Ecological tourism in China takes leadership position in Yunnan

Rich in natural resources and recognised as one of the world’s most biodiverse hotspots, Yunnan Province in China attracts more than 400 million domestic and international visitors seeking bespoke travel experiences immersed in culture, nature and adventure-based activities.

The APEC International Centre for Sustainable Tourism (AICST), EarthCheck and Yunnan Vinetree Tourism Development Co., Ltd (Vinetree) has announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that will provide specialist research and development work to enhance sustainable tourism practices for enterprises and destinations in China.

The research partnership will focus on social responsibility and environmental best practice and provide capacity building and educational resources on climate change, risk management, sustainable tourism and workforce development.

Managing Director of AICST and EarthCheck CEO, Mr Stewart Moore, said the MOU would provide opportunities for both organisations to contribute to improved planning and management of tourism in remote areas and promote international understanding of different races, cultures and beliefs.

“Visitors are becoming increasingly engaged and seeking out destinations with rich cultural, environmental and heritage values,” Mr Moore said.

“Tourism is becoming more about journeys of discovery with a strong interest in local culture and lifestyle.”

Vinetree CEO, Ms. Koko Tang, said local people and communities, business operators and visitors are key to the continued conservation and protection of China’s natural and cultural environment.

“When people experience our rich culture and diverse landscape the understanding they gain can translate into support for conservation efforts and the protection of the things that we value in Yunnan”