benefits of sustainable tourism to the environment

What Is Sustainable Tourism and Why Is It Important?

Sustainable management and socioeconomic, cultural, and environmental impacts are the four pillars of sustainable tourism

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What Makes Tourism Sustainable?

The role of tourists, types of sustainable tourism.

Sustainable tourism considers its current and future economic, social, and environmental impacts by addressing the needs of its ecological surroundings and the local communities. This is achieved by protecting natural environments and wildlife when developing and managing tourism activities, providing only authentic experiences for tourists that don’t appropriate or misrepresent local heritage and culture, or creating direct socioeconomic benefits for local communities through training and employment.

As people begin to pay more attention to sustainability and the direct and indirect effects of their actions, travel destinations and organizations are following suit. For example, the New Zealand Tourism Sustainability Commitment is aiming to see every New Zealand tourism business committed to sustainability by 2025, while the island country of Palau has required visitors to sign an eco pledge upon entry since 2017.

Tourism industries are considered successfully sustainable when they can meet the needs of travelers while having a low impact on natural resources and generating long-term employment for locals. By creating positive experiences for local people, travelers, and the industry itself, properly managed sustainable tourism can meet the needs of the present without compromising the future.

What Is Sustainability?

At its core, sustainability focuses on balance — maintaining our environmental, social, and economic benefits without using up the resources that future generations will need to thrive. In the past, sustainability ideals tended to lean towards business, though more modern definitions of sustainability highlight finding ways to avoid depleting natural resources in order to keep an ecological balance and maintain the quality of environmental and human societies.

Since tourism impacts and is impacted by a wide range of different activities and industries, all sectors and stakeholders (tourists, governments, host communities, tourism businesses) need to collaborate on sustainable tourism in order for it to be successful.

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) , which is the United Nations agency responsible for the promotion of sustainable tourism, and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) , the global standard for sustainable travel and tourism, have similar opinions on what makes tourism sustainable. By their account, sustainable tourism should make the best use of environmental resources while helping to conserve natural heritage and biodiversity, respect the socio-culture of local host communities, and contribute to intercultural understanding. Economically, it should also ensure viable long-term operations that will provide benefits to all stakeholders, whether that includes stable employment to locals, social services, or contributions to poverty alleviation.

The GSTC has developed a series of criteria to create a common language about sustainable travel and tourism. These criteria are used to distinguish sustainable destinations and organizations, but can also help create sustainable policies for businesses and government agencies. Arranged in four pillars, the global baseline standards include sustainable management, socioeconomic impact, cultural impacts, and environmental impacts.

Travel Tip:

The GSTC is an excellent resource for travelers who want to find sustainably managed destinations and accommodations and learn how to become a more sustainable traveler in general.

Environment 

Protecting natural environments is the bedrock of sustainable tourism. Data released by the World Tourism Organization estimates that tourism-based CO2 emissions are forecast to increase 25% by 2030. In 2016, tourism transport-related emissions contributed to 5% of all man-made emissions, while transport-related emissions from long-haul international travel were expected to grow 45% by 2030.

The environmental ramifications of tourism don’t end with carbon emissions, either. Unsustainably managed tourism can create waste problems, lead to land loss or soil erosion, increase natural habitat loss, and put pressure on endangered species . More often than not, the resources in these places are already scarce, and sadly, the negative effects can contribute to the destruction of the very environment on which the industry depends.

Industries and destinations that want to be sustainable must do their part to conserve resources, reduce pollution, and conserve biodiversity and important ecosystems. In order to achieve this, proper resource management and management of waste and emissions is important. In Bali, for example, tourism consumes 65% of local water resources, while in Zanzibar, tourists use 15 times as much water per night as local residents.

Another factor to environmentally focused sustainable tourism comes in the form of purchasing: Does the tour operator, hotel, or restaurant favor locally sourced suppliers and products? How do they manage their food waste and dispose of goods? Something as simple as offering paper straws instead of plastic ones can make a huge dent in an organization’s harmful pollutant footprint.

Recently, there has been an uptick in companies that promote carbon offsetting . The idea behind carbon offsetting is to compensate for generated greenhouse gas emissions by canceling out emissions somewhere else. Much like the idea that reducing or reusing should be considered first before recycling , carbon offsetting shouldn’t be the primary goal. Sustainable tourism industries always work towards reducing emissions first and offset what they can’t.

Properly managed sustainable tourism also has the power to provide alternatives to need-based professions and behaviors like poaching . Often, and especially in underdeveloped countries, residents turn to environmentally harmful practices due to poverty and other social issues. At Periyar Tiger Reserve in India, for example, an unregulated increase in tourists made it more difficult to control poaching in the area. In response, an eco development program aimed at providing employment for locals turned 85 former poachers into reserve gamekeepers. Under supervision of the reserve’s management staff, the group of gamekeepers have developed a series of tourism packages and are now protecting land instead of exploiting it. They’ve found that jobs in responsible wildlife tourism are more rewarding and lucrative than illegal work.

Flying nonstop and spending more time in a single destination can help save CO2, since planes use more fuel the more times they take off.

Local Culture and Residents

One of the most important and overlooked aspects of sustainable tourism is contributing to protecting, preserving, and enhancing local sites and traditions. These include areas of historical, archaeological, or cultural significance, but also "intangible heritage," such as ceremonial dance or traditional art techniques.

In cases where a site is being used as a tourist attraction, it is important that the tourism doesn’t impede access to local residents. For example, some tourist organizations create local programs that offer residents the chance to visit tourism sites with cultural value in their own countries. A program called “Children in the Wilderness” run by Wilderness Safaris educates children in rural Africa about the importance of wildlife conservation and valuable leadership development tools. Vacations booked through travel site Responsible Travel contribute to the company’s “Trip for a Trip” program, which organizes day trips for disadvantaged youth who live near popular tourist destinations but have never had the opportunity to visit.

Sustainable tourism bodies work alongside communities to incorporate various local cultural expressions as part of a traveler’s experiences and ensure that they are appropriately represented. They collaborate with locals and seek their input on culturally appropriate interpretation of sites, and train guides to give visitors a valuable (and correct) impression of the site. The key is to inspire travelers to want to protect the area because they understand its significance.

Bhutan, a small landlocked country in South Asia, has enforced a system of all-inclusive tax for international visitors since 1997 ($200 per day in the off season and $250 per day in the high season). This way, the government is able to restrict the tourism market to local entrepreneurs exclusively and restrict tourism to specific regions, ensuring that the country’s most precious natural resources won’t be exploited.

Incorporating volunteer work into your vacation is an amazing way to learn more about the local culture and help contribute to your host community at the same time. You can also book a trip that is focused primarily on volunteer work through a locally run charity or non profit (just be sure that the job isn’t taking employment opportunities away from residents).

It's not difficult to make a business case for sustainable tourism, especially if one looks at a destination as a product. Think of protecting a destination, cultural landmark, or ecosystem as an investment. By keeping the environment healthy and the locals happy, sustainable tourism will maximize the efficiency of business resources. This is especially true in places where locals are more likely to voice their concerns if they feel like the industry is treating visitors better than residents.

Not only does reducing reliance on natural resources help save money in the long run, studies have shown that modern travelers are likely to participate in environmentally friendly tourism. In 2019, Booking.com found that 73% of travelers preferred an eco-sustainable hotel over a traditional one and 72% of travelers believed that people need to make sustainable travel choices for the sake of future generations.

Always be mindful of where your souvenirs are coming from and whether or not the money is going directly towards the local economy. For example, opt for handcrafted souvenirs made by local artisans.

Growth in the travel and tourism sectors alone has outpaced the overall global economy growth for nine years in a row. Prior to the pandemic, travel and tourism accounted for an $9.6 trillion contribution to the global GDP and 333 million jobs (or one in four new jobs around the world).

Sustainable travel dollars help support employees, who in turn pay taxes that contribute to their local economy. If those employees are not paid a fair wage or aren’t treated fairly, the traveler is unknowingly supporting damaging or unsustainable practices that do nothing to contribute to the future of the community. Similarly, if a hotel doesn’t take into account its ecological footprint, it may be building infrastructure on animal nesting grounds or contributing to excessive pollution. The same goes for attractions, since sustainably managed spots (like nature preserves) often put profits towards conservation and research.

Costa Rica was able to turn a severe deforestation crisis in the 1980s into a diversified tourism-based economy by designating 25.56% of land protected as either a national park, wildlife refuge, or reserve.

While traveling, think of how you would want your home country or home town to be treated by visitors.

Are You a Sustainable Traveler?

Sustainable travelers understand that their actions create an ecological and social footprint on the places they visit. Be mindful of the destinations , accommodations, and activities you choose, and choose destinations that are closer to home or extend your length of stay to save resources. Consider switching to more environmentally friendly modes of transportation such as bicycles, trains, or walking while on vacation. Look into supporting locally run tour operations or local family-owned businesses rather than large international chains. Don’t engage in activities that harm wildlife, such as elephant riding or tiger petting , and opt instead for a wildlife sanctuary (or better yet, attend a beach clean up or plan an hour or two of some volunteer work that interests you). Leave natural areas as you found them by taking out what you carry in, not littering, and respecting the local residents and their traditions.

Most of us travel to experience the world. New cultures, new traditions, new sights and smells and tastes are what makes traveling so rewarding. It is our responsibility as travelers to ensure that these destinations are protected not only for the sake of the communities who rely upon them, but for a future generation of travelers.

Sustainable tourism has many different layers, most of which oppose the more traditional forms of mass tourism that are more likely to lead to environmental damage, loss of culture, pollution, negative economic impacts, and overtourism.

Ecotourism highlights responsible travel to natural areas that focus on environmental conservation. A sustainable tourism body supports and contributes to biodiversity conservation by managing its own property responsibly and respecting or enhancing nearby natural protected areas (or areas of high biological value). Most of the time, this looks like a financial compensation to conservation management, but it can also include making sure that tours, attractions, and infrastructure don’t disturb natural ecosystems.

On the same page, wildlife interactions with free roaming wildlife should be non-invasive and managed responsibly to avoid negative impacts to the animals. As a traveler, prioritize visits to accredited rescue and rehabilitation centers that focus on treating, rehoming, or releasing animals back into the wild, such as the Jaguar Rescue Center in Costa Rica.

Soft Tourism

Soft tourism may highlight local experiences, local languages, or encourage longer time spent in individual areas. This is opposed to hard tourism featuring short duration of visits, travel without respecting culture, taking lots of selfies , and generally feeling a sense of superiority as a tourist.

Many World Heritage Sites, for example, pay special attention to protection, preservation, and sustainability by promoting soft tourism. Peru’s famed Machu Picchu was previously known as one of the world’s worst victims of overtourism , or a place of interest that has experienced negative effects (such as traffic or litter) from excessive numbers of tourists. The attraction has taken steps to control damages in recent years, requiring hikers to hire local guides on the Inca Trail, specifying dates and time on visitor tickets to negate overcrowding, and banning all single use plastics from the site.

Traveling during a destination’s shoulder season , the period between the peak and low seasons, typically combines good weather and low prices without the large crowds. This allows better opportunities to immerse yourself in a new place without contributing to overtourism, but also provides the local economy with income during a normally slow season.

Rural Tourism

Rural tourism applies to tourism that takes place in non-urbanized areas such as national parks, forests, nature reserves, and mountain areas. This can mean anything from camping and glamping to hiking and WOOFing. Rural tourism is a great way to practice sustainable tourism, since it usually requires less use of natural resources.

Community Tourism

Community-based tourism involves tourism where local residents invite travelers to visit their own communities. It sometimes includes overnight stays and often takes place in rural or underdeveloped countries. This type of tourism fosters connection and enables tourists to gain an in-depth knowledge of local habitats, wildlife, and traditional cultures — all while providing direct economic benefits to the host communities. Ecuador is a world leader in community tourism, offering unique accommodation options like the Sani Lodge run by the local Kichwa indigenous community, which offers responsible cultural experiences in the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest.

" Transport-related CO 2  Emissions of the Tourism Sector – Modelling Results ." World Tourism Organization and International Transport Forum , 2019, doi:10.18111/9789284416660

" 45 Arrivals Every Second ." The World Counts.

Becken, Susanne. " Water Equity- Contrasting Tourism Water Use With That of the Local Community ." Water Resources and Industry , vol. 7-8, 2014, pp. 9-22, doi:10.1016/j.wri.2014.09.002

Kutty, Govindan M., and T.K. Raghavan Nair. " Periyar Tiger Reserve: Poachers Turned Gamekeepers ." Food and Agriculture Organization.

" GSTC Destination Criteria ." Global Sustainable Tourism Council.

Rinzin, Chhewang, et al. " Ecotourism as a Mechanism for Sustainable Development: the Case of Bhutan ." Environmental Sciences , vol. 4, no. 2, 2007, pp. 109-125, doi:10.1080/15693430701365420

" Booking.com Reveals Key Findings From Its 2019 Sustainable Travel Report ." Booking.com.

" Economic Impact Reports ." World Travel and Tourism Council .

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9 Powerful Benefits of Sustainable Tourism and Why You Should Care

August 7, 2022

Let’s talk about the benefits of sustainable tourism. No, not just the part that tries to make you feel guilty and then fob you off with a bamboo toothbrush. But real, powerful, meaningful benefits. Turns out that travel is good for the planet. Let’s go.

Table of Contents

What is the Definition of Sustainable Tourism?

Gah, sustainable tourism. It’s sexy but it sure doesn’t sound like it.

The UNWTO Definition: “Tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities”

Yet it’s more than just green travel or responsible travel or even eco-friendly travel. The emphasis on sustainability refers to lots of different, important considerations. But one of them, is that people should be having fun. Otherwise, we’re missing the point.

With that in mind, let’s talk more about some of the top benefits of sustainable tourism.

The Benefits of Sustainable Tourism

1. Sustainable Tourism Directly Helps Save Endangered Animals

What’s the most powerful way of protecting endangered animals? Making them more valuable alive than dead.

And with sustainably run wildlife encounters, that’s exactly what happens. When communities earn their living by drawing visitors to see and appreciate wildlife in their natural habitats, the pressure to poach diminishes. The benefits of sustainable tourism extend beyond the travel industry as entire regions begin to see preserving local species as economically beneficial, as well as just morally so.

2. Sustainable Tourism Protects Landscapes and Environments

Just as with endangered animals, sustainable tourism creates a massive incentive for communities to protect landscapes as well as the creatures that live within them. While areas can be fenced off by authorities simply for their own protection, one of the benefits of sustainable tourism includes an income for the people who live nearby while also financing the protection of the area in question. And it’s not just “landscapes.” Marine life and aquatic environments can also benefit from the positive impact of sustainable tourism.

Note, this is generally the opposite of overtourism.

3. Sustainable Tourism Reduces Pollution

While sustainable tourism protects against poaching and the active destruction of habitats, as mentioned above, it also helps to reduce pollution.

With extra incentives to keep local areas clean to earn an income from visitors, it is easier to to get group cooperation to reduce pollution on an individual level, and a corporate and government level.

4. Sustainable Tourism Shares Knowledge

While “bad tourism” herds people into resorts where they have no idea where they are or what local traditions look like, sustainable tourism invites visitors and residents to share their experiences, exchange knowledge and have fun.

• Recommended reading: Learning about Jordanian food in Beit Sitti

5. Sustainable Tourism Prevents Cash Crops and Protects Livelihoods

Mass industry and thoughtless mass tourism leads to cash crops and precarious livelihoods. Areas can find themselves supported by only one crop or one corporation and then it only takes one small change in circumstances, like a hurricane or corporate failure, for the entire area to struggle.

Sustainable tourism encourages a diverse approach to accommodation, food, farming and the preservation of tradition in local communities.

With smaller boutique hotels, cooking classes, agroturismo and the tours woven into the tourism industry, communities are left less at the mercy of external events and the disadvantages of cash crop economies.

• Recommended reading: The Cheese Route in Austria and What does agroturismo have to teach in Greece?

6. Sustainable Tourism is Good for Your Health

Whether we’re talking physical health or mental health, one of the benefits of sustainable tourism is wellness.

Clean air, clean water, sustainable farming practices and beautiful natural landscapes are each known to improve health on a population level.

And laughter and meeting new friends helps too. Seriously. It’s all scientifically approved!

7. Sustainable Tourism Protects and Preserves Valued Traditions

Traditional practices bind cultures together. Almost by definition, they are sustainable and have survived for centuries when we all had far less. Yet globalisation threatens many traditional practices.

In the modern world, where is the market for all the artisanal produce and practices? Responsible tourism helps to bring together traders and customers for small, traditional practices, from gin distilleries to hand-woven carpets to any and every kind of local culture and tradition.

For examples, see:

• Uncovering tradition in the highest vineyards in Europe

8. Sustainable Tourism Doesn’t Require Charity

Sometimes, the best of intentions result in the most harm. Several efforts to help alleviate the 1980s famine in east Africa, for example, resulted in harm that lasted for decades.

Sustainable travel seeks a win-win situation.

It demands a formula that works for today  and  tomorrow.

A method that benefits tourists and local communities, that conserves the environment and which, crucially, is both affordable and makes enough money to keep the whole show on the road.

In the words of a banker turned philanthropist.

