Clients who see impact of climate change 'become passionate converts'

Customers who see first-hand the impact of climate-change become passionate about protecting the environment, according to HX Expeditions chief operating officer Alex Delamere White.

 

Speaking at Abta’s Travel Convention, Delamere White defended the fact the cruise line takes customers to destinations affected by climate change such as Antarctica.

 

He said education was a key way of converting consumer opinion and understanding the importance of protecting the globe against the impact of climate change.

 

“We believe taking people to these places and educating them about the impact of climate change is really important,” he said.

 

He stressed: “Those destinations such as Antarctica are not affected by people travelling there, it’s climate change.

 

“Research by the University of Tasmania on the impact of the [climate change] experience was categorical; when travellers have seen incredible destinations they want to protect them. The impact on their families and friends, their approach about being mindful about sustainability, is huge.”

 

He added sustainability was “part of our DNA” as a company while science and learning was also “central” to the brand, with “live” research projects.

 

“We are one of the only cruise brands with a chief scientist that works directly for HX. People come back with a different perspective [once] they have seen the impact of research; they come back wanting to learn more,” he said, noting: “We removed use of heavy fuel before we were required to do so. But we need to continue to invest and reduce emissions.”

 

Jamie Loizou, managing director, international markets, AmaWaterways, told the panel it was vital as a river cruise line to be sustainable and work with the local communities it visits.

 

He said: “It’s important we are mindful in the way we work. We work carefully with local communities; we source our food and wine locally. We want to be part of the conversation.”