sustainable tourism importance

Sustainable tourism

Related sdgs, promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable ....

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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

UNWTO Annual Report 2015

2015 was a landmark year for the global community. In September, the 70th Session of the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a universal agenda for planet and people. Among the 17 SDGs and 169 associated targets, tourism is explicitly featured in Goa...

UNWTO Annual Report 2016

In December 2015, the United Nations General Assembly declared 2017 as the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development. This is a unique opportunity to devote a year to activities that promote the transformational power of tourism to help us reach a better future. This important cele...

Emerging Issues for Small Island Developing States

The 2012 UNEP Foresight Process on Emerging Global Environmental Issues primarily identified emerging environmental issues and possible solutions on a global scale and perspective. In 2013, UNEP carried out a similar exercise to identify priority emerging environmental issues that are of concern to ...

Transforming our World: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

This Agenda is a plan of action for people, planet and prosperity. It also seeks to strengthen universal peace in larger freedom, We recognize that eradicating poverty in all its forms and dimensions, including extreme poverty, is the greatest global challenge and an indispensable requirement for su...

Towards Measuring the Economic Value of Wildlife Watching Tourism in Africa

Set against the backdrop of the ongoing poaching crisis driven by a dramatic increase in the illicit trade in wildlife products, this briefing paper intends to support the ongoing efforts of African governments and the broader international community in the fight against poaching. Specifically, this...

Status and Trends of Caribbean Coral Reefs: 1970-2012

Previous Caribbean assessments lumped data together into a single database regardless of geographic location, reef environment, depth, oceanographic conditions, etc. Data from shallow lagoons and back reef environments were combined with data from deep fore-reef environments and atolls. Geographic c...

15 Years of the UNWTO World Tourism Network on Child Protection: A Compilation of Good Practices

Although it is widely recognized that tourism is not the cause of child exploitation, it can aggravate the problem when parts of its infrastructure, such as transport networks and accommodation facilities, are exploited by child abusers for nefarious ends. Additionally, many other factors that contr...

Natural Resources Forum: Special Issue Tourism

The journal considers papers on all topics relevant to sustainable development. In addition, it dedicates series, issues and special sections to specific themes that are relevant to the current discussions of the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD)....

Thailand: Supporting Sustainable Development in Thailand: A Geographic Clusters Approach

Market forces and government policies, including the Tenth National Development Plan (2007-2012), are moving Thailand toward a more geographically specialized economy. There is a growing consensus that Thailand’s comparative and competitive advantages lie in amenity services that have high reliance...

Road Map on Building a Green Economy for Sustainable Development in Carriacou and Petite Martinique, Grenada

This publication is the product of an international study led by the Division for Sustainable Development (DSD) of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) in cooperation with the Ministry of Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs and the Ministry of Environment, Foreig...

Natural Resources Forum, a United Nations Sustainable Development Journal (NRF)

  Natural Resources Forum, a United Nations Sustainable Development Journal, seeks to address gaps in current knowledge and stimulate relevant policy discussions, leading to the implementation of the sustainable development agenda and the achievement of the Sustainable...

UN Ocean Conference 2025

Our Ocean, Our Future, Our Responsibility “The ocean is fundamental to life on our planet and to our future. The ocean is an important source of the planet’s biodiversity and plays a vital role in the climate system and water cycle. The ocean provides a range of ecosystem services, supplies us with

UN Ocean Conference 2022

The UN Ocean Conference 2022, co-hosted by the Governments of Kenya and Portugal, came at a critical time as the world was strengthening its efforts to mobilize, create and drive solutions to realize the 17 Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

58th Session of the Commission for Social Development – CSocD58

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

This year’s World Tourism Day, held on 27 September, will be focused on Sustainable Tourism – a Tool for Development. Celebrated in line with the 2017 International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, the Day will be dedicated to exploring the contribution of tourism to the Sustainable Deve

World Tourism Day 2016 Official Celebration

Accessible Tourism for all is about the creation of environments that can cater for the needs of all of us, whether we are traveling or staying at home. May that be due to a disability, even temporary, families with small children, or the ageing population, at some point in our lives, sooner or late

4th Global Summit on City Tourism

The World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) and the Regional Council for Tourism of Marrakesh with support of the Government of Morroco are organizing the 4th Global Summit on City Tourism in Marrakesh, Morroco (9-10 December 2015). International experts in city tourism, representatives of city DMOs, of

2nd Euro-Asian Mountain Resorts Conference

The World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) and Ulsan Metropolitan City with support of the Government of the Republic of Korea are organizing the 2nd Euro-Asian Mountain Resorts Conference, in Ulsan, Republic of Korea (14 - 16 October 2015). Under the title “Paving the Way for a Bright Future for Mounta

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 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 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 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.

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.

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" 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

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• Costa Rica’s Keys to Success as a Sustainable Tourism Pioneer
• How to Be a Sustainable Traveler: 18 Tips
• Regenerative Travel: What It Is and How It's Outperforming Sustainable Tourism
• What Is Ecotourism? Definition, Examples, and Pros and Cons
• What Is Experiential Tourism?
• What Is Community-Based Tourism? Definition and Popular Destinations
• 3 More Rules for Sustainable Tourism
• What Is Overtourism and Why Is It Such a Big Problem?
• How to Become a Geo-Traveler
• What Is Voluntourism? Does It Help or Harm Communities?
• The World Doesn't Want Your Inukshuk
• 8 Incredible Rainforest Destinations Around the World
• 'Scattered Hotels' Are Saving Historic Villages in Italy and Beyond
• 15 Travel Destinations Being Ruined by Tourism
• How to Make Travel More Sustainable
• What's Special About the Faroe Islands

unsustainable

sustainability • ethics • climate • waste • renewables • ecology • poverty • equality

Why Sustainable Tourism is Important

We all know that sustainability is not a choice and that we must change a lot to be able to preserve the world’s unique cultures, natural landscapes and attractions for future generations.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the sustainable tourism definition, learn more about the different types of sustainable development in the travel industry, and discuss why sustainable tourism is important.

By the team at Apus Peru, Rainforest Alliance Verified travel specialists.

Table of Contents

The Issue: Why is Sustainable Tourism Important?

Life is all about experiences. And unlike material things, each experience stays with us no matter where we go. Traveling can not only be a meaningful break from our hectic pace of daily life, but also allows us to discover new places and learn from other cultures and traditions.

Nowadays, more people are traveling than ever before, and 53% of global travelers want to travel more sustainably in the future to reduce the negative impact on local cultures and the environment. Tourism is one of the most significant sectors affecting a country’s economy, but what is sustainable tourism and why is it important?

When tourism activity increases, it can bring many sustainable tourism benefits to the travel destination by creating thousands of jobs, developing the infrastructure of a country, and planting a sense of cultural exchange between the local communities and foreigners. Unfortunately, as tourism increases without implementing a concept of sustainable tourism, negative impacts also increase. 

What is Sustainable Tourism?

What does sustainable tourism mean? According to the UNWTO sustainable tourism definition , it describes a tourism in which the needs of today are not placed before the needs of tomorrow. Since travel experiences contain a wide range of different activities and industries, all sectors and stakeholders need to collaborate in order for it to be successful.

The main goal of sustainable tourism is to make the best use of natural resources while having a positive impact on the conservation of natural heritage and biodiversity, the economy and rural communities. This means that a truly responsible tourism should provide more benefits than negative impacts , considering the needs of both visitors and residents of a destination, and resulting in a mutual “give and take” relationship.

Sustainable Tourism Principles

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) established three sustainable tourism principles with the purpose of creating a long-term balance between the environmental, socio-cultural, and economic aspects of sustainable tourism development. The following three principles formulated by the UNWTO are an applicable guideline for all types of tourism providers and segments:

• 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.

A successful application of responsible tourism is only possible with the full participation of all relevant touristic actors and a well-organized sustainable tourism management.

The 3 Pillars of Sustainable Tourism

Thinking about what sustainable tourism means, people mostly link it with the preservation of the environment. But that’s only one part of the global sustainable tourism criteria. When you dive into a responsible lifestyle, you will probably come across the three pillars of sustainable tourism, also called the triangle of sustainability.

This model consists of three different aspects: environment, society, and economy. Together the three pillars are meant to work in connection to one another with true sustainability occurring.

The environmental pillar of sustainable tourism

Natural landscapes are one of the main cores of many tourist attractions.

What would a trip to Peru look like without hiking along the high Andes Mountains, visiting famous Machu Picchu, and admiring its unique flora and fauna?

Could you imagine South America without the Amazon rainforest, its biodiverse National Parks, lakes and beautiful beaches?

To ensure that future generations will be able to explore these incredible natural treasures, we must preserve our environment. Not only for future tourists, but also for the vitality of the travel destination itself.

The social pillar of sustainable tourism

The social aspect is another significant sustainable tourism indicator and refers to human capital. The living conditions of locals must be treated with the same priority as the development of tourism. Only when the citizens’ quality of life is improved and the support of locals is guaranteed in areas like education, security, labor conditions and leisure, tourism can develop sustainably.

Every provider in this sector, such as hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and other travel businesses, need to provide fair working conditions for their employees. Ideally, they should also support the local economy by investing in rural projects and education. The sustainable tourism definition implies that local people should never suffer from touristic activities, for example by destroying their heritage or having less fresh water.

The economic pillar of sustainable tourism

Economic sustainability refers to the responsible use of resources and financial profitability of a company. The pursuit of a company’s profit can never influence negatively the other two pillars of sustainable tourism development. While maximizing profits, each business must take into account the social and environmental impacts. Since companies become more aware of the significance of responsible travel, they consider social and local values while establishing their financing strategies. The integration of local institutions is important, so each service benefits sustainable tourism and supports the local economy, creating new jobs and improving the infrastructure.

Types of Sustainable Tourism

To sum up, sustainable tourism is composed of three main principles: socio-cultural justice, economic development , and environmental integrity. However, there are various types of sustainable tourism that are closely linked, to such an extent that they are often mistakenly mixed up. For example, the expression “eco sustainable tourism” implies two slightly different concepts that can be separated into two terms. It can be helpful to learn more about the aspects that these ideas have in common, as well as distinguish them. Most of these tourism concepts oppose the commercial forms of mass tourism that are more likely to increase environmental damage, cultural loss, negative economic impacts, and overtourism. 

Differences Between Sustainable, Eco & Responsible Tourism

Sustainable tourism can be considered a broad umbrella term with several layers, focusing on different aspects of responsible development. As a matter of fact, the sustainable tourism meaning refers to numerous types, such as green tourism, soft tourism, rural tourism, agro-tourism, ecotourism , sustainable tourism, and many more. However, in the tourism sector you can find two main subcategories, which will be explained below: eco tourism and responsible tourism. 

Ecotourism is a niche segment that focuses on tourism in natural regions. According to the UNWTO’s definition , it implies all touristic activities in which the major motivation of visitors is the appreciation of natural environments and cultures. The travel experience itself focuses on experiencing and learning more about nature.

Eco tourism and sustainable tourism both focus on the minimization of negative impacts of the destination’s natural environment, culture and economy, but ecotourism also contains the additional purpose of actively supporting the maintenance of environmental areas and wellbeing of the host communities, involving ecological conservation, interpretation and education. Besides, ecotourism tends to be operated by specialized and locally-oriented companies, providing their services for smaller target groups.

