Setting the Standard: Ford China Releases 2026 Ecotourism Guidebook

点击链接阅读中文版《为公众提供出游指南，为行业树立优秀标杆 福特中国发布2026生态旅游路书》

(Shanghai, China – April 13, 2026)  Ford China officially released the 2026 Ford Ecotourism Guidebook. Featuring 21 meticulously curated ecotourism routes, the Guidebook aims to transform the continuous exploration and achievements of the "Ecotourism Project Funding Program" into a tangible, participatory travel guide. It encourages more people to immerse themselves in nature, experience ecological beauty, and actively support the sustainable development of the rural communities through responsible tourism.

The Guidebook compiles winning and shortlisted projects from previous years of the "Ecotourism Project Funding Program." Themed "Ready Set Ford" the 21 routes are divided into four main chapters: "Extreme Landscapes," "Wildlife Encounters," "Hidden Culture," and "Suburban Oases." These cover magnificent landscapes from snow-capped mountains and lakes to desert Danxia landforms; rare wildlife from Asian elephants and Yunnan snub-nosed monkeys to Finless porpoises; rich cultural heritage from millennial ancient trails and nomadic traditions to ancient villages; as well as easily accessible green spaces around cities. Each route details core experiences, itinerary suggestions, and a guide for public-interest activities—many of which include community co-construction activities that visitors can join—providing clear, practical references for travelers with diverse needs. 

Unlike traditional tourism, ecotourism emphasizes that travelers should not only experience the beauty of nature but also become participants in ecological protection and community development. The routes featured in the Guidebook include trekking through pristine rainforests to participate in Asian elephant conservation, and visiting communities to understand the ecological value of returning rubber plantations to natural forests; scientific expeditions in the source region of the Yellow River, where travelers follow conservation-minded herders to monitor snow leopard; and public welfare practices such as clearing paths along ancient trails and protecting local homelands alongside villagers. These routes transform travel from mere sightseeing into a genuine connection with nature and local communities through meaningful engagement. Currently, Chinese ecotourism is still in its early stages of development, and outstanding practical cases urgently need to be highlighted and shared. The release of this Guidebook systematically organizes and presents these practical achievements. It not only provides the public with a reliable and participatory travel guide to attract more people to this responsible way of traveling, but also hopes to inspire more organizations to join the practical exploration of ecotourism, jointly promoting the diversified development of this field.

In 2021, to support the construction of the national protected area system, Ford China established the "Ecotourism Route Award," pioneering the exploration of a virtuous cycle between ecological protection and community development. Practice has proven that the award-winning projects have not only brought economic benefits and employment opportunities to local areas, but also promoted the development of surrounding tourism industries and the inheritance of ecological culture, contributing to the sustainable development of communities.

In 2024, the initiative was upgraded to the "Ecotourism Project Funding Program." Over the past five years, it has received more than 400 applications and selected 35 outstanding projects, building a solid bond between travelers and nature conservation.

Ford has gradually formed its definition of what constitutes good ecotourism: “Accessibility is the premise, viewability is the foundation, tourability is the engine, and livability is the soul.” The "Ecotourism Project Funding Program" hopes to set a reference benchmark for the ecotourism industry.

From supporting frontline activists to compiling this Guidebook and building a bridge between the public and nature, the "Ecotourism Project Funding Program" has always maintained its simple, original intention: to encourage every ordinary person to become a guardian of the nature around them. Moving forward, the program will continue to deepen its multi-dimensional support for ecotourism projects. By leveraging this Guidebook, it aims to engage Ford dealers, car owners, and the broader public, making ecotourism a deeply rooted lifestyle and jointly contributing to the prosperity and sustainability of rural communities.

Please scan the QR code below or visit  http://cegc.npi.org.cn/res/ziliao.html to access the 2026 Ford China Ecotourism Guidebook for more route details and travel tips.