Talks, discussions and responsible tourism events with information on all aspects of responsible travel, sustainable tourism, ecotourism and ethical travel.
If you have a responsible tourism event that you'd like us to add to this page, please contact steve@responsibletravelnews.com
February 2010
16 February: Afghanistan's Wakhan Corridor - Royal Geographical Society, London, UK
Kate Humble describes her journey into Afghanistan's far northeast with Wild Frontiers. With additional views from Wakhan expert, Andy Miller, the talk aims to give an in-depth insight into life in this remote mountain wilderness.
Admission: £15 (all moneys raised going to the Wild Frontiers Foundation)
More information & tickets: http://www.wildfrontiers.co.uk
March 2010
5-7 March: Destinations: The holiday & travel show - NEC, Birmingham, UK
12 March: Responsible Cruising Conference - 10am-4pm, Leeds
Lecture Room D in the Rose Bowl (RD538)
Leeds Metropolitan University, Portland Crescent, Leeds, LS1 3HB
Map and Parking http://www.leedsmet.ac.uk/Full_Maps_1April09_Web.pdf
Catch the Free Bus from the Railway Station or walk up either East Parade or Park Row, the new Rose Bowl is behind the City Hall.
Register Now
If you plan to attend register your interest by emailing Andreas Walmsley at responsiblecruising@googlemail.com
Free one day event with keynote speaker Prof Ross Klein, Memorial University of Newfoundland in Canada. Ross is an international expert with knowledge of cruising out of the UK, North America and the Caribbean, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Harold Goodwin will be talking about Responsible Tourism in Antarctica. This conference is an opportunity to explore what we mean by Responsible Cruising and to begin to work towards a definition of it.
10:00 Opening and Introduction setting the Agenda Harold Goodwin
10:15 Setting the Agenda: Economic Issues Ross Klein Chaired by Harold Goodwin
Economic Responsibility for example:
the bargaining power of cruise operating companies over landing and berthing fees when they have exceptional mobility and are able to play one port against another. the capturing of value in highly vertically integrated companies which often own or part own their handling agents and “local” retailers in the ports. the ability of cruise line operators to influence and manage the purchasing decisions of their passengers. the extent to which the supply chains of the cruise lines benefit the local economies of the destinations they use. Is it true that the destinations do not capture an appropriate share of the value of the cruise – the cruise lines are largely “free loaders” with no investment in the destination.
Social Responsibility for example
11:00 Setting the Agenda: Social Issues Ross Klein Chaired by Harold Goodwin
the impact of large numbers of tourists, often inappropriately dressed, coming ashore and dominating the destination to the detriment of locals and other visitors. the impact of intensive large group visitors on the aesthetics and visitor experience at natural and cultural heritage sites.
11:45 Setting the Agenda: Environmental Issues Ross Klein Chaired by Harold Goodwin Environmental Responsibility for example
Discharge of waste – within the 12 mile limit and beyond Solid waste disposal ashore Green House Gas Emissions High intensity, high volume low value visitor pressure undermining conservation at natural and cultural heritage sites.
12:30 – 13:30 there is modern attractive cafeteria in the Rose Bowl
13:30 What is the agenda for river cruising? Fran Hughes, Travel Foundation
14:00 Shaun Russell Director Welsh Environment Hub, Bangor University, Tourism in the Falklands and Antarctica
14:30 What would Responsible Tourism in Antarctica look like? Harold Goodwin
15:00 Cruising for people with disabilities. Craig Grimes and Andreas Walmsley ICRT
15:30 Reflections on Responsible Cruising, John de Vial of ABTA will close the day with some reflections on what has been learnt from the day
18 March: 'Look at Animals with a Different View' talks - Royal Geographical Society, London, UK
Born Free Founder Virginia McKenna OBE and investigative reporter Donal MacIntyre are joined by special guests and leading travel industry decision-makers. An enlightening, entertaining and challenging discussion about tourism’s impact on wild animals.
Admission: £12.50
More information & tickets: http://www.bornfree.org.uk/get-involved/events/born-free-at-the-rgs/
15–19 March: 'Look at Animals with a Different View' exhibition - Royal Geographical Society, London, UK
How do our holidays affect the lives of wild animals? Can tourism actually help protect natural environments? Discover how animal exploitation or poor conditions can ruin a holiday. See 25 years of Born Free in action. Find out how our Traveller’s Animal Alert project responds to public concerns, investigates neglect and stops suffering.
Admission: free
More information: http://www.bornfree.org.uk/get-involved/events/born-free-at-the-rgs/
