TOI lends support to initiative

The Tour Operators’ Initiative for Sustainable Tourism Development (TOI) has indicate its support for efforts in favour of a global, multilaterally-agreed framework for the reduction of greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions from aviation that would mirror the global nature of travel and tourism, with all jurisdictions working hand-in-hand. TOI chairman, Michel Lemay commented: “The travel industry at large, as well as the aviation industry, have already taken actions to reduce GHG emissions and we would welcome globally-accepted market-based measures, provided the approach dovetails with other strategies, including research and development, technological and operational innovation, and use of sustainable bio-fuels, as well as initiatives or projects that actually benefit the environment.” And he pointed out that: “Planet Earth has only one atmosphere, molecules can’t be held in check at the border, making this the quintessential multi-lateral file.” TOI’s chairman noted as well that: “Travel and tourism is one of the biggest economic engines on the planet, representing 255 million jobs in virtually all countries on all continents. Travel and tourism together, in which air transport plays a crucial role, may not only be sustainable but actually a primary driver of green growth. It is also often a primary driver behind environmental, landscape and heritage protection, and it helps foster dialogue and exchanges between cultures. Surely there is a way to combine the benefits of travel and reductions in GHG emissions.” TOI was founded in 2000 and is a non-profit organization of tour operators and travel companies of all sizes based in all parts of the world. Together they represent more than 50 million international travellers. With the support of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), hosting the TOI Secretariat, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), TOI member companies work together to promote best practices in sustainability and corporate responsibility. TOI members include: Accor (France), Andes Nativa (Chile), Atlas Voyages (Morocco), Aurinko Suntours (Finland), Steppes Discovery (UK), Dynamic Tours (Morocco), Kuoni Travel Holding Ltd. (Switzerland), NES Travel (Turkey), REWE-Touristik (Germany), Sahara Tours International (Morocco), Settemari (Italy), TLB Destinations (Lebanon), Transat A.T. Inc. (Canada), TraveláWaljiÆsáPVT (Pakistan) and TUI Travel plc (United Kingdom). Go to http://www.toinitiative.org for more.