PATA CEO Dr Mario Hardy. Photo- PATA

THE impact of climate change has forced Solomon Islands and other partner countries on Pacific Asia Travel Association’s list to renew their pledge to support the Paris Accord.

This will work with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

PATA said they are reasserting commitment to sustainable development across the entire spectrum of travel and tourism with a renewed pledge to support the Paris Accord within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
PATA said the theme Climate Change was embedded within PATA advocacy which is an acknowledgement and recognition tourism must play an influential role in preserving planet’s natural resources by adopting effective and sustainable practices.

The PATA CEO, Dr Mario Hardy said, “Our members, both public and private sector, are leading by example. They recognise that responsible business practices must embrace practical measures to offset potentially irreversible damage to our planet caused by climate change.
“Now is time to reinforce our determination for principles and objectives of Paris Agreement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, this agreement has now been ratified by 147 nations and territories.

“We encourage more nations to sign and to support practically the efforts to reduce carbon emissions.”

Dr Hardy said the US’s withdrawal in COP23 is regrettable but it will not deter them from campaigning vigorously for effective measures to preserve and protect our world.

He adds PATA will continue to advocate responsibility for tourism development that benefits, rather than destroy their communities and partnering countries which include Solomon Islands.