"The travel industry continues to evolve quickly when it comes to sustainability, and many suppliers have developed a strong ‘green' program. These guides help suppliers as they strive toward becoming ‘green' companies, and also assist travel agencies in determining which suppliers have legitimate programs," said Chris Russo, ASTA president and chair.

"The aim of the program and its accompanying guides is to address the numerous ways travel agents and suppliers can alter their business models and internal practices for the better and sell products that will leave a more beneficial footprint on vacation destinations and the environment as a whole," added Russo. "The updated guides provide even more useful tips and information that travel agencies and suppliers alike can put into action immediately. There's no better time to become an ASTA Green Member."

This new edition of the Green Guide for Travel Agents and the Green Guide for Suppliers feature an enhanced section on marketing green travel, including an update of FCC regulations regarding environmental products. The sections on travel segments (air, ground transportation, hotel, cruise, tour) have been revised to reflect recent changes and new green initiatives in each segment. Also updated are the three-tier "green" checklists for the travel segments and the green resource pages.

ASTA's global Green Member Program teaches travel professionals about the importance of environmentally-friendly travel, making positive changes in their own companies, selecting green vendors and suppliers and how to effectively sell this form of travel to their clients.

Travel agents and suppliers who want to become Green Members must first be members of ASTA. Members then assess their company's "green" agenda against criteria established in the Green Program to ensure their compliance with the program's standards. Once a Green Member, agents and suppliers have access ASTA's Green Member logo, which they can use to promote their new membership and expertise.