After becoming a full member of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) at the beginning of October, Huangshan Mountain scenic area formally joined the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) at the Asia Pacific Ecotourism Global Conference held in Australia on Oct 27. Thus, Huangshan Mountain became the first scenic area in China to boast membership in both organizations.

The WTTC is a non-government international organization that represents tourism organizations at the global level. The GSTC is composed of relevant organizations from the United Nations, government departments, tourism enterprises and academic institutions, committing to promote the sustainable development of tourism.

Xu Jiwei, secretary of the Party Committee of Huangshan Mountain Management Commission, attended the conference and introduced the Huangshan Mountain scenic area.

As a world heritage site, Xu said Huangshan Mountain scenic area has established sustainable development, created a digital management system and introduced low-carbon travel. At the 10th Conference of the World Tourism Travel held in Beijing this May, Huangshan Mountain scenic area was recognized as the scenic area with the best management.

Erika Harms, executive director of the GSTC, said that having Huangshan Mountain scenic area become a member of her council is a win-win event. It provides a good opportunity for people to learn more about China, and also promotes successful tourism practices at the Huangshan Mountain scenic area to other council members.

By Audrey and Wang Fan