Home News & Features UCS Calls on ASTA to Assist in Promoting Green Travel Guide

UCS Calls on ASTA to Assist in Promoting Green Travel Guide

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ALEXANDRIA, VA.—ASTA recently provided assistance to the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) in launching its new publication, “Getting There Greener: The Guide to Your Lower Carbon Vacation,” by translating the group’s findings into real-world examples of carbon-friendly vacations that consumers could take without sacrificing fun or excitement.

“This guide is a useful tool for travel agents looking for hard data on the carbon cost of various types of travel,” said Chris Russo, ASTA president and chair. “By utilizing this data, travel agents are better equipped to assist those clients wishing to reduce the carbon imprint of their vacations.”

At UCS’s recent press conference to launch the new publication, ASTA Green member Bonnie Lee, CEO of Travelquest-Carlson Wagonlit/Albertville (Albertville, Minn.) explained the types of vacations that singles, couples and families could take while using the guidelines from the new UCS publication. The guide examines several travel options, including motor coaches, trains, cars/SUVs and airplanes to determine the carbon dioxide generated per person, per mile (referred to as a “passenger mile”) for trips of 100, 500 and more than 1,000 miles taken by solo travelers, couples and families of four.

Green Member Program Explained

ASTA’s Green Member Program addresses numerous ways travel agents and suppliers can alter their business models and internal practices for the better and sell tours, transportation, cruises and accommodations that will leave a more beneficial footprint on vacation destinations and the environment as a whole.

Travel agents and suppliers who want to become Green Members must first be members of ASTA. Members will then assess their company’s green agenda against criteria established in the Green Program to ensure compliance with the program’s standards. Once a Green Member, agents and suppliers will have access to ASTA’s green logo, which they will use to promote their new membership and expertise.

The Green Member Program is sponsored by Travelport, a founding Global Sponsor, Industry Leader sponsors AVIS/Budget and Amtrak, and Green Program Supporter American Cruise Lines.

Go to ASTA.

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