Discovery Indochina was recently invited to attend a conference on Wildlife Protection and Responsible Tourism, held by the National Administration of Tourism, TRAFFIC – the wildlife trade monitoring network, and several other International non-governmental organizations, on 30 July 2019.
Source: Pham Thai Ha, Viện Nghiên cứu Phát triển Du lịch
The conference focused on two main subjects: outlining the illegal wildlife trade, and Vietnam’s role as a transit country for wildlife products. 7% of world tourism is connected to the wildlife trade and wildlife tourism, and in UNESCO World Heritage Sites this number is even higher (Wildlife Protection and Responsible Tourism Conference, 2019)! The second half of the day addressed corporate social responsibility and sustainable development – and why implementing socially responsible and sustainable tourism operations are beneficial for all involved, environment, business, or consumer.
What were some of the ideas proposed for commercial stakeholders at the conference? For partners in the tourism industry- like Discovery Indochina, championing wildlife protection through campaigns , workplace expectations, or through PR materials are all significant shifts toward more responsible tourism practices. Our offices are currently working towards putting these suggestions into practice, both in the workplace and in community activities.
Discovery Indochina values corporate social responsibility, and we are proud of our commitment to responsible tourism. We continuously try to increase our knowledge on illegal industries that harm the a) environment, and b) the communities that surround us by attending conferences, implementing workshops and employee training, or engaging in community work.
For our fellow past and potential customers: if you have any ideas on how Discovery Indochina can improve its tour operations to be more responsible, sustainable, and respectful, please let us know by contacting us!
Photo source: Pham Thai Ha, Viện Nghiên cứu Phát triển Du lịch