What are some ways to choose environmentally responsible destinations for your tour operator?

2 Consider the social and cultural impacts of tourism on the destination

Another way to choose environmentally responsible destinations is to consider how tourism affects the local people and their culture. You can look for destinations that promote community-based tourism, which involves the participation and empowerment of local residents in the planning, management, and benefits of tourism. You can also look for destinations that respect and celebrate the diversity and heritage of their culture, and that protect their intangible assets, such as languages, traditions, arts, and crafts. Moreover, you can avoid destinations that exploit or commodify their culture, or that suffer from overtourism, which can lead to social problems, such as displacement, congestion, or loss of identity.

3 Support local and sustainable businesses and initiatives in the destination

A third way to choose environmentally responsible destinations is to support local and sustainable businesses and initiatives that operate in the destination. You can look for destinations that have a strong network of local suppliers, such as farmers, artisans, guides, or transporters, that offer quality products and services, while also generating income and employment for the community. You can also look for destinations that have innovative and impactful projects, such as social enterprises, cooperatives, or NGOs, that address environmental or social challenges, such as conservation, education, health, or empowerment. Furthermore, you can support these businesses and initiatives by booking with them, buying from them, or donating to them.

5 Educate yourself and your clients about the destination's sustainability challenges and opportunities

A fifth way to choose environmentally responsible destinations is to educate yourself and your clients about the destination's sustainability challenges and opportunities. You can look for destinations that have reliable and accessible sources of information and education on their environmental and social issues, such as websites, brochures, signs, or guides. You can also look for destinations that have inspiring and engaging stories and examples of their sustainability achievements and aspirations, such as campaigns, events, or awards. Moreover, you can educate yourself and your clients by reading, watching, or listening to these sources and stories, by asking questions or joining discussions, or by following their recommendations and guidelines.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?