So it was World Responsible Tourism Day on Wednesday this week – a highlight of the year designed to share ideas and educate the tourism industry to make a difference to protect the destinations we love to visit.

The Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards are presented in the morning to celebrate and inspire change in the tourism industry. The Awards rest on a simple principle – that all types of tourism, from niche to mainstream, can and should be organised in a way that preserves, respects and benefits destinations and local people.  A view that we at Responsible Skiing share.

The awards celebrate the shining stars of responsible tourism – the individuals, organisations and destinations working innovatively with local cultures, communities and biodiversity.

There is a range of categories but the one I’m always interested in is, of course, “Best in a Mountain Environment”.  Naturally, I’m hoping there will be some mountain resorts shortlisted.    

This year, the category was won by Himalayan Holidays (Pvt) in Pakistan – doing frankly an incredible job keeping tourism alive in the 6th most dangerous country the world.   Not only do they directly provide income to over 80 families, they raise awareness of endangered wildlife, educate tourists and support local tribes and cultures.   Worthy winners making a difference in really challenging circumstances. 

There were two runners up – Mountain Lodges of Peru and Whistler Blackcomb.  Once again, Whistler Blackcomb has been recognised for its comprehensive efforts to manage the environmental impacts of their operation.  

Whistler Blackcomb’s environmental vision is to have a zero operating footprint (zero waste, zero carbon, zero net emissions).   One of their key achievements since they were last nominated is the creation of the Fitzsimmons Renewable Energy Project

This produces the equivalent of Whistler Blackcomb's annual energy demand whilst constructing it – they took other clever steps – like starting construction when there was still snow on the ground – so all the machinery was able to brought up over the snow on piste bashers – ensuriong the ground underneath was not damaged in the making.

Don’t forget – the Responsible Tourism Awards are nominated by you – the public!   Next year – if you have visited a ski resort that you think is setting a great example of Responsible Skiing - minimising the negative impacts and maximising the positive benefits of tourism – don’t forget to vote!