The Alaska Travel Industry Association’s Adventure Green Alaska (AGA) program, the only Alaska-based certification program for tourism businesses operating sustainably in Alaska, is making it increasingly easier for travelers to choose sustainable travel options in the state.
AGA recently welcomed three new members — Alaska Airlines, Holland America – Princess Alaska Yukon, and the Great Alaska Bowl Company. Alaska Airlines’ commitment to the program even led the business to become a title sponsor.
Additionally, Camp Denali, Premier Alaska Tours, Above and Beyond Alaska LLC, Alaska Charters and Adventures, Salmon Berry Travel & Tours LLC, and Alaska Helicopter Tours, have completed the steps to renew their certifications, which are valid for two years.
“Our commitment to our namesake state began over 90 years ago, giving us a deep appreciation for this beautiful place we call home, and a sense of responsibility to keep it this way for future generations,” remarked Scott Habberstad, managing director, Alaska Market. “As the only major airline to achieve this esteemed certification, we are deeply honored to lead the way in Alaska, setting a standard for excellence and environmental stewardship."
First established in 2009, AGA has certified more than 80 tourism businesses operating in Alaska. As members, these companies have subscribed to the belief that outstanding businesses can be sustainably operated to benefit employees and visitors and have voluntarily met the standards for certification.
“We’re thrilled to welcome these new and returning members. It means a lot that these businesses are maintaining high standards of sustainable tourism operations — not just to Alaska’s travel industry, but also to the travelers who are investing their money in a vacation with them,” said Jillian Simpson, Alaska Travel Industry Association president and CEO.
These businesses range from wilderness lodges and hotels to cruises and kayak operators to guide outfits, giving travelers a wealth of sustainable travel choices across the state.
The Adventure Green Alaska program is a voluntary certification program for sustainably operated Alaskan tourism businesses that has been fully recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s accreditation panel. AGA-certified businesses have adhered to high standards in economic, environmental, and social sustainability on the premise that travelers are increasingly seeking out businesses who operate at a highly sustainable level. AGA is managed by the Alaska Travel Industry Association. Alaska Airlines is a title sponsor of the AGA program.
The Alaska Travel Industry Association is Alaska’s largest statewide membership trade association for the travel industry and represents more than 600 members and businesses supporting Alaska tourism. ATIA promotes Alaska’s travel industry as one of the state’s major economic forces and advocates for the growth of the industry while remaining attentive to Alaska’s natural environment, diverse cultures, and unique quality of life.