Myanmar and China, learning about voluntourism, or by continuing to support or learn from businesses who are true leaders in sustainability. Whatever your approach, please help us to make sure sustainability is here to stay.

All the best,

Harry Dalgaard
Director of Administration
harryd@sustainabletravel.com