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IPPG Newsletters: January 2000
How Trekkers can help |
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Many companies already equip their porters well, and others are in the process of doing
so. They also undertake to train their staff in high altitude and porter issues. However
there are companies which do not. In the unethical and lower end of the market, where
cut-price trekking for 20 US$ a day reigns, there is little hope of change without
pressure. Where is that pressure going to come from? It can come from the Nepal Department
of Tourism, from the Trekking Agents Association of Nepal (TAAN), from tourism watchdogs
such as Tourism Concern, INGO's, media and, of course, from the porters themselves.
However the best influence is the individual trekker.
A simple way to make a difference is to ask your travel agent and trekking agency what is
their policy on porter safety before you sign up for a trek. Look for companies who use
the IPPG logo, which means they are recommended by IPPG for their ethical treatment of
their porters.
Also report any neglect that you see to IPPG, the trekking company and travel agent. There
are now Porter Logbooks for comments, complaints or praise kept at KEEP, HRA, CIWEC
clinic, NIC clinic and UNITRAV in Kathmandu. If you see neglect on the trail complain to
the trekkers or leader concerned. Finally if you go trekking take care of your porters.
You can make a difference!
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