The concept of Responsible Travel is a thread that runs through every aspect of our company, from experience design to partnerships, to experience delivery and educational components. Responsible travel means much more to travellers than just protecting the environment.
“Responsible travel minimized negative economic, environmental and social impacts, generates greater economic benefits for local people, and enhances the well-being of host communities” (Capetown Declaration on Responsible Tourism, 2002[1]).
Responsible Tourism:
- Minimizing 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 industry.
- Involves local people in decisions that affect their lives and life chances.
- Makes positive contributions to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage, to the maintenance of the world’s 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, engenders respect between tourists and hosts, and builds local pride and confidence.
At Between a Lake and High Place, we implement Responsible Travel principles in these ways:
- Support local individuals and businesses
- Shop local for materials and equipment when possible
- Support local agricultural producers with sustainable operations
- Fuel-efficient and multi-passenger vehicle use
- Recycle and proper disposal of garbage and waste (Leave No Trace principles)
- Compostable or reusable food/drink containers (no plastic bottled water)
- Support community and environmental organizations through a percent profit yearly donation
- Triple Bottom Line accounting: People, Planet, Profit
[1] Taking Responsibility for Making Tourism More Responsible.