Our vow to Sustainability
Ensuring that every action we do contributes to a more sustainable future is our aim in a world where every travel leaves a trace. We have gotten vital knowledge from Travelife that has reinforced our dedication to sustainability. As the cornerstone of all our activities, our now-formally integrated sustainable tourism development policy makes sure that every facet of our business is in line with our commitment to responsible travel.
Our Mission:
Our mission is aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals and Bhutan's sustainable development goals to offer life-changing travel experiences that are both environmentally friendly and socially responsible. We are committed to sustainable tourism that minimizes our environmental impact while empowering local communities. Through partnerships that promote eco-friendly travel, cultural preservation, and natural habitat protection, we strive to create meaningful job opportunities and improve the quality of life in the regions we serve. We aim to set the standard for responsible travel, safeguarding the natural and cultural heritage of our destinations, contributing to government revenue, and ensuring a positive, holistic impact on future generations, all in accordance with the principles of Gross National Happiness (GNH).
Our pledge
We are committed to promoting sustainable development and ethical principles in all aspects of its activities. Our commitment is represented in the pledges below, which guide our efforts to safeguard the environment, help local communities, and maintain the highest levels of integrity.
Good Governance and Decent Work Ethics
Sustainable Partnership : We commit to developing solid, ongoing relationships with local people, government agencies, and conservation organizations throughout Bhutan. By collaborating with these stakeholders, we hope to encourage responsible tourism that protects Bhutan's unique natural and cultural legacy. Our collaborations are centered on supporting local companies, conserving the environment, and ensuring that tourism contributes positively to the social and economic growth of the communities we serve. Through these collaborative initiatives, we hope to build a tourist paradigm that benefits everyone while also reflecting Bhutan's principles of environmental care and Gross National Happiness.
Sustainable Actions : We commit to putting policies in place that guarantee our activities respect cultural differences and the environment, in accordance with Bhutan tourism policy. This entails active participation in community-based tourism programs, promotion of low-impact travel options, and rigorous respect to regulations that safeguard Bhutan's natural environments. To protect Bhutan's unique cultural legacy for future generations, we are dedicated to respecting the principles of sustainable development, reducing our ecological imprint, and assisting local people.
Ethical Standards and Social Responsibility : We commit to maintaining the greatest ethical standards in all of our interactions, ensuring fairness, integrity, and respect for all stakeholders, including employees, partners, and consumers. This commitment includes supporting Bhutan's long-term goals by establishing a transparent and responsible business environment. We are committed to encouraging ethical labor practices, paying fair salaries, and providing safe working conditions for all of our employees and partners. By maintaining honest and open communication with our stakeholders, we uphold Bhutan's ideals of equity and social justice. In addition, we adhere to responsible sourcing and procurement practices that reflect Bhutan's emphasis on environmental stewardship and community well-being, ensuring that our operations positively contribute to the country's sustainable development goals.
Transparency and Accountability : Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: We commit to maintaining transparency in our sustainability initiatives and routinely reporting on our progress, guaranteeing accountability to our stakeholders and the communities we serve. To demonstrate our commitment, we will give detailed reports on our environmental effect and social contributions, including the results of our sustainability activities. We will also maintain regular communication with local communities and stakeholders to receive input and address any concerns, ensuring that our procedures meet their needs and expectations. Furthermore, we will conduct third-party audits and evaluations to validate our sustainability claims and practices, demonstrating our commitment to authenticity and continual improvement. By encouraging an open and honest attitude, we hope to establish trust and credibility while also promoting Bhutan's broader aims of sustainable development.
Human Rights Protection, Reduce Inequalities : We are committed to making sure that, throughout our activities, our tourism practices respect and safeguard human rights.
- Fair Labor Practices : Ensure that all workers and partners have safe working conditions, equitable pay, and respect for their labor rights.
- Non-Discrimination : Encourage an environment that is inclusive by outlawing discrimination based on gender, race, religion, or any other status.
- Community Involvement : Assist nearby communities to guarantee that their legal rights and customs are upheld.
- Ethical Standards : Put into practice rules that follow ethical principles and international human rights standards.
- Accountability and Transparency : Provide regular updates on our human rights policies and respond to any issues brought up by interested parties.
Gender Equalities : we are committed to fostering gender equality in every aspect of our operations. We pledge to create an inclusive environment where all tourists, staff, and community members are treated with respect and dignity, regardless of gender. We will ensure equal opportunities for all, promote fair treatment, and actively challenge gender stereotypes. Through our actions, we strive to empower women and men alike, supporting initiatives that uplift gender equality and contribute to a more just and balanced world. Together, we can build a future where everyone thrives equally.
Strict Prohibition of Corruption : We commit to upholding a stringent zero-tolerance policy against corruption in all of our operations. This commitment comprises implementing strong anti-corruption policies and practices to prevent, detect, and address any unethical behavior. We ensure that all transactions and interactions are carried out with the utmost integrity, trust and transparency, while complying to both local and international norms. Our commitment includes delivering regular ethical and anti-corruption training to our staff and partners. By developing an honest and accountable culture, we hope to safeguard the ideals of justice and trust that are important to Bhutan's sustainable development aspirations.
Right to Education : We are dedicated to supporting the education of children from destitute families in rural Bhutan and enhancing the skills of our staff through various training programs funded by our company. This commitment ensures that no child is deprived of education and promotes the professional development of our employees, aligning with the United Nations' SDG 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all and promote lifelong learning opportunities.