“If we become a loss-making organisation, we are no help at all. We must be stable and sustainable. Running a business that depends on yearly grants and fundraising provides no security at all.” Jean-Marc Debricon, founder of the Green Shoots Foundation.

Truly sustainable travel should support the local economy and local people without creating a dependency on fundraising or aid.

9. Sustainable Tourism Feels Good!

Travel is one of the most joyful and rewarding things we can do with our lives on this planet. People on their deathbeds don’t wish for more time in the office or better clothes. They wish for more time with their family and their friends, and to have travelled more.

One of the many benefits of sustainable tourism is also one of the simplest: it just feels good!

In Summary: The Benefits of Sustainable Tourism

• Protects endangered animals
• Protects landscapes and marine reserves under threat
• Reduces pollution and protects natural resources
• Shares knowledge
• Protects livelihoods and brings economic benefits
• Promotes health
• Develops independence
• Feels good!

What Sustainable Tourism Is Not

Sometimes, it’s easier to understand the benefits of sustainable tourism by talking about the opposite. What sustainable tourism is not.

Not Just a “Third World” Problem

Leaving aside for a moment the terminology, sustainable tourism applies to everyone everywhere. The Palace of Versailles outside Paris needs to manage the principles of sustainable tourism just as much as the Amazon rainforest does.

Not Paternalistic

It’s not about “rich white saviours” deciding what’s best for other people and their land. It’s about everyone working together.

Not Just Being Green

Ecotourism or green travel makes protecting the environment the main concern. Sustainable tourism goes further than that. It looks at protecting people, their culture and their future as well as their past. It also focuses on the traveller having a good time in whichever way that feels meaningful to them.

Why? Because…

It needs to make a profit to be economically sustainable.

Here’s the sustainable part. It has to make money. It cannot be a setup that relies on donations, which could stop at any time, or that relies on the traveller feeling good about feeling bad.

Some industries can just about pull that off. But travel cannot because…

“Travel is my one time to relax and take a break, goddammit!”

Not A Chore

Tourism has to be sustainable. Which means that it has to be manageable (and I’d wager pleasurable) to the traveller as well as the host community. That’s something that green travel and ethical travel and ecotourism occasionally lose sight of.

Responsible travel is almost the same thing. But it doesn’t sound much fun, does it?! What happened to taking a break from some of our responsibilities for a short while?!

And finally, we can all be  very  responsible for a short period of time. But is there a system in place that makes being responsible  sustainable? That’s the key question.

In Summary: What Sustainable Tourism Is Not

• For “third world” countries
• About “being green”
• “White saviours” dictating terms
• No fun for the traveller!

FAQs About Sustainable Tourism

Who benefits from sustainable tourism?

Everyone. Both locals and travellers and people who never visit the destination.

What is sustainable tourism?

It’s a model of tourism which benefits both people and places, as well as the environment and is economically sustainable on its own.

Why is sustainable tourism difficult to achieve?

I’m not convinced that it is, with the right mindset. But there is a temptation to cut corners and exploit natural resources for the fastest or cheapest result instead of the most beneficial one.

What are the benefits of responsible tourism?

All of the above!

Sustainable Living: The Key Takeaway…

We can’t wait until we’re perfect to start doing something better.

More on Sustainable Travel

• Start here: how to be a responsible tourist
• Is dark tourism ethical? What you need to know.
• Get inspired by this collection of the best sustainable travel blogs.
• The unmistakable emotional meaning of home
• Why you need to know about the cork trees in Portugal
• The importance of doing nothing
• How to find the most ethical travel destinations
• 15 sustainable beach tips for your next trip to the sea
• Five Ways Travel Can Help the Planet – rethinking Earth Day
• Voluntourism – the questions you should ask by Uncornered Market

5 thoughts on “9 Powerful Benefits of Sustainable Tourism and Why You Should Care”

The positive of sustainable tourism is to ensure that development is a positive experience for local people, tourism companies, and tourists themselves. I don’t know about before reading your article. Thank you so much for sharing such a valuable information.

Many efforts at sustainability focus on the environment, some on the residents. But for true success, we need to consider all three components. Thanks for stopping by!

Sustainable tourism is the key to establishing the balance between development and nature. It is indeed true that it helps protect endangered animals and birds, protects landscapes and promotes a healthy lifestyle. One such example is the Khonoma Village of Nagaland in India. The villagers were once hunters but now is mainly known for their preservation efforts, ecotourism and sustainable tourism

Thanks for the recommendation! Hope to check it out one day.

You’re welcome Abi. Dzulekie is another village near Khonoma known for the same.

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Sustainable tourism

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Publications.

Tourism is one of the world's fastest growing industries and an important source of foreign exchange and employment, while being closely linked to the social, economic, and environmental well-being of many countries, especially developing countries. Maritime or ocean-related tourism, as well as coastal tourism, are for example vital sectors of the economy in small island developing States (SIDS) and coastal least developed countries (LDCs) (see also: The Potential of the Blue Economy report as well as the Community of Ocean Action on sustainable blue economy).

The World Tourism Organization defines sustainable tourism as “tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities".

Based on General assembly resolution 70/193, 2017 was declared as the  International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development.

In the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development SDG target 8.9, aims to “by 2030, devise and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products”. The importance of sustainable tourism is also highlighted in SDG target 12.b. which aims to “develop and implement tools to monitor sustainable development impacts for sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products”.

Tourism is also identified as one of the tools to “by 2030, increase the economic benefits to Small Island developing States and least developed countries” as comprised in SDG target 14.7.

In the Rio+20 outcome document The Future We want, sustainable tourism is defined by paragraph 130 as a significant contributor “to the three dimensions of sustainable development” thanks to its close linkages to other sectors and its ability to create decent jobs and generate trade opportunities. Therefore, Member States recognize “the need to support sustainable tourism activities and relevant capacity-building that promote environmental awareness, conserve and protect the environment, respect wildlife, flora, biodiversity, ecosystems and cultural diversity, and improve the welfare and livelihoods of local communities by supporting their local economies and the human and natural environment as a whole. ” In paragraph 130, Member States also “call for enhanced support for sustainable tourism activities and relevant capacity-building in developing countries in order to contribute to the achievement of sustainable development”.

In paragraph 131, Member States “encourage the promotion of investment in sustainable tourism, including eco-tourism and cultural tourism, which may include creating small- and medium-sized enterprises and facilitating access to finance, including through microcredit initiatives for the poor, indigenous peoples and local communities in areas with high eco-tourism potential”. In this regard, Member States also “underline the importance of establishing, where necessary, appropriate guidelines and regulations in accordance with national priorities and legislation for promoting and supporting sustainable tourism”.

In 2002, the World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg called for the promotion of sustainable tourism development, including non-consumptive and eco-tourism, in Chapter IV, paragraph 43 of the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation.

At the Johannesburg Summit, the launch of the “Sustainable Tourism – Eliminating Poverty (ST-EP) initiative was announced. The initiative was inaugurated by the World Tourism Organization, in collaboration with UNCTAD, in order to develop sustainable tourism as a force for poverty alleviation.

The UN Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD) last reviewed the issue of sustainable tourism in 2001, when it was acting as the Preparatory Committee for the Johannesburg Summit.

The importance of sustainable tourism was also mentioned in Agenda 21.

For more information and documents on this topic,  please visit this link

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Towards Measuring the Economic Value of Wildlife Watching Tourism in Africa

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22nd general assembly of the united nations world tourism organization, world tourism day 2017 official celebration.

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21st General Assembly of the United Nations World Tourism Organization

Unwto regional conference enhancing brand africa - fostering tourism development.

Tourism is one of the Africa’s most promising sectors in terms of development, and represents a major opportunity to foster inclusive development, increase the region’s participation in the global economy and generate revenues for investment in other activities, including environmental preservation.

• January 2017 International Year of Tourism In the context of the universal 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the International Year aims to support a change in policies, business practices and consumer behavior towards a more sustainable tourism sector that can contribute to the SDGs.
• January 2015 Targets 8.9, 12 b,14.7 The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development commits Member States, through Sustainable Development Goal Target 8.9 to “devise and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products”. The importance of sustainable tourism, as a driver for jobs creation and the promotion of local culture and products, is also highlighted in Sustainable Development Goal target 12.b. Tourism is also identified as one of the tools to “increase [by 2030] the economic benefits to Small Island developing States and least developed countries”, through Sustainable Development Goals Target 14.7.
• January 2012 Future We Want (Para 130-131) Sustainable tourism is defined as a significant contributor “to the three dimensions of sustainable development” thanks to its close linkages to other sectors and its ability to create decent jobs and generate trade opportunities. Therefore, Member States recognize “the need to support sustainable tourism activities and relevant capacity-building that promote environmental awareness, conserve and protect the environment, respect wildlife, flora, biodiversity, ecosystems and cultural diversity, and improve the welfare and livelihoods of local communities” as well as to “encourage the promotion of investment in sustainable tourism, including eco-tourism and cultural tourism, which may include creating small and medium sized enterprises and facilitating access to finance, including through microcredit initiatives for the poor, indigenous peoples and local communities in areas with high eco-tourism potential”.
• January 2009 Roadmap for Recovery UNWTO announced in March 2009 the elaboration of a Roadmap for Recovery to be finalized by UNWTO’s General Assembly, based on seven action points. The Roadmap includes a set of 15 recommendations based on three interlocking action areas: resilience, stimulus, green economy aimed at supporting the tourism sector and the global economy.
• January 2008 Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria The Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria represent the minimum requirements any tourism business should observe in order to ensure preservation and respect of the natural and cultural resources and make sure at the same time that tourism potential as tool for poverty alleviation is enforced. The Criteria are 41 and distributed into four different categories: 1) sustainability management, 2) social and economic 3) cultural 4) environmental.
• January 2003 1st Int. Conf. on Climate Change and Tourism The conference was organized in order to gather tourism authorities, organizations, businesses and scientists to discuss on the impact that climate change can have on the tourist sector. The event took place from 9 till 11 April 2003 in Djerba, Tunisia.
• January 2003 WTO becomes a UN specialized body By Resolution 453 (XV), the Assembly agreed on the transformation of the WTO into a United Nations specialized body. Such transformation was later ratified by the United Nations General Assembly with the adoption of Resolution A/RES/58/232.
• January 2002 World Ecotourism Summit Held in May 2002, in Quebec City, Canada, the Summit represented the most important event in the framework of the International Year of Ecosystem. The Summit identified as main themes: ecotourism policy and planning, regulation of ecotourism, product development, marketing and promotion of ecotourism and monitoring costs and benefits of ecotourism.
• January 1985 Tourism Bill of Rights and Tourist Code At the World Tourism Organization Sixth Assembly held in Sofia in 1985, the Tourism Bill of Rights and Tourist Code were adopted, setting out the rights and duties of tourists and host populations and formulating policies and action for implementation by states and the tourist industry.
• January 1982 Acapulco Document Adopted in 1982, the Acapulco Document acknowledges the new dimension and role of tourism as a positive instrument towards the improvement of the quality of life for all peoples, as well as a significant force for peace and international understanding. The Acapulco Document also urges Member States to elaborate their policies, plans and programmes on tourism, in accordance with their national priorities and within the framework of the programme of work of the World Tourism Organization.

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Coral reforestation helps restore desolated reefs around Landaa Giraavaru Island on Baa Atoll in the Republic of Maldives.

For travelers, sustainability is the word—but there are many definitions of it

Most people want to support sustainable tourism, even though the concept remains fuzzy.

The word “overtourism” is a relatively new term—but its novelty has not diminished the portent of its meaning: “An excessive number of tourist visits to a popular destination or attraction, resulting in damage to the local environment and historical sites and in poorer quality of life for residents,” according to the Oxford Dictionary .  

As travel recovers from pandemic lows, travelers are once again experiencing the consequences of overtourism at enticing, but crowded, destinations. The UN World Tourism Organization, along with public and private sector partners, marks September 27 as World Tourism Day and uses this platform to discuss tourism’s social, political, economic, and environmental impacts.

This day highlights the importance of sustainable tourism —a framework for engaging travelers and the travel industry at large in supporting goals that include protecting the environment, addressing climate change, minimizing plastic consumption , and expanding economic development in communities affected by tourism.

Getting the facts

A National Geographic survey of 3,500 adults in the U.S. reveals strong support for sustainability. That’s the good news—but the challenge will be helping travelers take meaningful actions. According to the survey—which was conducted in 2019—while 42 percent of U.S. travelers would be willing to prioritize sustainable travel in the future, only 15 percent of these travelers are sufficiently familiar with what sustainable travel actually means.  

( Learn about how to turn overtourism into sustainable global tourism .)

In the National Geographic survey, consumers most familiar with sustainable travel are young: 50 percent are 18 to 34 years old. Among travelers who understand the sustainable travel concept, 56 percent acknowledge travel has an impact on local communities and that it’s important to protect natural sites and cultural places.

The survey has informed National Geographic’s experiential travel and media businesses and sparked conversations for creating solutions around sustainability. Our travel content focuses on environmentally friendly practices, protecting cultural and natural heritage, providing social and economic benefits for local communities, and inspiring travelers to become conservation ambassadors. In short, we see every National Geographic traveler as a curious explorer who seeks to build an ethic of conserving all that makes a destination unique.

Building better practices

National Geographic Expeditions operates hundreds of trips each year, spanning all seven continents and more than 80 destinations. Rooted in the National Geographic Society ’s legacy of exploration, the company supports the Society's mission to inspire people to care about the planet by providing meaningful opportunities to explore it. Proceeds from all travel programs support the Society’s efforts to increase global understanding through exploration, education and scientific research.

National Geographic Expeditions offers a range of group travel experiences, including land expeditions, cruises, and active adventures, many of which take place around eco-lodges that are rigorously vetted for their sustainability practices.  

These independent lodges incorporate innovative sustainability practices into their everyday operations, including supporting natural and cultural heritage, sourcing products regionally, and giving back to the local community.

For example, South Africa’s Grootbos Lodge launched a foundation to support the Masakhane Community Farm and Training Centre. Through this program, the lodge has given plots of land to local people who have completed the training, increasing their income and access to local, healthy foods; so far the program has benefitted more than 138 community members.

As a media brand, National Geographic encourages travelers to seek out and support properties that embrace a mission to help protect people and the environment. Not only do these accommodations make direct and meaningful impacts in their own communities, but staying at one helps educate travelers in effective ways to preserve and protect the places they visit.

Supporting sustainability

The travel industry is crucially dependent on the health of local communities, environments, and cultures. As many experts note, we need to invest in the resiliency of places affected by overtourism and climate change to achieve sustainable tourism.

( Should some of the world’s endangered places be off-limits to tourists ?)

National Geographic’s coverage stresses the importance of reducing our carbon footprint and encourages travelers to step off the beaten path and linger longer, respect cultural differences and invest in communities, reconnect with nature and support organizations that are protecting the planet. Here are 12 ways to travel sustainably , reported by our staff editors.

Storytelling can help by highlighting problems brought on by tourism and surfacing practices and technologies to mitigate negative impacts. A key goal of our storytelling mission at National Geographic Travel is to dig deeper into the topic of sustainable tourism and provide resources, practical tips, and destination advice for travelers who seek to explore the world in all its beauty—while leaving behind a lighter footprint.

For Hungry Minds

Related topics.

• SUSTAINABILITY
• SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
• ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION
• PEOPLE AND CULTURE
• CLIMATE CHANGE

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Is it possible to be a ‘sustainable tourist’? 12 ways to make a positive impact on your travels

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After a period of plummeting tourism numbers during the pandemic, tourism is having a resurgence. This is good news for many workers and businesses, but it could be bad for the planet. Here is a selection of ways tourists can ensure that their holidays don’t harm the environment.

There are many positive aspects to tourism. Around two billion people travel each year for tourism purposes. Travel and tourism connect people and bring the world closer through shared experiences, cultural awareness and community building. It provides jobs, spurs regional development, and is a key driver for socio-economic progress.

However, there is often a downside; Many popular destinations are threatened by increasing pollution, environmental hazards, damage to heritage sites and overuse of resources. And that’s without factoring the pollution caused by travel to and from these destinations.

So, with that in mind here are some tips that will help you to enjoy your trip, and leave with the confidence that your favoured tourist destination will not be damaged by your presence, once you return home.

1. Ditch single-use plastics

Often used for less than 15 minutes, single-use plastic items can take more than 1,000 years to degrade. Many of us are switching to sustainable options in our daily lives, and we can take the same attitude when we’re on the road. By choosing reusable bottles and bags wherever you go, you can help ensure there is less plastic waste in the ocean and other habitats.

2. Be ‘water wise’

On the whole, tourists use far more water than local residents. With a growing number of places experiencing water scarcity, the choices you make can help ensure people have adequate access to water in the future. By foregoing a daily change of sheets and towels during hotel stays, we can save millions of litres of water each year.

3. Buy local

When you buy local, you help boost the local economy, benefit local communities, and help to reduce the destination’s carbon footprint from transporting the goods. This is also true at mealtimes, so enjoy fresh, locally grown produce every chance you get.

4. Use an ethical operator

Tour operations involve people, logistics, vendors, transportation and much more. Each link in the chain can impact the environment - positively or negatively. If you prefer to leave the planning to someone else, be sure to pick an operator that prioritizes the environment, uses resources efficiently and respects local culture.

