Traveling is an enriching experience that allows us to explore new cultures, meet new people, and see the world from a different perspective. However, it is important to travel in an ethical and sustainable way to preserve our planet’s resources and respect the people and cultures we encounter. One way to do this is by supporting ethical travel organizations. Here are ten ethical travel organizations to support:
1. Responsible Travel
Responsible Travel is a community of like-minded travelers and tour operators who believe in sustainable tourism. They promote trips that are environmentally friendly, respect local cultures, and benefit local communities. They have a range of trips, from cultural tours to wildlife safaris, that are vetted for their sustainability credentials.
2. Pack for a Purpose
Pack for a Purpose is an organization that encourages travelers to pack items needed by communities around the world. Travelers can choose a destination, find a list of needed supplies, and pack them in their luggage. The supplies are then distributed to local schools, medical clinics, and other community organizations.
3. Ethical Traveler
Ethical Traveler is a non-profit organization that aims to promote ethical travel around the world. They select the ten best developing countries in terms of their commitment to human rights, social welfare, and environmental protection, and encourage travelers to visit these destinations. In doing so, they hope to support the economies of these countries and raise awareness about ethical tourism.
4. National Geographic Society
The National Geographic Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to science, exploration, and education. They offer a range of sustainable travel options, from small-ship expeditions to cultural tours. They also promote responsible tourism through their sustainable tourism initiatives, which aim to reduce the environmental impact of travel and support local communities.
5. Planeterra Foundation
The Planeterra Foundation is a non-profit organization that works to create positive impacts through responsible tourism. They partner with local communities around the world to develop sustainable tourism initiatives that create jobs, protect the environment, and promote cultural exchange. They provide travelers with sustainable travel options, such as homestays and community-based tours, that support their community projects.
6. Friends International
Friends International is a non-profit organization that works to protect and support marginalized children and youth around the world. They offer ethical travel opportunities, such as tours and homestays, that allow travelers to meet and learn from the communities they support. The revenue generated from these tours goes back into supporting their community projects.
7. The Travel Foundation
The Travel Foundation is a charity organization that works to promote sustainable tourism around the world. They work with tourism businesses, destinations, and communities to create sustainable tourism initiatives that benefit the environment, economy, and local people. They offer a range of resources and training for travelers, businesses, and policymakers to promote responsible tourism.
8. Tourism Concern
Tourism Concern is a non-profit organization that works to promote ethical and sustainable tourism. They campaign for fair trade in tourism, support community tourism initiatives, and provide resources and training for travelers, businesses, and policymakers. They also offer a range of ethical travel guides and responsible tourism initiatives.
9. Local Alike
Local Alike is a social enterprise that promotes sustainable tourism in Thailand. They partner with local communities to develop responsible tourism initiatives that promote cultural exchange, protect the environment, and create employment opportunities. They offer a range of sustainable travel options that allow travelers to stay with local families, participate in community projects, and experience local culture.
10. Rainforest Alliance
The Rainforest Alliance is a non-profit organization that works to conserve biodiversity and ensure sustainability in agricultural and tourism industries. They offer certification programs for sustainable tourism, which ensures that tourism businesses meet rigorous environmental, social, and economic standards. They also offer a range of resources for travelers, businesses, and policymakers to promote sustainable tourism.
Conclusion
By supporting these ten ethical travel organizations, you can ensure that your travels have a positive impact on the environment, communities, and cultures you encounter. You can also learn about sustainable travel practices and promote responsible tourism in your own travels. Together, we can make the world a better place through ethical travel.