(Portage, Alaska) – The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) has earned Adventure Green Alaska certification for demonstrating compliance with its sustainable tourism practices. Adventure Green Alaska is the only sustainable tourism certification in the state of Alaska.
The certification recognizes AWCC’s efforts to further sustainability within the tourism industry. AWCC upholds standards regarding Adventure Green Alaska’s four pillars: management, local community and economy, the environment, and Alaska history and culture. As a leader in the tourism industry, AWCC ensures that the entirety of their business operations are conducted in a sustainable manner, from internal management to the product customers receive.
Adventure Green Alaska standards are recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). This recognition ensures that AGA’s criteria is on equal footing to GSTC’s criteria. GSTC and AGA’s criteria is modeled after the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. These goals “recognize that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth – all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests” (SDGS). AGA certified businesses are doing their part in this collaborative effort to achieve these goals.
AWCC is certified in their efforts to further sustainable practices in the Alaska tourism industry.
“Travel can be a force for good and travelers themselves are proving to be today’s changemakers, adopting more sustainable travel habits and seeking responsible experiences” said Glenn Fogel, CEO of Booking.com. In a study conducted by the World Travel and Tourism Council, the appeal of sustainable travel is increasing, with “69% of travelers seeking sustainable travel options.” (WTTC)
“Sustainability is engrained in Alaska’s brand as a visitor destination,” said Jillian Simpson, President and CEO of the Alaska Travel Industry Association. “Vast landscapes, abundant wildlife, diverse cultures, and majestic scenery are such a draw for many of our visitors and these attributes align with the pillars of the Adventure Green Alaska program of economic, environmental, cultural, and social responsibility. An AGA certification serves to recognize and uplift businesses which have put intentional thought into implementing these common values, and I applaud the businesses which have made that commitment.”
“We are incredibly proud to be recognized for our commitment to sustainability. Being part of a movement that ensures the future health of both Alaska’s environment, and its tourism industry is deeply meaningful to us. As stewards of wildlife and the Alaskan landscape, this certification reaffirms our dedication to sustainable practices across every facet of our operation.”
Sarah Howard, AWCC Executive Director
For more information, please visit the Adventure Green Alaska website.