Responsible tourism and sustainable tourism have the same goal. The major difference between both concepts is that, in responsible tourism , the behavior of each individual must take responsibility for sustainable development. Everybody involved in tourism must stand up for the impact of their actions – not only the individual tourist, but also each touristic organization, business, product owner, operator, industrial association and the government. A responsible individual makes decisions based on what is best for the natural environment and host communities in the long term, making sure to contribute to a positive impact during the trip.

A Look Back at Why Sustainable Tourism is Important

The history of sustainable tourism goes back to the early 1990s. For the first time, the debate about negative impacts caused by tourism gained more attention, implying the need for intervention to protect people, economic systems and the environment. Even though the negative effects of tourism were recognized, there were only a few tourism management initiatives, and the need to change the nature of tourism did not seem to be urgent.

Today we know that sustainable tourism for development is essentially needed, and the travel industry is dependent on management of socio-cultural compatibility, the environmental and economic constraints. As the tourism sector is expected to grow continuously, present tourism habits are going to become unsustainable. This makes sustainable tourism marketing an essential asset for the maintenance of tourism.

By prioritizing sustainable travel, governments, travel businesses, airlines, hotels, touristic institutions and tourists can make a change and ensure tourism is still possible in the future. Only when we actively provide benefits and minimize the negative impacts caused by touristic activity, will it become a force for good in the world. Sustainable tourism statistics clearly show that responsible travel must no longer be a niche part of tourism. Eco tourism and sustainable tourism has become increasingly popular throughout the years, and 83% of international travelers believe in the importance of sustainable tourism.

What are the Benefits of Sustainable Tourism?

Learning more about the positive impacts for each actor of the tourism industry helps to find an answer to this complex question. While tourism can harm natural environments, cultures and local communities, it can also provide significant benefits. The sustainable tourism approach has the purpose of maximizing the positives and minimising the negatives, while preserving opportunities for the future.

Very often there are great disagreements between host communities and tour companies due to their conflicting opinions and goals. However, the implementation of a sustainable tourism model creates a dialogue between both parties, building a more beneficial relationship. So, why is sustainable tourism important? And what are the benefits of responsible travel for each touristic actor?

Benefits for Local Communities

One of the greatest economic aspects of sustainable tourism activities is the creation of fair working conditions for local employees. Minimum wages with an adequate level ensure a decent standard of living for local workers and their families, and equitable labor rights ensure health protection and safety for them. In addition to improving the economy of the host country, it also enables an enhanced infrastructure and increased standard of living for locals.

Due to the growing impact of sustainable tourism, travel companies invest in rural projects and collaborations, protecting ecosystems, preventing deforestation, helping conserve energy and water, and much more. Besides, conscious travelers are willing to pay more to support responsible and green tourism, which contributes to the execution of these projects as well. Also, the travel industry can be an incentive to improve education with the implementation of an effective sustainable tourism framework.

Besides, tourism can be a source of cultural preservation and maintenance of traditions. Due to the increased awareness of responsible development, travelers are more interested in learning and getting to know the authentic life of host communities. Thereby local residents identify themselves with their own culture and sustain their cultural heritage, showcasing their traditions and sharing their history.

This phenomenon also leads to encouraging sustainable wildlife interactions and conservation. Community-led tours teach visitors about the ecosystems and wildlife, which raises global awareness about the significance of regional environmental preservation.

Benefits for Tourism Companies

Sustainable tourism companies profit from responsible development as well. Sustainable destinations attract a different type of traveler, who is aware of climate change and wants his or her visit to be a positive impact in the world. This target group is constantly growing and willing to pay a higher price for an authentic and conscious travel experience.

Even though tourism companies must invest a lot in a greener way of travel, they benefit from these sustainable tourism trends. That’s because conscious travelers are less price sensitive and spend around 50% more money during their stay than standard visitors. Besides, they tend to take longer holidays with fewer flights to reduce carbon emissions. This means that sustainability has the advantage of being a competitive differentiator – instead of offering similar services at a similar price, the added value brings greater income, too.

All in all, with sustainable tourism development, tourism companies can establish mutually beneficial relationships with host communities. The happier local workers and communities are, the better is the quality of their provided services, which has a positive impact on the visitor’s experience as paying client.

Benefits for The Individual Traveler

Sustainability is no longer a trend, but a lifestyle embraced by more and more people. Travelers seek to learn more about how to travel sustainably and want to have an authentic experience off-the-beaten-track.

Instead of just exploring touristic highlights, visitors are becoming more conscious of their actions, avoiding mass tourism and appreciating the time they have to the fullest. This change of travel style has a huge positive impact on sustainable tourism.

The quality of the travelers’ experience has been enhancing enormously due to the constantly growing demand for sustainable tourism products. The idea of traveling has changed incredibly – instead of visiting a country for a limited period of time, the individual has the chance to explore a place from the perspective of locals, and at the same time contribute to a better world for future generations.

Sustainable Travel in Peru

Traveling responsibly is a major concern in almost every part of the world. In Peru, one of the most diverse countries worldwide, and with the second largest land area of Amazon rainforest on the planet, the number of sustainable tourism organizations is constantly growing.

There are plenty of sustainable tourism examples in Peru that can offer a life-enriching experience for visitors, as well as an opportunity to help foster positive social, economic and environmental benefits.

Ecotourism in the Amazon Rainforest

Deforestation is the main threat of Peru’s ecosystem, which also shows us why sustainable tourism is important. Farming, logging, mining, oil extraction, and illegal coca farming are negative consequences caused by the travel industry. Mass tourism leads to environmental mishaps like water shortages and mudslides, and affects the Indigenous communities in a negative way.

Regarding the development of sustainable tourism history, the Peruvian Government has been making great progress the last few years, by setting up Natural Park Reserves, such as the Pacaya-Saimiri National Reserve, Tambopata National Reserve, and Manu Biosphere Reserve. 

The Ministry of Environment enforces tourist restrictions and ensures better education about ecotourism in the Amazon for both locals and travelers in order to promote preservation and conservation of these natural environments. With the implementation of responsible management and local projects, the sustainable tourism industry can conserve these areas and bring benefits to the residents of these local communities.

Pachamama as Sustainable Tourism Example

To the Andean communities, Mother Nature (pachamama) and the mountains (apus) are very powerful, which is why they must be nurtured and cared for as well. Locals respect their natural environment and perform traditional ceremonies to show gratitude with the purpose of maintaining balance between nature and human beings, applying the principle of giving and receiving.

Today, many sustainable tourism companies in Peru want to share this spirit of pachamama and offer authentic travel experiences that create a positive impact in this world. Responsible and conscious travelers seek to learn more about the ancient principles of Andean cosmology that they can apply to their own life. Getting back to your roots, living in balance with yourself and your environment is part of a new lifestyle and a trend in sustainable tourism.

Apus Peru: Adventure Travel Specialists

Apus Peru: Adventure Travel Specialists  is a sustainable tourism company specialized in unique outdoor activities and adventure travel.

Founded in 2005, Apus Peru decided to actively make a change and contribute to a greener tourism, committing to keep the three pillars of sustainability in balance by giving back to local communities and investing in community development projects . Apus Peru was also the first trekking operator in Peru to receive independent verification of its sustainability practices by the  Rainforest Alliance .

Unlike so many tour operators, Apus Peru has implemented a sustainable tourism policy that insists on the payment of fair wages and benefits to the locals with whom they work. Apus Peru also donates USD $20.00 per passenger to  Threads of Peru , a social enterprise dedicated to sustaining Andean weaving traditions and providing economic opportunities to Indigenous artisans, constituting about 15% of Threads of Peru’s annual budget.

Challenges for Sustainability in the Tourism Industry

Why is sustainable tourism important?

Worldwide tourism accounts for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions – a significant proportion. And a study published by Nature Climate Change shows that the global tourism industry is rapidly expanding.

This makes the sector a bigger polluter than the construction industry and shows that we urgently need to apply a sustainable tourism concept to make a change. But how to achieve sustainable tourism?

It seems to be almost impossible to convert theory into praxis – we have heard enough ideas about sustainable tourism planning but not enough proven advice on how all these models work in real life. For travel to be greener, a lot more must be done than just defining a theoretical approach on how to keep these 3 pillars of sustainable tourism in balance.

Governments and travel institutions need better communication and effective implementation of a sustainable tourism plan at international, national and regional level. Our current travel behavior is unsustainable despite the progress and positive development – managing sustainable tourism is not an easy task at all.

Is Sustainable Travel Possible?

Coming back to the question of why sustainable tourism is important, it is obvious that tourism, as a resource-dependent industry, needs to take responsibility in order to be available for future generations.

One of the greatest sustainable tourism challenges is the successful implementation of theory, which can only be managed with continuous monitoring of tourism impacts, strong political leadership and efficient coordination between all touristic stakeholders. There are no one-size fits all solutions, as the application of sustainable tourism models always vary, depending on the diverse features of sustainable tourism destinations. 

It is certain that we cannot achieve complete sustainability, but we can certainly try to constantly improve, step by step, increasing our positive impact on this planet. Adopting a sustainable tourism strategy is an essential action for tourism to succeed, and there are so many opportunities for it to develop and grow into something more beneficial for visitors, locals and the whole world.

Everybody has the power to become more responsible and make their contribution to positive change.

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

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

UN Tourism | Bringing the world closer

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Tourism in the 2030 Agenda

The year 2015 has been a milestone for global development as governments have adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, along with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The bold agenda sets out a global framework to end extreme poverty, fight inequality and injustice, and fix climate change until 2030. Building on the historic Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), the ambitious set of 17 Sustainable Development Goals and 169 associated targets is people-centred, transformative, universal and integrated.

Harnessing tourism's benefits will be critical to achieving the sustainable development goals and implementing the post-2015 development agenda

Tourism has the potential to contribute, directly or indirectly, to all of the goals. In particular, it has been included as targets in Goals 8, 12 and 14 on inclusive and sustainable economic growth, sustainable consumption and production (SCP) and the sustainable use of oceans and marine resources, respectively.

Sustainable tourism is firmly positioned in the 2030 Agenda. Achieving this agenda, however, requires a clear implementation framework, adequate financing and investment in technology, infrastructure and human resources.

GOAL 1: NO POVERTY

GOAL 2: ZERO HUNGER

GOAL 3: GOOD HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

GOAL 4: QUALITY EDUCATION

GOAL 5: GENDER EQUALITY

GOAL 6: CLEAN WATER AND SANITATION

GOAL 7: AFFORDABLE AND CLEAN ENERGY

GOAL 8: DECENT WORK AND ECONOMIC GROWTH

GOAL 9: INDUSTRY, INNOVATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE

GOAL 10: REDUCED INEQUALITIES

GOAL 11: SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND COMMUNITIES

GOAL 12: RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION

GOAL 13: CLIMATE ACTION

GOAL 14: LIFE BELOW WATER

GOAL 15: LIFE ON LAND

GOAL 16: PEACE AND JUSTICE

GOAL 17: PARTNERSHIPS FOR THE GOALS

What is sustainable tourism?

By its very nature, tourism values things that are precious in our world: stunning landscapes, wildlife, history, culture and people. It can be a catalyst for growth in the local economy, providing jobs, opportunities for enterprise and funds for conservation. But, wherever it occurs, tourism can, and often does, have negative impacts on communities and the environment: loss of housing, loss of access to land and resources, overcrowding, pollution, the destruction of ecosystems and damage to cultural heritage. Many of these impacts are intensified by the impacts of climate change, which tourism has played no small part in fuelling.

