Code of Conduct for the Protection of Children from Sexual ...

1.2 Policy for Sustainable Tourism at Aurinkomatkat-Suntours Ltd
Policy for Sustainable Tourism at
Aurinkomatkat-Suntours Ltd
Aurinkomatkat-Suntours Ltd begun implementing its policy for sustainable tourism in
1999. The aim of this policy is to try to secure the possibilities for future generations to
enjoy travelling and to make a living out of tourism. In order to achieve this goal we must
ensure that the negative impacts of tourism on the environment, economy, society and
culture are minimised and the positive impacts maximised. This we cannot do alone.
The future of tourism on our planet needs a common commitment to sustainable
development among all stakeholders – from you and us.
OUR CODE OF CONDUCT
1. We try to be aware of the environmental, cultural and economic impacts of our activities
and to minimise the negative impacts.
2. We co-operate with partners who respect nature and local culture. We avoid co-operating
with parties whose actions cause intentional and unnecessary harm to the environment and
local culture.
3. We try to minimise the use of excess materials and also to re-use and recycle materials.
4. We train our staff to be aware of the challenges and opportunities of sustainable tourism.
5. We support projects that enhance the state of the natural environment as well as the
local culture in our destinations. We also strive to co-operate with local authorities in these
matters.
6. We tell our clients how to enjoy the environment and local culture in the destinations
without causing negative impacts.
7. We monitor the impressions of our clients on the state of the environment.
Aurinkomatkat-Suntours Ltd is a member of the Tour
Operators’ Initiative for Sustainable Tourism Development.
A PUBLIC COMMITMENT
Aurinkomatkat-Suntours Ltd is concerned about the impact of our tours and activities.
We recognise our responsibility to develop and operate in a manner that makes a positive
contribution to the natural, social and cultural environment. We also recognise and accept
our responsibility to operate in ways that reduce environmental impacts, benefit host
communities, safeguard the future livelihood of local people, and ensure the protection of
destinations for future generations.
To fulfil this responsibility, we have joined together to work in close partnership with the
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the United Nations Educational, Scientific
and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and the World Tourism Organisation (WTO/OMT).
In doing so, we commit in this Initiative to:
• protect the natural environment and cultural heritage;
• co-operate with local communities and people, ensure they benefit from the visits of
our customers and encourage our customers to respect the local way of life;
• conserve plants and animals, protected areas and landscapes;
• respect the integrity of local cultures and their social institutions;
• comply with local, national and international laws and regulations;
• oppose and actively discourage illegal, abusive or exploitative forms of tourism;
• work closely with business partners, local authorities, regional and national
governments and other organisations to achieve sustainable tourism development;
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