Says new multi-national report* for the International Hotels Environment Initiative, while HRH The Prince of Wales calls for "A New Generation of Hotels with a Minimal Environmental Footprint"

Summary findings

• Consumers are waking up to the reality that we are using 30% more resources than the earth can replenish

• Nine out of 10 UK people surveyed believe tourism is in danger of destroying the planet, compared to 70% of Australians and a third of Americans

• 80% of British travellers polled are prepared to pay £30-£70 extra per fortnight to book a hotel with a responsible environmental attitude, showing that cost may no longer inhibit sustainable tourism ideals

• 90% of Brits interviewed consider it part of a hotel’s responsibility to actively protect and support the environment, including local communities
• This compares with only two thirds of Australians and Americans

• HRH The Prince of Wales, who launched IHEI 10 years ago, says "I hope it is no longer too ambitious to suggest that the (hospitality) industry as a whole now needs to design, develop, refurbish and operate a new generation of hotels that have a minimal environmental footprint, and which also support and strengthen the communities in which they operate."

• While on holiday, 96% of British tourists pay extra care when throwing away rubbish likely to harm animals, but only a third makes a financial contribution to local people

• 70% of Australians surveyed (and 65% of Brits) cycle of walk on holiday, instead of travelling by car, compared to only a third of Americans

*’HOTELS CARE’, conducted for IHEI by Small Luxury Hotels of the World, July 2002 Full report and more information: stephanieponsford@hgal.comStephanie sStephanie Ponsford T:01372 224600 Out of hours: 077 646 77455