Travel agents join forces to create responsible travel collective

On climate and carbon consciousness, the group is committed to reducing the impact of travel by championing lower-carbon alternatives such as rail, electric vehicles, and hotels which excel in meeting environmental standards and making these properties “a viable choice” in the booking process.

The group’s own charter outlines its commitment to responsible tourism and includes a written responsible travel and animal policy, a client education strategy, carbon awareness, supporting local communities, ethical and sustainable business practices, supporting tour operators, cruise companies and destination management companies that publicly share the group’s collective ethos, and a commitment to improvement.

Quint said: “Responsible advisors are not all the same, we all run different business models, but what we share is a singular dedication to creating a positive impact. 

“Whether it’s a passion for animal welfare or a drive to solve common overtourism problems, we want to go further than we’ve been able to individually and speak with a collective voice, ensuring travel advisors are at the forefront of future of travel.”

Quint stressed the importance of responsible travel becoming “the foundation of every holiday, not just an afterthought”, adding the group wanted to work with industry leaders to provide specialist training and collaborative learning experiences, and be part of sustainability campaigns such as to stop the sale of capital cetacean attractions or on overtourism.

He urged more likeminded agents to join the group, adding: “If you believe that travel can be better, more ethical, and more rewarding for everyone involved, then there is a place for you here.”