The aim of sustainable tourism is to increase the benefits and to reduce the negative impacts caused by tourism.  Going beyond managing the negative impacts of tourism, the term regenerative tourism is used to describe tourism that restores and improves the environment, culture, and economy of a destination.   Regenerative tourism seeks to create a positive impact on local communities and leave the destination in a better state than it was found, while providing an authentic travel experience for visitors.

Unfortunately, much of tourism today focusses on growth in numbers of arrivals, overnight stays, and visitor spending, with the economic benefits increasingly concentrated among the few at the top of the value chain.  All to often, the real cost of tourism for destinations is not accounted for and it is local residents who lose out.

The Travel Foundation’s role is to advocate for and enable a different model of tourism that is in balance with community needs and the environment.

A few sustainable tourism resources

Destinations at risk: the invisible burden of tourism.

Research report describing how destinations must uncover and account for tourism’s hidden costs.

Envisioning Tourism in 2030 and beyond

A research report developed to help policymakers and the tourism sector understand what a global, thriving, decarbonising tourism industry could look like by 2030 and through to 2050.

From Strength to Strength

The Travel Foundation’s journey to transform tourism

The Travel Foundation

A word from CEO, Jeremy Sampson and Head of Programmes, Elke Dens about how we are working to improve the future of tourism

Measuring Tourism’s Impact

Research report detailing the overall impact of a large tour operator in a mainstream holiday destination.

ETC handbook for national sustainable tourism initiatives

A report produced for the European Travel Commission by Green Case Consulting, Good Place & the Travel Foundation

Useful links

Some generic description and explanation of sustainable tourism.

Future of Tourism Coalition

Information and resources for tourism that puts destination needs at its centre.

Sustainability Reporting in Travel & Tourism.

Transforming tourism news.

Responsible Travel

The case for responsible travel.

UNWTO e-library

Tourism and the Sustainable Development Goals – Journey to 2030.

Guide to responsible tourism holidays.

The Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism

A movement to accelerate climate action in tourism and to secure strong actions and commitment to support the global goals to reach Net Zero emissions as soon as possible before 2050.

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• Member States in Asia and the Pacific
• SUSTAINABLE TOURISM OBSERVATORIES (INSTO)

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THE IMPORTANCE OF TOURISM FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

01 sep the importance of tourism for sustainable development.

Sustainability is a concept that has been gaining social and political recognition, not least due to the coordinated launch of the Millennium Development Goals in 2000, and now with the 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Established in 2015 and promoted by the United Nations, the SDGs are key to ensuring an environmentally, economically and socially sustainable world.

The 2030 Agenda is the reference framework for all UN agencies, programs and funds, and the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is responsible for ensuring international tourism plays its part in its achievement.

The following guidelines have been established:

• The principle of sustainability refers not just to the environmental impact of tourism but also to its social and economic impacts.
• To protect and preserve the natural spaces and biological ecosystems of destinations.
• To respect the traditions and cultures of host countries and develop intercultural tolerance.
• To ensure economic activities that reduce poverty in the host country.

These guidelines are only the first link in a whole chain that is concerned with and advocates sustainable tourism.

These guidelines mean that as tourism restarts, the sector is ready to grow back stronger and better for people, planet and prosperity.

• Business Event Management: Navigating the World of Corporate and Social Gatherings Explore key strategies for successful corporate and social event planning and execution with our in-depth business event management course. Read more Start now Add to cart Business Event Management: Navigating the World of Corporate and Social Gatherings Explore key strategies for successful corporate and social event planning and execution with our in-depth business event management course. Read more
• Innovation and Digital Transformation in the Tourism Industry Explore digital transformation in tourism as you learn to implement effective strategies, embrace innovation, and elevate customer engagement and operational excellence. Read more Start now Add to cart Innovation and Digital Transformation in the Tourism Industry Explore digital transformation in tourism as you learn to implement effective strategies, embrace innovation, and elevate customer engagement and operational excellence. Read more
• Destination Marketing Develop robust marketing strategies for tourism destinations, focusing on market analysis, competitive positioning, and successful campaign implementation. Read more Start now Add to cart Destination Marketing Develop robust marketing strategies for tourism destinations, focusing on market analysis, competitive positioning, and successful campaign implementation. Read more
• Restaurant Operations Elevate your restaurant management skills with this online course, exploring food safety, service types, menu development, and effective inventory management. Read more Start now Add to cart Restaurant Operations Elevate your restaurant management skills with this online course, exploring food safety, service types, menu development, and effective inventory management. Read more
• Culinary Arts and Gastronomy Explore the link between tourism and gastronomy, the role of food in culture and sustainable alignment with the 2030 Agenda. Read more Start now Add to cart Culinary Arts and Gastronomy Explore the link between tourism and gastronomy, the role of food in culture and sustainable alignment with the 2030 Agenda. Read more
• Culinary Basics for Operations, Catering Management and New Techniques Master culinary basics, innovative techniques, menu development, and catering management in this comprehensive course for aspiring chefs and culinary enthusiasts. Read more Start now Add to cart Culinary Basics for Operations, Catering Management and New Techniques Master culinary basics, innovative techniques, menu development, and catering management in this comprehensive course for aspiring chefs and culinary enthusiasts. Read more
• Train the Trainer Develop professional training skills, enhance communication, and learn to design impactful training sessions in diverse professional settings. Read more Start now Add to cart Train the Trainer Develop professional training skills, enhance communication, and learn to design impactful training sessions in diverse professional settings. Read more
• Sustainable Destination Management Learn what goes into creating destinations that captivate visitors, safeguard the planet, and enrich local communities. Read more Start now Add to cart Sustainable Destination Management Learn what goes into creating destinations that captivate visitors, safeguard the planet, and enrich local communities. Read more
• Hotel Operations Get ready for your career in hospitality with this online course, focusing on operations, guest service, revenue strategies, and more. Read more Start now Add to cart Hotel Operations Get ready for your career in hospitality with this online course, focusing on operations, guest service, revenue strategies, and more. Read more

The Media’s Growing Role in Education

In today’s rapidly evolving world, both the media sector and education share a similar predicament in terms of how to adjust to new technology. As someone who has worked in the digital media space for over 13 years, I have witnessed massive changes in how people consume their daily news, I’ve seen century-old revenue models collapse, and attention spans shorten.

In this era of unprecedented change, there is reason to be both cautious and hopeful. Opportunities and threats that were previously unimaginable are now a reality. Both media and education are facing an uncertain future due to the rapid advance of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The challenges we face require creativity and a willingness to adapt. By working together, media and education stand a better chance of weathering the storm. Trust in both sectors is at an all-time low in many countries around the world, and continuing to operate in the same way is unlikely to change this.

Instead, we must seize this opportunity by reevaluating our core functions.

Over the past years, Morocco World News, the news outlet I founded with my brother in 2011, has built several effective partnerships with local universities, focusing on youth empowerment, employability, media literacy and skills development. Such partnerships, I believe, hold the key for a sustainable future for both sectors.

By working together, the media industry and educational institutions can teach science effectively, be more inclusive, boost awareness on issues that matter, empower young people, and encourage growth.

Embracing this technological revolution will allow us to tailor content to the needs of modern students and news consumers. We can offer content in a variety of local languages and promote both critical thinking and problem-solving through increasingly interactive content.

More importantly, sectors such as media and education have the opportunity to promote life-long learning as a vital skill in our ever-changing labour market.

As the director of an English language news outlet in an Arab and French speaking country, I have witnessed how quickly a society can adapt to change and learn new skills. Morocco is now rapidly shifting, and English has become the primary language of science, entertainment and business. Young people are on board and driving the much-needed change.

In the years ahead, AI is set to disrupt both our sectors in seismic ways, prompting us to consider new ways to stay relevant to future generations who themselves face severe uncertainty about their future careers. In my experience, media platforms and educational institutes have an important role to play in the coming upheaval, and we can only do it together.

Strengthening ties between educators and the media will result in more engaging educational content. Interactivity and customization feeds the curiosity of young minds. It also encourages creativity and critical thinking. The use of advanced technology can help boost media literacy by bringing top educational content to the forefront of the news.

How many universities have amazing communicators and public speakers whose inspiring words do not reach beyond their walls? How many news stories are short in detail due to time pressure or a lack of expertise among writing staff? Bringing the two sectors together can solve both issues by connecting journalists with the voices that matter, at a time when they are truly needed.

I believe the answer to the coming wave of transformative technology lies in human connections. We need to connect the curious to those willing to share their knowledge, we need to empower people to check facts and sources, and we need to ensure this happens in an accessible and inclusive way.

Close partnerships between media organizations and educational institutes can help democratize learning and create a new positive public function for both sectors. My experience has shown me that these partnerships are easy to build and grow and hold the key to a more sustainable future for both sectors.

Adnane Bennis Co-Founder and CEO of Morocco World News

Crisis Management in Tourism

The tourism sector has faced unprecedented volatility and uncertainty over the past 5 years, both globally and locally. The pandemic and its related restrictions, the geopolitical situation and local conflicts, the acceleration of inflation and price increases, and the disruption of logistical chains led to the share of tourism in the global economy decreasing significantly. By the end of 2023 only a few destinations had managed to return to 2019 levels.

Now, however, the outlook is more encouraging. Consumer behavior in 2024, despite ongoing uncertainty, indicates a strong will to travel. Thanks to this, the sector is adapting to changing reality – new tourist routes are emerging and existing ones are being developed, new hotels, airports, restaurants, and other infrastructure are opening.

That said, the sector is still affected by seasonality, high fixed costs, a lack of qualified people and relatively low profitability. In rapidly changing and disruptive environment, with unforeseen changes, crisis management and change management become critical to ensure the industry is sustainable and safe for tourists and business.

Crisis management in the tourism sector generally involves a strategic and proactive approach taken by business to anticipate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from unexpected events that may influence the safety, travel plans, and the overall satisfaction of tourists. The primary goal is to minimize the effects of a crisis, restore confidence, and enable a relevant recovery for all parties involved.

As for any general management activities, crisis management in tourism logically includes several steps:

1)Assessing the nature of crisis

Tourism industry crises can take different forms, each demanding a specific response. Natural disasters can disrupt travel plans, infrastructure, and local communities. Human-made events, such as terrorist attacks, civil unrest, or geopolitical tensions, can impact the safety and security of tourists in affected regions. Additionally, health-related issues, exemplified by pandemics like COVID-19, present unique challenges with widespread implications for global travel.

2)Pre-Crisis Planning and Preparation

Effective crisis management starts long before a crisis itself appears. The tourism industry must engage in pre-crisis planning and preparedness to mitigate potential risks and enhance responsiveness during emergencies. This involves conducting risk assessments, identifying vulnerabilities, and establishing crisis response teams with clear roles and responsibilities. Relevant communication plans are essential to spread accurate and timely information to tourists, employees, and the public, assuring transparency and trust.

3)Crisis Response and Communication

While crisis starts, the effectiveness of the response and communication can make a significant difference in managing the situation. Tourism enterprises must activate their crisis response teams promptly and implement pre-established protocols and procedures. Swift communication with relevant authorities, local communities, and other stakeholders is essential to assess the situation accurately and make informed decisions. Transparent communication with tourists is crucial for managing expectations, providing safety guidelines, and offering alternative solutions.

