Introduction Chamonix Mont-Blanc : what is at stake ? The purposes of the meetings The subjects covered by these conferences The organisation of the conferences Fundamental issues The concept of sustainable development The new approach to tourism The ecological dimension of tourism Tourism, a defining feature of modern civilisation 1999 : the first summit The concept The programme The opening The case of the Mont Blanc region The management of ecological problems The environment-friendly tourism policies The Declaration of Chamonix Mont-Blanc