Tourism can be both an economic blessing and an environmental curse. But as consumer interest in 'green' getaways grows, the travel industry and tourism organizations are putting the spotlight on sustainability. There was no shortage of green destinations on offer at ITB Berlin, the world's largest tourism trade fair.

Photo: Arne AderSustainable travel was a big theme of this year's convention. Travel providers are responding to rising demand for eco-tourism by marketing adventure packages with a "green spirit." Exhibitors from more than 30 countries featured holiday tours ranging from environmentally friendly trips at eco-resorts to CO2 emissions-free walking, cycling or sailing vacations.

Yet eco-tourism is becoming more than just a niche market for environmentally minded travelers. ITB Berlin spokesperson Astrid Ehring said “as green travel grows more popular, some tourists are expressing interest in trips that incorporate volunteer programs. People are looking more and more for specific products and authentic experiences, and green tourism is a way of getting these kinds of experiences."
But travel companies' ability to provide a "real" experience also hinges on preserving the beauty of natural landscapes in popular travel destinations. "We think that (green tourism) is not only a trendy topic, but it's a social necessity - and it's a precondition for long-term economic success," she said.

A number of organizations and non-profits are working to open up natural areas to tourism without damaging sensitive ecosystems. The European Destinations of Excellence, or EDEN project, launched in 2006, encourages countries to adopt healthy and sustainable tourism policies. In 2009 two out of the eleven PAN Parks destinations also won the EDEN award, which proves they are sustainable destinations in their country - Soomaa NP in Estonia and Rila NP in Bulgaria.” - says Barbara Mayer, PAN Parks Tourism Development Manager who was also representing PAN Parks at the ITB. “PAN Parks Foundation has also launched its tourism model with the aim to provide high quality tourism packages in the network of certified PAN Parks across Europe. The model involves a network of tour operators who develop and offer trips to these wilderness destinations in co-operation with the PAN Parks Foundation.”

For further information:
Edit Borza, Communications Manager
eborza@panparks.org

Photo: Bruno D’Amicis/brunodamicis.com