An approach to travel that, in the simplest of terms, aims to create more positive impact on the world than negative, thereby preserving at-risk destinations and cultures for the future.
Sustainable Tourism is tourism that strives to minimize its impact on the environment, to respect local people and cultures, to offer economic benefit to local businesses and communities, and to provide a memorable experience for travellers and protects destinations for future generations. Using small-scale lodging, local transportation, supporting locally-owned businesses, and incorporating community-based ecotourism projects into tours are some ways travel can work towards sustainability.
A business model that recognizes and measures the social return on investment of an organization’s operations and views sustainability as a valuable part of its business.
G Adventures’ business model is built on the inclusion of small businesses in developing nations. Through this, we are able to bring economic benefits to entrepreneurs and small enterprises that otherwise would not receive them. Strong, stable local economies keep tourism dollars in the communities that need them, ensuring their survival and growth.
G Adventures places a priority on creating positive social change whenever and wherever we can. We offer trips to countries all over the world and utilize local services and businesses whenever possible. We contribute to local economies and provide employment opportunities to underserved regions of the world that rely heavily on tourism as their principal—and in some cases, only—source of economic support.
Let’s face it: We travel to see things and do things; to experience the natural and cultural wonders of our world. If those wonders are neglected, overcrowded, polluted or compromised, no one will bother to visit, and the communities that depend on tourism will die. As a travel company that depends on the natural beauty of our destinations and the well-being of the people who live there, it’s up to us to find ways to reduce our impact and help these places not only stay alive, but thrive.
The Planeterra Foundation was established in 2003 by G Adventures as a means to give back through travel. A non-profit foundation, Planeterra taps into a global network of travellers to help us change the world. Working with G Adventures, we have created an integrated partnership founded on the principles of social enterprise, investing in the futures of the people and places we visit.
Operating from G Adventures headquarters, Planeterra is able to focus on areas we feel are important, to forge close ties with local communities around the world, and to connect small businesses and rural families directly to our supply chain. G Adventures provides consistent market access via its network of travellers, who serve as a sustainable source of income for communities in need. G Adventures’ travellers bring long-term success to Planeterra’s projects long after the initial investment is gone.
Currently operating in over 15 countries globally, Planeterra provides the tools to empower local communities to harness the power of travel for growth. We accomplish this by providing basic health and education needs, supporting small businesses, conserving the environment and, in times of crisis and natural disaster, providing emergency relief.
All of Planeterra’s administrative costs are covered by G Adventures, meaning that 100% of donor funding goes directly towards supporting the organization’s initiatives around the world. G Adventures also contributes $30,000 annually as part of fund-matching initiatives. Whether you explore the world with G Adventures, volunteer at a Planeterra project or invest in project by way of online donations, you’re helping to make Planeterra’s work possible.