4)Flexibility and Redemption Strategies

Flexibility is a crucial component of effective crisis management in tourism. Diversifying tourism offerings, both in terms of destinations and experiences, may reduce the impact of crisis that affect specific regions or sectors. Creating contingency funds and investing in comprehensive insurance can provide financial stability during challenging times. Collaborative efforts among public and private sectors can improve the managing capabilities, fostering a collective commitment to the industry’s survival and recovery.

5)Post-Crisis Assessment and Mastering

After managing a crisis, a thorough post-crisis analysis is vital to learn from the experience and improve future crisis management strategies. The tourism industry should embrace a culture of life-long learning and adaptation, updating plans based on emerging trends and challenges. Sharing lessons learned with the industry community promotes knowledge sharing and improves practices for the tourism sector.

ARTEM KLYKOV , PhD, MBA professor of tourism, Silk Road University Samarkand visiting professor, SWISSAM International University hospitality expert media contributor coach, mentor

Integrating tourism and hospitality curricula in high schools with AHLEI

The American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute ( AHLEI ) established in 1953, is one of the foremost certifying bodies and publishers of quality resources to train, develop, and certify hospitality industry professionals globally. AHLEI is also committed to supporting the education of those just starting to pursue their careers, the next generation of hospitality and tourism leaders, innovators and champions!

AHLEI conducted extensive Gen Z research prior to creating our newest curricula. These results also influenced the new   Education Toolkit , created in partnership with UN Tourism for the incorporation of tourism as a subject in high schools.

Young people who are excited about creating great experiences, meeting new people, making a positive impact on their communities and growing in their careers are increasingly drawn to the hospitality industry.

Why Introduce Tourism and Hospitality to School-Age Students?

AHLEI’s research pointed to some intriguing findings. Students are making decisions increasingly early about the career they want to pursue but many don’t consider hospitality. Why? Because of preconceived notions about the opportunities available to them. Additional findings include:

• Gen Z students are very practical. They are looking for a return on their educational investments. The more we can educate them about career growth and earning potential, the more they will start thinking seriously about tourism and hospitality as a career choice.
• Gen Z students prioritize feeling proud of what they do and where they work. They are motivated by exciting and interesting careers, Instagram-worthy experiences, and the positive impact the hospitality industry has on communities and economies.
• Gen Z is interested in inclusivity and in the freedom to be who they are. Hospitality is an amazing industry that encourages guests and employees alike to be their authentic selves.

AHLEI hears from our industry partners that while some young people may not be as skilled at test-taking or formal education, if they have great interpersonal skills, positive energy and good problem-solving instincts, there is a home for them in the hospitality industry. There are excellent opportunities for anyone with these qualities who is willing to work hard and learn.

Thus, in our new curriculum we emphasized relevance in the real world, encouraging exploration and practice through inquiry-based and problem-solving activities, and engaging students through our design choices, narrative voice, and multimedia resources. Let’s explore our newest resources.

Implementing the HTM Curriculum

The AHLEI high school curriculum, Hospitality and Tourism Management provides an engaging comprehensive exploration of different segments within the industry and the career paths in each.

This article includes:

• Implementation of the curriculum including organization, coverage and educator support
• Key themes and learning objectives of the text
• Endorsement by the U.S. hotel and lodging industry
• Testimonials from international partners

The AHLEI authoring and instructional design teams place a high priority on creating relevant, accurate, up to date and industry-driven content. Passive memorization is not the goal. Our materials are designed to help students think and do! There are elements incorporated regularly throughout learning and teacher resource materials designed to prompt student output and higher levels of learning.

Organization

Hospitality & Tourism Management is a single-volume textbook that can be aligned with any length program, though it is most often used alongside one- or two-year programs. The text is broken into modular units covering each segment of the industry. Each unit is comprised of self-contained chapters that dive deeper into skills and concepts. Optional activities, case studies and projects offer more rigor and application if desired. This modular approach along with helpful pacing guides allow educators to easily align the curriculum with the preferred order and structure of their program.

Hospitality is a huge and varied industry and the HTM curriculum includes a comprehensive overview of lodging and hotels, food and beverage operations, event management, travel and tourism.  Coverage includes an overview of each segment, organizational structure and career paths, key roles and responsibilities. Opening chapters highlight the importance of the role of the industry and introduce students to core concepts and skills around providing excellent guest service. Closing chapters focus on business and leadership concepts like marketing, finance and entrepreneurship.

The coverage in HTM is based on input from dozens of industry professionals, teachers and subject matter experts for a relevant contemporary take on hospitality education with both practical and aspirational applications.

Teacher Support

The online teacher resource portal for Hospitality & Tourism Management includes a wealth of supplementary materials to help educators deliver the content to their students. The Teacher’s Companion includes notes, additional activities and discussion questions as well as organizational tools and engaging videos summarizing the main concepts in each chapter. Test Banks, Power Points, Instructor activity guide and lesson plan tools are also available to make class prep easy.

AHLEI also offers The Certified Hospitality Instructor (CHI) Program , a self-paced training course to help educators without an industry background effectively teach content in these areas. In addition to the course and exam, candidates for the CHI must also complete 120 hours of internship with a hospitality organization.

Hospitality and Tourism Specialist Credential

The HTM curriculum prepares students to earn their Hospitality Tourism Specialist credential from the American Hotel & Lodging Association, (AHLA), today the largest trade hotel association in the U.S. with 32,000 hotel members. Endorsed by some of the premier hospitality brands in the world, the HTS credential demonstrates student mastery of industry concepts. Students may earn the credential upon passing the AHLEI HTS exam and showing 100 hours of work experience in a hospitality role.

Assessment and credentialling is a large part of our program development. Credentials serve as a “passport” for students leaving the classroom, demonstrating the mastery that they achieved and using it as an entry into jobs within any segment of the industry.

Key Themes and Learning Objectives

Career readiness and technical skills.

One of the key themes throughout Hospitality and Tourism Management is that hospitality is a business, and a mastery of both technical and “soft” skills will open endless possibilities for career advancement. Operational and managerial topics as well as key math concepts are introduced in each unit. In addition, the text focuses on career readiness skills like written and verbal communication, problem-solving and teamwork, all in the context of a hospitality workplace.

Global Awareness

Hospitality is a global industry, supporting local economies and bringing together people from around the world. Global awareness and appreciation of and respect for different cultures is another core theme featured throughout. The text features international examples, discussions of cultural awareness, and coverage of cultural and operational differences in different countries.

Application

Throughout the text are scenarios, case studies, projects, activities, discussion questions and more, all designed for learners to immediately apply what they are learning, even from within the classroom. This presentation maximizes student engagement, understanding and retention of key concepts.

Endorsements and Formal Recognition

Hospitality and Tourism Management Second Edition is recognized by leaders in the U.S. hotel and lodging industry, including:

• Marriott International
• BF Saul Company Hospitality Group
• G6 Hospitality LLC
• RRI West Management
• Real Hospitality Group
• Mid-Continent Hospitality
• TradeWinds Island Resorts

These industry leaders appreciate that HTM Second Edition highlights the knowledge and skills that hospitality leaders look for in their employees today. HTM program completion, along with the HTS credential, fully prepares a learner to be a high-potential candidate for entry-level positions with the experience needed to bring value to the industry and grow in their careers.

Expand Your Horizons with HTM

The second edition of HTM offers learners a global perspective of the industry, its opportunities and its impact on the world.

Two of AHLEI’s valued governmental partners, and UNWTO member states, share the positive impact the HTM program can have on a national tourism industry below.

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, CD, MP., states:

“The Hospitality and Tourism Management Program has been a game-changer for Jamaica’s tourism industry and our nation. We have witnessed remarkable transformations through this innovative program in partnership with the esteemed American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI). Our students now have the opportunity to acquire certification from AHLEI and an Associate Degree in Customer Service, equipping them with the skills and expertise needed to excel in the hospitality sector. Since its introduction in select high schools in September 2018, the HTM Program has ushered in a new era of professionalism and excellence in our tourism sector. We have witnessed a significant upskilling among our youth, creating a more competent and dedicated workforce prepared to deliver exceptional service. I am incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication put forth by our students, schools, and industry partners who have embraced the HTM Program. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for Jamaica that empowers our youth and ensures our country remains a premier global destination for years to come.”

Ms. Janet Forbes-Dean, Subject Coordinator for Family and Consumer Science Education at Jack Hayward Senior High School in Grand Bahama, says:

“The high school students at the Jack Hayward Senior High School have attained numerous AHLEI International Certifications over the past thirteen (13) years. These certifications are our core examination. There is no Bahamas General Certificate of Secondary Education (B.G.C.S.E.) national examination for hospitality students. AHLEI’s program is awesome. We have former and current students who received one or more certifications in Kitchen Cook, Breakfast Attendant, Front Desk Attendant, HTMP Year 1, Restaurant Server, START, Golden Opportunities, Guest Service Gold, and Golden Opportunities Tourism. These certifications along with the high school Hospitality and Tourism Curriculum are essential for students who are desirous of continuing a career in Hospitality.”

Get Started Today with AHLEI’s Hospitality & Tourism Program

We can’t wait to help you get started. Learn more here .

For further questions, contact Ed Kastli, Channel Vice President of International Sales, at [email protected] .

Elizabeth O’Brien Senior Product Manager

Enhancing Tourism Education t hrough Volunteer Teaching Experiences

Submitted by Stephen Sayers,

English Lecturer; Faculty Advisor to the IFTM Volunteer Circle

In 2019, ‘The IFTM Volunteer Circle’ (IFTMVC) began providing support for poverty alleviation through bi-annual volunteer teaching trips for 7-10 days to raise the interest and ability of junior high-school students at the Second National High School in Cong Jiang County, Gui Zhou. Historically, local students in Cong Jiang have been unable to gain access to better universities due to poor English scores in their ‘high-school entrance’ exams.

Traveling to the location, and participating in community engagement – meaningful, interactive, and immersive – is creating an educational experience that complements theoretical lessons, is highly memorable, and most importantly capable of transforming volunteers. In the words of one volunteer:

“I often choose to be alone because I find it difficult to integrate into the community. But when I met this group of students, their enthusiasm had an infectious force, so I unconsciously fell into it. Their enthusiasm and vitality made me confident and dare to communicate with them!”

An analysis of 50 students’ reflections and those of several students shared four years after their initial trips illustrates transformation in three areas: personality traits, skills development, and perspectives.

• Personality traits

Students expressed transformation in many aspects of their ‘inner-world’. They showed an increased sense of “happiness”, “optimism”, “confidence”, “boldness”, “being outgoing”, “gratitude”, “well-being”, “fulfillment”, “enthusiasm”, “cherishing life”, and “gratefulness”. They saw that they had demonstrated “responsibility”, “adaptability”, and “initiative” and had an improved “attitude”.

“I used to be a very introverted and sensitive person, and I was afraid that people would hurt me, so I built a tall wall in my heart to protect myself from being hurt. After this trip, I find myself happier and more optimistic. The naivety and braveness of those children encourage me a lot.”

“ Through this activity, I experienced the joy of being a teacher. I gradually became less shy during the activity. I started to become bolder and took the initiative to communicate with those students who were not fond of speaking English. I successfully helped them to confidently speak English.”

“After this trip, I can better adapt to the environment, and I know how to communicate with others better, which is the biggest gain for me.”

“This event made me cherish my life now. I should no longer complain about the living environment, and no longer worry about small difficulties. Now I can do so many meaningful things, not because I am excellent, but because I am lucky enough.”

• Skills development

Another area of transformation concerned skills development, including “communication”, “public speaking”, “problem-solving”, “teaching”, “social”, “leadership” and “critical thinking”.

