1. Home
  2. Advantour’s Sustainability Policy

Advantour’s Sustainability Policy

INTRODUCTION

ADVANTOUR recognizes the importance of responsible business practices, even in the absence of legal requirements for sustainability in Uzbekistan. We understand that the tourism industry significantly impacts the environment, being the second-largest emitter of carbon dioxide after aviation and contributing to ecosystem degradation.

GOALS

Our primary goal is to minimize the environmental impact of our office operations and tourist transport. To achieve this, ADVANTOUR aims to:

  • Integrate sustainability into all business decisions.
  • Provide training for employees and encourage voluntary participation in community initiatives.
  • Raise awareness of our sustainability policy among customers and suppliers.
  • Promote sustainable management practices across all operations.

OBJECTIVES

ADVANTOUR is committed to addressing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues within our operations, supply chain, and overall business strategy. Currently, we are implementing green office initiatives and supporting local communities. Moving forward, we will focus on:

  • Setting measurable goals with key performance indicators (KPIs).
  • Strengthening sustainability practices through continuous improvement.

Our existing practices encompass green office initiatives, supply chain management, corporate governance, employee wellness, and animal welfare policies.

GREEN OFFICE POLICY

ADVANTOUR employs the following green office practices:

Water Resource Management

  • Compliance with all relevant regulations.
  • Maintenance of water supply and treatment facilities to international standards.
  • Monthly monitoring of water consumption.
  • Provision of filtered drinking water for employees.

Electricity Utilization

  • Monthly monitoring and reduction of electricity consumption.
  • Use of energy-efficient lighting.
  • Offices equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows for natural light and ventilation.
  • Implementation of "Lights and Equipment Switch-Off Rules" in office areas.
  • Preference for low-energy appliances when purchasing equipment.

Waste Reduction Controls

  • Transition to a paperless office, printing only when necessary (e.g., filing documents with embassies).
  • Sorting and recycling of paper, food waste, light bulbs, and batteries.
  • Reduction in the use of plastic water bottles by providing filtered water.

Business Travel Policy

  • Prioritization of environmentally friendly modes of transport for employee travel.

SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT INITIATIVES

ADVANTOUR is dedicated to sustainability and ethical practices in its supply chain. While acknowledging areas for improvement, we actively encourage our partners to adopt similar standards. Practices include:

  • Conducting random audits of hotels using audit forms.
  • Prioritizing guesthouses or family-run hotels for accommodations.
  • Collaborating with establishments and restaurants showcasing local art, architecture, or cultural heritage.
  • Ensuring the respect and protection of children's rights during accommodation processes.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE PRACTICES

As corporate governance evolves in Uzbekistan, ADVANTOUR strives to meet international standards by adhering to responsible labor practices, including:

  • Formal employment, competitive wages, flexible working hours, and shared leave options.
  • Maintaining a comfortable working environment with salaries exceeding statutory minimums.
  • Upholding honesty and integrity through a code of conduct for employees.
  • Allowing employees to report concerns to management without fear of retaliation.
  • Adhering to government standards for transparent reporting.
  • Creating internship opportunities for students.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Communities

  • Supporting local economic development by employing residents and sourcing goods from local suppliers.
  • Partnering with local guides and restaurants to support local businesses.
  • Encouraging staff and guides to enhance their skills in sustainability and ecotourism.
  • Avoiding tours to schools and kindergartens to prevent unintended negative impacts on communities.

RESPONSIBLE TOURS AND ACTIVITIES

ADVANTOUR offers tours that stress the importance of preserving the environment, culture, and historical heritage.

  • We provide our guests with information on how they can reduce their environmental impact during their travels.
  • We work mainly with small groups of tourists, which minimizes environmental impact through the use of smaller, more fuel-efficient transport.
  • We encourage tourists to use refillable water bottles and food containers while camping.
  • We do not invite partners and clients to participate in activities that harm humanity, fauna and flora, contribute to air and river pollution, or are socially unacceptable.
  • We do not allow the purchase of souvenirs containing endangered species of flora and fauna, any illegally acquired historical/archaeological artifacts, drugs or prohibited substances, and comply with local and international laws to prevent this.
  • Excursions and tours involving wild animals in captivity are not conducted, except for activities that are properly regulated and comply with local, national and international legislation.
  • We do not extract, consume, display or sell wildlife species, except in cases where this is part of a regulated activity that ensures their sustainable use in accordance with local, national and international legislation.
  • Our marketing process for customers is clear and straightforward. We provide comprehensive product information, including a sustainability statement, and provide services strictly in accordance with the contract and program.

By adhering to the principles of sustainable development, ADVANTOUR seeks to foster a more resilient tourism industry capable of withstanding economic challenges and natural disasters. Through continuous improvement and collaboration, we believe that every step towards sustainability contributes to a better future.