No matter what camp you subscribe to, there is little doubt that Climate Change is an urgent topic of discussion on a global scale.

The 2nd International Conference on Climate and Tourism programmed by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) affords us a stark reminder that when it comes to sustainable tourism, Canadian industry professionals need to show the world that we are leaders in the field.

Fortunately, according to a recent Canadian Tourism Commission update, three conditions exist in Canadian travel that help wage a strong battle against global warming.

Check out some highlights from the article:

“Consumers, for one, have stated they’re willing to pay higher travel fees to help the planet. The Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) reported last May that 70% of Canadians would spend $10 or more for every $1000 spent on air travel.

The Canadian tourism industry is also moving forward at a steady anti-carbon clip. Earlier this year for example, Vancouver’s Wedgewood Hotel purchased enough carbon credits through Planktos, Inc. to acquire carbon-neutral status.

And maybe most importantly, a whole gamut of organizations exist to encourage, assist, and if need be, pressure the Canadian travel industry into developing its eco-friendly product.”

Interestingly, organizers for the conference, being held in Davos, Switzerland from Oct. 1 to 3, have asked delegates to register with a “carbon-offsetting” organization rather than pay a traditional registration fee.

UNWTO e-Tourism Awards for Climate Change

The UNWTO has announced their e-Tourism Awards for Climate Change for the international e-Travel sector. This prestigious award will be launched at the coinciding Canadian e-Tourism Awards on November 8th, 2007.

Objective: To identify and recognize innovative responses to climate change by the travel sector reflected on web sites

Award: UNWTO Plaque and publicity through UNWTO system

Criteria: How does the web site “raise awareness at destinations and in generating markets, in order to change consumption behaviour to generate more climate friendly tourism choices” (for example: encouraging carbon neutral travel)

Who Can Enter: Website Entries from around the world will be accepted so long as they feature, market, or sell a Canadian destination, product, attraction, or experience.

Cost: Free - there is no cost to enter these awards to companies in the travel and tourism industry

Judging: Each entry will be reviewed by a panel of experts selected by UNWTO

Closing Date: Sunday 14 October 2007 (Midnight PDT)

Where do you submit your nominations? That’s easy. Right here.