5. ‘Please don’t feed the animals’

Sharing food with wildlife or getting close enough to do so increases the chances of spreading diseases like cold, flu and pneumonia from humans to animals. Also, when animals get used to receiving food from humans, their natural behaviours are altered, and they become dependent on people for survival. In some cases, it can also lead to human-animal conflict.

6. And don’t eat them either!

By creating the demand, consuming endangered or exotic animals leads to an increase in poaching, trafficking and exploitation of animals. Besides the harm done to the individual animal on your plate, irresponsible dining can contribute to the extinction of species already threatened by climate change and habitat loss. Keep this in mind when shopping for souvenirs as well, and steer clear of products made from endangered wildlife.

7. Share a ride

Transportation is a major contributor to the carbon footprint from tourism. Instead of private taxis, explore using public transportation like trains, buses and shared cabs. You can also ride a bicycle, which offers a convenient and cheaper way to explore and learn about a place.

8. Consider a homestay

Staying with a local resident or family is a nature-friendly option that allows you to get up close and personal with local culture and customs. Staying at local homestays can uplift communities by providing income while giving you a peek into different ways of life.

9. Do your homework

Before your travel, educate yourself about your destination. Doing so will allow you to better immerse yourself in local traditions and practices and appreciate things that might have gone unnoticed otherwise. With the right information, you can explore a destination in a more sensitive manner and surprise yourself with new adventures and discoveries.

10. Visit national parks and sanctuaries

Exploring nature and wildlife through national parks is an intimate way to learn about the animals and their ecosystems first hand. In some cases, your entrance fee supports conservation efforts that protect species and landscapes and preserve these natural spaces for future visitors to enjoy.

11. Don’t leave a trace

You can make a mark by not leaving a mark on your vacation destination. Put garbage in its place to avoid litter, and don’t remove or alter anything without permission. Let’s make sure we leave only soft footprints, and not the environmental kind.

12. Tell your friends

Now that you’re ready to travel in eco-friendly style, it’s time spread the word! Inform fellow travellers, friends and family about how sustainable tourism benefits local people by enhancing their livelihoods and well-being, and helps all of us by safeguarding our beautiful environment.

What Sustainable Tourism Is + Why It Is The Most Important Consideration Right Now

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Sustainable tourism- have you heard of this term? Probably. That’s because the term ‘sustainability’ has become one of the most commonly used ‘buzzwords’ in contemporary society. But in reality, sustainable tourism is much more than the latest trend…

Today I am going to talk to you about the most important thing in travel- sustainability. While there are companies who claim to be ‘sustainable’ in order to achieve good PR and greenwashing happens more often than any of us wish to admit, the reality is that sustainability is literally a matter of life and death.

As highlighted by Guru David Attenborough, amongst many others, if we continue to act in the way that we are, the planet will not survive. And on a smaller scale and in a somewhat shorter time frame, if we continue to holiday in the way that we have been, tourism will not survive.

Sustainable tourism is not a choice, we have no choice- it MUST happen. And in this article I am going to tell you what this means for tourism industry workers, industry stakeholders and us- the tourists .

What is sustainable tourism?

Sustainable tourism definitions

Why is sustainable tourism important?

The principles of sustainable tourism

Environmental benefits, social benefits, economic benefits, preservation of natural and cultural heritage, education and awareness, improved travel experience, higher costs, limited tourist numbers, limited development, cultural changes, lack of standardisation, difficulty in implementation, footsteps ecolodge, the gambia, eden project, cornwall, reality tours and travel, india, dolphin discovery centre, western australia, rancho margot, costa rica, sustainable tourism: key takeaways, sustainable tourism faqs, sustainable tourism: conclusion.

Tourism is one of the world’s fastest growing and  most important industries  and is a major source of income for many countries. However, like other forms of development, tourism can also cause its share of problems.

Sustainable tourism, therefore, relies on the premise of taking care of the environment , society and the economy . Sustainable tourism principles intend to minimise the negative impacts of tourism, whilst maximising the positive impacts. However, this if often easier said than done.

A large majority of global travellers (87 percent) say that they want to travel sustainably, according to the Sustainable Travel Report released by Booking.com. But what does sustainable tourism actually mean and are we really being sustainable?

Sustainable tourism is a tourism form which has received significant attention in recent years, both by the media and the academic community. If you Google the term ‘sustainable tourism’ over 270,000,000 results are returned- that’s a lot!

The body of literature addressing sustainable practices in tourism has expanded exponentially. In fact, there is so much information on the concept of sustainable tourism nowadays that you take take an entire travel and tourism degree focussed on the sustainability management issues!

One of the earliest and most regarded definitions of sustainable tourism was published in  The Brundtland Report , where it was defined as “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”.

This sums it up pretty well to me. Think about it- if everyone (industry workers, government, tourists etc) continues to act in the way that they have been, will our grandchildren or great grandchildren have the same opportunities that we have had? For example, if litter is dropped on the beach and not cleared up, then future tourists will not want to visit that beach .

And if economic leakage is not controlled (i.e. when money spent by tourists leaves the country as a result of foreign owned businesses, imported produce etc) then the local people will see little or no benefits of the tourism and may become unwilling to work in the sector or even become antagonised by it. You see where I am going with this?

Another key definition of sustainable tourism is that of The United Nations World Tourism Organisation who state that sustainable tourism is “tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities”.

According to the The United Nations World Tourism Organisation , sustainable tourism should:

• Make optimal use of environmental resources that constitute a key element in tourism development, maintaining essential ecological processes and helping to conserve natural heritage and biodiversity.
• Respect the socio-cultural authenticity of host communities, conserve their built and living cultural heritage and traditional values, and contribute to inter-cultural understanding and tolerance.
• Ensure viable, long-term economic operations, providing socio-economic benefits to all stakeholders that are fairly distributed, including stable employment and income-earning opportunities and social services to host communities, and contributing to poverty alleviation.

As I pointed out, there is a wide breadth of tourism literature available in today’s market. Some of my favourite academic texts include Managing Sustainable Tourism by David Edgell and Sustainable Tourism by David Weaver. You can also find a wide range of research papers on Google Scholar .

Sustainable tourism influences positive movements that in return will create successful development by following strategies that allow the positive impacts to outweigh negative impacts.

As you can see from the graph below, the tourism industry is predicted to continue growing at a rapid rate. This means that any negative impacts caused as a result of tourism will also grow, thus indicating an urgent need for these to be carefully managed and mitigated through sustainable tourism practices.

From the depths of the Amazon jungle to the Australian outback, there are few places in the world that have escaped the burgeoning growth of the travel and tourism industry. Unfortunately, in many cases, this has come at the expense of natural resources, local economies and indigenous populations.

A few years ago I visited a place called Dahab on my travels through Egypt , because I wanted visit the ‘Sharm el Sheik of 30 years ago. I plan to visit the ‘Thailand of days past’ by travelling to Myanmar and I chose the ‘less trodden’ path when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro .

Areas untouched by tourism are becoming more difficult to find. But more worryingly, areas that are untainted or undamaged by tourism are also becoming less common.

If we want to preserve the very things that it is we are going to see (the beach, the mountain, the wildlife etc), then we need to behave responsibly and sustainably.

T he Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) and Tourism Concern (1991) outline 10 principles for sustainable tourism. These are outlined below:

• Using resources sustainably.  The conservation and sustainable use of resources- natural, social and cultural – is crucial and makes long-term business sense.
• Reducing over-consumption and waste.  Reduction of over-consumption and waste avoids the costs of restoring long-term environmental damage and contributes to the quality of tourism.
• Maintaining biodiversity.  Maintaining and promoting natural, social and cultural diversity is essential for long-term sustainable tourism and creates a resilient base for the industry.
• Integrating tourism into planning.  Tourism development which is integrated into a national and local strategic planning framework and which undertake environmental impact assessments increases the long-term viability of tourism.
• Supporting local economies.  Tourism that supports a wide range of local economic activities and which takes environmental costs and values into account, both protects these economies and avoids environmental damage.
• Involving local communities.  The full involvement of local communities in the tourism sector not only benefits them and the environment in general but also improves the quality of the tourism experience.
• Consulting stakeholders and the public.  Consulting between the tourism industry and local communities, organizations and institutions are essential if they are to work alongside each other and resolve potential conflicts of interest.
• Training staff.  Staff training which integrates sustainable tourism into work practices, along with recruitment of personnel at all levels, improves the quality of the tourism product.
• Marketing tourism responsibly.  Marketing that provides tourists with the full and responsible information increases respect for the natural, social and cultural environments of destination areas and enhances customer satisfaction.
• Undertaking research.  Ongoing research and monitoring by the industry using effective data collection and analysis are essential to help solve problems and to bring benefits to destinations, the industry, and consumers.

Benefits of sustainable tourism

Sustainable tourism has many, many benefits. In fact, many would argue that implementing sustainable tourism is not a choice at all, it is essential. But to summarise, here are the key advantages of sustainable tourism:

Sustainable tourism promotes the conservation and protection of natural resources and biodiversity, reducing the negative impacts of tourism on the environment. It also encourages the use of eco-friendly transportation and accommodations, reducing carbon footprint and other pollutants.

Sustainable tourism can contribute to poverty reduction by creating job opportunities and income for local communities. It also promotes cultural understanding and respect by engaging tourists in local cultures and traditions.

This type of tourism can be a profitable and economically viable industry, contributing to economic growth and development. It supports local businesses and economies by promoting local products and services.

Sustainable tourism can help to preserve natural and cultural heritage sites for future generations by promoting responsible tourism practices and supporting conservation efforts.

Sustainable tourism can raise awareness and educate people about environmental and social issues, and encourage behaviour change towards more sustainable practices. It also provides educational opportunities for tourists to learn about local cultures and traditions.

• Sustainable tourism can lead to a more meaningful and authentic travel experience for tourists, as they can engage with local communities and cultures in a responsible way.

Overall, sustainable tourism can benefit both tourists and local communities by promoting responsible and sustainable tourism practices that respect the environment, society, and economy.

Disadvantages of sustainable tourism

While sustainable tourism has many benefits, there are also some potential disadvantages to consider. These include:

Sustainable tourism often requires more investments in eco-friendly technologies and practices, which can increase the costs for tourism businesses and potentially make it more expensive for tourists.

Sustainable tourism often requires limiting the number of tourists to reduce negative impacts on the environment and local communities, which can limit the economic benefits for tourism businesses and potentially reduce access for some tourists.

Sustainable tourism practices may require limiting the development of tourism infrastructure in certain areas to protect natural and cultural heritage sites, which can limit economic growth and development opportunities for local communities.

Sustainable tourism may require changes in local cultural practices and traditions to accommodate the needs of tourists, which can potentially lead to the loss of cultural erosion and loss of heritage.

Sustainable tourism practices can vary widely across destinations and tourism businesses, which can lead to inconsistencies in quality and standardisation, potentially reducing the overall effectiveness of sustainable tourism practices.

Ever heard of the term ‘easier said than done’? Sustainable tourism can be difficult to implement and manage, requiring partnerships between different stakeholders and long-term planning and management.

It’s important to note, however, that these potential disadvantages can be mitigated through careful tourism planning , collaboration, and monitoring to ensure that sustainable tourism practices are effective and beneficial for all stakeholders involved.

Examples of sustainable tourism

It’s not difficult to be a sustainable tourist , the biggest problem is a general lack of awareness amongst many tourists. If you want to learn more about how to be a sustainable traveller I recommend this book- How to be a highly Sustainable Tourist: A Guidebook for the Conscientious Traveller .

There are so many wonderful examples of sustainable tourism throughout the world! I have visited a few and I have lots more on my bucket list. Here are a few of my favourite examples.

My first example of sustainable tourism is Footsteps Ecolodge, which I visited back in 2010.

David, the Founder of Footsteps Ecolodge expresses how when he took a relatively cheap trip to The Gambia, he discovered that the staff at his booked hotel were only earning on average £1 per day. David felt guilty for enjoying a holiday knowing that the locals were receiving little or no economic benefits at all from hosting him.

David went on to develop Footsteps Ecolodge, with a mission to improve The Gambia’s trade through responsible tourism and therefore encourages sustainable development. In fact, one of his goals has led footsteps to employ only from the local village and buy only local produce.

I loved visiting this ecolodge. It has many environmentally friendly initiatives, ranging from solar powered electricity to composting toilets. It is based far away from the main tourist areas, providing a unique and authentic holiday experience. After spending a few days in the main tourist resort of Kotu, I was happy to exchange the evening chatter in the restaurants for the humming of grasshoppers and the beach bar music for the gentle sounds of waves.

You can read more on David’s story and the story behind Footsteps Ecolodge here.

The Eden Project is another great example of sustainable tourism.

It was built to demonstrate the importance of plants to people and to promote the understanding of vital relationships between plants and people. It is a huge complex that welcomes a wide range of tourists from the UK and overseas. In 2017, the project attracted more than o ne million visitors.

The project in fact has annual sustainability reports, monitoring its sustainable impact year on year.

Reality Tours and Travel’s mission is to provide authentic and thought-provoking local experiences through their tours and to use the profits to create change in Indian communities.

Reality Tours and Travel is a social catalyst and works towards profit sharing programs. 80% of their profits go directly to Reality Gives which runs high quality education programs in areas where their tours work.

Reality Tours and Travel now welcomes over 15,000 guests each year and employs over 50 members of staff.

The Dolphin Discovery Centre begun when Mrs Evelyn Smith begun to feed a group of dolphins near her home. Following her discovery of the dolphin grouping, specialists were brought in to monitor and study the local dolphins.

A few years later, the Dolphin Discovery Centre allowed tourists and community members to interact with the dolphins in hope they would understand and enjoy the marine mammals.

In brief, the Dolphin Discovery Centre Adopt a Dolphin Program supports the conservation of dolphins and the broader marine environment.

To date, the Dolphin Discovery Centre not only conserves dolphins, the centre also conserves turtles too. Learn more on adopting a dolphin or turtle with the Dolphin Discovery Centre here.

Ranch Margot is exactly what it sounds, a ranch located in Costa Rica. It all begun in 2004 when the founder of Rancho Margot, Juan Sostheim, purchased 400 acres of pasture. Despite the land being cleared of all vegetation, Juan Sostheim had a vision to grow sustainable food and raising animals.

Today, Rancho Margot focuses specifically on sustainable production and living, from the food they delivery to their energy production and the transportation used. Read more on Rancho Margot here.

Rancho Margot’s sustainable mission is in keeping with the Brundtland Report.

“To achieve and maintain sustainable operations, we work to find better ways to satisfy our needs without compromising future generations​”

Whilst I didn’t get a chance got visit Rancho Margot during our travels through Costa Rica , it does look like a fantastic place to go and a great example of sustainable tourism.

So now that we understand a bit more about what sustainable tourism is and what it looks like in practice, lets re-cap the key points that we have covered in this article.

Sustainable tourism is an approach to tourism that seeks to minimise negative impacts on the environment, society, and economy, while maximising the positive impacts.

• Sustainable tourism can help to preserve natural and cultural heritage sites, and contribute to poverty reduction by creating job opportunities and income for local communities.
• Sustainable tourism promotes responsible travel practices, such as respecting local cultures, conserving natural resources, and reducing carbon footprint.
• Sustainable tourism requires partnerships between different stakeholders, including governments, local communities, NGOs, and private sector businesses.
• Sustainable tourism involves long-term planning and management to ensure that the benefits of tourism are sustainable over time.
• Sustainable tourism can be a profitable and economically viable industry that contributes to economic growth and development.
• Sustainable tourism can help to raise awareness about environmental and social issues, and encourage behavior change towards more sustainable practices.
• Sustainable tourism can support the conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem services, which are crucial for the health of the planet and human well-being.
• Sustainable tourism is not just a trend or a buzzword, but a necessity for the future of tourism and the planet.

Now lets finish up this article about sustainable tourism by answering some of the most common questions on this topic.

Sustainable tourism is important because it can help to preserve natural and cultural heritage sites, contribute to poverty reduction, promote responsible travel practices, and support the conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem services.

What are some examples of sustainable tourism practices?

Examples of sustainable tourism practices include using eco-friendly transportation and accommodations, supporting local businesses and communities, conserving natural resources, and respecting local cultures.

How can tourists practice sustainable tourism?

Tourists can practice sustainable tourism by reducing their carbon footprint, supporting local businesses and communities, respecting local cultures, and conserving natural resources.

What is the role of governments in sustainable tourism?

Governments can play a crucial role in promoting and regulating sustainable tourism practices, such as setting standards and regulations for tourism businesses, supporting local communities, and preserving natural and cultural heritage sites.

How can tourism businesses implement sustainable practices?

Tourism businesses can implement sustainable practices by adopting eco-friendly technologies and practices, supporting local communities and economies, reducing waste and carbon emissions, and promoting responsible tourism practices.

What is the impact of unsustainable tourism practices?

Unsustainable tourism practices can have negative impacts on the environment, such as pollution , overuse of natural resources, and habitat destruction. They can also have negative social impacts, such as exploitation of local communities and cultures.

How can sustainable tourism contribute to economic growth and development ?

