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Chamonix Mont-Blanc Declaration for a sustainable tourism

Louise LASSONDE - Co-Chairman of Fondation du Devenir, Geneva, Switzerland

 

 

The aim of the First Summits of Tourism was to create a precedent by combining scientific analysis with the dialogue of players on the field.

The Summits also wanted to be complementary to international UN forums and meetings of professionals in the tourist industry.

At the end of two rewarding and intensive days, both in terms of presentations and debates, we can say that this ambition has been achieved. Indeed, to begin with, we were worried by the scientific outlook, then, we were enlightened by the philosophical discussions and interested by the concrete examples given, and, finally, we were comforted by the courage of those who have embarked on innovative measures.

One thing is sure and that is that our future will consist of tourism which unites all aspects of our societies and consciences.

Sustainable tourism is a concept which belongs in the new breed of dictionary words whose meaning has yet to be defined. Hence the need for the Summits of Tourism which is the ideal platform for bringing together all the players who are seeking to develop new ideas, to set up monitoring instruments and to share their experiences in a revived tourism.

During these first Summits, we have observed that there are many different outlooks : situations in European countries, eastern countries and in countries living under the risk of ecological stress admittedly differ greatly, but they all share the same concern for a new qualitative approach for their tourist development.

Expectations are equally high. A concerted approach involving all the players opens the door to the expression of outlooks and concerns which, up until now, have barely been taken into account by the planners' vision.

This is notably the case of associations and environmental and youth protection groups. The Summits of Tourism have demonstrated their determination to allow these people to speak up and to build together the conditions for a productive dialogue in which each person can discuss their important issues. Looking at the friendly atmosphere during these first Summits, we can leave here feeling confident that this initiative has proved itself capable of uniting all those with the ambition to promote sustainable tourism.