The ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) will co-organise the world’s first green travel mart from March 29 to April 2, 2023 in Silang, Cavite, the Philippines.
The International Ecotourism Travel Mart (IETM) is a historic assembly and world festival that pushes ecotourism for the good of the environment and local community. It is co-presented by the Asian Ecotourism Network (AEN) and the International School for Sustainable Tourism (ISST).
The event is expected to attract buyers and sellers of ecotourism packages from at least 21 countries; companies specialising in ecotourism-related and sustainability-advancing products; participants, speakers and panellists for IETM’s two-day forum and certificate course; and the general public.
Masaru Takayama, president of AEN, said the event would offer attendees a great opportunity to learn and network across cultures.
IETM participants will also gain crucial information through resource speakers on best practices involving ASEAN heritage parks and protected sites, including their experiences on the pathway to recovery after two years of pandemic.
Mina Gabor, chair and president of ISST, stated that ACB’s vital contribution to IETM fast-tracks the event’s goal of protecting the natural environment while uplifting local community welfare.
Mundita Lim, ACB executive director, added that the event “elevates tourism as a leader in promoting the balance between economic development and harnessing nature as a means to overcome current challenges”.
“With IETM 2023, we hope to help jumpstart sustainable economic recovery in the region with the promotion of a greener and biodiversity-conscious tourism industry. We see opportunities for greater participation of local communities, empowerment of local cultures, and enhancing windows for sustainability and continuity,” said Lim.
