The annual International Centre for Responsible Tourism (ICRT) conference supported by ABTA and VisitEngland was held on Friday 7 January 2011 and provided a great insight into future strategies on tourism sustainability for the UK.

VisitEngland shared their emerging Wise Growth strategy developing as part of England’s Strategic Framework for Tourism, which focuses on the industry’s contribution to local economic development and the quality of life for all.  This sustainable approach aims to grow tourism responsibly in a finite world, creating resilience and prosperity for all; bringing stakeholders together to provide an integrated approach to the strategy.

This strategy mirrors the work ABTA is carrying out on Responsibility in a Finite World and Thriving Destinations within ABTA’s strategic plan.

Nikki White, ABTA Head of Destinations and Sustainability commented: “Sustainability is vital to the product sold by our Members and the future of the industry. We look forward to working even more closely with VisitEngland in the future, developing our renewed focus on the UK which for many of our members is an important destination.”

“We welcome the importance that the Prime Minister has attributed to the role of tourism to the UK.”

James Berresford, VisitEngland said “This conference has been a great success in bringing together a wide range of organisations reinforcing the great reach that tourism  has in this country. Tourism in England is a powerful force for good that engages businesses of every shape and size, and impacts the livelihoods of residents and communities throughout England.   The industry currently supports over 2 million jobs and is set to generate an additional 225,000 jobs over the next ten years. The potential benefit for local communities is clear and we must continue to work together to ensure that tourism continues to significantly contribute to and improve our quality of life.