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Soaring Sustainably: Panel session at FCTG Independent Conference sparks change

At last weekend's FCTG Independent Conference in Singapore, Karryon and Travel to Change the World founder Matt Leedham hosted a breakout panel session with industry leaders on "Making Responsible Travel a Reality." Here's what we can all take away from what was an insightful and much-needed discussion.

At last weekend’s FCTG Independent Conference in Singapore, Karryon and Travel to Change the World founder Matt Leedham hosted a breakout panel session with industry leaders on “Making Responsible Travel a Reality.” Here’s what we can all take away from what was an insightful and much-needed discussion.

As we enter a new era of travel, we all have the opportunity to contribute to the greater good by transforming our industry to be more sustainable and responsible. So I was delighted when the FCTG Independent team invited me to moderate a panel on this pertinent topic at their network conference in Singapore last weekend.

Joining me on the panel were guest speakers Abbé Lunn – Key Partnerships Manager for Intrepid Travel, Chris Fundell – Head of Marketing Australasia for Globus family of brands, Steph Wilson – FCTG Independent Agent and Founder of Travel with Care and charity organisation Streethearts and Kristy Fennell – Global Head of Flight Centre Partnerships for Covermore.

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I must admit I was initially unsure of the level of interest our session would generate. However, I’m delighted to report that we became the most popular breakout session for pre-registration, with many other agents at the event expressing regret for missing out on such an engaging and needed discussion.

From understanding the climate crisis and navigating overtourism to carbon offsetting, greenwashing, renewable energy, selling accessible tourism, and embracing workplace diversity and values, we covered a lot of ground in our hour-long session across the three pillars of climate, conservation and community and culture tourism.

Although these subjects can be daunting, our open and honest emphasis on straightforward, digestible insights made a difference based on the feedback all of us on the panel received after the event.

Travel Independent agent Steph Wilson and panellist summed it up best by saying, “I really did not think that I was an expert on any of this, but you all made me feel included and knowledgeable. There were many people that came to me to discuss more steps to take for this, and I felt confident providing them with my insights.”

Steph, by the way, was (and is) an absolute superstar.

What were the takeaways? Here’s some thought starters to kick-start your sustainable travel journey.

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  • Sustainable travel is no longer a nice to have or a trend. It’s a non-negotiable.
  • It’s also a big opportunity and one that agents need to embrace for their clients.
  • It’s natural to feel overwhelmed by the topic, but don’t let this hold you back.
  • Keep in mind that we’re all in this together, learning and growing. You don’t have to be an expert, and it’s okay to feel unsure.
  • If you haven’t started your sustainable travel journey yet, don’t fret – it’s never too late to begin. All that matters is that you start.
  • Be curious and open-minded. Learn from credible sources, including articles, videos, podcasts, and conversations with like-minded people.
  • Don’t hesitate to share your experiences, ideas, challenges, and questions with others, including those in the industry – collaboration is key.
  • Discover the causes and passions that truly speak to you. You don’t need to tackle every issue; focus on what matters to you and integrate your passion into your business.
  • Be mindful of greenwashing: Do your research to ensure that you are supporting genuinely responsible and sustainable travel businesses.
  • Look to credible operators and individuals already making a positive impact in sustainable travel for inspiration and guidance.
  • Remember that every small step you take adds up, creating a ripple effect of lasting change.
  • Sustainability isn’t a competition. We’re all in this together, and our collective efforts will make a difference.

A heartfelt thank you to Flight Centre Independent for including the topic of sustainability in the conference agenda and to everyone who made a conscious choice to attend.

Engaging in conversations like these is crucial for addressing global climate change while securing the long-term future of our industry.

All of us have the power to establish and influence a sustainable foundation for our industry and the world – Together in travel. Will you join us?

Read all about the FCTG Independent Conference here.