GME TIPS FOR A RESPENSIBLE TRAVELLER
We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open. The diversity of our world unites us, and gives us the chance to explore, engage and experience the best that local culture and communities have to offer. Respecting our world and all that makes us different and unique will enhance your travel experience. Whether your travels take you to a tropical beach, a bustling city or a tranquil village, you will gain more from your travel experience and earn the respect of the host communities.
Following these practical steps will make your travels as rewarding and gratifying as possible for you, for the people you meet, and for the places you visit
1. HONOR YOUR HOST AND OUR COMMEN HERITAGE
2. PROTECT OUR PLANET
3. SUPPORT THE LOCAL ECONOMY
4. BE AN INFORMED TRAVELER
5. BE A RESPECTFUL TRAVELER
SUSTAINABLE AND RESPONSIBLE TOURISM IN MOROCCO
Sustainable tourism is the concept of visiting a place as a tourist and trying to make only a positive impact on the environment, society and economy. Tourism is now one of the world’s largest industries and one of its fastest growing economic sectors. It may have a positive economic impact on the balance of payments, on employment, on gross income and production. But it may also have negative effects, particularly on the environment. The challenge is to balance the economic and social development with the preservation of natural and cultural resources. To guarantee its long-term viability, the Moroccan tourism industry make sustainable tourism its major goal to guarantee the preservation of its unique natural and cultural heritage. In fact, sustainability is a fundamental value of the "Vision 2020" of tourism development strategy.
The vision is based on various standards. First, authenticity, it is a major competitive advantage. For decades, tourism in Morocco was established on authenticity and hence the 2020 tourism vision will strengthen this choice through an innovative proactive methodology that preserves and enhances the Kingdom's natural and cultural heritage. Second, diversity, one of the most important feature of tourism in Morocco. Morocco has a rich diversity in areas and landscapes, as well as in natural resources, ecosystems, cultural diversity and influences (African and European). Thus, the 2020 vision will enhance this diversity through an ambitious policy to create the national territory. Third, Quality: improving and expanding accommodation capacity continue to be a strategic goal for 2020 vision. It will improve the competitiveness of all segments of the tourism chain and establish a true culture of tourism quality services and develop a compelling animation offer. Forth standard is sustainability. In accordance with the general guidelines adopted by the country, the 2020 vision puts sustainable development at the core of its ambitions. Morocco, whose resources have been historically preserved, has a real and considerable potential for distinctiveness in a highly competitive environment.
Sustainable development is a challenge as well as an opportunity for tourism in Morocco. Morocco has a rich historical and geographic context which led to great diversity of nature, climates and a wide range of ecosystems. The wealth of fauna and flora makes Morocco the second richest country in the Mediterranean in terms of biodiversity. Morocco has 68 key biodiversity areas forming part of the wider Mediterranean Basin biodiversity hotspot, of which two have been identified as being Irreplaceable Key Biodiversity Areas. This is a unique opportunity for morocco to promote a unique model of tourism and take advantage of its wealthy natural and cultural resources. But the biggest challenge is how to preserve this natural heritage. In fact, various aspects of the biodiversity of Morocco remain uncertain and even threatened.
Since 2006, Morocco has displayed its commitment to encourage a sustainable tourism that respects the natural and cultural resources of morocco while preserving its identity. The kingdom placed various means to educate and encourages innovative ideas and initiatives related to sustainable tourism.
Some of these means are
Morocco Sustainable Tourism Trophies, t
The Responsible Traveler's Guide,
The "Green Key" Labels for hotels,
The "Blue Flag" for beaches in partnership with the Mohammed VI Foundation for the Protection of the Environment.