Sustainable Tourism
Obviously a major facet of a responsible tourism policy is an environmental policy. We rely on a pristine mountain environment for our very existence, and we need to protect and preserve this environment if we and future generations are to enjoy the same pleasures and benefits. To do this both skiers and the ski industry need to take important steps towards sustainable tourism.
Thus part of providing a first class skiing holiday has to be a responsibility for conservation and protection of the environment in which we operate. With these aims in mind we have taken steps in order to improve our environmental performance and thus safeguard the natural environment in which we operate.
The question does arise whether we should raise clients awareness or wait for our clients to create a demand for sustainable tourism? Certainly there are barriers such as cost, lack of economic incentive and the fear of appearing didactic to people who are on holiday to escape from everyday responsibilities and to relax and enjoy themselves; but clients also desire a pristine mountain environment in which to do this.
As a specialist niche operator we can more easily put into practice sustainability measures than the mass tour operators who are more concerned by the financial bottom line; and by implementing the necessary steps ourselves, and by providing staff training in environmental practice, the emphasis is taken away from our guests who are left to enjoy their holiday safe in the knowledge that everything is being managed and taken care of by our resort staff. Sustainable tourisms aim is not to stop people travelling or skiing, but simply to do so more responsibly.