Sustainable tourism can contribute to economic growth and development by creating job opportunities , generating income for local communities, and promoting local businesses and economies.

How can sustainable tourism help to address climate change?

Sustainable tourism can help to address climate change by reducing carbon emissions through the use of eco-friendly transportation and accommodations, and by promoting responsible travel practices.

How can consumers support sustainable tourism?

Consumers can support sustainable tourism by choosing eco-friendly accommodations and transportation options, supporting local businesses and communities, respecting local cultures, and conserving natural resources.

To summarise, sustainable tourism is a form of tourism that takes a long term approach. It considers needs of the future, not only the present. Sustainable tourism has close ties with a number of other tourism forms such as responsible tourism, alternative tourism and ecotourism. In order to be sustainable the three pillars of sustainable tourism must be accounted for: economic impacts, social impacts, environmental impacts.

Typically tourists who partake in sustainable tourism activities will have a desire to help and support local communities and environments whilst avoiding any negative impacts their visit might bring. Many tourists now are far more conscious than they used to be and in general, society is a lot more aware of the impacts of their actions. In many ways, this has fuelled the sustainable behaviours of a number of stakeholders, who seek to please their customers and to enhance their own business prospects.

If you found this article about sustainable tourism helpful, I am sure you will enjoy these too:

• The scary truth about water insecurity
• Cultural erosion: A simple explanation
• Why Ecotourism in Costa Rica is such big business
• 13 Social impacts of tourism + explanations + examples
• 15 reasons volunteering might not benefit you as much as you think: Negative impacts of volunteer tourism

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The Benefits Of Sustainable Tourism On The Environment And Beyond

In the past decade more and more people started to think about the benefits of sustainability and about ways to protect the environment. This is a great thing because more and more people are interested in protecting our planet, at the same time, this makes our life and experiences, in general, a lot more meaningful.

For a lot of people, it all comes down to identifying the challenges that might arise and actively finding creative ways to travel while also protecting the environment. This is exciting, but it can also become quite a challenge.

Sustainable tourism advantages

One of the best parts about understanding the environmental benefits of sustainable tourism is that with its help, travelers finally get to achieve what we want and breach new boundaries. Of course, there will always be challenges that arise, all you need is to get past that and push things to the next level!

While this trend is not mainstream for now, it can become mainstream, and it all comes down to how people react to it and what challenges are there right in front of you. Some of its factors are not simple, on top of this, they can become increasingly demanding, all you have to do is to handle it the right way.

By adopting a sustainable approach to tourism, you get to strike a balance between traveling and actually eliminating many of the downsides that come from it. That’s exciting as it is nerve-wracking, but it definitely offers some rewarding results and great ideas too.

Environmental benefits

By far, the most important thing about the benefits of this practice comes from protecting the environment. But, this probably doesn’t come as a surprise, the entire purpose of sustainable development is to achieve a better and more sustainable future for humanity. One of the primary global challenges it addresses is related to climate and environmental degradation.

If we want life to succeed and prosper on earth, we need to protect our planet. And sustainable tourism at its core is all about keeping the planet alive and protecting it as much as we can. This is not going to be easy and it does end up offering a ton of challenges right in front of you.

In spite of that, if you know what you are getting into and what you can expect, then the payoff can be great. It’s a good idea to understand everything you are dealing with and what you can do as long as you put the time in to deepen your knowledge and take action as best you can, it will be worth it!

You get to protect ecosystems, make sure that you prevent deforestation and this will even help conserve energy and water.

Why is this important? I’ll let the statistics speak on my behalf.

According to a sustainability study by SUMAS , with the current climate change scenario, between 24 million and 700 million people will be displaced by 2030 due to water scarcity.

Also, in a paper published in the scientific journal Nature Climate Change , it was discovered that tourism accounts for around 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

The sustainable tourism benefits don’t just come out of nowhere. They need to be nurtured and adapted to your own needs, but when you add them up the potential is huge and the payoff alone will be incredible no matter what.

Even if it seems to be very tricky and challenging to handle this kind of stuff at first, the results will be extraordinary. And the best part is that our planet gets to benefit from all these things all the time from now on. We need to start focusing more on sustainability and we need to do that now because our planet needs it more than ever before .

Economic benefits

Aside from the environmental benefits of tourism, there’s also the fact that sustainable tourism also comes with economic benefits. If you add in the notion of traveling consciously to the table, this will bring in more jobs and enhance the way people work.

It will reduce poverty and at the same time it will bring in infrastructural development and financial improvements too. Every region in the world needs something like that, and the faster we start implementing such systems, the better the results will be in the end.

We truly believe that with help from sustainable tourism we get to stimulate growth in rural and remote regions in general, all while encouraging growth and wellbeing in other regions. The more we think about those regions and improve what they are capable of, the better the results will be.

As stated in this tourism economic impact analysis , tourists contribute to sales, profits, jobs, tax revenues, and income in an area. The most direct influence occurs within the primary tourism sectors (for example lodging, restaurants, transportation, and more).

Granted, it’s by no means something simple to adapt or improve, but as long as we understand the economic benefits of sustainable tourism, and take it one step at a time, we will be fine. Yes, investing in this practice is an opportunity and one that we should consider harnessing as fast as possible. This is an astounding experience and a complete investment that you will not want to miss at all.

Cultural benefits

Aside from that, sustainable tourism also comes with its fair share of cultural benefits too. Tourism is created on the idea of exploration and human contact. You get to travel more thanks to this practice, and you also get to meet new cultures!

In this manner, you finally get to understand differences, focus on what those regions know and understand from one another. On top of that, you can inspire communities to take pride in what they have to do and what they can bring to the table at this particular time.

Plus, you get to promote other things like gender equality, social responsibility, protecting children and the overall culture in general. And at the same time traveling consciously encourages you to make changes at home and within your region too.

That being said, it’s no surprise that traveling is one of the best ways to break free from monotony, a foreign country is out of your comfort zone, this brings an opportunity to experience authentic cultures. Cultural immersion might seem intimidating, choosing a tour operator that is well-versed culturally is key for travelers to enjoy the journey. This way, being unfamiliar with the basics in an unknown place won’t come off as daunting.

Traveling consciously opens up your eyes and brings in creative, new ways to tackle many problems too. And the best part is that the benefits of sustainable tourism extend to things like politics, cultural resources, education, and health in ways that you would not have imagined beforehand.

Initially, this entire thing was just a small movement, but now it’s way past that point. More and more people adopted this approach and they truly consider it to be the future of tourism. Yes, we do need to make some changes and improve along the way, but the potential of sustainable tourism is huge and the payoff will be outstanding.

Nothing is impossible as long as we continue to focus on sustainable tourism and harnessing its potential. Everything from culture to the economy can grow and evolve, plus we get to protect the environment and respect it more than ever before.

Yes, we have a long way until this ethical way to travel becomes the norm, but the potential is there, and all we want to do is to start implementing it, as it’s immensely worth it! What do you think?

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Benefits Of Sustainable Tourism: All You Need To Know To Be A Sustainable Traveler

The benefits of sustainable tourism are far-reaching and as you will see, affects many aspects of your destination of choice. 

Tourism is a multi-trillion dollar industry.

It is extremely rare to find someone who actively does not like to travel. 

Everyone loves new experiences, visiting new places, absorbing new cultures, and creating new memories. 

That being said, as popular a hobby as traveling can be, it can also be one that is harmful to our environment and the planet at large. This is where sustainable tourism comes in. 

In this article, we take a deep dive into:

• Exactly what sustainable tourism is;
• The extensive benefits of sustainable tourism; and
• How we can all travel more responsibly to support sustainable tourism.

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Summary of the best sustainable travel products:

• Sustainable Backpacks made from Recycled Plastic
• Sustainable Packing Cubes
• Eco-Friendly Toiletry Bags
• Greenzla Bamboo Toothbrushes
• EcoTools Reusable Shower Cap
• Bamboo Travel Utensil Set
• Reusable Snack Bags

What Is Sustainable Tourism?

Tourism means to travel, yes. That being said, being a tourist in a new country is not just about your travel experiences. 

It is also about how people traveling to new places can affect that country, be it in a good or bad way.

The United Nations World Tourism Organization defines sustainable tourism as:

“Tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment, and host communities”. 

As such, sustainable tourism can be best described as traveling, exploring, and discovering a new place or country in a manner that respects its people, culture, environment, and economy.

Ideally, sustainable tourism is done in such a way that it positively impacts these aspects of your destination. 

Of course, this is an extremely broad definition and there are plenty of nuances that go into the core principles of sustainable tourism. 

With the concept of sustainable tourism gaining more traction and awareness among both new and seasoned travelers, each aspect requires an in-depth discussion to truly comprehend the benefits of sustainable tourism. 

What Are The Benefits Of Sustainable Tourism?

The benefits of sustainable tourism are endless. 

When you travel consciously and responsibly, taking into account the impact of each of your actions when you are in a new place, the benefits may be intangible, but they are long-lasting. 

Let’s take a look at how sustainable tourism benefits each aspect of your destination of choice. 

Sustainable Tourism And People

When visiting a new country, it is vital to respect the people of that country. 

This is especially so when it is a place that is deemed to be ‘exotic’ or entirely different from your home country.

When we speak about respect for the people in the context of sustainable tourism, we usually refer to how we treat the people. 

This can mean speaking to them politely (you are a visitor in their homeland, after all), asking them permission before taking photographs of them, their homes, or their children. 

For example, in Bali, one of the more popular ‘tourist attractions’ is to visit a traditional Balinese home and be given insight as to how traditional Balinese families live. 

During this time, they will show you how they make their meals, their crafts, and will also introduce you to members of their family. 

In situations like these, it is fairly common for tourists to walk through the homes, speak to the members of the families, and take pictures.

If you find yourself in one of these homes, it is best to ensure that a family member is with you at all times when you are walking through their home.

What if curiosity gets the best of you?

 If you are curious about an item, do make sure that you ask permission before touching or removing the item from its place. 

This may seem like common sense and things that we may take for granted but there are indeed situations where tourists have walked through their homes and taken pictures of sacred items and family members without the required permission. 

When you treat people with respect, they are bound to be more welcoming and open to other tourists. It cannot be denied that these activities benefit them financially as well.

As such, they will benefit in the long-term from visits like these as long as it is done carefully, respectfully, and sustainably. 

Sustainable Tourism And Culture

There is a distinction between respect for the people of your destination country and the culture. When we speak of culture, we refer to respect for their language, traditions, and way of doing things. 

For example, when you respect the language of a land that is foreign to you and learn how to speak it correctly, you are creating awareness about that language and encouraging others to learn it too. 

When you go to visit a temple in India or Thailand, it is compulsory to ensure that your knees are covered.

When you show respect for the culture in this way, it allows for tourism to flourish without the culture of the country being eroded or diminished in any way. 

This in turn will encourage these sustainable tourism practices to be more widespread. 

Sustainable Tourism And The Environment

The word ‘environment’ can be a rather broad aspect to look at when we speak of the advantages of sustainable tourism  concerning the country you are visiting. In essence, this refers to the greenery, the oceans, the animals, and general surroundings. 

There are many benefits of green tourism. This is also sometimes referred to as eco-tourism. 

This is when every activity of your travel takes is environmentally friendly. 

For example, if you are going hiking through a local jungle, it is important to ensure that this is done carefully, without damaging any greenery or leaving behind litter.

This will benefit the natural fauna and ensures that it continues to be preserved. This in turn will maintain the balance of the environment. 

If diving is more your thing, then sustainable tourism will ensure that only a limited amount of people are allowed in that area at a particular time to ensure that the corals and undersea environment are not harmed in any way. 

Safaris and animal reserves may seem like an honorable way of learning about the local wildlife. However, sustainable tourism will also ensure that these animals are not exploited in any way.

Common examples of animals being exploited can include the riding of elephants or visiting and petting of wild animals in confined spaces in exchange for profit. 

When more people are aware of the benefits of sustainable tourism and decline to take part in these types of activities, then environmental exploitations are likely to be discouraged and completely eradicated in the long-run. 

Sustainable Tourism And The Economy

The economic benefits of sustainable tourism are probably the largest driving forces behind the increased awareness of sustainable tourism as a whole and the reason more destinations are promoting eco-friendly tourism. 

With more travelers choosing to visit countries and destinations that are exclusively sustainable, the economy of the destination will improve.

The economies of some countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, and the Maldives are driven primarily through tourism. 

Even other mainstream tourist destinations are recreating and rebranding themselves to be more eco-friendly to cater to the environmentally-conscious tourist to ensure that tourism continues to contribute to the economy of the country. 

This can mean creating more jobs in the travel industry for the locals as well as creating business opportunities for them to expand their economic portfolio. 

With all this talk about the many benefits of sustainable tourism, the natural question to ask would be what are the things we can do to ensure that we travel sustainably. 

How Can We Travel Sustainably?

Sustainable tourism works both ways – on the part of the tourist, as well as the entities that provide tourism-related activities and/or accommodation. 

As a tourist, here are our top 10 ways in which you can travel sustainably and some sustainable tourism examples for you:

1. Research Your Destination

Make sure that your destination of choice subscribes to the principles of sustainable tourism. According to Green Matters , some examples of countries that are known for sustainable tourism  include Botswana, Costa Rica, and Mongolia. 

2. Research Your Flights

Try to take flights that have lower carbon emissions.

Usually, when you search for flights on Expedia , the carbon emissions are indicated next to the details of the flight.

In fact, sites like Fly Green even offset your carbon emissions for free. This means that the company will plant trees or carry out other green activities that will make up for the carbon emissions of your flight! 

3. Stock Up On Reusable Items

As much as possible, try not to use disposable items made from paper or plastic during your travel.

Carry a reusable water bottle like this collapsible and BPA free water bottle with you so that you do not have to purchase plastic mineral water bottles.

Check out our list of sustainable travel products below! 

4. Go Local

Dine at local restaurants rather than the restaurants at your hotel or place of accommodation. 

This will ensure that small businesses also benefit from tourism.

5. Be Mindful Of Tourist Activities

Take part in sustainable activities that do not harm the environment or exploit animals or local wildlife.

6. Watch Your Water Usage

Be mindful of your water consumption while you are traveling. This is not about how much water you drink but rather how much water you use during your daily routines.

Like leaving the tap on while you brush your teeth.

7. Research Animal Sanctuaries

If you must visit animal sanctuaries, make sure that they are properly taken care of and protected.

There are some great ethical wildlife sanctuaries that focus on the rescue and rehabilitation of the animals who stay there.

Some notable ones include:

• The Elephant Nature Park in Thailand
• The Sloth Sanctuary in Costa Rica
• The Tiritiri Matangi Open Sanctuary in New Zealand

8. Use Eco-Friendly Companies

Travel with companies or book your accommodation with hotels or resorts that give back to the environment in some way, either by way of donations, projects, or activities that create awareness about the environment.

That being said, eco-friendly does not necessarily mean that you have to give up on luxury. 

Some hotels that combine eco-friendly initiatives with comfortable accommodation include:

• Six Sense Con Dao, Vietnam

This hotel has its own turtle sanctuary and has  partnered with local parks to protect the coral reefs .

They also have courses where guests can learn more about sustainability and how to become more environmentally conscious. Here you can read one of our favourite guidebooks by DK Eyewitness on everything to do in Vietnam .

• Capella Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

This beautiful luxury resort is located in the middle of the rainforest.

They have a strict no-single-use-plastic policy and offer sustainability-focused scholarship to the local youth.

Bali is an amazing island with a variety of terrains to discover and immerse yourself, this guidebook takes you through the history of Bali and how it came about, the various landscapes and the surrounding islands.

• Campi Ya Kanzi, Kenya

This eco-lodge is a rare find with a zero-carbon footprint . It is completely solar-powered and all electrical items used at the location are low energy . 

Bonus: you also get the safari experience and if you are also interested in learning more about the cultures and customs you may immerse yourself here !

9. Get Familiar

Learn the local language and use it to communicate with the locals. 

Even a few words or sentences are enough to show them that you genuinely care about being there and getting to know about them and their culture.

Duolingo and Bussu are some wonderful sites that offer a range of different languages for you to learn. 

There’s even a book with tips and tricks on how to become fluent and learn any language fast !

10. Use Public Transport

Try to travel using the local public transport systems rather than hiring private transport to go to different places within your destination country.

This will reduce pollution levels and also support local transport companies.

Sustainable Travel Products

One of the other things that you can do to travel sustainably is to use sustainable, reusable travel products instead of single-use, disposable travel products. 

Here are our recommendations for some of the best sustainable travel products:

1. Sustainable Backpacks made from Recycled Plastic (12 plastic bottles)

Every traveller needs a backpack, and even better when the materials used are sustainable. Nowadays, technology has advanced so much that old plastic bottles can be recycled into fabrics known as rPET or recycled polyester . These fabrics take less energy to produce, are durable, lightweight, crease and stain resistant and of course reduces the number of plastic bottles in landfills. Here some of our other favourite sustainable bags:

2. Sustainable Packing Cubes

Can we just say, packing cubes are awesome! They help to keep your luggage organised, group your clothes by category, prevent your clothes from wrinkling whether you choose to fold or roll, and of course prevent any embarrassment if your bags need to be opened during luggage security checks and not have your underwear exposed or come rolling out. Here’s a few more sustainable packing cubes for you to choose from:

3. Eco-Friendly Toiletry Bags

Toiletry bags are essential, the organisation that they can add to your everyday and travel experience is transforming! They help to keep all your toiletries categorized and easily accessible. Each have their own special features, some come with a wet and dry side especially for men traveling with their shaving kits, some come with a useful hanger to save on counter space. Here’s a few that we love that are also sustainable:

4. Greenzla Bamboo Toothbrushes

Say goodbye to disposable plastic toothbrushes. These bamboo ones are eco-friendly and biodegradable.

