Saturday, March 15, 2008

Green Passport Introduced at Berlin Tourism Fair

Sustainable Travel Anyone?

BERLIN, Germany, March 10, 2008 (ENS) - A Green Passport campaign launched at the Berlin Tourism Fair aims to shrink the environmental footprint of vacation travellers, according to the United Nations Environmental Programme, UNEP.

The goal of the Internet-based campaign is to raise tourists' awareness of their ability to contribute to sustainable development by making responsible holiday choices, UNEP Executive Director Achim Steiner said at the fair Friday.

"Packing a Green Passport along with airline tickets, the swimming costume and the sun lotion means tourists no longer need to leave their green credentials at home but can make them part of the holiday of a lifetime,” he said.

Among many tips on the Green Passport website, the campaign encourages tourists to choose responsible service providers, reduce the consumption of energy in transit or in hotels, and buy locally made, environmentally-friendly souvenirs. More >>>