Dedication to Environmental Stewardship
Eco-Friendly Methods : We pledge to adopt environmentally friendly practices in all aspects of our operations, such as waste reduction, energy conservation, and carbon footprint reduction. In accordance with Bhutan's environmentally responsible regulations, we also commit to:
- Adopt Sustainable Practices : Implement green technologies and practices that support Bhutan’s environmental and Gross National Happiness goals.
- Promote Local and Organic Products : Source food and materials locally to reduce emissions and support sustainable farming.
- Engage in Conservation : Support Bhutan’s reforestation and wildlife conservation efforts to protect its biodiversity.
- Support Carbon Neutrality : Contribute to carbon neutrality by adopting offset programs and promoting low-carbon travel options.
Support for Local Communities : We commit to build meaningful partnerships with local communities by creating job opportunities, supporting local companies, preserving aging local festivals that are on the point of extinction, and ensuring that tourism benefits are equitably distributed.
Natural and Cultural Heritage Preservation : We commit to actively protecting and preserving Bhutan's distinct natural landscapes and cultural legacy through responsible tourism practices and collaboration with conservation organizations.
- Responsible Tourism Practices : Ensure that all our tours and activities are designed to minimize environmental impact and respect local traditions, thereby safeguarding Bhutan’s pristine landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
- Collaboration with Conservation Organizations : Partner with local and national conservation groups to support efforts in preserving natural habitats, protecting endangered species, and maintaining historical sites.
- Educational Outreach : Provide educational resources and experiences for tourists to raise awareness about Bhutan’s environmental and cultural significance, encouraging respectful and informed interactions.
Promote Organic and Locally Sourced Products : We are devoted to helping Bhutan's native agriculture by obtaining food and supplies from organic, local farmers. This strategy decreases transportation emissions and our carbon impact while also supporting Bhutan's objective of sustainable farming and environmental conservation.
By promoting organic and locally sourced products, we help local farmers and encourage sustainable agricultural practices, as well as traditional cottage industries. This not only serves our visitors with fresh, healthful meals, but it also helps to safeguard Bhutan's natural resources and strengthens the country's dedication to Gross National Happiness.
Support for Cultural Preservation : We are dedicated to preserving Bhutanese customs, crafts, and historical sites by ensuring tourism supports rather than harms cultural heritage. We collaborate with local artisans and communities to offer authentic experiences, promote traditional crafts like weaving and wood carving, and protect sacred sites through respectful tour practices. By participating in and sponsoring cultural festivals, we help keep traditions vibrant and educate our guests on Bhutanese culture, fostering appreciation and respect. Our goal is to enhance Bhutan's cultural heritage, ensuring it thrives for future generations.
Local Partnership : We are committed to building trusting relationships with the local people to make sure that our tourism services honor their customs and cultural heritage. Working together with regional guides, craftspeople, and cultural practitioners, we produce genuine experiences that honor Bhutanese culture and promote the local economies. We also include community leaders in the planning stages to make sure that our initiatives are in line with regional norms and values. We empower people and contribute to the preservation of their cultural heritage by supporting community-based tourist activities, such as buying handicrafts and locally produced goods. As a result, tourism in Bhutan becomes a driver of positive, sustainable development.
Respect for Protected regions : We are devoted to making sure that all of our excursions and operations properly abide with the laws governing the protected regions of Bhutan. In order to protect the nation's great biodiversity and scenic beauty, Bhutan is home to some of the cleanest ecosystems on Earth, including national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and nature reserves. As part of our dedication, we meticulously arrange our routes to reduce the amount of human effect on these delicate ecosystems, making sure that our presence doesn't harm sensitive habitats or disturb local species.
In order to do this, we work together with local government representatives and environmental specialists to stay up to date on the best approaches for sustainable tourism in these protected regions. By making the preservation of Bhutan's protected regions a top priority, we contribute to the preservation of these priceless natural treasures for coming generations and make sure that travel to Bhutan will always be a force for sustainability and environmental protection.
Climate Actions
As the world faces the significant impacts of climate change, our actions to mitigate these effects are crucial. Despite Bhutan's considerable efforts in combating climate change, the nation continues to experience its severe consequences. In response, Across Bhutan Tours is committed to joining global efforts and contributing within our capacity to help the nation combat these impacts. We pledge to take meaningful actions to reduce our climate footprint and support Bhutan in its fight against climate change.
Promote Eco-Friendly Transportation : Encourage the use of hybrid vehicles for tours and transfers, or offer biking and walking tours to reduce carbon emissions.
Support Tree Planting Initiatives : Organize or participate in local tree planting events such as observing Social Forestry Day” to help sequester carbon and restore natural habitats.
Reduce Plastic Waste : Provide guests with reusable water bottles and encourage the use of biodegradable or recyclable packaging materials to minimize plastic waste.
Waste Management : Implement comprehensive recycling programs and encourage guests to participate. Also, support composting initiatives to reduce organic waste. Conducting Office cleaning campaign once a month with the locality.
Education and Awareness : Educate guests about the impact of their travel on the environment and provide tips for reducing their carbon footprint during their stay.
Across Bhutan Tours is devoted to transforming our commitments into meaningful actions, making them the foundation of our operations and the driving force behind our mission to create lasting positive impact.