They also come in packaging that is sustainably sourced and recyclable. Perfect for the sustainable traveler.

5. EcoTools Reusable Shower Cap

Instead of using those plastic shower caps that hotels provide, why not use this reusable one ?

This cotton shower cap also works for your hair conditioning treatments so you can pamper yourself without even leaving your room!

As a bonus, it also comes in a reusable case so that you can safely store it after use.

6. Bamboo Travel Utensil Set

This is a great replacement for plastic cutlery when you are traveling. 

They come in gorgeous, reusable packaging and are light and easy to carry around, making it the perfect sustainable travel companion. 

7. Reusable Snack Bags

Replace your ziplock bags with these hardy reusable ones . Perfect for snacks or packing small items to make sure that you don’t lose them. They are easy to clean and being transparent makes them perfect for air travel. 

As you can see, there are many ways in which you can travel sustainably and many more reasons why you should.

The benefits of sustainable tourism far outweigh the money, time, and energy spent to make sure that every aspect of your travel is indeed sustainable and environmentally friendly as far as possible. 

As different countries open up to more people around the world, it is important that these places not be taken over by tourists. Tourism should benefit the destination country, not drain it of its resources. 

Remember that it is an ecosystem that makes up the travel industry and even the smallest action on your part to contribute towards the benefits of sustainable tourism can have a deep and long-lasting impact. 

Benefits Of Sustainable Tourism : All You Need To Know To Be A Sustainable Traveler

6 years to the Global Goals – here's how tourism can help get us there

Inclusive governance and community engagement in tourism planning and management can aid sustainable development goals. Image:  Unsplash/D Jonez

.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo{-webkit-transition:all 0.15s ease-out;transition:all 0.15s ease-out;cursor:pointer;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:none;color:inherit;}.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo:hover,.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo:focus,.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo[data-focus]{box-shadow:0 0 0 3px rgba(168,203,251,0.5);} Zurab Pololikashvili

.chakra .wef-1nk5u5d{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;color:#2846F8;font-size:1.25rem;}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-1nk5u5d{font-size:1.125rem;}} Get involved .chakra .wef-9dduvl{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;font-size:1.25rem;}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-9dduvl{font-size:1.125rem;}} with our crowdsourced digital platform to deliver impact at scale

• Tourism is a significant economic force that has returned close to pre-pandemic figures, with 1.3 billion international travellers and tourism exports valued at approximately $1.6 trillion in 2023.
• The tourism sector must adopt sustainable practices in response to climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution.
• Inclusive governance and community engagement in tourism planning and management are key to ensuring the sector’s support to local identity, rights and well-being.

With mounting challenges to our societies – conflict, geopolitical tension, climate change and rising inequality – we should look to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their promise of a shared blueprint for peace, prosperity, people and planet by 2030. However, as UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres reminds us , “that promise is in peril” with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic having stalled three decades of steady progress.

Tourism can help deliver a better future, and with less than six years to go, it must unleash its full power to achieve this.

Have you read?

Turning tourism into development: mitigating risks and leveraging heritage assets, what is travel and tourism’s role in future global prosperity, how travel and tourism can reach net zero, tourism’s economic boon.

International tourists reached 88% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023. Around 1.3 billion tourists travelled internationally, with total tourism exports of $1.6 trillion, almost 95% of the $1.7 trillion recorded pre-pandemic. Preliminary estimates indicate that tourism's direct gross domestic product (GDP) reached $3.3 trillion, the same as 2019, as per our World Tourism Barometer .

Yet, persisting inflation, high interest rates, volatile oil prices and disruptions to trade could impact the pace of recovery. Uncertainty derived from ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine, the Israel-Hamas conflict and growing tensions in the Middle East, alongside other mounting geopolitical tensions, may also weigh on traveller confidence.

Results from the World Economic Forum’s latest Travel & Tourism Development Index reflect the impact of some of these challenges on the sector’s recovery and travel and tourism’s potential to address many of the world’s growing environmental, social and economic problems.

Therefore, as the sector returns, it remains our responsibility to ensure that this is a sustainable, inclusive and resilient recovery.

The climate imperative

Climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss are making extreme weather events increasingly challenging for destinations and communities worldwide. The tourism sector is simultaneously highly vulnerable to climate change and a contributor to harmful greenhouse gas emissions.

Accelerating climate action in tourism is critical for the sector’s and host communities’ resilience. We are taking responsibility but more needs to be done to reduce plastics, curb food waste, protect and restore biodiversity, and reduce emissions as the demand for travel grows.

The framework proposed by the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism is catalyzing the development and implementation of climate action plans, guided by and aligned to five pathways (measure, decarbonize, regenerate, collaborate and finance). It’s a clear plan to enable the transition towards low carbon and regenerative tourism operations for resilience. Over 850 signatories from 90 countries are involved in innovating solutions, creating resources and connecting across supply chains, destinations and communities.

Leaving no-one behind

Tourism can be a powerful tool to fight inequality, within and between countries but only so long as we also address diversity, equity and inclusion in the sector, provide decent jobs and ensure respect for host communities and shared benefits.

One good example of tourism’s potential to progress shared prosperity is Rwanda’s Tourism Revenue Sharing Programme . Initiated in 2005 and revised in 2022, it aligns conservation efforts with community development. The programme designates a portion of National Parks revenues to ensure that local communities benefit directly from conservation and tourism activities. Initially set at 5%, the share of total revenue now stands at 10% .

Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024

New tools, jobs and values

Technology, ease of travel and the pandemic have all accelerated changes in how we work. Again, as we progress, we have a duty to ensure we are leaving nobody behind. Education and skills are vital to progressing equality, growth and opportunities for all, making them a cornerstone of the SDGs. However, tourism businesses face a labour shortage to cope with travel demand. We must make tourism more attractive to young people so they see it as a valued career path.

We also need to support micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), which make up around 80% of all tourism businesses worldwide and up to 98% in some Group of 20 (G20) economies. While each country’s challenges are different, digitization, market access, marketing and skill gaps are key areas we should address with targeted policies for MSMEs and entrepreneurship.

Measuring impact

Sustainable tourism is only possible if we can properly measure the sector’s impact and progress in three dimensions: economic, social and environmental.

Last March, the UN adopted a new global standard to measure the sustainability of tourism (MST) – economic, social and environmental. Developed under the leadership of UN Tourism and endorsed by all 193 UN member states, the MST statistical framework provides the common language (agreed definitions, tables and indicators) for producing harmonized data on key economic, social and environmental aspects of tourism.

Countries and other stakeholders now have the foundation to produce trustworthy, comparable data for steering the sector towards its full potential. And indeed, over 30 countries and subnational regions have already implemented the flexible MST framework, focusing on the data most relevant to their sustainability efforts.

Centring community wellbeing

Increasingly, communities worldwide demand a tourism sector that respects their identity, rights and wellbeing.

Transforming the sector requires rethinking governance as more holistic with a whole-government approach, multi-level coordination between national and local policies and strong public-private-community partnerships. Listening and engaging residents in tourism planning and management is at the core of the sector’s future.

Take Barcelona as an example. Here, e tourism represents 14% of the city’s GDP. The Tourism and City Council was created in 2016 and relies on citizen participation to advise the municipal government on tourism public policies. This initiative demonstrates the advancement of tourism governance from classic public-private collaboration to public-private-community. Therefore, issues around the visitor economy become those for official city consideration.

Delivering on tourism’s potential

We urgently need to grow investment in tourism. The data is encouraging: the UN Conference on Trade and Development World Investment Report 2023 shows that global foreign direct investment across all sectors, tourism included, reached approximately $1.37 trillion that year, marking a modest increase of 3% from 2022.

At the same time, we need to ensure this investment is targeted where it will make the most significant and most positive impact by building greater resilience and accelerating the shift towards greater sustainability.

The significant benefits tourism can offer our economies and societies, as well as the challenges obstructing us from fully delivering on this potential, are now more widely recognized than ever.

Tourism is firmly on the agenda of the UN, G20 and Group of Seven nations and the Forum. Delivering on this potential, however, will require political commitment and significant investment. But given what is at stake and the potential benefits to be gained, it should be seen as a huge opportunity rather than a daunting challenge.

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License and Republishing

World Economic Forum articles may be republished in accordance with the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International Public License, and in accordance with our Terms of Use.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone and not the World Economic Forum.

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How ecotourism benefits the environment and local communities

Ecotourism is all about respecting the local culture and environment. Learn how to reduce your carbon footprint and, why not, how to volunteer and give back to the community.

Raquel www.solanomundo.com.br

May 31, 2023

Ecotourism is becoming more and more popular, and one of the reasons is that the new generations are no longer just looking for to the next destination, but to travel with purpose. 

If you are looking for new life experiences , to learn about other ways of living and meet like-minded people, stay tuned for great ideas. From supporting local communities to protecting nature and fighting climate change, this different form of travel is a whole new way of looking at packing and setting off on a new adventure .

What is ecotourism?

Travel to natural areas is a great opportunity to discover amazing landscapes , but it can also help preserve delicate ecosystems, provide economic benefits to local communities and promote conservation efforts. 

To fully realize the potential of ecotourism, minimal environmental impact and stable and equitable economic growth must be paramount. Ecotourism is also an exciting option for your next volunteer experience with Worldpackers. Where you can visit ecological projects with the added bonus of supporting local communities .

You can practice ecotourism now, by supporting local businesses and having an eco-friendly mindset . But you can also be part of a larger community with different projects and causes. These practices help protect nature for future generations while making a positive impact. 

This form of tourism focuses on environmental sustainability and responsible travel practices . It involves visiting national parks to observe wildlife, learn about local cultures, and appreciate the beauty of nature . And if you are an outdoor enthusiast, ecotourism can include activities like hiking, camping, bird watching, and kayaking.

When traveling with an eco-friendly mindset it’s important to remember that your actions have consequences. This means being mindful of how you interact with the environment around you, from avoiding littering to respecting cultural customs , these actions benefit everyone involved -including yourself.

Keep reading :  Discover India's top 3 best ecotourism 

The benefits of ecotourism

Travelers want to explore nature while minimizing their impact on the environment. One of the main benefits of ecotourism is that it reduces pollution and waste by promoting responsible use of natural resources . By limiting energy consumption, using renewable sources such as solar power, and avoiding single-use plastic, ecotourists help protect ecosystems from further damage.

But ecotourism can bring many benefits to both travelers and local communities . It can help support local economies by creating jobs and income opportunities for people living near touristic destinations. And in the other hand, ecotourists have the opportunity to learn more about a culture’s customs, beliefs, language, and food habits . This helps travellers to gain an understanding of different perspectives from around the globe.

Another benefit of ecotourism is that it educates travelers about the importance of preserving nature and protecting wildlife habitats. Through guided tours or volunteer programs, visitors can learn more about the environment they are visiting while helping with conservation efforts such as beach cleanups or tree planting initiatives . This type of education can be invaluable in raising awareness about global issues related to climate change or endangered species conservation .

How ecotourism benefits local communities

Ecotourism has the potential to benefit local communities in many ways, from creating jobs and boosting the economy to conserving natural resources . With responsible ecotourism practices, travelers can ensure that their impact is positive and meaningful.

Whether you’re backpacking through South America or trekking through Asia , choosing ecotourism can provide economic opportunities for local communities by creating jobs in hospitality, conservation, and other related fields. These jobs can help reduce poverty levels and improve the quality of life for locals. Instead of opting for large hotel or restaurant chains where sustainability may not be a top priority, opt for smaller establishments . That way, you'll help ensure that your money goes to those who are actively working to protect the environment , rather than just exploiting it for profit.

Ecotourism also promotes sustainable development by providing funds for conservation projects that benefit both people and wildlife. For example, ecotourism can provide funds for the protection of endangered species or develop educational programs about the importance of protecting natural resources . In addition, ecotourism companies often use locally sourced materials when building facilities such as lodges or hiking trails, which boosts the local economy.

How ecotourism benefits the environment

A good example of this is visiting national parks or other protected areas: Be careful not to disturb plants or animals by sticking only to designated trails and paths. Also, do not leave behind litter such as plastic bottles or packaging, as these can damage the local ecosystem if not removed.

Responsible ecotourism has proven to be beneficial in reducing negative impacts on local ecosystems such as deforestation or pollution from tourist activities like fishing or camping without proper waste disposal. Educating tourists on how to behave responsibly during their visit will ensure that these areas remain protected.

The main principles of ecotourism

1. Respect the local culture

Respect the customs, beliefs, and traditions of locals wherever you go. This includes dressing appropriately at religious sites, not taking photos without people's permission, and being mindful of cultural sensitivities when it comes to food or language.

2. Support local businesses

Whenever possible, try to support local businesses by buying locally made products or eating at restaurants run by locals rather than large chains or resorts. Not only does this help keep money in the community, but it’s also a great way to have an authentic experience that you wouldn’t find elsewhere.

3. Do not take souvenirs from protected areas

When visiting natural areas like national parks always remember to take your trash with you when leaving – never leave anything behind. Also, do not take souvenirs from protected areas as this can have negative impacts on wildlife habitats and ecosystems over time.

4. Use sustainable transportation

When possible, opt for more sustainable modes of transportation such as cycling or walking instead of driving, which produce harmful emissions into the atmosphere – plus, they’re usually cheaper too.

These small changes can make a big difference when it comes to preserving our planet's resources. By following these tips for responsible ecotourism, you can ensure that your travels have a positive impact on the environment and local communities.

Why should you choose ecotourism?

Ecotourism is an opportunity to explore beautiful places while learning about local cultures , customs, and traditions. But besides that, choosing this type of tourism can also help protect natural resources. It is possible to reduce your carbon footprint by minimizing energy consumption during your travels , as well as helping preserve wildlife habitats and ecosystems for future generations to enjoy.

Ecotourists often have the opportunity to participate in meaningful activities, such as volunteering with conservation efforts or participating in educational workshops on sustainability practices. Ecotourism also helps create jobs for locals by providing them with employment opportunities related to tourism services like guiding or transportation .

Before embarking on your next trip, research the destination thoroughly so that you know what kind of environmental regulations are in place. This way, you can ensure that your visit will not negatively affect the environment or disrupt animal habitats unnecessarily.

It is also important to be mindful when interacting with wildlife - never feed wild animals (even if they seem friendly). This could out them in dangerous situations where they rely on humans instead of finding their own food sources . It is also important to always respect local customs and laws; be aware that some activities may be prohibited depending on the destination, so make sure you understand all relevant rules before engaging in any activity.

Read more on how to be a conscious traveler  and how to find ecotourism jobs .

Disadvantages of ecotourism

While ecotourism has many benefits, it can also have negative impacts if not well managed. Travellers who want to travel responsibly can choose from a variety of  ecotourism destinations . But these beautiful natural parks and desert beaches are seen as profit opportunities by some companiers and may face overtourism . Other drawback is the greenwashing. Many companies, resorts and restaurants advertise being sustainable, but in reality do nothing for the environment or local communities.

This is why it is so important to -not only choose ecotourism, but also to be a responsible traveller and ask questions. Among the potential disadvantages of ecotourism are the exploitation and displacement of local communities . They may benefit little from tourism and be exposed to negative impacts, such as increased traffic and noise. As operators prioritise profit over conservation, communities may also be forced to relocate to make way for tourism-related infrastructure.

Ecotourism volunteering with Worldpackers

Participating in volunteer programs during your travels often involves helping out in conservation areas, such as wildlife sanctuaries or reforestation efforts that directly benefit communities and the environment. Volunteering with Worldpackers allows you to gain valuable experience and develop new skills while making a positive impact on your community.

Ecotourism is a form of responsible travel that focuses on preserving the environment and creating sustainable livelihoods for local communities. Through ecotourism, travelers can enjoy unique experiences while helping to protect nature and support local economies. Volunteers are also encouraged to visit natural areas such as national parks or wildlife reserves to learn more about and respect nature. By visiting these places, ecotourists can help protect them from destruction while providing much-needed economic support for conservation efforts

The process of finding a volunteering opportunity with Worldpackers is simple. First, you can create a profile on the platform and indicate your areas of interest and skills . Then, you can browse the available opportunities, and once you find one that matches your interests, you can become a verified member and reach out to the host to discuss details and make arrangements.

Volunteering with ecotourism in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is one of the most important destinations for ecotourism , and ideal for animal lovers. It’s a tropical destination with rainforests, countless beaches, volcanoes, and mountains. The ‘pura vida’ lifestyle, means pure life—and is the true philosophy of Costa Rica.

With Worldpackers volunteer opportunities in Costa Rica, you can work on projects to protect sea turtles   and  rescued and endangered species , such as feeding and caring for animals, cleaning enclosures, and assisting with rehabilitation and release programs.

