The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) has initiated the Roundtable for Animal Welfare in Tourism (R4AWT), aiming to foster responsible, ethical, and science-based approaches to animal welfare within the global tourism industry.
This initiative seeks to provide a platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the development of practical guidelines tailored to the tourism context.
Foundations for Ethical Animal Welfare in Tourism
The inaugural meeting of R4AWT was held on May 20, 2025, focusing on “Foundations for Ethical Animal Welfare in Tourism.” This meeting marked the official launch of the initiative and the beginning of collaborative efforts to address animal welfare in the tourism sector.
Randy Durband, CEO of GSTC, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating, “As we launch the GSTC Animal Welfare Initiative, we anticipate vibrant and meaningful discussions. The roundtable discussions promise to enrich our collective journey toward better definitions and guidelines for sensitive issues surrounding tourism impacts on animal welfare.”
Main Activities of the Roundtable
The roundtable’s work will include:
- Reviewing Existing Frameworks and Best Practices: Assessing current standards and identifying successful models in animal welfare within tourism.
- Determining the Scope, Structure, and Purpose of the Guidelines: Establishing clear objectives and parameters for the development of the guidelines.
- Developing the Essential Content of the Guidelines: Creating comprehensive and practical recommendations for tourism businesses and destinations.
- Identifying Supporting Materials and Evidence: Gathering data and resources to support the implementation and certification processes.
Application of Results
The insights gained through R4AWT discussions will lead to the development of GSTC’s Animal Welfare Guidelines for Tourism. These guidelines aim to offer clear, practical, and widely applicable recommendations for tourism businesses and destinations, helping to embed ethical animal welfare practices within the industry.
Through R4AWT, the GSTC reaffirms its commitment to advancing responsible and sustainable tourism practices that respect animal welfare, support conservation, and promote sustainability across the global tourism industry.
Participants of the Roundtable
The inaugural meeting of R4AWT brought together a diverse group of experts and stakeholders committed to improving animal welfare in tourism.
Participants included:
- Anna Blinkowski: Zoological Manager, Skånes Djurpark / IAAPA EMEA
- Jill Nizan: Director, Conservation Operations, Global Humane Society
- Guillame Douay: Veterinarian, Mandai Wildlife Group
- Kelly Meister: CEO, The Blue Lagoon Island
- Nick Cooney: Director, Lever Foundation
- Paula Cerdan: Head of Conservation and Animal Welfare, The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA)
- Rick Schuiteman: IAAPA’s Zoos & Aquariums Committee Chair / IAAPA NA
- Sara Torres Ortiz: Co-founder and Scientific Director, Animal Wise
- Rodolfo Raigoza Figueras: Grupo Xcaret / IAAPA LAC
- Ylva Linder: Global Sustainability Director, International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA)
These participants bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the roundtable, ensuring that the guidelines developed are informed by diverse perspectives and expertise.
Commitment to Ethical Practices
The establishment of R4AWT underscores the GSTC’s dedication to promoting ethical practices within the tourism industry. By developing and disseminating the Animal Welfare Guidelines for Tourism, the GSTC aims to provide tourism businesses with the tools and knowledge necessary to implement responsible animal welfare practices.
The GSTC encourages all stakeholders in the tourism industry to engage with the roundtable’s findings and adopt the forthcoming guidelines to ensure that tourism contributes positively to the welfare of animals and the sustainability of ecosystems.
Conclusion
The launch of the Roundtable for Animal Welfare in Tourism marks a significant step toward integrating ethical animal welfare considerations into the tourism industry. Through collaborative efforts and the development of comprehensive guidelines, the GSTC aims to foster a tourism sector that respects and promotes the well-being of animals, supports conservation efforts, and contributes to sustainable development globally.
The post GSTC Launches Roundtable for Animal Welfare in Tourism to Promote Ethical Practices appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Source link