“I was a bit shy in the first class as it was my first time standing in front of the classroom as a “teacher”. However, I think I made some progress. Gradually I talked louder and became more comfortable in the class. I improved public speaking skills in a way.”

“This journey has changed me a lot, including my work attitude, accuracy of information, understanding of students, and teaching skills… The local teachers taught me some teaching skills and some software to assist in teaching.”

“The trip changed me in different ways… it improved my social skills. I am not an out-going person, sometimes it may be hard to talk a lot with others from the very beginning…”

“The trip changed my view of my influence to the world. I can’t change (all) the students totally, but I can influence someone and it is enough.”

“… for myself, I will not wear something like AJ shoes anymore… Maybe it doesn’t matter but it just makes me feel uncomfortable anyway…”

• Perspectives

In order to strengthen students’ attitudes of ‘mutual respect and understanding’ (GCET – Article 1), one of the guided reflection questions challenged the prevailing attitude that volunteering is the ‘haves’ providing for the ‘have nots’. Many students developed the sense of perception to see the inter-connectedness of volunteering and personal transformation.

“I used to think volunteering is… to try my best to provide help to others in need. After this trip, I think volunteering is not only unilateral help, but also an opportunity to learn.”

“I always thought that volunteering was just a donation to help children in poor areas. After this activity, and integrating into the children’s life, I realized the meaning of volunteer activities. We open the window of the world for them, and they bring us the touch and beauty of life.”

“This is my second time participating in this project, and the change from being a participant to a leader has given me a deeper understanding of the entire activity… through… planning and organizing, I realized that the success of an activity doesn’t solely depend on the richness of its content. It also requires meticulous organization and smooth coordination of various aspects. Learning from previous experiences and continuously improving the activity plan can attract capable individuals to participate and maximize the project’s impact. This is how my understanding of volunteering has changed. It has made me realize that volunteering is a collective effort…”

Four years after her first trip and now a Master’s student at University College of London, (UCL) shared her reflective thoughts. Her words testify to the power that well-designed volunteer trips have in setting a student on a path to ‘becoming’ a life-long learner and protagonist for the greater good.

“I would like to say that participating in and organizing (the) volunteer trips (has been) one of the best and most worthy things in my life so far… During my two volunteer experiences in Cong Jiang, China, I actively participated in teaching English and engaging in various extracurricular activities with the students. The first time in 2019, I observed… many locals who believed education is useless, (and that) boys are better than girls… I recognized the deep-rooted challenges in altering perspectives towards education… and (that) it is a long-term task. I also realized the impact of education on shaping beliefs, and life choices… these volunteer experiences shaped me to be a better person with more confidence and belief that I have the ability to achieve something…

Furthermore, these experiences have undoubtedly influenced my future aspirations. I would like to engage in volunteer activities continuously and am now participating in volunteer activities actively in London. They also sparked my interest in educational development and community engagement. As I envision my future, I see myself actively contributing to educational institutions or possibly even to international organizations or non-government organizations…”

Though much still needs to be learned to optimize the dual path of personal and social transformation that can be effected through these trips, it is clear they provide a path to a profound transformation in students’ and directly contribute to the IFTM vision, “As an advocate of community engagement, IFTM takes pride in producing graduates that not only excel professionally but also work for the greater good of society” (President’s Message; IFTM Website). This author believes that with ‘collective will’ and the wise allocation of resources this kind of innovative educational experience – integrating students and community engagement – can be extended to benefit all undergraduates and many more local communities.

Stephen Sayers English Lecturer Faculty Advisor to the IFTM Volunteer Circle

 By Fabio Passos

In the ever-evolving landscape of the tourism sector,2024 promises to bring new opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to venture into the world of startups. As a professor, consultant, and mentor specializing in tourism and hospitality, with a focus on entrepreneurship, innovation, and business planning, I am always vigilant regarding emerging trends. In this article, I will highlight two startup niches that deserve special attention in 2024.

Women’s Travel Journey

The women’s travel journey is a growing niche that offers numerous possibilities for the development of tourism ventures. This segment encompasses the routing of trips exclusively for women, as well as the creation of spaces and tourist services that cater to the specific needs and preferences of this audience.

Within this niche, opportunities abound in various areas, including transportation, accommodation, guided tours, and dining. Startups can develop solutions that provide safe and inclusive experiences for solo female travelers, while also promoting connections among women who wish to explore the world together.

While there are already some initiatives focused on women’s travel journeys, including initiatives in Brazil where I have had the privilege to provide mentorship, there is still significant room for growth and innovation within this market. The emphasis on safety, community building, and personalization of travel experiences may be the key to success in this expanding niche.

Startups that venture into this market can stand out by creating exclusive travel packages for women, offering cultural, culinary, and adventure experiences tailored to female preferences. Furthermore, ensuring an environment in which travelers feel secure is crucial to attracting this audience.

Vacation Rental Property Management

The vacation rental property market has experienced exponential growth over recent years, largely driven by the success of Airbnb. However, this segment is now undergoing a phase of professionalization, presenting an opportunity for startups to excel.

Many investors and entrepreneurs operating in the vacation rental property market lack specific hospitality expertise. This can result in challenges related to customer service, governance, and property rate pricing. Startups can fill this gap by offering innovative solutions that help property owners manage their properties more efficiently and profitably.

Startups can focus on enhancing the guest experience by creating tools and services that make stays more enjoyable and hassle-free. Process automation, reservation management, and predictive maintenance are some areas where innovation can enhance the professionalization of vacation rental properties.

In summary, in 2024, the tourism sector offers exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to explore specialized niches. Women’s travel journeys and vacation rental property management are just two examples of areas with significant growth potential. If you are interested in discussing these niches or other topics related to tourism and hospitality, I am available for further conversation.

Fabio Passos Fabio, with a B.A. in Tourism, a graduate degree in Marketing, and an MA in Business Administration, boasts an impressive track record of over 15 years in both the national and international realms of tourism and hospitality. His diverse experience encompasses roles in hotels, property management, aviation, travel agencies, and cruise lines. Of particular note is Fabio’s keen interest in the home rental business, where he has emerged as a recognized expert in consultancy services. As the proprietor of Studio na Carioca and Passos do Turismo, he is dedicated to offering training programs for vacation rental owners, equipping them with the essential skills needed to elevate their revenue and excel in various critical aspects of home rentals.

Embracing Sustainability: Innovative Real Estate Solutions in the Hospitality Industry

 By Rani Majzoub

The urgency to respond to climate change demands that all industries rethink and transform their practices and accelerate the shift to greater sustainability. The hospitality sector, historically singled out for its climate impact, is responding to this call and reimagining its foundations to embrace sustainable practices.

Innovative real estate solutions lie at the centre of this transformation. They are not merely a response to the growing environmental crisis but rather an embodiment of a commitment to reducing the industry’s ecological footprint whilst enhancing the guest experience. This article will delve into this profound shift, exploring the innovative measures shaping the future of hospitality and tourism, where sustainability and luxury harmoniously coexist.

Eco-friendly Building Design

Sustainable architecture is taking centre stage, with a visionary approach to building renovations. The adoption of eco-friendly designs exemplifies this shift, which prioritizes energy efficiency and environmental responsibility, encompassing a strategy ranging from incorporating renewable energy sources to efficient insulation and implementation of green roofs. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these roofs are meticulously engineered to curtail energy consumption and provide a unique selling point for eco-conscious travellers. From solar panel installation to rainwater harvesting systems, these developments are revolutionizing tourism’s relationship with the environment.

Smart Technologies

The integration of smart technologies marks an inflection point in sustainable hospitality real estate. Automation and sensor-based systems are effective tools for diminishing energy consumption, optimizing climate control, and enhancing security. Solutions such as key cards for room lighting and temperature control, alongside mobile apps for managing rooms, empower guests to participate in energy conservation. These technologies not only enhance guest experiences but also promote resource efficiency.

A notable example is the seamless integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) in hotel operations, allowing real-time adjustments of room conditions based on guest preferences and occupancy. This will elevate guest comfort to unprecedented heights and showcase the fusion of technology and sustainability as the future of hospitality real estate.

Water Conservation

Fresh water, a precious and finite resource, assumes even greater significance in regions grappling with water scarcity. In such places, the need to conserve water is imperative. Innovative real estate solutions involve water-efficient fixtures, including low-flow faucets, showerheads, and greywater recycling systems, serving the dual purpose of curtailing water consumption and mitigating the ecological repercussions of wastewater. A notable trend in the sector is the adoption of rainwater harvesting systems, which collect and store rainwater for uses such as irrigation, toilet flushing, and cooling systems. Through diminishing reliance on municipal water sources, hotels make meaningful contributions to water conservation while trimming utility bills, underscoring the intersection of ecological responsibility and cost-efficiency.

Sustainable Materials

From furniture décor to linens, the hospitality sector is witnessing a resounding shift towards sustainability. This transformative wave embraces the spirit of reuse and locality. Recycled, upcycled, and locally sourced materials are now finding their way into the heart of hospitality, reshaping the aesthetics and ethics of hospitality.

We can consider the choice of reclaimed wood or recycled plastics for crafting hotel furniture, a nod to the industry’s commitment to reducing waste and endorsing eco-friendly practices. The adoption of such materials reduces the environmental footprint and presents an opportunity for hotels to craft distinctive and alluring interior designs. Guests, too, are becoming increasingly appreciative of the narratives that accompany these furnishings, carrying with them a unique story of renewal and resourcefulness. This newfound synergy between aesthetics and environmental responsibility is reshaping the landscape of hospitality.

Community Engagement & Education

Sustainability transcends the confines of premises; forward-thinking establishments are actively engaging with the community while educating their guests on sustainable practices. This multi-faceted approach enriches the guest experience and fosters a relationship between the hotel and its community. These interactions can take shape in various ways, such as partnerships with eco-friendly artisans and sourcing food locally to reduce carbon footprint while contributing and empowering the community.

Hotels are increasingly offering eco-friendly excursions, encouraging guests to partake in nature-focused activities, enriching their experience and inspiring their sense of responsibility towards the environment.

Renewable Energy Sources

Renewable energy sources serve as a foundational element in the development of sustainable real estate. With the emergence of solar panels, wind turbines and geothermal systems, these have become intertwined into the fabric of hotel and resort facilities, marking a solid step away from the reliance on fossil fuels. By generating their own renewable energy, establishments trim operational costs and significantly reduce their carbon footprint.

Solar panel installations on rooftops or in parking areas emerge as powerful generators of clean electricity. Concurrently, some forward-thinking establishments are exploring the possibilities for wind turbines and geothermal heating and cooling systems to reduce their dependence on non-renewable energy. Such initiatives manifest as sustainable choices and sound financial strategies, illustrating the escalating potential of renewable energy.

Waste Reduction and Recycling

Innovative solutions extend to waste management, where hotels proactively reduce, recycle, and efficiently manage waste. Strategies include comprehensive recycling programs, organic waste composting, and collaboration with local initiatives for responsible waste disposal, contributing to environmental sustainability and the local community. By adopting a circular approach, hotels minimize landfill-bound waste and reduce the need for virgin resources in goods production, fostering a sustainable and economically sound future.

