Original Ecuador Tours Sustainability Policy

Introduction

At Original Ecuador, we are committed to operating in an environmentally and socially responsible manner. As a tour operator based in Ecuador, we recognize the importance of preserving the unique biodiversity and cultural heritage of this region for future generations. Our sustainability policy outlines our commitment to reducing our environmental impact, supporting local communities, and promoting responsible tourism practices.

Environmental Responsibility

1. Conservation and Protection:

• • • • We actively participate in and support conservation projects aimed at preserving Ecuador's diverse ecosystems.
      • We adhere to strict waste management practices, ensuring that all waste is disposed of responsibly and recycled wherever possible.

2. Sustainable Resource Use:

• • • • We prioritize the use of sustainable, recyclable and biodegradable products in our operations, including cleaning products, office supplies & promotional material.
      • We prioritize locally sourced and organic products to reduce our carbon footprint.
      • Our transportation options prioritize fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. We encourage the use of public transport, biking, and walking where feasible.

3. Energy and Water Efficiency:

• • • • We implement energy-saving measures in our offices, such as using energy-efficient lighting and appliances.
      • Water conservation practices are promoted, including the use of water-saving fixtures and guest education on minimizing water use.

4. Water Management:

• • • • Reduce, Repair, Reuse, Recycle: We follow a strict waste management hierarchy, emphasizing reducing waste at the source, repairing where possible, reusing materials, and recycling. We minimize the use of single-use plastics and encourage guests to bring reusable items such as water bottles.

Social and Community Engagement

1. Local Employment and Fair Wages:

• • • • We hire local staff and guides, providing fair wages, benefits, and safe working conditions. We adhere to labour laws and promote gender equality and inclusivity.
      • We provide ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance the skills and knowledge of our employees.

2. Community Support:

• • • • We support local businesses and artisans by incorporating their products and services into our tours.
      • A portion of our profits is reinvested in community projects, such as conservation and cultural heritage projects.

3. Cultural Respect and Preservation:

• • • • We educate our guests on the cultural significance of the areas we visit, promoting respectful and mindful interactions with local communities.
      • We work alongside indigenous groups to ensure their traditions and ways of life are respected and preserved.

Responsible Tourism Practices

1. Visitor Education:

• • • • We provide our guests with pre-trip information on sustainable travel practices, including guidelines on minimizing environmental impact and respecting local cultures.
      • Our tours are designed to raise awareness about conservation and sustainability issues in Ecuador.

2. Minimizing Carbon Footprint:

• • • • We are working towards offsetting our carbon emissions by investing in local reforestation projects and other carbon offset initiatives.
      • We encourage our guests to offset their travel emissions through reputable carbon offset programs.

Continuous Improvement

1. Monitoring and Evaluation:

• • • • We regularly assess our sustainability practices and seek feedback from our guests and partners to identify areas for improvement.
      • We set measurable sustainability goals and track our progress to ensure continuous improvement.

2. Partnerships and Collaboration:

• • • • We collaborate with local NGOs, government agencies, and other stakeholders to promote sustainable tourism practices across Ecuador.
      • We stay informed about global sustainability trends and best practices to enhance our operations.

Conclusion

Original Ecuador Tours is dedicated to making a positive impact on the environment and communities we engage with. By integrating sustainability into every aspect of our business, we aim to set a standard for responsible tourism in Ecuador and inspire others to follow suit. Together, we can create meaningful travel experiences that benefit both our guests and the world around us

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant and effective in promoting sustainable tourism.