ASTA's Green Member Program Enhanced
Updates on ground transportation, accommodations, resources, marketing
ALEXANDRIA, VA, October 21, 2008. ASTA's Green Guides for Travel Agents and Suppliers have undergone their first extensive update since the program's launch in April 2008 to keep up with the ever evolving sustainable travel industry. Among the updated sections are those focusing on ground transportation, accommodations, green resources and marketing. As an added benefit, those who complete the Green Member program and have their Green Member applications approved now receive a customizable press release they can use in promoting their new designation to their local media and community.
"There is no better time to become an ASTA Green Member," said ASTA president and CEO Chris Russo. "With the recent downturn in the economy, it's the perfect time to assess your internal operations and make environmentally friendly changes to your operations that can positively impact your bottom line. By taking the time now to learn about environmentally responsible travel, you'll be ready later to jump into a new niche once the economy picks up."
The Green Guides are reviewed and revised regularly with ASTA Green Members receiving automatic updates as part of their membership.
ASTA's Green Member Program addresses numerous ways travel agents and suppliers can alter their business models and internal practices for the better and sell tours, transportation, cruises and accommodations that will leave a more beneficial footprint on vacation destinations and the environment as a whole.
Travel agents and suppliers who want to become Green Members must first be members of ASTA. Members will then assess their company's green agenda against criteria established in the Green Program to ensure compliance with the program's standards. Once a Green Member, agents and suppliers will have access ASTA's green logo, which they will use to promote their new membership and expertise.
The Green Member Program is generously sponsored by Travelport, a founding Global Sponsor, Industry Leader sponsors AVIS/Budget and Amtrak, and Green Program Supporter American Cruise Lines.
To learn more about ASTA's Green Member program, please contact Melissa Teates at mteates@asta.org. For additional information on ASTA, please visit www.asta.org.
The mission of the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) is to facilitate the business of selling travel through effective representation, shared knowledge and the enhancement of professionalism. ASTA seeks a retail travel marketplace that is profitable and growing and a rewarding field in which to work, invest and do business.
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