This eco-village in Drake Bay  is looking for help to build its agro-ecological farm and produce organic food through regenerative agriculture and hydroponics. They are looking for volunteers with green fingers who want to learn how to produce bio-inputs, such as soil, fertilizers, repellents and microorganisms, and how to process and prepare food. Volunteers are staying in a purpose-built station and can use any of the facilities at the property.

Volunteering with ecotourism in Kenya

Ecotourism in Kenya is a great opportunity to help with community development projects, such as building schools and promoting eco-friendly tourism. With Worldpackers volunteer programs, you can develop new skills while participating in  teaching programs in Nairobi .

Since Kenya is home to more than 50 national parks, you can immerse yourself in nature or wildlife while volunteering. Travelers often go to Kenya in hopes of meeting ‘The Big 5’, and this has encouraged the government to stop illegal poaching, ban single-use plastic and plastic bags , while promoting sustainable tourism.

Volunteering with ecotourism in Norway

The opportunity to volunteer with ecotourism in Norway is for nature enthusiasts. It offers the chance to work in national parks, promoting sustainable tourism and conservation efforts. Volunteer tasks may include trail maintenance, wildlife monitoring, and visitor education.

You can also experience the Fjords while helping to grow vegetables on a small farm and in a greenhouse.

Volunteering with Ecotourism in the Amazon rainforest

The traditional peoples and the Amazon rainforest are daily resisting. For years they have resisted burning and deforestation, land grabbing and lack of public policies. As a volunteer in Amazonas , you can develop new skills in a cultural space  in Presidente Figueiredo. Close to waterfalls and the people who live near the Amazon River . 

If you choose to volunteer with ecotourism options, you can have unique experiences not available anywhere else in the world - from trekking through remote jungle areas to snorkeling among coral reefs teeming with life. Such activities give visitors the opportunity to reconnect with nature while creating lasting memories in some truly spectacular locations around the globe with Worldpackers. Did you like these ideas? Subscribe to the Worldpackers Community for free and start saving your favorite volunteer positions until you are ready to get verified. 

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Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

Raquel Pryzant

www.solanomundo.com.br

Travel journalist, author of the @solanomundo project and collaborator in different media such as Viajes National Geographic, Folha de S. Paulo and Qual Viagem Magazine. Read more: www.solanomundo.com.br

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UN Tourism | Bringing the world closer

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New UN Tourism Report Focuses on Integration of Biodiversity in National Tourism Policies

• All Regions
• 22 May 2024

While 95% of national tourism policies acknowledge nature as a primary asset for tourism, actual detailed plans for sustainable management practices are often lacking, a new report from UN Tourism reveals.

Published on International Day of Biodiversity, the report "The Integration of Biodiversity in National Tourism Policies", explores the intricate relationship between the tourism sector and biodiversity, which encompasses the diversity within species, between species and of ecosystems. It assesses how 80 national tourism policies incorporate biodiversity values and aims to deepen the understanding of the references to biodiversity within these policies.

The report comprises four detailed subsections that examine the integration of biodiversity within policy narratives, policy statements, strategic programs, and commitments to monitoring. By providing insights into the breadth and depth of current integration efforts, it serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, stakeholders, and the global community, urging further action towards a sustainable future.

As custodians of the Earth's natural resources, it is crucial that we foster a harmonious relationship between tourism and the environment

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili says: "As custodians of the Earth's natural resources, it is crucial that we foster a harmonious relationship between tourism and the environment. This publication not only highlights the interdependence of biodiversity and tourism but also underscores the essential role of well-integrated policies play in ensuring a sustainable future for everyone."

Tourism answering nature's call to action

"Be part of the Plan" is the theme of International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) 2024, serving as a call to action for all stakeholders to halt and reverse the loss of biodiversity. This involves supporting the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, also known as the Biodiversity Plan.

This new report comes as a part of the commitments set out at the UN Biodiversity Conference COP-15, held in Montreal in December 2022, where the historic Biodiversity Plan was adopted Furthermore, the report complements the recently launched publication "Nature Positive Travel & Tourism in Action" amplifying the momentum towards environmentally responsible practices within the tourism sector.

Related links

• Download News Release on PDF
• The Integration of Biodiversity in National Tourism Policies
• CBD: International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) Be part of the Plan

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• Travel Guide
• Sustainability

How Can Ecotourism Benefit The Environment?

Published: November 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Chelsey Roemer

• Plan Your Trip

Introduction

Ecotourism is a form of travel that focuses on experiencing and preserving natural environments and cultural heritage. It seeks to minimize the negative impacts of tourism while maximizing the benefits for the environment and local communities. As concerns about climate change and environmental degradation grow, ecotourism has emerged as a sustainable alternative that promotes conservation and supports local economies.

Unlike mass tourism, which often contributes to pollution, overcrowding, and destruction of natural habitats, ecotourism strives to create a harmonious balance between tourism and the natural environment. It encourages responsible travel practices and fosters a deeper connection with nature, allowing visitors to appreciate and understand the importance of protecting our planet.

In recent years, ecotourism has gained significant momentum and popularity worldwide. Travelers are seeking out destinations that offer unique and authentic experiences while contributing positively to the environment. By choosing ecotourism, individuals can make a meaningful impact on the well-being of the planet and its ecosystems.

In this article, we will explore the importance of ecotourism for the environment. We will delve into how it helps preserve natural areas, conserve wildlife, promote sustainability, support local communities, provide education and awareness, and generate profits for conservation efforts. Though ecotourism has its challenges and limitations, it offers a promising model for sustainable tourism that can make a significant difference in protecting our planet for future generations.

Definition of Ecotourism

Ecotourism is a unique form of sustainable travel that focuses on experiencing and appreciating natural environments while minimizing negative impacts on the ecosystem. It involves conscious efforts to protect and conserve fragile ecosystems, promote cultural understanding, and support local communities. The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) defines ecotourism as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education.”

Unlike traditional tourism, which often prioritizes economic gains without considering the environmental and social consequences, ecotourism seeks to strike a balance between enjoying the beauty of nature and contributing to its preservation. It emphasizes the importance of sustainability by adhering to the principles of conservation, community involvement, and education.

Ecotourism destinations are typically characterized by their pristine and untouched natural landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate and respect the environment, learning about the delicate balance of ecosystems and the efforts made to protect them. Rather than being a passive observer, ecotourists actively participate in activities such as hiking, bird-watching, wildlife spotting, or engaging with local communities.

One essential aspect of ecotourism is the inclusion of the local community in decision-making processes and the distribution of economic benefits. By involving the local population, ecotourism aims to empower communities and provide them with sustainable livelihoods. It encourages the preservation of traditional cultural practices and fosters respect for indigenous knowledge and heritage.

Furthermore, ecotourism promotes responsible travel practices, such as minimizing waste, conserving water and energy, supporting local businesses, and respecting local customs and traditions. It encourages visitors to leave a positive impact on the destination by choosing eco-friendly accommodations and transportation options, practicing sustainable tourism activities, and supporting initiatives that contribute to the well-being of the environment and local communities.

In summary, ecotourism is a conscious and sustainable travel approach that prioritizes the protection of the environment, the well-being of local communities, and the promotion of cultural understanding. It offers travelers unique experiences while fostering a deeper connection with nature and inspiring them to become ambassadors for conservation.

Importance of Ecotourism for the Environment

Ecotourism plays a vital role in the preservation and conservation of the environment. By promoting sustainable travel practices and raising awareness about the importance of protecting natural resources, ecotourism contributes to the long-term health and well-being of our planet. Here are some key reasons why ecotourism is important for the environment:

• Preservation of Natural Areas: Ecotourism encourages the preservation of natural areas by providing economic incentives for conservation. Protected areas and national parks often rely on revenue from ecotourism activities to fund conservation efforts and support ongoing protection measures. This financial support helps to maintain the ecological integrity of these areas, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy and appreciate the beauty of nature.
• Conservation of Wildlife: Ecotourism promotes the conservation of wildlife by creating a demand for their protection. Tourists who engage in wildlife-focused ecotourism activities, such as safari tours or whale-watching expeditions, contribute to conservation efforts through entrance fees and donations. By valuing and appreciating wildlife, ecotourists help to protect endangered species and their habitats, supporting research, anti-poaching initiatives, and habitat restoration programs.
• Promoting Sustainability: Ecotourism promotes sustainable practices by encouraging accommodations, tour operators, and travelers to adopt environmentally friendly measures. From using renewable energy sources to implementing waste reduction and recycling programs, ecotourism seeks to minimize the negative ecological impacts of tourism. By setting an example of sustainability, ecotourism serves as a catalyst for change in the broader tourism industry.
• Supporting Local Communities: Ecotourism fosters socio-economic development by engaging and supporting local communities. It provides opportunities for local residents to actively participate in tourism activities and share their cultural heritage. The revenue generated from ecotourism often directly benefits the local economy, improving infrastructure, healthcare, education, and other essential services. By empowering local communities, ecotourism helps to alleviate poverty and create sustainable livelihoods, reducing the pressure on natural resources and ecosystems.
• Education and Awareness: Ecotourism offers educational experiences that enhance visitors’ understanding of environmental issues and promote responsible behavior. Through guided tours, interpretive signage, and interactive programs, travelers gain insights into the importance of biodiversity, conservation, and sustainable living. This increased awareness leads to informed decisions and behavior changes both during and after the trip, ensuring a positive impact on the environment.

In summary, ecotourism plays a critical role in protecting and preserving the environment. By promoting sustainable practices, supporting local communities, and raising awareness about ecological issues, ecotourism allows travelers to enjoy the beauty of nature while contributing to its conservation. Embracing ecotourism can lead to a more sustainable and balanced future, where the environment and local communities thrive.

Preservation of Natural Areas

One of the significant benefits of ecotourism is its role in the preservation of natural areas. Ecotourism provides economic incentives for the conservation and protection of pristine landscapes, national parks, and other fragile ecosystems. Here’s why the preservation of natural areas is crucial:

1. Biodiversity Conservation: Natural areas are often rich in biodiversity, housing a wide variety of plant and animal species. They serve as habitats for endangered species and play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. Ecotourism helps generate revenue that can be used for conservation efforts, such as habitat restoration, anti-poaching measures, and research on endangered species. By supporting ecotourism activities, visitors contribute directly to the preservation of these critical ecosystems.

2. Protection of Endangered Habitats: Many natural areas are under threat from deforestation, pollution, and habitat fragmentation. Ecotourism provides a means to protect and restore these habitats. The income generated from ecotourism can fund initiatives that involve reforestation, wetland preservation, and the establishment of protected areas. This protects the delicate balance of ecosystems and ensures the survival of rare and endangered species.

3. Maintenance of Ecological Integrity: Natural areas are characterized by their pristine and unspoiled environments, free from excessive human interference. Ecotourism promotes responsible and sustainable travel practices that minimize the impact on the environment. By adhering to strict guidelines and regulations, ecotourism activities ensure that the natural integrity of these areas remains preserved for future generations.

4. Economic Benefits for Conservation: The revenue generated from ecotourism contributes directly to conservation efforts. By investing in guided tours, entrance fees, and permits, visitors help fund essential conservation programs. This financial support enables park authorities and conservation organizations to implement measures such as anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration, and wildlife research. The economic benefits of ecotourism create a cycle where the protection of natural areas becomes self-sustaining.

5. Ecological Restoration: Natural areas that have been degraded or damaged by human activities can be restored through ecotourism initiatives. Ecotourism operators often engage in habitat restoration projects, such as reforestation or the removal of invasive species. Such activities not only contribute to the preservation of natural areas but also provide educational opportunities for visitors to learn about ecological restoration techniques.

Preserving natural areas is vital not only for the well-being of ecosystems and species but also for the overall health and balance of the planet. With the support of ecotourism, these areas can thrive, providing future generations with the opportunity to experience and appreciate the wonders of nature.

Conservation of Wildlife

Ecotourism plays a significant role in the conservation of wildlife, contributing to the protection and preservation of endangered species and their habitats. Through responsible and sustainable travel practices, ecotourism fosters a deep appreciation for wildlife, raises awareness about conservation challenges, and generates financial support for necessary initiatives. Here’s why the conservation of wildlife is crucial:

1. Habitat Protection: Wildlife depends on specific habitats for their survival. Unfortunately, many habitats are under threat due to human activities such as deforestation, pollution, and urbanization. Ecotourism supports the preservation of natural habitats, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands, by creating economic incentives for their protection. Revenue generated from ecotourism activities can be directed towards habitat restoration, reforestation, and anti-poaching efforts, ensuring safe spaces for wildlife to thrive.

2. Endangered Species Recovery: Ecotourism contributes directly to the recovery and conservation of endangered species. Often, entrance fees and donations from ecotourism activities are allocated to species-specific conservation programs. This funding helps support research, monitoring, and anti-poaching efforts, all of which are crucial for the survival and recovery of endangered species. By participating in ecotourism experiences centered on observing and learning about endangered wildlife, visitors contribute to these crucial conservation efforts.

3. Sustainable Wildlife Management: Ecotourism promotes sustainable wildlife management practices that prioritize the well-being of animals and their natural habitats. It adheres to guidelines and regulations that ensure minimal disturbance to wildlife while providing educational and enriching experiences for visitors. Responsible wildlife viewing practices, such as keeping a safe distance, not disturbing natural behaviors, and not supporting activities that exploit or harm animals, are essential components of ecotourism that contribute to the conservation of wildlife.

4. Collaborative Conservation Efforts: Ecotourism fosters partnerships between local communities, wildlife conservation organizations, and tour operators. By involving local communities in decision-making processes and providing economic incentives, ecotourism helps build strong support for wildlife conservation initiatives. These collaborations often result in community-led conservation efforts, such as community-based anti-poaching patrols and habitat restoration projects, which benefit wildlife and the ecosystems they inhabit.

5. Education and Awareness: Ecotourism experiences centered on wildlife observation provide valuable educational opportunities for visitors. Tour guides and naturalists educate visitors about the importance of wildlife conservation, the threats faced by species, and the efforts being undertaken to protect them. By raising awareness and creating a personal connection with wildlife, ecotourism promotes a sense of responsibility and inspires visitors to become advocates for conservation long after their trip.

The conservation of wildlife is crucial for maintaining the planet’s biodiversity, ecological balance, and the health of ecosystems. Ecotourism serves as a powerful tool to support and promote these efforts, providing sustainable economic support and fostering a deeper appreciation for the beauty and importance of wildlife.

Promoting Sustainability

One of the key benefits of ecotourism is its focus on promoting sustainability in the travel industry. By emphasizing responsible practices and encouraging environmentally friendly choices, ecotourism strives to minimize the negative impact of tourism on the planet. Here are some ways in which ecotourism promotes sustainability:

1. Environmental Consciousness: Ecotourism encourages travelers to be mindful of their environmental impact. It promotes practices such as reducing waste, conserving water and energy, and using eco-friendly products. By raising awareness about the importance of sustainability, ecotourism inspires travelers to make conscious choices that minimize harm to the environment.

2. Conservation and Preservation: Ecotourism actively supports the conservation and preservation of natural areas and cultural heritage. It directs tourism activities towards protected areas, national parks, and other environmentally sensitive sites. By generating revenue for these locations, ecotourism contributes to their maintenance and preservation, promoting sustainable land and resource management practices.

3. Sustainable Accommodations: Ecotourism encourages the use of eco-friendly accommodations that prioritize sustainability. These accommodations may be eco-lodges, resorts, or campsites that utilize renewable energy sources, implement waste management systems, and promote local and organic food options. By supporting sustainable accommodations, ecotourism reduces the carbon footprint and environmental impact of travelers.

4. Transportation Choices: Ecotourism promotes sustainable transportation options, encouraging travelers to choose low-impact modes of transport whenever possible. This may include using public transportation, cycling, or walking instead of relying solely on private vehicles or air travel. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting sustainable transport initiatives, ecotourism helps mitigate the negative effects of transportation on the environment.

5. Community Engagement: Ecotourism actively involves local communities in tourism activities and decision-making processes. By supporting local businesses, employing local guides, and engaging with community-based tourism initiatives, ecotourism strengthens local economies and promotes sustainable livelihoods. This directly benefits local communities and incentivizes the preservation of their cultural heritage and traditions.

6. Cultural Preservation: In addition to environmental sustainability, ecotourism also prioritizes the preservation of local cultures and traditions. By engaging in cultural exchanges and supporting community-based tourism initiatives, ecotourism promotes respect and appreciation for diverse cultures. This helps preserve cultural identities and encourages the continuation of traditional practices, which are vital for maintaining a sustainable and vibrant cultural heritage.

In summary, ecotourism promotes sustainability by raising environmental consciousness, supporting conservation initiatives, encouraging sustainable accommodations and transportation, engaging with local communities, and preserving cultural heritage. By embracing sustainable practices and making responsible choices, ecotourism contributes to a more sustainable and balanced tourism industry that values and protects the planet.

