Sustainable Travel: Nonprofit Makes the Difference
What Is Sustainable Travel and Why Does It Matter?
“Sustainable travel” means exploring the world responsibly, so destinations thrive for future generations. Companies use the term “sustainable tour operator” to mean a variety of things, which complicates travelers’ understanding. Other tour operators claim to be “responsible”, or to provide “travel for good”, or a host of other related terms. The only way to know what they really do is to study their impact reporting and conservation outcomes – if they provide that information. With no universal definition and many companies making vague claims not backed up by data, travelers often wonder: Which trips are truly sustainable?
The Simple Answer: Travel With a Nonprofit
Unlike for-profit tour operators, nonprofits like Conservation Volunteers International Program (ConservationVIP®) are driven by purpose, not profit. Every trip we offer focuses on environmental conservation projects that make a measurable difference. We back up our commitments with transparency:
- Impact Reports: Annual Summaries of Conservation Achievements.
- Trip Reports: Detailed accounts of volunteer activities after each trip.
- Public Financials: Tax returns and financial statements available online.
When you choose a nonprofit, you’re choosing accountability and real impact—not marketing hype.
Our Mission: Sustainability in Action
ConservationVIP is dedicated to sustaining some of the world’s most iconic landscapes, cultural heritage sites, and biodiversity hotspots. Since 2007, we’ve operated as a virtual organization—no commuting carbon footprint. We are a sustainable travel company —we design trips that help destinations thrive. Every project is chosen in collaboration with local land managers and communities, ensuring relevance and respect. Examples of Our Sustainable Travel Projects:
- Climate Action: Planting trees in Scotland and Tanzania.
- Trail Maintenance: Protecting fragile ecosystems in Patagonia, Yosemite, and Alaska.
- Wildlife Protection: Supporting biodiversity in the Galapagos, Costa Rica, and the Amazon.
- Cultural Heritage Preservation: Conserving Machu Picchu and Cinque Terre.
- Pollution Reduction: Removing invasive species and microplastics from beaches at many sites.
Principles We Follow on Every Trip
- Leave No Trace ethics
- Reduce waste and avoid single-use plastics
- Respect wildlife and local residents
- Preserve cultural and historic sites
Another way we ensure sustainability for the places we help: Our conservation travelers pay fees which cover their lodging, food, and transportation costs, so local communities benefit without bearing extra burdens.
Sustainable Travel and Global Goals
Our work aligns with the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals, especially:
- Goal 13: Climate Action
- Goal 14: Life Below Water
- Goal 15: Life on Land
Why Volunteer Travel Beats Overtourism
Mass tourism strains destinations. Our volunteer trips help mitigate that impact by supporting local conservation efforts. Beyond the immediate benefits, volunteers return home as advocates for sustainability—creating a ripple effect of positive change.
Have a question about our sustainability or sustainable travel?
Send an email and we’ll gladly be in touch.