The TreadRight Foundation is a non-profit dedicated to guaranteeing the health of the environment and that the communities we visit remain vibrant for generations to come. More than $2.5 million has been donated to sustainable tourism projects and partners like WWF, Conservation International, and The National Trust. The projects they support must meet key criteria:
*Conservation and protection of the environment, wildlife, and cultural heritage sites
*Relief of poverty and the improvement of the conditions of life in socially and economically disadvantaged communities through community involvement in sustainable tourism initiatives
*Promotion of sustainable tourism as a means to achieve economic growth and regeneration
There are four themes in which projects are pursued: Biodiversity, Community, Leadership, and Water. This organization, a joint venture with The Travel Corporation brands, sets the bar high for other travel and hospitality companies to step up their game. A recent new venture is support of the National Geographic Travel World Legacy Awards.
The foundation website even includes a great graphic and 25 tips for traveling responsibly–food for thought from some folks doing it right.
Change by Doing 