Supporting Local Communities

One of the significant benefits of ecotourism is its positive impact on local communities. Unlike conventional tourism models that may exploit local resources and leave little economic benefit for the community, ecotourism actively involves and supports the local population. Here’s why supporting local communities is essential in ecotourism:

1. Economic Empowerment: Ecotourism provides economic opportunities for local communities, allowing them to participate directly in tourism activities and benefit economically from visitor expenditures. Local communities often offer authentic experiences, such as guided tours, cultural performances, handicrafts, and locally sourced food and beverages. By supporting these initiatives, ecotourism helps generate income that stays within the community, enhancing economic empowerment and reducing poverty.

2. Preservation of Cultural Heritage: Ecotourism places a strong emphasis on the preservation of cultural heritage and traditions. By engaging with local communities, travelers have the opportunity to learn about the unique customs, beliefs, and practices of the destination. This interaction helps preserve cultural heritage by creating awareness and appreciation for local traditions, fostering pride within the community, and encouraging the continued transmission of cultural knowledge to future generations.

3. Community Involvement: Ecotourism encourages active involvement and decision-making by local communities in tourism development. Collaborative initiatives allow communities to have a voice in matters such as infrastructure development, resource management, and conservation efforts. By involving the local community, ecotourism ensures that they are active participants in shaping their own tourism industry and that the benefits are shared equitably.

4. Socio-Cultural Understanding: Ecotourism provides opportunities for cultural exchange and mutual understanding between visitors and local communities. Travelers can gain insights into different ways of life, traditions, and perspectives, fostering respect, empathy, and cross-cultural learning. This increases cultural awareness and promotes a deeper appreciation for diversity, leading to more sustainable and responsible tourism practices.

5. Sustainable Livelihoods: Ecotourism helps create sustainable livelihoods for local communities by reducing their dependence on resource-intensive industries or unsustainable practices. By diversifying income sources and providing alternative employment opportunities, ecotourism contributes to long-term economic stability and resilience. This reduces pressure on the environment, as communities are less likely to engage in activities such as deforestation, overfishing, or destructive farming practices.

6. Capacity Development: Ecotourism often includes capacity development programs aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of the local community. Training in sustainable tourism practices, hospitality management, language proficiency, and environmental stewardship empowers community members to actively engage in tourism-related enterprises while maintaining a commitment to sustainability.

By supporting local communities, ecotourism fosters economic empowerment, preserves cultural heritage, encourages community involvement, promotes socio-cultural understanding, creates sustainable livelihoods, and facilitates capacity development. These benefits result in a more inclusive and equitable tourism industry that strengthens both the local community and the overall tourism experience.

Education and Awareness

Education and awareness are essential components of ecotourism, offering valuable opportunities for learning and fostering a deeper understanding of environmental and conservation issues. By providing educational experiences and promoting awareness, ecotourism plays a vital role in inspiring individuals to become environmentally responsible and proactive in advocating for sustainable practices. Here’s why education and awareness are crucial in ecotourism:

1. Understanding the Environment: Ecotourism provides a platform for visitors to learn about the natural environment firsthand. Through guided tours, interpretive signage, and educational programs, travelers gain insights into the ecological dynamics of the destination. They learn about the importance of biodiversity, the interdependence of species, and the delicate balance of ecosystems. This understanding cultivates a sense of appreciation and responsibility towards the environment.

2. Conservation Education: Ecotourism serves as a powerful tool for conservation education. By witnessing conservation efforts in action, visitors gain a deep appreciation for the challenges faced by ecosystems and wildlife. They learn about the threats of habitat loss, pollution, and climate change, as well as the strategies employed to mitigate these threats. Conservation education programs inform visitors about the importance of protecting natural resources and offer ideas for how they can contribute to conservation efforts.

3. Cultural Exchange and Sensitivity: Ecotourism encourages travelers to engage with local communities and learn about their cultural practices and traditions. This promotes cross-cultural understanding, empathy, and respect. By exploring different ways of life, visitors gain insights into the importance of cultural diversity and the role local communities play in preserving their heritage. This awareness fosters cultural sensitivity and appreciation, minimizing cultural conflicts and promoting sustainable cultural tourism.

4. Behavior Change: Through education and awareness, ecotourism aims to elicit behavior change in travelers. By highlighting the importance of responsible travel practices, such as reducing waste, conserving resources, and supporting eco-friendly initiatives, visitors are encouraged to adopt sustainable behavior both during their trip and in their daily lives. This behavior change extends beyond the trip itself, impacting individuals’ ongoing decisions and actions that contribute to the protection of the environment.

5. Empowerment and Advocacy: Education and awareness empower individuals to become environmental advocates. By providing them with knowledge and understanding, ecotourism equips travelers with the tools to make informed decisions and take action in their own communities. They become ambassadors for sustainable practices, spreading awareness and advocating for positive change in their networks and communities.

6. Research and Citizen Science: Ecotourism often provides opportunities for visitors to participate in citizen science initiatives and contribute to ongoing research projects. This involvement allows travelers to actively engage in data collection, wildlife monitoring, and ecological research. By contributing to scientific knowledge, visitors gain a deeper understanding of environmental issues and become more invested in conservation efforts.

Education and awareness are crucial aspects of ecotourism, enabling travelers to develop a deeper understanding of the environment and the need for sustainable practices. By fostering a sense of responsibility and empowering individuals to take action, ecotourism encourages a collective effort towards environmental stewardship and conservation.

Profits for Conservation

One of the distinct benefits of ecotourism is its ability to generate profits that can be directly dedicated to conservation efforts. Unlike traditional tourism models, where profits often flow out of the local community, ecotourism ensures that a significant portion of the revenue stays within the destination, supporting conservation initiatives. Here’s why the generation of profits for conservation is crucial in ecotourism:

1. Funding Conservation Programs: The revenue generated from ecotourism activities can be allocated directly to conservation programs and initiatives. These funds are used for research, monitoring, anti-poaching efforts, habitat restoration, and other essential conservation projects. The financial support provided by ecotourism helps sustain and expand these initiatives, ensuring the long-term protection of natural areas, wildlife, and ecosystems.

2. Sustainable Management of Protected Areas: Many ecotourism destinations are situated within protected areas or national parks. These areas require financial resources for effective management, including the enforcement of regulations, maintenance of infrastructure, and provision of visitor facilities. The profits generated from ecotourism can be reinvested into the sustainable management of these protected areas, ensuring their ecological integrity and enhancing the visitor experience.

3. Community-Based Conservation: Ecotourism often involves local communities in tourism activities and revenue-sharing mechanisms. A portion of the profits generated is directed towards community-based conservation initiatives, supporting projects that are designed and implemented by the local community. This ensures that local people have a stake in the conservation efforts, fostering a sense of ownership and stewardship. The profits generated from ecotourism provide the financial means for communities to engage in sustainable land management practices, protect key habitats, and participate in biodiversity conservation.

4. Continued Preservation of Endangered Species: Many endangered species are dependent on conservation efforts for their survival. Ecotourism contributes to these efforts by generating funds that contribute directly to the conservation and preservation of endangered species and their habitats. The profits generated help support captive breeding programs, anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration initiatives, and research on species behavior, population dynamics, and ecological requirements.

5. Economic Incentives for Conservation: The profits generated from ecotourism create economic incentives for communities, governments, and landowners to engage in conservation practices. By demonstrating that conservation can be financially viable, ecotourism encourages stakeholders to prioritize sustainable land use, resource management, and responsible tourism practices. This leads to a more holistic approach to conservation, where economic benefits and environmental protection go hand in hand.

6. Long-Term Sustainability: Sustainable financing is crucial for the long-term sustainability of conservation efforts. By generating profits for conservation, ecotourism helps create a self-sustaining conservation model. The reinvestment of profits ensures ongoing funding for conservation programs, reducing dependence on external sources of funding and providing a reliable and continuous stream of financial support for conservation initiatives.

In summary, ecotourism’s ability to generate profits for conservation is critical in ensuring the preservation of natural areas, wildlife, and cultural heritage. By investing in conservation programs, supporting community-based initiatives, and providing economic incentives for sustainable practices, ecotourism helps create a sustainable future where conservation and economic development coexist in harmony.

Potential Challenges and Limitations

While ecotourism offers numerous benefits for the environment and local communities, it also faces certain challenges and limitations. It is important to acknowledge these aspects to ensure the continued success and improvement of ecotourism practices. Here are some potential challenges and limitations:

1. Balancing Conservation and Tourism: One of the primary challenges of ecotourism is striking a balance between conservation and the demands of tourism. Managing visitation levels, minimizing ecological impact, and ensuring visitor satisfaction while preserving fragile ecosystems can be difficult. Careful planning, effective regulations, and ongoing monitoring are necessary to prevent overcrowding and degradation of natural areas.

2. Lack of Regulation and Certification: In some regions, there may be a lack of standardized regulation and certification for ecotourism. This can lead to greenwashing or companies falsely claiming to be ecotourism operators without adhering to sustainable practices. The absence of clear criteria and oversight can make it challenging for travelers to identify truly responsible and authentic ecotourism experiences.

3. High Costs and Accessibility: The costs associated with implementing and maintaining sustainable infrastructure for ecotourism can be high. This includes investments in eco-friendly accommodations, eco-certifications, and training programs for staff. As a result, ecotourism experiences may be more expensive than conventional tourism options, limiting accessibility for certain travelers. Ensuring affordability and accessibility while maintaining sustainable practices is an ongoing challenge in ecotourism.

4. Seasonality and Carrying Capacity: Ecotourism destinations often have specific peak seasons, which can lead to overcrowding and increased stress on natural areas during those periods. Proper management of visitor numbers, infrastructure, and conservation measures is essential to prevent negative impacts on the environment. Determining and implementing appropriate carrying capacities for different areas is a complex task to ensure that visitor numbers are sustainable without compromising the ecological integrity of the destination.

5. Socio-Cultural Impact: The influx of tourists can have social and cultural implications for local communities. Rapid tourism growth can lead to changes in traditional lifestyles, loss of cultural authenticity, and commodification of culture. Balancing economic opportunities with the need to preserve cultural heritage and local customs requires careful management and community involvement to mitigate negative impacts on the social fabric of the community.

6. Climate Change Vulnerability: Climate change poses a threat to both natural areas and the tourism industry as a whole. Rising temperatures, sea-level rise, extreme weather events, and shifting ecosystems can impact the viability and attractiveness of ecotourism destinations. Adaptation strategies and resilience-building efforts are necessary to address the challenges posed by climate change and ensure the long-term sustainability of ecotourism.

Despite these challenges and limitations, continuous efforts, collaborations, and improvements can help overcome these obstacles. Through effective monitoring, regulation, community involvement, and ongoing education, the ecotourism industry can strive towards more sustainable practices and positive impacts on the environment and local communities.

Ecotourism serves as a powerful model for sustainable travel, offering a multitude of benefits for the environment, wildlife, local communities, and visitors alike. Through its focus on conservation, preservation, sustainability, and cultural appreciation, ecotourism has the potential to create a positive impact on our planet. By promoting responsible travel practices, generating profits for conservation, and fostering education and awareness, ecotourism plays a crucial role in protecting natural areas, conserving wildlife, supporting local communities, and promoting sustainable development.

The preservation of natural areas and their biodiversity is at the core of ecotourism. By directing tourism activities to protected areas, national parks, and other ecologically sensitive sites, ecotourism helps fund conservation efforts and contributes to the maintenance of these vital habitats. It also plays a significant role in the conservation of wildlife, supporting research, anti-poaching initiatives, and habitat restoration programs to ensure the survival of endangered species.

Ecotourism’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its promotion of eco-friendly practices, such as reducing waste, conserving resources, and supporting local and organic products. By encouraging responsible behavior and reducing the ecological footprint of travelers, ecotourism sets an example for the broader tourism industry and promotes a more sustainable future.

Furthermore, ecotourism supports local communities by providing economic opportunities, preserving cultural heritage, and engaging community members in decision-making processes. By sharing profits with the local population and embracing community-based initiatives, ecotourism fosters economic empowerment, sustainable livelihoods, and cultural preservation.

Education and awareness are fundamental components of ecotourism, as they empower individuals to make informed decisions, advocate for sustainability, and become ambassadors for conservation. Through interactive and educational experiences, ecotourism not only raises awareness about environmental issues but also instills a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the natural world.

Despite the challenges and limitations that ecotourism faces, such as balancing conservation and tourism demands or ensuring affordability and accessibility, the potential for positive change remains significant. Through continued collaboration, regulation, and improvements, the ecotourism industry can overcome these challenges and further enhance its positive impact on the environment and communities.

In conclusion, ecotourism offers a transformative way to explore the world, fostering a deeper connection with nature, promoting sustainability, supporting local communities, and creating a sense of personal responsibility for the well-being of our planet. By choosing ecotourism, individuals contribute to conservation efforts and help pave the way for a more sustainable and harmonious future for all.

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Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Sustainable tourism worldwide - statistics & facts

What are the effects of global tourism on the climate, traveler awareness of social and environmental responsibility, key insights.

Detailed statistics

Ecotourism market size worldwide 2022-2028

Tourism-related transport's share of carbon emissions worldwide 2016-2030

Global travelers who believe in the importance of green travel 2023

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

Leisure Travel

Global carbon dioxide emissions from energy 1965-2022, by region

Further recommended statistics

Industry overview.

• Premium Statistic Ecotourism market size worldwide 2022-2028
• Premium Statistic Global travelers who believe in the importance of green travel 2023
• Premium Statistic Sustainable initiatives travelers would adopt worldwide 2022, by region
• Premium Statistic Conscious travelers' challenges when traveling in a sustainable manner worldwide 2022

Market size of the ecotourism sector worldwide in 2022, with a forecast for 2028 (in billion U.S. dollars)

Share of travelers that believe sustainable travel is important worldwide in 2023

Sustainable initiatives travelers would adopt worldwide 2022, by region

Main sustainable initiatives travelers are willing to adopt worldwide in 2022, by region

Conscious travelers' challenges when traveling in a sustainable manner worldwide 2022

Challenges of travelers when trying to travel in a sustainable and socially conscious manner worldwide as of March 2022

Environmental impact

• Basic Statistic Global carbon dioxide emissions from energy 1965-2022, by region
• Premium Statistic Tourism-related transport's share of carbon emissions worldwide 2016-2030
• Premium Statistic Carbon footprint of tourism-related transport worldwide 2005-2030
• Premium Statistic Carbon footprint of international tourism transport worldwide 2005-2030, by type
• Premium Statistic Carbon footprint of domestic tourism transport worldwide 2005-2030, by type

Carbon dioxide emissions from energy worldwide from 1965 to 2022, by region (in million metric tons of carbon dioxide)

Tourism-related transport's share of carbon emissions worldwide 2016-2030

Share of carbon dioxide emissions coming from tourism-related transport worldwide in 2016, with a forecast for 2030

Carbon footprint of tourism-related transport worldwide 2005-2030

Carbon dioxide emissions from tourism-related transport worldwide in 2005 and 2016, with a forecast for 2030 (in million metric tons of carbon dioxide)

Carbon footprint of international tourism transport worldwide 2005-2030, by type

Transport-related emissions from international tourist arrivals worldwide in 2005 and 2016, with a forecast for 2030, by mode of transport (in million metric tons of carbon dioxide)

Carbon footprint of domestic tourism transport worldwide 2005-2030, by type

Transport-related emissions from domestic tourist arrivals worldwide in 2005 and 2016, with a forecast for 2030 (in million metric tons of carbon dioxide), by mode of transport

International tourism figures

• Premium Statistic Number of international tourist arrivals worldwide 1950-2023
• Basic Statistic Number of international tourist arrivals worldwide 2005-2023, by region
• Premium Statistic Countries with the highest number of inbound tourist arrivals worldwide 2019-2022
• Premium Statistic Global air traffic - number of flights 2004-2024
• Premium Statistic Global air traffic - scheduled passengers 2004-2022

Number of international tourist arrivals worldwide 1950-2023

Number of international tourist arrivals worldwide from 1950 to 2023 (in millions)

Number of international tourist arrivals worldwide 2005-2023, by region

Number of international tourist arrivals worldwide from 2005 to 2023, by region (in millions)

Countries with the highest number of inbound tourist arrivals worldwide 2019-2022

Countries with the highest number of international tourist arrivals worldwide from 2019 to 2022 (in millions)

Global air traffic - number of flights 2004-2024

Number of flights performed by the global airline industry from 2004 to 2023, with a forecasts for 2024 (in millions)

Global air traffic - scheduled passengers 2004-2022

Number of scheduled passengers boarded by the global airline industry from 2004 to 2022 (in millions)

Opinions and behavior

• Premium Statistic Main drivers for visiting a country by people worldwide 2023
• Premium Statistic Share of outbound travelers planning to spend more worldwide 2022, by category
• Premium Statistic Share of global travelers that want to use green lodging in the next year 2016-2022
• Premium Statistic Interest in accommodation with high sustainability standard globally 2023, by country
• Premium Statistic Reasons global travelers stayed in sustainable lodging at least once last year 2022
• Premium Statistic Demand for sustainable hotels by global corporate travel managers 2022

Main drivers for visiting a country by people worldwide 2023

Reasons to visit a country according to respondents worldwide in 2023

Share of outbound travelers planning to spend more worldwide 2022, by category

Share of travelers planning to spend more on trips abroad in selected countries worldwide in 2022, by type of expenditure

Share of global travelers that want to use green lodging in the next year 2016-2022

Distribution of global travelers intending to stay at least once in an eco-friendly or green accommodation when looking at the year ahead from 2016 to 2022

Interest in accommodation with high sustainability standard globally 2023, by country

Share of travelers who look for accommodation with impressive sustainability innovation worldwide as of July 2023, by country

Reasons global travelers stayed in sustainable lodging at least once last year 2022

Main reasons travelers stayed in sustainable accommodation at least once over the past year worldwide in as of February 2022

Demand for sustainable hotels by global corporate travel managers 2022

Importance of hotel sustainability for business travel buyers worldwide as of October 2022

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The Importance of Sustainable Travel and 12 Tips to Be a More Responsible Traveler in 2024

Eco friendly travel has never been more important for our children, for our environment, and for our future, the importance of eco friendly travel and 12 tips to be a more sustainable traveler.

