Ever since we ran our first trip in 1984, we have been committed to operating in a responsible manner. We recognise the fragility of the world's wilderness environments and minimise our environmental impact by keeping our groups small and operating according to a ‘Mountain Code', that is provided to all groups, trek leaders, agents and staff. We make sure that our local staff are well treated and well paid, we respect indigenous cultures, take care to protect the environment of the places we visit and take every opportunity to make a positive contribution wherever we travel. In recognition of our efforts we are proud to have achieved the highest award of 5 Stars for Responsible Tourism by AITO.
The KE Mountain Code
- PROTECTING the environment - its flora, fauna and landscapes
- RESPECTING local cultures - traditions, religions and built heritage
- BENEFITTING local communities - both economically and socially
- CONSERVING natural resources - from office to destination
- MINIMISING pollution - through noise, waste disposal and congestion
It is also important to us that our clients are not the only beneficiaries of the travel experience, but that we share a two-way relationship with the areas that we visit. Our association with the Juniper Trust is a big part of this - allowing us to make a positive contribution in many parts of the world.
Minimising Environmental Impact
We make sure our trips have as little impact on the environment as possible. We use dedicated campgrounds, and ensure toilet & washing facilities do not contaminate water supplies. All litter is removed and recycled where possible. No local wood is used for cooking where deforestation is an issue and we encourage the use of renewable energy resources.
Overseas Partners
KE Adventure works in partnership with numerous overseas agents who provide the services that make our trips possible. Mostly small family run businesses, they are also dedicated to responsible tourism. KE provides guidance on how to adhere to our Mountain Code and work in partnership to help give something back to the communities.
Local Crews and Porters
Almost all KE trips are supported by a crew of local people. We aim to ensure all porters and crews are provided with adequate equipment for the environment, they are paid fairly and given adequate provision for food and accommodation. We also ensure porters loads are not excessive.
KE and the Juniper Trust
Fifteen years since its founding by Angela Locke, the Juniper Trust offers support to poor communities around the world. With the assistance of KE (providing local knowledge, identifying suitable projects, logistical support and fund raising), the Trust works alongside the local communities, listening to their needs and aiming to provide low-impact, sustainable solutions. The Juniper Trust is unique in that it has no overheads and can guarantee that any and all donations are channelled directly to their intended project(s). Read more about the Juniper Trust >
Recent Responsible Tourism Awards
AITO 5 star Responsible Tourism status
KE is proud to have been awarded AITO's top, 5-star Responsible Tourism status in September 2008. Star-ratings are awarded to AITO members based on their environmental performance and the 5-star award is new for 2008. In order to achieve the star ratings, a company must fulfil a number of criteria covering the areas of RT policies, implementation of sustainable office practice, communication with customers, environmental practice and practical destination activity with the latter two areas having the most points allocated to them.
Responsible Tourism 2007 Winners in AITO Achievement in Responsible Tourism Awards
KE is very proud to be the winners of AITO's Achievement in Responsible Tourism Awards for 2007, in recognition of the work carried out over the past 20 years, giving back to the communities and areas we visit. The AITO guidelines for Responsible Tourism fit naturally within KE's travel ethic.
KE Highly Commended at the Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Award
KE were Highly Commended in the Best Tour Operator Category at the Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards 2007 held in London this November. The Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards are the largest of their kind in the world and are a collaboration between on-line travel agent responsibletravel.com who founded and organise the awards; UK media partners The Times and Geographical Magazine; and World Travel Market who host the awards ceremony. The central tenet of the awards is that all types of tourism - from niche to mainstream - can and should be operated in a way that respects and benefits destinations and local people. The awards are different from other tourism awards in that the winners are nominated by tourists.
