Active Travel Asia (ATA) is collaborating with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) like Fauna & Flora International (FFI) and SNV to spearhead responsible travel initiatives in Vietnam. This partnership aims to develop sustainable tourism practices that benefit local communities and preserve the natural environment. By integrating conservation efforts with tourism, ATA and its NGO partners are setting a precedent for responsible travel in Southeast Asia.
Active Travel Asia, a leading adventure tour operator in Vietnam, has joined forces with prominent NGOs, including Fauna & Flora International (FFI) and SNV, to champion the cause of responsible travel in the region. FFI, established in 1903, is renowned for its groundbreaking conservation work, which has led to the establishment of iconic protected areas such as Kruger and Serengeti National Parks. SNV, with its roots in the Netherlands, is an international development organization that offers advisory services to local entities in developing nations, with a strong presence in Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and Latin America.
During a three-day summit in Vu Linh, tour operators and NGO representatives devised cooperative strategies to craft responsible travel packages. These packages are designed to support rural and ethnic communities through various initiatives, such as constructing homes and cleaning up trails and waterways, including the renowned Halong Bay.
The meeting culminated in the agreement to form a consortium of tour operators and NGOs. This group is dedicated to supporting impoverished communities and conserving the flora and fauna in Vietnam's National Parks and Reserves by funding responsible tourism projects.
ATA is committed to positioning Vietnam as a leading destination for responsible and sustainable travel. The company aspires to be at the forefront of tour operators not only in Vietnam but also in neighboring countries like Cambodia and Laos. ATA's contribution to the development and promotion of responsible travel products is expected to have a significant impact on the tourism industry in these regions.
For those interested in experiencing responsible travel firsthand, ATA offers a variety of tours, including:
While the concept of responsible travel is gaining traction, there are compelling statistics that highlight its importance. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, the travel and tourism sector contributed 10.4% to global GDP in 2019, a clear indicator of the industry's economic significance. However, the environmental impact of tourism is also significant, with tourism-related CO2 emissions accounting for about 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, as reported by Nature Climate Change.
In Vietnam, the push for sustainable tourism is not just about environmental conservation. It's also about cultural preservation and economic development. A study by the International Labour Organization (ILO) suggests that sustainable tourism has the potential to create more decent jobs, particularly for women and young people.
By promoting responsible travel, ATA and its NGO partners are not only contributing to the preservation of Vietnam's natural and cultural heritage but are also helping to ensure that the economic benefits of tourism are distributed more equitably among local communities.
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