The shift to sustainability in the hospitality industry, driven by its environmental concerns and long-term strategic thinking, is transforming the sector. As travellers increasingly prioritize environmental issues, hotels and resorts are leading the way in sustainability, benefiting both the planet and their bottom line. Looking ahead, we anticipate a future enriched with more ground-breaking solutions to reshape the tourism sector even further, setting a sustainable precedent for the future. This journey is imperative in addressing global environmental challenges and meeting travellers’ eco-friendly expectations, promising a brighter, sustainable future for hospitality.

With gratitude to Anan Zeitoun, Director of Real Estate Advisory, and Haya Serhan, Consultant in Real Estate Advisory for their contributions.

Rani Majzoub Head of Real Estate Advisory at KPMG Saudi, Head of Advisory at KPMG Lebanon.

New perspectives for tourism education

By Christine Böckelmann

On a global scale, tourism has a high economic significance: it accounts for 10% of all jobs and for many people’s income. At the same time, the tourism sector faces a major challenge: more and more people want to travel and explore foreign countries and cultures and they want to do so in a more sustainable way. Hand-in-hand with this, society is also demanding that the sector rethink its approach to sustainability. This is not only about the environment. It’s also about economic sustainability in the sense of the impact on local economic development, from which the tourism regions and countries benefit as a whole. It also relates to social sustainability in the sense of decent working conditions that provide employees in tourism businesses with a secure income.

For this holistic transformation, the tourism sector needs professionals with comprehensive skills not only in hospitality management, but also in economics, regional development, digitalisation and human resources development. It needs professionals who can keep an eye not just on one single company, but on an entire economic system, and who know how to use digitalisation for innovative business developments. This is especially challenging as the tourism sector is not a magnet for the top talent it so needs. On the one hand, a study from Poland has shown that more than half of those who have qualifications related to tourism (54.7%) are not currently working in jobs related to their studies. A large part of the investment in tourism education is therefore lost. On the other hand, due mainly to working conditions, many professionals stay in the sector only for a few years; when the opportunity arises, they migrate to other industries. This again turns skills development in the tourism sector into a challenge.

One effective way to attract and then retain top talent is to offer a high-level university degree with a top reputation. This requires a study programme that attracts young people thanks to its quality. It must also feature content that is relevant to Gen Z values, and offer a wide range of career options. Such a programme must provide comprehensive skills in sustainability (ecological, economic, social), high-level skills in digitalisation (tourism tech, digital dynamics and innovation), and high-level communication and social skills.

With the Bachelor of Science in International Sustainable Tourism , the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU) have jointly created such a study programme, the first of its kind. In addition to providing a holistic tourism education, the course also addresses current issues presented by companies, which students then work on together. This ensures that the programme is always aligned with the requirements of practice. Internships and opening doors to the UNWTO and HSLU networks enable students to gain closer ties to the sector. This lays the foundations for students to remain in tourism after graduation.

However, education alone cannot provide the required transformation. In addition to the new focus on holistic tourism development in education, it is also important that companies make an effort to offer young people jobs where a good work-life balance is possible, giving them “work tasks with purpose” as well as excellent career opportunities. Otherwise, despite all our best efforts, they will migrate again to other industries.

Christine Böckelmann

By Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO-Almosafer

In the dynamic realm of tourism, inclusion and diversity have emerged as the bedrock principles, shaping the sector’s present and future. This is clearly reflected in our work at Almosafer, as well as in the Saudi Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is more than just an ambitious plan; it’s a robust testament to the nation’s drive for progress. With the target of creating one million jobs in the tourism sector by 2030, the roadmap is clear and based on a firm belief in the boundless potential of our youth. By nurturing their dreams and aspirations, we’re not just planting seeds for opportunities; we’re creating the blueprint for an inclusive and diverse tomorrow.

Educating the Next Generation through Almosafer Academy

The Almosafer Academy has been designed to offer Saudi nationals a well-balanced mix of theoretical education and real-world experiences. Through various sessions, workshops, and immersive trips, we are crafting a future where our travel experts not only understand the industry’s mechanics but also appreciate its diverse nuances.

Our enduring partnership with Princess Nourah University further underlines our commitment. By offering a seamless blend of academic instruction with practical insights, we’re sculpting a generation of tourism students who are not just educated but also enlightened. They will have the skills and experience tourism employers need and the soft skills tourists look for when traveling.

Almosafer’s Collaboration with the Human Resource Development Fund

Our recent partnership with the Human Resource Development Fund is another step forward in our journey to support and cultivate Saudi talent. This synergy not only underscores our commitment to nurturing talent but also reiterates the importance of private and public sector partnerships in achieving national goals.

Empowering Female Leaders: Pioneering a Change in the Middle East

Beyond the world of academia, our partnership with the UNWTO Women in Tech Startup Competition is empowering women techpreneurs across the region, above all by fostering an environment where women can innovate, lead, and redefine the tech landscape. Alongside this, the Unlock Her Future Prize by the Bicester Collection, which Almosafer is supporting and celebrating women entrepreneurs who drive change and make a positive impact on their communities.

Tourism and Its Societal Impacts

By guaranteeing inclusion and diversity in our operations, we’re not just facilitating travel; we’re fostering connections, understanding, and global unity. Moreover, the role of technology in achieving this cannot be understated. As digital advancements reshape how we travel, it’s vital that these technological strides resonate with our core values of inclusion and diversity. Almosafer invests heavily in ensuring that our digital platforms are intuitive, user-friendly, and accessible to all, regardless of background or ability.

In conclusion, the essence of travel is to experience the unknown, to immerse oneself in diverse cultures, traditions, and histories. At Almosafer, our vision is to ensure that every traveler feels represented, valued, and understood. As we stand on the cusp of a new dawn in tourism, let us remember our shared responsibilities. The true essence of tourism lies in an ecosystem where each individual, regardless of their background, finds a voice, and every journey becomes a testament to Saudi Arabia’s grander vision for the future.

Muzzammil Ahussain

Chief Executive Officer – Almosafer

El Impacto del Turismo y la Importancia de su Talento Humano

Cuando los cambios tocan a nuestra puerta, no queda más que buscar herramientas o mecanismos para abordarlos con el fin de mejorar la manera en que hemos venido haciendo las cosas. Esta fue la invitación que tan abruptamente le hizo la pandemia al mundo entero.

En Chile, de acuerdo a datos del Instituto Nacional de Estadísticas (INE), la mayor pérdida de empleos en turismo se reflejó en el trimestre mayo-junio-julio de 2020, pasando de tener 651.797 puestos de trabajo en ese mismo trimestre de 2019 a 369.520.

Estos datos equivalen a una pérdida del 43,3% de los puestos de trabajo, lo que de manera inmediata, mostró los efectos de la pandemia en el país, pero que una vez terminadas las restricciones sanitarias comenzaron a revertirse. Según los últimos reportes del trimestre móvil abril-mayo-junio 2023 se han recuperado un 94,1% de los empleos, faltando sólo 37.690 para alcanzar las cifras prepandemia.

Lo interesante de este proceso de reactivación del empleo, es que ha venido de la mano de un cambio de visión y de una oportunidad para repensar el talento humano que conforma el turismo, la hotelería y la gastronomía. Es así como desde la Subsecretaría de Turismo de Chile hemos transitado hacia la perspectiva del “nuevo capital humano” (Brown), paradigma con el que esperamos ampliar dicho concepto, desde una visión únicamente económica que contempla un conjunto de conocimientos, habilidades y aprendizajes que cuentan los colaboradores de una organización (Adam Smith) hacia un concepto de talento humano que englobe el proceso de desarrollo personal como un proceso integral.

Y considerando que el turismo es un sector económico por naturaleza, con un fuerte enfoque en lo humano y cercano, es que ha emergido con mayor fuerza la necesidad de potenciar las llamadas “habilidades para la vida” o “habilidades socioemocionales”, en quienes dan vida al sector: sus trabajadoras y trabajadores. La proactividad, la comunicación efectiva, el trabajo en equipo son elementos, que no siendo conocimientos técnicos, permiten un desarrollo efectivo de las funciones asociadas a la entrega de servicios turísticos y con ello, otorgan garantía de calidad a las experiencias vividas por los visitantes. Por lo tanto, su incorporación en el quehacer de cada una de las personas que forman parte de la cadena de valor del sector es uno de los principales desafíos.

Las oportunidades y desafíos son múltiples, el impacto del desarrollo turístico en el mundo depende de muchos factores, pero el factor humano jamás dejará de ser su eje central. Si lo humano no es abordado de manera eficiente y eficaz, el aporte social, cultural y económico que trae consigo el desarrollo de esta industria no verá la luz y, es precisamente en esta línea, que Chile ha trabajado en la definición de un Plan Estratégico de Capital Humano de Turismo 2023-2026 para abordar las diversas dimensiones que tiene una temática tan relevante como esta.

De este modo el Plan Estratégico de Capital Humano de Turismo 2023-2026 busca recoger todos aquellos aprendizajes y desafíos post pandemia para poner el foco en tres principales elementos a abordar durante los próximos cuatro años: Empleo, Estándares para el Ecosistema Turístico y Formación y Desarrollo de talento.

Cada uno de los ejes estratégicos definidos, dan cuenta de elementos fundamentales para avanzar hacia la profesionalización del sector, así el eje EMPLEO buscará fomentar mejores condiciones laborales y políticas de contratación. El eje ESTÁNDARES PARA LA INDUSTRIA TURÍSTICA impulsará la asociatividad con foco en la competitividad del sector, para ofrecer una mejor calidad en la entrega de servicios turísticos. Y el eje FORMACIÓN Y DESARROLLO DE TALENTO trabajara para fortalecer las cualificaciones y habilidades a nivel técnico, de idiomas y socioemocionales de quienes forman parte de la industria.

Sin duda este instrumento encarna, como se menciona al comienzo de este artículo, una herramienta para abordar las necesidades y cambios de capital humano en el sector turismo y si bien, el contenido del documento resulta fundamental para la implementación de la política pública, lo es mucho más el modelo de trabajo publico privado a partir del cual fue construido: la gobernanza que representa la Mesa Nacional de Capital Humano de Turismo . Es esta gobernanza la que impulsará cada una de las iniciativas identificadas como necesarias para mejorar las brechas de capital humano del sector y no solo por estar contenidas en un documento público, sino más bien por el sentido de pertenencia que le otorga haber sido parte fundamental de la construcción del instrumento.

Muchos han sido los aprendizajes que hemos acuñado los últimos años, y las medidas que hemos implementado están surtiendo efectos positivos, así lo demuestran los datos de empleo, pero sin duda, el mayor de los aprendizajes es más bien, seguir trabajando sin perder el foco en lo importante, las personas.

Marcella Mansilla

Encargada de Capital Humano y Género

Ministerio de Economía, Fomento y Turismo Subsecretaría de Turismo, Gobierno de Chile

How global tourism can become more sustainable, inclusive and resilient

A sanitary mask lies on the ground at Frankfurt Airport Image:  Reuters/Ralph Orlowski

.chakra .wef-spn4bz{transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-fast);transition-timing-function:var(--chakra-transition-easing-ease-out);cursor:pointer;text-decoration:none;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;color:inherit;}.chakra .wef-spn4bz:hover,.chakra .wef-spn4bz[data-hover]{text-decoration:underline;}.chakra .wef-spn4bz:focus-visible,.chakra .wef-spn4bz[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);} Ahmed Al-Khateeb

• Tourism rose to the forefront of the global agenda in 2020, due to the devastating impact of COVID-19
• Recovery will be driven by technology and innovation – specifically seamless travel solutions, but it will be long, uneven and slow
• Success hinges on international coordination and collaboration across the public and private sectors

Tourism was one of the sectors hit hardest by the global pandemic. 2020 was the worst year on record for international travel due to the global pandemic, with countries taking decisive action to protect their citizens, closing borders and halting international travel.

