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'Air operators should look to sustainable tourism'

(16 Feb 2007)

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The number of international tourists is to reach 1.05 billion by 2010, a new study reports.

However, the Totem Sustainable Tourism Report claims that 'sustainable tourism' will account for 250 million tourists by this date, reports Travel Mole.

The report claimed that unless more is done to preserve the environment the global industry may be under threat.

It stated: "Although still booming, the worldwide travel and tourism industry is facing serious challenges, each of which have the possibility of stopping growth in its tracks."

The Totem Report advised that as the likes of China and India see their low-cost airline industry increase, operators should look toward sustainable tourism as it "achieves an effective balance between the environmental, economic and socio-cultural aspects of tourism development to guarantee long-term benefits to host communities and a high quality experience for tourists."

At the start of the month legislation came into force which has seen passengers pay twice as much air tax when travelling from British airports.

Chancellor Gordon Brown claimed the charge was raised as he believes airlines should pay more due to the damage they cause on the environment.

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