SALEM, ORE.—Travel Oregon has launched two new programs that will develop tourism while preserving and protecting Oregon. Under the umbrella brand, “Travel Oregon Forever,” the new Sustainable Business Challenge will incentivize businesses to implement sustainable and environmentally responsible practices. The Oregon Travel Philanthropy Fund will give businesses and travelers opportunity to contribute to projects that enhance Oregon’s destinations. Travel Oregon, in partnership with Sustainable Travel International, recently introduced “Travel Oregon Forever” to tourism businesses at an event hosted by Travel Portland.
Sustainable tourism is a growing market that Oregon is well positioned to capture. In 2009, nearly 85 percent of visitors considering travel to Oregon identified themselves as “environmentally conscious.” Nationwide, 44 percent of travelers considered environmental impact to be important when planning travel and nearly one-third would pay a premium for “green” travel options, according to Travel Oregon Green Traveler Analysis, U.S. Travel Assn., 2009.
“Since the Bottle bill was passed in 1971, Oregon has been a leader in sustainable practices,” said Kristin Dahl, Travel Oregon’s Manager for Sustainable Tourism Development. “Those practices are now influencing travel decisions. With Travel Oregon Forever, we’re giving Oregon businesses a competitive advantage by showcasing their good efforts for this expanding travel demographic.”
Challenge Based on GSTC
Oregon’s Sustainable Business Challenge is based on the 37 Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria (GSTC). Oregon’s The Challenge is a voluntary reporting program that quantifies and qualifies the commitment tourism and hospitality organizations are making toward running sustainable and environmentally responsible operations. All tourism-related organizations that offer a service to visitors are eligible to participate. They can achieve Silver, Gold, or Platinum status. For each level completed, participants receive special recognition and marketing exposure through Travel Oregon’s advertising network. Learn more at www.TravelOregonForever.com.
The Oregon Travel Philanthropy Fund encourages travelers to donate money to projects that improve the natural environment and support local culture. Hoteliers who participate in the program collect a one-dollar donation added to the guest’s bill which goes to fund selected projects. (Customers may opt out, if desired.) Seven projects, one in each of Oregon’s designated tourism regions, were selected for the Fund based on the benefit they offer the natural environment or the support they give the community to make them a more appealing destination for travelers. For a list of current projects and participation information, visit www.TravelOregonForever.com.
“The Oregon Travel Philanthropy Fund is the first-ever state-wide travelers’ philanthropy program,” said Jon-Paul Bowles, Sustainable Travel International’s vice president for Destination Stewardship & Advisory Services. “By opening a door for visitors to support a place they love, the program will make a better Oregon for everyone. We have a great range of projects—from making local food more accessible to restoring natural habitat and building more trails for travelers and local communities.”
Go to Travel Oregon and Sustainable Travel International.