The result was a 74% decline in international visitor arrivals, equivalent to over $1 trillion revenue losses , and an estimated 62 million fewer jobs . The impact on international air travel has been even more severe with a 90% drop on 2019 , resulting in a potential $1.8 trillion loss. And while the economic impact is dire in itself, nearly 2.9 million lives have been lost in the pandemic.

The path to recovery will be long and slow

Countries now face the challenge of reopening borders to resume travel and commerce, while protecting their populations’ health. At its peak, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) reported in April 2020 that every country on earth had implemented some travel restriction , signalling the magnitude of the operation to restart travel.

Have you read?

Tourism industry experts fear long road to recovery, how we can prioritize sustainability in rebuilding tourism, covid-19 could set the global tourism industry back 20 years.

Consequently, the path to recovery will be long and slow. The resurgence of cases following the discovery of new variants towards the end of last year delivered another disappointing blow to the travel industry. Any pickup over the summer months was quashed following a second wave of lockdowns and border closures . Coupled with mixed progress in the roll-out of vaccination programs, I predict that we will not see a significant rebound in international travel until the middle of this year at best.

Others echo my fears. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasts a 50.4% improvement on 2020 air travel demand, which would bring the industry to 50.6% of 2019 levels . However, a more pessimistic outlook based on the persistence of travel restrictions suggests that demand may only pick up by 13% this year, leaving the industry at 38% of 2019 levels. McKinsey & Company similarly predict that tourism expenditure may not return to pre-COVID-19 levels until 2024 .

How to enhance sustainability, inclusivity and resilience

Given its economic might – employing 330 million people, contributing 10% to global GDP before the pandemic, and predicted to create 100 million new jobs – restoring the travel and tourism sector to a position of strength is the utmost priority.

The Great Reset provides an opportunity to rethink how tourism is delivered and to enhance sustainability, inclusivity and resilience. We must also address the challenges – from climate change and “ overtourism ” to capacity constraints – that we faced before the pandemic, while embracing traveller preferences, as we rebuild.

A 2018 study found that global tourism accounted for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions from 2009 to 2013 ; four times higher than previous estimates. Even more worryingly, this puts progress towards the Paris Agreement at risk – recovery efforts must centre around environmental sustainability.

Furthermore, according to a study on managing overcrowding, the top 20 most popular global destinations were predicted to add more international arrivals than the rest of the world combined by 2020 . While COVID-19 will have disrupted this trend, it is well known that consumers want to travel again, and we must address the issues associated with overcrowding, especially in nascent destinations, like Saudi Arabia.

The Great Reset is a chance to make sure that as we rebuild, we do it better.

Seamless solutions lie at the heart of travel recovery

Tourism has the potential to be an engine of economic recovery provided we work collaboratively to adopt a common approach to a safe and secure reopening process – and conversations on this are already underway.

Through the G20, which Saudi Arabia hosted in 2020, our discussions focused on how to leverage technology and innovation in response to the crisis, as well as how to restore traveller confidence and improve the passenger experience in the future .

At the global level, across the public and private sectors, the World Economic Forum is working with the Commons Project on the CommonPass framework , which will allow individuals to access lab results and vaccination records, and consent to having that information used to validate their COVID status. IATA is trialling the Travel Pass with airlines and governments , which seeks to be a global and standardized solution to validate and authenticate all country regulations regarding COVID-19 travel requirements.

The provision of solutions that minimize person-to-person contact responds to consumer wants, with IATA finding that 85% of travellers would feel safer with touchless processing . Furthermore, 44% said they would share personal data to enable this, up from 30% months prior , showing a growing trend for contactless travel processes.

Such solutions will be critical in coordinating the opening of international borders in a way that is safe, seamless and secure, while giving tourists the confidence to travel again.

Collaboration at the international level is critical

The availability of vaccines will make this easier, and we have commenced our vaccination programme in Saudi Arabia . But we need to ensure processes and protocols are aligned globally, and that we support countries with limited access to vaccinations to eliminate the threat of another resurgence. It is only when businesses and travellers have confidence in the systems that the sector will flourish again.

In an era of unprecedented data and ubiquitous intelligence, it is essential that organizations reimagine how they manage personal data and digital identities. By empowering individuals and offering them ways to control their own data, user-centric digital identities enable trusted physical and digital interactions – from government services or e-payments to health credentials, safe mobility or employment.

The World Economic Forum curates the Platform for Good Digital Identity to advance global digital identity activities that are collaborative and put the user interest at the center.

The Forum convenes public-private digital identity collaborations from travel, health, financial services in a global action and learning network – to understand common challenges and capture solutions useful to support current and future coalitions. Additionally, industry-specific models such as Known Traveller Digital Identity or decentralized identity models show that digital identity solutions respecting the individual are possible.

The approach taken by Saudi Arabia and its partners to establish consensus and build collaborative relationships internationally and between the public and private sectors, should serve as a model to be replicated so that we can maximize the tourism sector’s contribution to the global economic recovery, while ensuring that it becomes a driver of prosperity and social progress again.

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Sustainable tourism: what is it and why is it important

Understand what is sustainable tourism, why it is important to create sustainable practices in tourism and meet sustainable destinations around the world..

We love to travel, to visit new places, to meet different people … but have you ever stopped to think about all of the negative impacts that our travels can cause? In this article, we will explain in a simple way the meanings of sustainability and sustainable tourism , the importance of having sustainable practices in our trips, and we will also be mentioning destinations with good sustainable tourism practices around the world .

Table of contents

The 3 pillars of sustainability, what is sustainable tourism, why is sustainable tourism important, examples of sustainable tourism around the world, sustainable travel in brazil, how sustainable tourism came into my life, what is sustainability.

To better understand what sustainable tourism means , let’s first understand what is sustainability .

In 1987, the United Nations Brundtland Commission defined sustainability as:

“meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”

Currently, when we talk about sustainability, we associate the topic with issues such as deforestation, consumerism, trash in the oceans, endangered animals, etc, and it makes sense since all of them can really compromise the well-being and even the survival of the future generations.

Sustainability has 3 pillars that must be balanced, which are economic , social and environmental .

These pillars were identified during a United Nations (UN) event that took place in 2005.

The balance between these three pillars must be emphasized, as we often forget about it. An example:

Brazil wants to grow the exportation of meat, which is good for the country’s economy. But the consequence of this growth is the increase of negative impacts to the environment and to the communities.

Examples of the negative impacts:

• Increase of greenhouse gases
• Higher consumption of natural resources such as water (did you know that it takes more than 15,000 liters of water to produce 1 kilo of beef?)
• Deforestation and ecosystems compromise
• Higher risk of zoonoses for both people and animals
• Misappropriation of indigenous territories
• and others…

The definition of sustainable tourism according to the World Tourism Organization (WTO) is as follows:

“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”

Note how the concept of sustainable tourism ends up being a junction of what is sustainability and its 3 pillars, but adapted for the tourism industry.

According to a 2019 report by the World Travel & Tourism Council , tourism represents more than 10% of the global GDP , so it is an extremely important sector in our economy, which is very good!

However, what will tourism be like in the future if it is done in an unbridled way?

What will happen to local communities if large hotels hire only foreigners? Or if foreign investors exploit the locals with unfair deals and wages?

And as travelers … do we need to put wild animals at risk just because we want a selfie with them? Are we handing our hard-earned money to responsible companies ? Or are our trips funding environmental and social crimes?

Do we want wonderful destinations like Maya Bay in Thailand to be closed due to the damage caused by the lack of planning and the lack of awareness of travelers? Would we like to find trash on paradise islands during our dreamed vacation?

Creating sustainable practices in our travels is as important as creating sustainable habits in our day-to-day lives, at home, at work, or anywhere else.

After all, when we talk about sustainability, we involve all living beings on the planet into the discussion.

Some countries around the world have been putting a lot of effort to become a more sustainable destination.

In my opinion Bhutan , is the best example. Did you know that Bhutan is the only country in the world considered carbon negative ? This means that the purity of its forests produces more oxygen than the country emits gases =)

Tourism in Bhutan is well controlled, in addition to requiring a visa, a daily fee of USD 200 to USD 250 is charged, which already includes a minimum of a 3-star hotel, tour, and meals. Much of this fee goes to environment preservation and social development projects.

Other examples of sustainable destinations in the world are:

• Costa Rica : Costa Rica has 25% of its territory protected and is one of the leaders in sustainable tourism practices in the world. There they have a program called Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) that certifies hotels and tour operators that follow their recommendations.
• Monaco : With 100% green energy, shared electric vehicles and bicycles, Monaco has been running a campaign called “Green is the new glam”.
• Jordan : The tourism is Jordan’s main source of income, and to help to grow the local economy, the accommodations prefer to use local products such as bed sheets and towels.

A more complete list would include more countries such as New Zealand , Norway , Seychelles and others.

Brazil also has destinations with excellent sustainable initiatives. Among them are:

Bonito (MS) : Bonito strictly controls the number of tourists who participate in each tour.

Socorro (SP) : Accessibility is also taken into consideration when we talk about sustainable tourism, and Socorro has attractions and accommodations that bring inclusion in tourism to people with disabilities or special needs.

Find out the importance of Accessible Travel !

Fernando de Noronha (PE) : Noronha strictly controls the number of visitors it receives and has programs to end the use of plastic on the island and reduce carbon emissions to zero by 2030.

Morretes (PR) : Ekôa Park in Morretes is an example of attraction with great sustainability practices. The park, located in the Atlantic Forest, offers activities and adventures for all ages, which come with a lot of environmental awareness.

I was not always a responsible traveler , the awareness of the impacts that my travels can have on the environment and society hit my life only in 2018, during a 5-month trip that I took.

Experiences like noticing Bhutan’s respect for nature and its population, witnessing people working in extremely precarious conditions in the largest slum of India, seeing people wearing masks in Kathmandu (Nepal) to protect themselves from pollution, made me rethink my habits and attitudes.

But the key experience that made me decide to learn more about sustainable tourism was when I saw a lot of trash on paradisiacal beaches in the Maldives and I found out that tourism is one of the main responsible for this.

After returning to Brazil, I started to research about the topic and I also started to share what I was learning on my social media.

Today, fighting for this cause is part of my life’s purpose.

How about you? How sustainable tourism came into your life? And what are your questions about it?

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The importance of sustainability in tourism.

• March 25, 2020

Creating a futureproof tourism industry

Tour operators have the possibility and responsibility to contribute to creating a futureproof tourism industry. It’s safe to say the tourism industry has great impact on economies and that it leaves a large footprint on the environment. Tourism also has the potential of benefiting the local economy , protecting the environment and protecting the future of tourism, if done sustainably.

Negative effects of tourism

Tourism can cause negative effects to its destinations. Due to the size of the tourism industry, the caused damage is enormous. A few examples of negative effects are:

• Overtourism
• Loss of cultural identity of destinations
• Increased (plastic) pollution
• Exploitation of wild animals for tourist entertainment
• Destruction of monuments
• Dependency on tourism

Luckily, the tourism industry can take responsibility and move towards a more sustainable tourism industry. It all comes down to tourism management and the choices tour operators make in their business. For example, their choices can support preservation of wildlife and nature , but on the other hand, it can put the animals into suffering.

