The global footprint of travellers, both on the cultures of peoples and their environment is only like to increase, in spite of efforts to minimise it. The hospitality and travel industry has a leading role to play in ensuring that the growth in travel does not destroy the very reason people are travelling for.

Countries, states and provinces which work jointly with the tourism industry in finding this difficult balance will be critical. This will help sustain growth patterns without reckless exploitation of the natural and cultural resources of a destination leaving it depleted for future generations.

An organisation which works towards this goal is Business Enterprises for Sustainable Travel (BEST). Its objective is to serve as a leading source of knowledge on innovative travel and tourism practices that advance business, community and travellers’ interests and which also support the economic and social sustainability of destinations.

BEST focuses on three main areas to make a difference, university education, travellers philanthropy and community tourism. For more information please visit http://www.sustainabletravel.org/

Some other organisations include:

The International Ecotourism Society www.ecotourism.org/

International Tourism Partnership www.tourismpartnership.org/

Responsible Hospitality Institute http://www.rhiweb.org/

Tour Operators Initiative http://www.toinitiative.org/

Here is a video on Rainforest Conservation and Community Development Expedition in Ecuador, one of the many ways organisations and travellers are working together.