Best Western is further expanding its Best Western for a Greener World Corporate Social Responsibility program, with the launch of its latest project “Growing a Greener World” in April 2010. Staff from its Bangkok Head Office and representatives of member hotels have embarked on an environmental mission to Samut Songkram province in Thailand.

Best Western is working with Volunteer Spirit Organization on the chain’s latest activity in which it aims to give back to the natural environment and societies in which it operates. The program includes one day trip on 3 April to Samut Songkram Province of Thailand to plant mangrove trees at a mangrove forestation.

In 2009 Best Western launched the “Light for the Blind” campaign in association with Thailand’s Foundation for the Blind under the Patronage of HM the Queen, the “Bringing Smiles to our Children” campaign to help underprivileged children in Thailand and Asia in association with World Vision, and the “Used Cards for Better Future” campaign to improve the lives of children with Cerebral Palsy in association with the Foundation for Children with Disabilities.

“As Asia’s fastest growing international hotel chain, Best Western International is in a prominent position to highlight the importance of protecting the environment and helping local communities. The tourism industry continues to grow fast, yet we aim to grow along with – and not at the expense of – society and the environment. Our efforts today are helping formulate the global standards of the future, as we aspire to make the world a better place,” said Best Western International’s Vice President of Operations – Asia and Middle East, Glenn de Souza.