Sustainability policy

Prime Tours Iceland Sustainability Policy

At Prime Tours Iceland, we recognize the importance of sustainable tourism in preserving the unique natural beauty, cultural heritage, and local communities of Iceland. We are committed to responsible tourism practices that minimize our environmental impact, support the well-being of local communities, and promote ethical business operations. This policy outlines our dedication to sustainability and the concrete steps we take to ensure a greener future for Icelandic tourism.

1. Environmental Stewardship

Carbon Footprint Reduction

  • We are committed to reducing our carbon emissions by progressively transitioning our fleet to electric and hybrid vehicles.
  • Our guides receive training on eco-friendly driving techniques, including optimizing fuel efficiency and minimizing idling.
  • We actively encourage our guests to participate in carbon offset programs and provide recommendations on how to travel more sustainably.

Energy & Resource Efficiency

  • Our headquarters and operational facilities utilize energy-efficient lighting, heating, and water systems.
  • We regularly conduct energy audits to identify areas for improvement and implement best practices for reducing energy consumption.

Waste Management & Plastic Reduction

  • We implement a strict Leave No Trace policy on all tours, ensuring that all waste is collected and properly disposed of.
  • We minimize the use of single-use plastics by providing reusable water bottles and eco-friendly packaging for snacks.
  • Our partnerships prioritize suppliers that use biodegradable and recyclable materials in their products and services.

Nature Conservation & Wildlife Protection

  • We educate guests on responsible wildlife interactions, including maintaining a safe distance and avoiding disruption to natural habitats.
  • We work closely with environmental organizations to support reforestation projects and other conservation efforts in Iceland.
  • Our tour routes are planned to avoid over-tourism in fragile ecosystems, and we actively promote visits to lesser-known areas to distribute tourism impact more evenly.

2. Cultural & Community Engagement

Supporting Local Communities

  • We collaborate with local businesses, artisans, and farmers to offer authentic Icelandic experiences that benefit the local economy.
  • We prioritize sourcing products and services from Icelandic-owned companies, ensuring that tourism revenue stays within the country.
  • A portion of our proceeds is reinvested in community development projects, including educational programs and local infrastructure improvements.

Cultural Preservation & Respect

  • Our guides provide in-depth knowledge about Icelandic history, traditions, and folklore to enhance cultural appreciation among visitors.
  • We encourage respectful engagement with Icelandic customs, including supporting local festivals, arts, and traditions.
  • We actively discourage behavior that disrespects local culture, such as unauthorized drone usage, vandalism at historic sites, and disruption of sacred locations.

3. Social Responsibility & Ethical Business Practices

Fair Labor & Employee Welfare

  • We ensure all employees receive fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for career development.
  • We promote diversity and inclusion within our workforce and support gender equality initiatives.
  • Our team members receive ongoing training in sustainability, customer service, and responsible tourism practices.

Accessibility & Inclusive Tourism

  • We strive to make our tours accessible to all visitors, including those with disabilities and special needs.
  • We offer customized experiences to accommodate diverse traveler requirements, ensuring inclusivity in Icelandic tourism.

4. Continuous Improvement & Accountability

Sustainability Training & Certification

  • Our team undergoes regular sustainability training to stay informed about best practices and industry advancements.
  • We aim to achieve and maintain recognized environmental certifications, such as Vakinn Environmental Certification and EarthCheck.

Monitoring & Transparency

  • We regularly review our sustainability practices and seek feedback from guests and stakeholders to refine our approach.
  • Annual sustainability reports will be published to measure our impact, highlight achievements, and outline future goals.
  • We engage in partnerships with environmental and governmental organizations to align our efforts with national sustainability goals.

Our Commitment to a Sustainable Future

By integrating sustainability into our operations, Prime Tours Iceland aims to protect and preserve the country’s breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and thriving communities. We invite our guests to join us in responsible travel, ensuring that future generations can continue to experience the magic of Iceland.