Sustainability

Promoting sustainable travel has been a key focus of SMAL’s activities since the late 1980s, when the first working group dedicated to the topic was established. Over the years, responsible tourism has remained an important priority for the association. The association has made international programs available to its members and provided support for responsibility work through information and tools, among other things. The association strives to strengthen its members’ capabilities and support the future functioning of the entire industry.

Sustainable travel:

minimizes negative economic, environmental, and social impacts;
generates economic benefits for the local population and increases the well-being of local communities, improves working conditions and access to the industry;
involves local people in decisions that affect their lives and livelihoods;
promotes the preservation of natural and cultural heritage and the maintenance of global diversity;
provides traveler with enjoyable experiences because they have good connections with local people and a better understanding of local cultural, social, and environmental issues;
enables access for people with reduced mobility;
is culturally sensitive, strengthens mutual respect between tourists and the local population, and increases local pride and confidence.

(https://responsibletourismpartnership.org/cape-town-declaration-on-responsible-tourism/)

Sustainable travel working group

Chair
Lauri Laakso | Elämys Group