Sample Codes of Ethics in Adventure Tourism

NOVA SCOTIA ADVENTURE TOURISM ASSOCIATION Code of Ethics Ensuring that the environmental, social, cultural, economic and aesthetic needs and expectations of the community and their customers are included in the formulation of policies, plans and decisions, and result in the provision of quality goods and services. Ensuring operations are designed and conducted in a manner that will conserve resources, minimize or eliminate environmental damage, and where possible, enhance environmental situations Continually evaluating new information, technologies and services, thus providing themselves and their employees with opportunities for development, environmental education and protection, and improved customer service.

Acting with a spirit of cooperation within the industry and related sectors to foster greater public awareness of the economic, social, cultural and environmental significance of tourism. Enhancing our natural, historic, cultural and aesthetic resources as a legacy for present and future generations, through encouraging establishment of parks, wilderness reserves and protected areas.

Conserve the natural environment, ecosystems and biodiversity APEC/PATA (Pacific-Asia Travel Association) Code for Sustainable Tourism (Adopted 2001) Conserve the natural environment, ecosystems and biodiversity CONTRIBUTE to the conservation of any habitat of flora and fauna affected by tourism ENCOURAGE relevant authorities to identify areas worthy of conservation and to determine the level of development, if any, that would be compatible in or adjacent to those areas INCLUDE enhancement and corrective actions at tourism sites to conserve wildlife and natural ecosystems.

Respect and support local traditions, cultures and communities APEC/PATA (Pacific-Asia Travel Association) Code for Sustainable Tourism (Adopted 2001) Respect and support local traditions, cultures and communities ENSURE that community attitudes, local customs and cultural values, and the role of women and children, are understood in the planning and implementation of all tourism related projects PROVIDE opportunities for the wider community to take part in discussions on tourism planning issues where these affect the tourism industry and the community ENCOURAGE relevant authorities to identify cultural heritage worthy of conservation and to determine the level of development if any which would be compatible in or adjacent to those areas CONTRIBUTE to the identity and pride of local communities through providing quality tourism products and services sensitive to those communities.

Maintain environmental management systems APEC/PATA (Pacific-Asia Travel Association) Code for Sustainable Tourism (Adopted 2001) Maintain environmental management systems ENSURE that environmental assessment is an integral step in planning for a tourism project ENCOURAGE regular environmental audits of practices throughout the tourism industry and to promote desirable changes to those practices ESTABLISH detailed environmental policies and indicators, and/or guidelines for the various sectors of the tourism industry INCORPORATE environmentally sensitive design and construction solutions in any building or landscaping for tourism purposes.

Conserve and reduce energy, waste and pollutants APEC/PATA (Pacific-Asia Travel Association) Code for Sustainable Tourism (Adopted 2001) Conserve and reduce energy, waste and pollutants FOSTER environmentally responsible practices for: • reducing pollutants and greenhouse gases, • conserving water and protecting water quality, • managing efficiently waste and energy, • controlling noise levels and • promoting the use of recyclable and biodegradable materials. • Encourage a tourism commitment to environments and cultures ENCOURAGE those involved in tourism to comply with local, regional and national planning policies and to participate in the planning process FOSTER, in both management and staff of all tourism projects and activities, an awareness of environmental and cultural values ENCOURAGE all those who provide services to tourism enterprises to participate through environmentally and socially responsible actions SUPPORT environmental and cultural awareness through tourism marketing.

Educate and inform others about local environments and cultures APEC/PATA (Pacific-Asia Travel Association) Code for Sustainable Tourism (Adopted 2001) Educate and inform others about local environments and cultures SUPPORT the inclusion of environmental and cultural values in tourism education, training and planning ENHANCE the appreciation and understanding by tourists of natural environments and cultural sensitivities through the provision of accurate information and appropriate interpretation ENCOURAGE, and support research on the environmental and cultural impacts of tourism

Cooperate with others to sustain environments and cultures APEC/PATA (Pacific-Asia Travel Association) Code for Sustainable Tourism (Adopted 2001) Cooperate with others to sustain environments and cultures COOPERATE with other individuals and organisations to advance environmental improvements and sustainable development practices, including establishing indicators and monitoring

Canada’s Code of Ethics & Guidelines for Sustainable Tourism The Canadian tourism industry is guided by the values of respect, integrity and empathy in designing, delivering and marketing sustainable tourism products, facilities and services.

Guidelines Protect Natural and Cultural Heritage Resources Support and contribute to the protection, enhancement and restoration of the integrity of natural and cultural heritage resources and places; encourage the establishment of parks, sites and reserves; support legislation to ensure protection of historic places and resources; condemn wilful destruction of heritage resources; and work to enhance public awareness and involvement in the protection of heritage.

Promote Appreciation and Enjoyment Enrich travel experiences, understanding and enjoyment by providing accurate information, engaging presentations and opportunities to connect with Canada’s natural and cultural heritage; and foster support for the protection and sensitive use of heritage resources and places.

Respect and Involve Host Communities Respect the rights and values of host and local communities, property owners and Aboriginal peoples; educate communities about the importance of tourism and provide them with a meaningful role in planning and decision-making for the design, development and delivery of tourism programs and services; and optimize the long-term economic, social, cultural and environmental benefits to the community.

Influence Expectations and Use Influence traveller expectations through marketing, trip- planning materials and tourism activities which foster responsible use and enjoyment of our nature, culture and communities; and support leading-edge services and facilities that respect heritage resources and places while achieving economic goals.

Minimize Impacts Limit the negative impacts of tourism on the natural and cultural environment through the responsible use of resources, effective waste management and minimizing of pollution; limit activities, services and facilities to levels that do not threaten the integrity of heritage resources or systems while continuing to support economic goals and traveller access; and seek innovative solutions to mitigate or avoid undesirable environmental, social and cultural impacts.

Raise Awareness Conduct research to expand the knowledge base upon which sound sustainable tourism decisions depend; share the knowledge through education programs, staff training and scholarships; and recognize excellence and best practices through awards and accreditation programs.

Work Together Advance sustainable tourism by working with governments, communities, stakeholders, travellers and other industries to agree upon common goals, contribute to co-ordinated and co-operative actions, exchange information, technologies and solutions, and develop shared plans.

Contribute Globally Show leadership in sustainable tourism by honouring international commitments; participate in international policy development and initiatives; contribute to the building of capability on a world scale; and share best practices and technologies with other countries.