ABTA is calling on its members to seize the business opportunity presented by sustainability as delegates gather for the annual World Travel Market in London. Following its latest Consumer Trends survey, the trade body argues half of customers believe their travel company should ensure that they are helping the local people and economy.

The home of the only British canal boat in North America, a more than 1,900-property strong Green Hotel Directory, an Earth Guest programme by one of the biggest hospitality chains in the world, and an initiative to reduce building on China’s famous Mount Huangshan are showcased on a new website launched by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). The Best Practice Gateway, which can be accessed from www.wttc.org, currently features more than 20 case studies from around the world, which together help to illustrate the Travel & Tourism industry’s leading role in sustainability

Virgin Holidays has created a new collection of holidays designed to provide customers with the opportunity to add a sustainable element to their overseas breaks. Brought together in an e-brochure format, the Human Nature Collection makes it easy for customers to take responsible choices when arranging their travel.

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.

Already respected for its impressive environmental and social awareness ethos, the Vineyard Hotel & Spa’s Conference Centre will be the first conference centre in South Africa to run on ‘Green Power’