About Aeco - association of arctic expedition cruise operators
AECO - Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators is a renowned international association that represents the interests of expedition cruise operators operating in the Arctic region. The association was founded in 2003 and has since become an important organization representing the concerns and views of its members.
The Arctic region is one of the most unique and fragile ecosystems on our planet, which makes it essential to have an organization like AECO that can help protect this pristine environment. The association's primary objective is to promote responsible tourism practices among its members while ensuring that they operate in a sustainable manner.
AECO has over 70 members from around the world, including expedition cruise operators, travel agents, national tourism boards, and other stakeholders with interests in this industry. The association provides a platform for its members to share knowledge and best practices related to sustainable tourism operations in the Arctic region.
One of AECO's key initiatives is its environmental management system (EMS), which helps ensure that member companies operate their vessels with minimal impact on the environment. This EMS includes guidelines for waste management, wildlife interactions, emergency response planning, and other critical aspects of responsible tourism operations.
AECO also works closely with local communities in the Arctic region to ensure that their cultural heritage is respected and preserved. The association recognizes that indigenous peoples have lived in these regions for thousands of years and have a deep connection with their land and sea. Therefore it's crucial to involve them in decision-making processes related to tourism development.
In addition to promoting responsible tourism practices among its members, AECO also advocates for policies at national and international levels that support sustainable tourism development in the Arctic region. The association believes that by working together with governments, NGOs, local communities, and other stakeholders; we can create a more sustainable future for this unique ecosystem.
AECO also organizes various events throughout the year where members can network with each other while learning about new developments related to sustainable tourism in the Arctic region. These events include annual meetings, workshops, and conferences.
In conclusion, AECO - Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators is a vital organization that plays a crucial role in promoting responsible tourism practices in the Arctic region. The association's members are committed to operating their vessels sustainably while respecting the local communities and preserving the unique environment of this pristine ecosystem. By working together with other stakeholders, AECO is helping to create a more sustainable future for this fragile region.