The Explore Minnesota Tourism (EMT), the state’s official tourism agency, is developing an environmentally friendly tourism program. A “green tourism” task force composed of representatives from both private and public tourism and environmental organizations are putting together “guidelines” for the state’s tourism industry. It is expected that these guidelines will be voluntary, however, EMT will promote businesses that comply with these guidelines as environmentally friendly.
The action by EMT is a result of legislation enacted by last year’s State Legislature. John Edman’s EMT Director is committed to positioning the state’s tourism industry as an environmentally friendly State. It is expected that the Task Force’s work will be completed by the end of this year and EMT will then proceed with implementing an environmentally friendly travel program.
Pam Thorsen, Minnesota Bed and Breakfast Association, Executive Director, is a member of EMT’s green tourism task force. Joining Pam on the Task Force is Ted Young from Poplar Creek Guesthouse B&B and who represents the Gunflint Trail Association.
Prior to the establishment of the Task Force, Poplar Creek had already implemented a Sustainable Policy including a commitment to the environment. You can view this Policy at –http://boundarycountry.com/about.html#sustainability
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