Sustainable travel…it’s so hot right now! Not only is it trendy to travel and live more sustainably, it’s also vital to the future of our children and the future of our planet!

I recently spent the past week at the Study Abroad Summit where we discussed the benefits of study abroad, but we also talked about the state of travel, its impact on cultures and the environment, and the importance of sustainable travel.

As travelers who value sustainability, our goal is to leave the places we visit better than we found them. The “leave no trace” principle is one way to embrace our green values on vacation, but there’s more to it than picking up after yourself.

Disclaimer that I am FAR from a perfect responsible traveler and definitely far from a perfect responsible citizen of Earth, but I am trying to be better every day and continue to learn from my mistakes and from others around me who know better.

The UN declared 2017 the “Year of Sustainable Tourism” in an effort to draw attention to the fact that many tourist destinations were not, in fact, environmentally sustainable. One of the goals of this initiative was to encourage travelers to make a positive impact on the environment, society and local economies.

A study conducted by the University of Sydney found that global tourism accounts for 8 percent of carbon emissions, with the U.S. ranking the highest, followed by China, Germany, and India. The global industry is worth over $7 trillion.

I’m not telling you to stop traveling. I personally believe that the benefits that travel can have (if done properly) can outweigh the damage it does. The ability to expand knowledge and open minds directly results in travelers becoming more likely to advocate for the environment and cultures outside their own.

So how can you travel the world sustainably? We have a few ideas.

1. Choose a Sustainable Destination

Not all places are created equal — is your destination sustainable?

If you need some ideas about which destinations are sustainable, I’ve compiled this great list of alternatives to places suffering from overtourism.

Traveling to a conservation-minded destination is one of the greatest things a traveler can do, according to World Wildlife Fund’s vice president of travel, tourism, and conservation Jim Sano .

There is such a thing as overtourism, according to an article in National Geographic , and places like Amsterdam, Venice, and Barcelona are prime examples. These places have not historically been conservation-minded, but are instead focused on getting as many people as possible to visit and contribute to the local economy.

While that seems like a good thing, overtourism disrupts the local communities’ way of life. It also increases the cost of living, pushing out residents who can no longer afford to live there. Mass travel, according to National Geographic, poses real threats to natural and cultural treasures.

Cruise lines are major offenders when it comes to this mindset, dumping out thousands of people at a time onto islands and other communities. Aside from the fact that cruises are bad for the environment and contribute to a lot of food waste, their labor practices also leave a lot of room for improvement .

Barcelona is one of the world’s busiest cruise ports, and officials there are making changes to the laws surrounding mass tourism. Port cities in other areas of the world are restricting the number of ships that can dock.

And it’s not just cruise destinations. Amsterdam is working on tourist redistribution techniques, and countries in Asia are closing entire islands. Even Reykjavik, Iceland, has banned permits for new hotel construction downtown .

Venice also just disallowed cruise ships from docking as of next year.

So, with that in mind, choose a path less traveled. Look for areas that aren’t as frequently visited by tourists and contribute to economies that don’t benefit from masses of tourists descending on their town.

Visiting places that put effort into being sustainable encourages other towns to do the same.

2. Be Aware of Your Carbon Footprint

Oh, the places you’ll go — but what’s your carbon footprint?

Environmental purists will say that the most sustainable thing a traveler can do is to stay home. That way, there’s no carbon footprint. I’m not suggesting you stay home. As I stated above, I believe the benefits of travel done properly outweigh the damage.

Air travel is often the only way we can reach certain destinations, and flying has a significant impact on air quality. Many airlines, however, are now eco-friendly, including KLM, United, and Qantas, or offset their carbon footprint. The website Atmosfair.de ranks 200 of the largest airlines in the world based on their environmental impact and climate efficiency.

Fly direct when possible to cut down on emissions even further. Take-offs and landings create most of an airplane’s carbon emissions, according to Green Global Travel .

Once you’re in-country, check out high-speed trains. The Eurostar in Europe is an energy-efficient option. Consider slow travel , staying in one place for a longer period of time, rather than traveling from place to place.

Slow travel allows you to absorb the culture in a way that traditional vacationers don’t. Rather than visiting destinations as a checklist, pick a place and stay there. Doing this is cheaper, more environmentally-friendly and creates less stress.

Most people come home from vacation saying they need a vacation from their vacation. A frantic pace while traveling often defeats the purpose of getting away. The slow movement — slow travel, slow food, slow families — creates a chance to connect more deeply to the things that are important.

3. Be Conscious of Where You Stay

Lots of Lodging Options say they’re green — are they greenwashed?

If you’re an eco-conscious traveler, finding a place to stay that’s “green” is appealing. A hotel guest generates around two pounds of waste per day, according to the International Tourism Partnership , so knowing that the environment isn’t worse off for your stay is a good thing!

Because sustainability is becoming more and more important to travelers, most hotels claim that they are environmentally conscious or even “green.” But just because they claim it doesn’t mean it’s true.

A study by Washington State University showed that “greenwashing” is off-putting to customers who value sustainability. Greenwashing means that the hotels say they’re eco-friendly in an effort to draw more customers, but don’t actually do anything to back it up. Encouraging guests to reuse towels, for example, is not enough to really be considered green.

While there are a lot of eco-conscious hotels to choose from, they aren’t the only options. Travelers can stay at hostels, couch surf, use campsites, rent an Airbnb or swap homes.

Airbnbs have their downside, too. Investors have been known to buy up blocks of apartments and rent them out as short-term rentals, elbowing out residents who used to live there. However, there are still plenty of homes or rooms that can be ethically rented.

In some places, like New York City, it’s illegal to rent an entire apartment on Airbnb for less than 30 days . Despite that, it’s one of Airbnb’s hottest markets. Barcelona, Japan, Paris, Berlin and other places all have strict laws regarding the practice, so check the laws before booking your stay.

Wherever you decide to stay, do your homework and check out the reviews of your lodging options before you book them.

4. Do Your Part

It’s All in the Details — Are You Watching Your Own Habits?

No matter where you end up staying, remember to practice the same basic environmentally friendly habits you have at home. Turn the lights off when you leave a room, reuse towels and use reusable containers and bottles instead of disposable products. If there’s an option to use renewable energy, make sure to shift to it instead.

Beyond that, use the “do not disturb” sign on the door to prevent extra vacuuming and changing of linens. If you go on outdoor adventures, remember to stay on the path to avoid disturbing native flora, pick up trash as you go, and don’t feed the wildlife.

And of course, don’t litter, and try to avoid wasting food.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations says that a third of the food in the world gets wasted by rotting during transport or being thrown out.

Food makes up nearly 20 percent of the waste in landfills. As it rots, it produces methane, a gas that has 21 times the global warming potential of carbon dioxide. Because of that, the EPA has made it a priority to cut food waste in half by 2030.

If your lodging has a recycling program, use it.

5. Think About Water

By now, everyone knows that plastic water bottles are the bane of the environment! In case you haven’t heard, they’re killing our Earth, so we need to stop using them! But I know that’s not always easy when traveling.

But here is some motivation for you:

• Plastic bottles take up to 700 years to disintegrate
• 90% of bottled water is the bottle itself
• 80% of plastic bottles never get recycled
• 38 million plastic bottles go to landfill each year in America alone!
• 24,000,000 liters of oil is needed to produce these billions of plastic bottles
• The average American consumes 167 bottles of water per year
• Americans purchase about 50 billion water bottles per year
• Bottling water and shipping transport is the least energy-efficient method of water supply in the history of mankind
• Bottled water is the second most popular beverage in the United States

Phew! And that is JUST water bottles, we are not even talking about other single-use plastics, like shampoo bottles, etc.

Reusable water bottles are great in places where water isn’t scarce, but if you’re traveling to a country where it’s unsafe to drink the water or even an area facing a water crisis, you’ll have to think hard about how you’ll handle not just hydration, but hygiene.

Travel blogger Shivya Nath , who travels frequently to India, suggests requesting filtered water refills from restaurants, or asking for a jug of filtered water for your hotel room and using that to refill your bottle. You can purchase water bottles already fitted with a filter, which then allows you to refill with water from anywhere. You can also purchase portable water filters that use ultraviolet technology to purify water.

Water purifying tablets are also available.

Water conservation is another aspect of this issue. Take a shower — limited to 10 minutes —  instead of bathing, and turn the faucets off as you brush your teeth or shave. Filling up a bathtub takes , on average, 30 gallons of water, while a low-flow showerhead uses about 2 gallons a minute.

6. Reduce Single-Use Plastics

Now that I’ve got your attention about water bottles, let’s talk about other single use plastics such as straws, shampoo bottles, plastic utensils, plastic bags, and many many more products we use on a daily basis, probably without even considering the environment.

It’s difficult to reduce the use of these in everyday life and even harder to do while traveling. It seems that almost every hotel has tiny bottles of shampoo that will give my hair one wash.

You can help by trying to staying in green hotels where they have soap dispensers vs. tiny bottles.

You can also help by bringing your own bar shampoo and conditioner, using bamboo toothbrushes, and refusing straws at restaurants.

Bring reusable containers as you travel and bring food back with you to save for lunch the next day. If that isn’t possible, consider sharing meals as you dine, or ask for half portions. Travel with reusable water bottles, travel mugs, cloth shopping bags, metal straws, and utensils.

Efforts are being made all around the world to reduce single use plastics. Paris has recently banned plastic dining ware, like utensils and plastic cups, which is awesome! I’m hoping to see more cities and countries implement these guidelines around the globe. But the change has to start with us, the traveler!

These are small and simple things that add up to make a big impact on the environment while traveling.

7. Pack Wisely

Only bring what you need. This will make your life so much easier while traveling and allow you to use public transportation with ease. This is a great list of zero waste travel essentials.

Also, be mindful of any chemicals that you may be bringing to a destination. This is especially important with vacation hot spots like Hawaii where you’ll be spending a lot of time in the ocean. Be sure to pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect the ocean’s vital ecosystems.

8. Eat Less Meat

You may not know this, I didn’t until recently, but going vegetarian is one of the best things that we can do for the environment! It’s not only good for our bodies but reduces methane emissions and land clearing for livestock use.

9. Use Public Transportation When Possible

This can be a tough one in many destinations, but when possible use economical and environmentally friendly public transit options like trains. I spend 4 months backpacking around Italy with my kids using trains almost exclusively. It was actually great!

10. Be Intentional About Souvenirs

Try to choose souvenirs that you and your loved ones will actually use or treasure, not something made from plastic that will be thrown away the next time you move.

Even better, go for something consumable like local chocolates, spices, or oils.

Check the labels to see that it’s actually a product made in that destination. For example, most of the shell souvenirs you find in Hawaii are made in the Philippines. Go to local markets and find a way to support local artists or craftspeople.

11. Have Respect

R-E-S-P-E-C-T Respect the Culture and Habitat – What Activities Will You Participate In?

Study up on local customs and manners before you visit another country. Avoid taking pictures of locals without asking for permission first. It’s respectful to learn a few important words in the language of the country you’re visiting, and will greatly benefit you when you have questions.

Try to buy locally made items if you purchase souvenirs. Many vendors sell mass-produced items made in another country.

Avoid participating in activities that exploit animals, like riding elephants, drinking civet coffee or even taking selfies with tigers, a common tourist activity in Thailand .

Exercise that same sensitivity when visiting religious or sacred sites. The World Travel and Tourism Council says that even if it’s permissible to take part in an activity, your actions should align with those for whom the site holds a deep significance.

The keyword for all of these things is respect: for the natural environment, the location and the local people who live there.

12. Talk About Sustainable Travel

Possibly the most important thing we can do as sustainable travelers ourselves is to talk about how we are traveling sustainably, what our struggles are, and how we can help ourselves and others to be more mindful when we travel.

Don’t be critical of others not yet traveling sustainably. We can and should lead by example!

Share your stories, efforts, and struggles with your friends and family, and on social media.

If you see a company, hotel, or organization making concerted efforts towards sustainable travel, tell them “thank you” and continue to give them your support.

Practical Tips for Booking your Trip

Book Your Flight s and Car

Find a budget airlines by using  Skyscanner . This is my favorite way to search for flights because they crawl websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know you’re getting the best deal. Learn more tips for finding the best flight deals here.

For cars, I like to use Rental Cars because they have good filters and its easy to search for multiple companies.

Book Your Accommodation

My preferred way to stay around the world is VRBO . I find it usually gives you a unique local experience in any destination. If you want to stay in a hotel, use  Booking , as it consistently gives the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels. I use them both all the time.

Always Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance protects you and your family against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s peace of mind in case anything goes wrong. I never travel without it. I’ve been using World Nomads for the last few years and love how easy it is to use. I have also used Allianz . Compare rates to see which is best for the coverage you need.

Looking for ways to save money on travel?

Check out my  resource page  for the companies I use for traveling! I share everything I use to save me time and money.

This was written together with Sam Reed, a content writer at PTAC4Less, an online retailer of new and refurbished PTACs , along with a full range of parts and accessories.

The post The Importance of Sustainable Travel and 12 Tips to Be a More Responsible Traveler in 2024 appeared first on Wanderlust Crew .

Marketing's Impact on Sustainable Tourism: An Empirical Study of Hotel Units in the Northern Region of Portugal

• Conference paper
• First Online: 29 May 2024
• Cite this conference paper

• Dália Liberato   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0003-0513-6444 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 ,
• Fernanda Ferreira   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-1335-7821 3 , 4 , 6 ,
• Marta Guedes 3 ,
• Elga Costa   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-6097-0987 3 , 4 &
• Pedro Liberato   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0003-2908-1599 3 , 4 , 5 , 6  

Part of the book series: Springer Proceedings in Business and Economics ((SPBE))

Included in the following conference series:

• International Conference of the International Association of Cultural and Digital Tourism

Sustainable tourism emerges as a response to mass tourism, caused by the intensification of travel. As a result of Sustainable Tourism, the practice of Responsible Tourism and Conscious Tourism emerges, leading to behaviors of greater environmental, cultural, and social sustainability at the destination, but also to an increasing environmental concern. The hospitality sector, government agencies, trade associations and tourism service providers in each country play a pivotal role in increasing environmental awareness/education among local communities and visitors at the destination. The main objective of this research is to understand the importance of Marketing in Sustainable Tourism, applied to hotel units in the northern region of Portugal. As specific objectives, the research aims to: Identify the marketing strategies adopted by the hotel units that lead to greater involvement of stakeholders (tourists, employees, stakeholders and local community), Identify the marketing strategies adopted by the hotel units, valued by the guests, before, during and after the tourist experience and find out how Marketing in Sustainable Tourism contributes to the dynamization of the region and improvement of the destination experience. In the development of this study, a qualitative methodology was selected, consisting of an exploratory study, based on semi-structured interviews. The sample consists of directors and/or managers of hotel units awarded with the “Green Key” certification, in 2022, in the northern region of Portugal. Furthermore, some partner entities that assist in the certification of these enterprises were also included, namely ABAE and consulting companies in the Sustainable Tourism sector. From an analytical point of view, it provides interesting results for the northern region of Portugal, where a continuous growth toward its sustainable development is expected, with an increasing number of certified tourist accommodations and their contribution to the distribution of economic wealth in the region, dynamization and promotion, as well as the responsible engagement of tourists with residents and increasing awareness of these indicators.

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Acknowledgements

This article is a result of the project “GreenHealth—Digital strategies in biological assets to improve well-being and promote green health” (Norte-01-0145-FEDER-000042), supported by North Portugal Regional Operational Programme (NORTE 2020), under the PORTUGAL 2020 Partnership Agreement, through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). Fernanda A. Ferreira also thanks the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT, Portugal) for financial support by national funds FCT/MCTES to UNIAG (UIDB/04752/2020 and UIDP/04752/2020).

The authors acknowledge the financial support of CiTUR, R&D unit funded by the FCT—Portuguese Foundation for the Development of Science and Technology, Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education, under the scope of the project UID/BP/04470/2020.

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Liberato, D., Ferreira, F., Guedes, M., Costa, E., Liberato, P. (2024). Marketing's Impact on Sustainable Tourism: An Empirical Study of Hotel Units in the Northern Region of Portugal. In: Katsoni, V., Cassar, G. (eds) Recent Advancements in Tourism Business, Technology and Social Sciences. IACuDiT 2023. Springer Proceedings in Business and Economics. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-54338-8_16

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