The International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA) and Everest Alliance Nepal (EAN) have formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance sustainable mountain tourism, environmental conservation, and cultural exchange. The agreement, signed in Guizhou, China, represents a significant milestone in strengthening global collaboration for the protection and sustainable development of mountain ecosystems.
This three-year MoU establishes a strategic framework for cooperation between IMTA, the world’s first international organization dedicated to mountain tourism, and EAN, a Nepal-based institution devoted to promoting eco-friendly mountaineering and sustainable adventure tourism. The partnership seeks to combine environmental stewardship with adventure tourism while supporting mountain communities through education, training, and responsible tourism practices.
Promoting Responsible Adventure Tourism
The collaboration emphasizes integrating environmental protection with outdoor adventure. Both organizations will work together to promote responsible mountain climbing, eco-conscious adventure sports, safety management, rescue operations, and cultural exchange initiatives. IMTA, globally recognized for its mission to safeguard mountain resources and promote sustainable mountain economies, reaffirmed its commitment to advancing eco-conscious tourism through international partnerships. Similarly, EAN highlighted its dedication to uniting local expertise with global collaboration for the long-term sustainability of the Himalayas and other mountain ranges.
Under the MoU, IMTA and EAN will collaborate in four key areas. These include exchange programs between mountaineers, trainers, and technical experts to enhance sustainable mountaineering and safety management. The partnership will also organize joint rescue demonstrations, leadership workshops, and outdoor safety training sessions that promote eco-friendly practices and environmental awareness.
Cultural and Educational Exchange
The two organizations will co-host international climbing expeditions, cultural festivals, and adventure competitions that emphasize sustainability and cross-cultural learning. Planned events include eco-friendly mountaineering competitions, sustainable adventure races, and exhibitions focused on traditional ecological knowledge and community-led conservation.
Moreover, IMTA and EAN will exchange technical expertise and best practices related to outdoor adventure management, environmental risk assessment, and responsible tourism. Training and mentorship programs will be designed for young climbers and local guides to encourage leadership and a strong commitment to environmental preservation within the mountaineering community.
Environmental Protection and Research Collaboration
A key component of the MoU focuses on environmental protection through joint initiatives such as mountain waste management, trail maintenance, and clean-up campaigns. Educational and awareness programs will also be conducted to inform local communities and visitors about climate change, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable trekking practices.
Both organizations will work together on research projects to identify, assess, and mitigate the environmental impacts of tourism and adventure activities. The findings from these studies will be shared globally, helping set new sustainability benchmarks in mountain tourism worldwide.
Global Partnership for Sustainable Development
The signing of the MoU marks the beginning of a dynamic global partnership that connects IMTA’s international expertise with EAN’s on-the-ground experience in the Himalayas. This collaboration is expected to play a transformative role in shaping the future of responsible adventure tourism and sustainable development in mountain regions around the world.
The agreement was signed during the International Conference of Mountain Tourism and Outdoor Sports 2025, held in Guiyang City, Guizhou Province, China, on November 11. The conference, themed “Integration of Culture, Tourism, and Sports Presents a High-Quality Life,” brought together more than 350 delegates from 30 countries and regions, highlighting the growing momentum for sustainable mountain tourism globally.
Highlights from the IMTA Conference
The event featured several major activities, including the IMTA Annual Conference, the International Mountain Tourism Promotion Conference, and a Mountain Culture and Outdoor Sports Exhibition. Opening remarks were delivered by IMTA Chairman Dominique de Villepin, Lu Yongzheng from the CPC Guizhou Provincial Committee, and Zhu Shanzhong, UN Tourism Ambassador. During the conference, IMTA also signed cooperation agreements with the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) and other international organizations to strengthen global mountain tourism networks.
The conference launched a new publication titled “Innovation in Mountain Tourism and Community Co-development,” underscoring the importance of integrating innovation, sustainability, and local participation in tourism development. In addition, IMTA presented awards to eight destinations recognized as “World Famous Tourism Mountains” and identified six “International Mountain Hiking Demonstration Routes.” These recognitions aim to inspire global mountain destinations to adopt more sustainable practices and community-based tourism models.
About IMTA
The International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA) is a global non-profit organization headquartered in Guizhou, China. It is dedicated to promoting sustainable mountain tourism by protecting mountain resources, preserving mountain civilization, advancing mountain economies, and fostering international cooperation among stakeholders in mountain development.
About EAN
Everest Alliance Nepal (EAN), based in Kathmandu, is committed to promoting sustainable mountaineering, adventure tourism, and environmental conservation. The organization works closely with local communities, mountaineers, and international partners to foster eco-friendly practices and protect the fragile ecosystems of the Himalayas and other mountainous regions. With this partnership, IMTA and EAN have taken a major step forward in linking global vision with local action, ensuring that the mountains, their people, and their culture thrive together in harmony for generations to come.