The triple bottom line

Sustainable tourism is the best chance for tour operators to limit the negative effects of tourism and focus on maximising the positive effects instead. One of the most used models in sustainability is the triple bottom line. This framework focuses on balancing between people, planet and profit. It evaluates business performance and puts it in a broader perspective. All in order to create greater business value .

Sustainability in tourism is not a trick or marketing tool. It’s simply a way to ensure we can still travel in the future. It focuses on preserving the planet, taking care of each other and ourselves, and leaving a positive footprint. By basing our tourism practices upon People, Planet and Profit, we can ensure a futureproof tourism industry.

The aspect of planet is all about protecting natural areas and wildlife and supporting a viable natural environment. Focusing on the planet bottom line for a tour operator means contributing to conservation of natural areas, safeguarding wildlife and following animal welfare guidelines, using renewable energy resources, saving water and energy, reducing and recycling waste, and to reduce and compensate CO2 emissions .

The aspect of people focuses to take care of local communities and employees . To ensure equal opportunities, human rights and personal development for everyone. As tour operator, you can ensure a fair society by being collaborative and respectful towards local communities. Involve them in the benefits of tourism. Thereby, also be fair and transparent towards your employees and offer them development and growth opportunities.

The aspect of profit concentrates on a sufficient economy and profitable business growth. Within the tourism industry, we need funds to create positive impact worldwide and to make changes in our industry. As tour operator, contribute to this by making sure you run an ethical business. Prevent leakage by buying local products and services and invest in responsible projects and use your profitable growth to do good for the world and yourself.

Common grounds

By combining the different elements you can increase your impact:

• The overlap between planet and people focuses on health & safety, legislation and public awareness about protecting the environment and benefitting local people
• The overlap of planet and profit focuses on resource efficiency, global climate and energy issues
• The overlap of planet and people focus on local economies, employment, and training and development

As tour operator, it’s important to determine how sustainability fits into your business. It will work differently for you than for your competitor. And that’s a good thing! At the Good Tourism Institute, we believe that sustainable tourism and making profits can go hand in hand. You can run a successful business, and care for the environment, local communities and animal welfare at the same time.

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I like your idea so munch Anne & Rik. It would be very nice if you could especially help the small ones in business with concrete tools

Happy to hear you like the Good Tourism Institute! The upcoming time we will be regularly posting new additions to our library. What subjects would interest you most?

Kind regards, Rik

Thank you so much for these insights .Hopefully by end of this course ,we should be implementing concrete sustainability actions as we do business

You’re welcome @ojambo and yes that’s the goal! Good luck with the next steps of the course.

Its a good one and way to go for the longterm survival of the earth plus its Fauna and Flora

Anne de Jong

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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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The global sustainability standards in travel and tourism, gstc2024 singapore global conference, sentosa, singapore | 13-16 november, what is sustainable tourism.

There are many terms that float around that may sound similar but actually refer to something distinct.

Definition of Sustainable Tourism

Negative impacts to a destination include economic leakage, damage to the natural environment and overcrowding to name a few.

Positive impacts to a destination include job creation, cultural heritage preservation and interpretation, wildlife preservation landscape restoration, and more.

Sustainable tourism is defined by the UN Environment Program and UN World Tourism Organization 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.”

Additionally, they say that sustainable tourism “refers to the environmental, economic, and socio-cultural aspects of tourism development, and a suitable balance must be established between these three dimensions to guarantee its long-term sustainability” ( UNEP & UNWTO , 2005: 11-12. Making Tourism More Sustainable – A Guide for Policy Makers ).

Learn about the difference between Regenerative Tourism and Sustainable Tourism here .

Definition of Ecotourism

Fennell described it as such: “Ecotourism is a sustainable form of natural resource-based tourism that focuses primarily on experiencing and learning about nature, and which is ethically managed to be low-impact, non-consumptive, and locally-oriented. It typically occurs in natural areas, and should contribute to the conservation or preservation of such areas” (Fennell, 1999: 43. Ecotourism: An Introduction ).

The  Mohonk Agreement (2000) , a proposal for international certification of Sustainable Tourism and Ecotourism, saw ecotourism as “sustainable tourism with a natural area focus, which benefits the environment and communities visited, and fosters environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation, and awareness.”

The ecotourism definition by the  Global Ecotourism Network (GEN) : “Ecotourism is responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and creates knowledge and understanding through interpretation and education of all involved (visitors, staff and the visited).”

Definitions of Responsible Travel

Responsible Travel refers to the behavior of individual travelers aspiring to make choices according to sustainable tourism practices. The behaviors usually align with minimizing the negative impacts and maximizing positive ones when one visits a tourism destination.

Travelers that want to learn more about how to be a responsible traveler can visit the section on the GSTC website For Travelers .

Summary of the difference between Sustainable Tourism, Ecotourism, and Responsible Travel

Ecotourism is a niche segment of tourism in natural areas.

Sustainable Tourism does not refer to a specific type of tourism, rather it is an aspiration for the impacts of all forms of tourism to be sustainable for generations to come.

Responsible Travel is a term referring to the behavior and style of individual travelers. The behaviors align with making a positive impact to the destination rather than negative ones.

Sustainable Tourism and the GSTC Criteria

They are the result of a worldwide effort to develop a common language about sustainability in tourism. They are categorized in four pillars: (A) Sustainable management; (B) Socioeconomic impacts; (C) Cultural impacts; (D) Environmental impacts.

These standards were built on decades of prior work from industry experts around the globe. During the process of development, they were widely consulted in both developed and developing countries. They reflect our goal in attaining a global consensus on sustainable tourism.

The process of developing the Criteria was designed to adhere to the standards-setting code of the ISEAL Alliance. The ISEAL Alliance is the international body providing guidance for the management of sustainability standards in all sectors. That code is informed by relevant ISO standards .

Finally, the GSTC Criteria are the starting goals that businesses, governments, and destinations should achieve. Tourism destinations each have their own culture, environment, customs, and laws. Therefore, the Criteria are designed to be adapted to local conditions and supplemented by additional criteria for the specific location and activity.

There are three sets of Criteria

• GSTC Industry Criteria = relates to the sustainable management of private sector travel industry, focusing currently on Hotels and Tour Operators.
• GSTC Destination Criteria = relates to sustainable management of Tourism Destinations.
• GSTC MICE Criteria = relates to sustainable management of Venues, Event Organizers and Events & Exhibitions.

Learn more about Sustainable Tourism

Reading one article is not enough. The GSTC website offers those interested in learning more about sustainable tourism the needed resources. Make sure you visit the relevant pages for you:

• For Hotels & Accommodations
• For Tour Operators
• For Governments & Destinations
• For Corporate and Business Travel

You can also join one of the regular GSTC courses:

• Want to gain in-depth knowledge of the GSTC Criteria and understand sustainable tourism? The GSTC Sustainable Tourism course is for you.
• Are you a hotelier or work in the hospitality sector? GSTC Sustainable Hotel course

GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Schedule

✓ Gain in-depth knowledge of the GSTC Criteria, the global standard for sustainability in travel and tourism. ✓ Make informed decisions on how to implement sustainability practices for your company or destination. ✓ Get ready for developing viable and actionable sustainable tourism policies and practices for your organization

I’ve participated in the course to get a comprehensive overview of destination sustainability criteria. Much more than this, the course gave me the up-to-date analysis of current trends, and a huge number of relevant cases from the destinations, the industry networks and the service providers. I strongly recommend to attend the course.

My course facilitator and teacher (Ayako and Antje) went above and beyond to answer our questions and provide us with additional resources. The course content (the GSTC Criteria) was delivered in an understandable and organized way. Learning the GSTC Criteria and how it applies to our own projects, businesses, and destinations is integral to anyone wanting to do any kind of work in the future centered around travel. I appreciated that the course was delivered in an interactive way over Zoom, and not just something we watched on YouTube. For me, being able to interact with fellow students from around the world, was a big plus. Was well worth it, and I highly recommend the course!

This course has been very relevant and provides in-depth knowledge of GSTC criteria for sustainable practices for destinations as well as the travel industry [with] plenty of real life examples and share links to plenty of reading material throughout the course. … As we move forward during these difficult COVID times, learning our lessons on the damage to nature, it becomes all the more important for industry professionals to get trained and step up efforts to embrace sustainability in all aspects of tourism. Hence, I recommend this course to all industry professionals.

This course enables participants to connect with the GSTC team directly, over an easy to use platform and network around the world. Using real life examples and detail in each of the 4 sections of the GSTC.

The GSTC training was a great way to connect, network, and engage in mind-broadening and eye-opening discussions with others in the diverse field of sustainable tourism. I would highly recommend this as a starting point for anyone interested in the journey of regenerative and sustainable tourism.

The course was great and the on- the-go discussions added great value to keep abreast of trends from across the globe. Participants from various parts of the world brought in their experiences and made the course very interesting.

Hearing about actual destinations applying Sustainable Tourism initiatives and learning from real situations practicing Sustainable Tourism, as well as the related successes and challenges, was very informative and valuable. My favorite part was the unexpected camaraderie from and connections with the other participants. I genuinely enjoyed the online discussion, sharing of ideas, and breakout groups and, overall, meeting so many others who she a passion for Sustainable Tourism. Thank you, GSTC, for a great course!

A complete holistic approach to sustainable tourism. The comprehensive lessons given each week break down the GSTC Criteria and are paired with practical examples, international experts and ‘hands on’ online workshops. The opportunity to discuss and share insights from all the participants around the world not only contributes to my own knowledge but to also my professional network. I highly recommend this course for anyone discovering sustainable tourism.

The course is quick and handy way to immerse in the issues of Sustainability in Tourism and a great kick start in starting your own business or destination program. I could have had the course even longer and especially the live sessions were great to get to know some of the other participants and share their knowledge and experiences – best practices are the best way to get started and to get valuable information. Highly recommended!

The course was so informative and presented in an engaging & interesting way. The examples & speakers gave us a lot to think about and many tangible ways that we can make a difference in our travel business. Thank you!

This course has given me an approach to the GSTC Criteria, where the basic and complete structure to move forward on sustainable paths is visualized. The reflections generated through real examples, discussions and available material are key to better internalize what sustainability means. Ideas applicable to our business and our work area appear during the course that contribute positively to one’s reality. I will recommend this course, for its contribution to the objective, honest and constructive understanding of what sustainability is.

I can only highly recommend the course for every travel and tourism professional- it is a great motivational boost to get into action and helps me support destinations in bringing the idea of destination stewardship – an inclusive and holistic approach – alive. We do not need more and more tourists, we need sustainable tourism.

Taking the GSTC training at this point in time was extremely valuable. It gave me a sustainable tourism framework to help assess what I’ve been able to accomplish and also consider the role that sustainable experiential travel may mean as we begin to inch our way out of the world of zero tourism towards something likely new and different. One other great benefit of the training was starting to get acquainted and sharing with other participants and instructors from around the globe. These connections will be valuable for a very long time to come.

I found this online course well structured and enjoyable. The trainers are really inspiring, extremely knowledgeable about the field and very supportive. The live online sessions give a great introduction to key topics, and there are online lessons, discussion forums and reference material to deepen knowledge. I feel like I have access to so much wisdom, and it is great to be part of a global community of sustainable tourism practitioners.

Thank you GSTC for such a great course. The content was relevant, the case studies were inspiring and the course structure was spot on! I can’t wait to take my learnings and inspiration and activate it across regional destinations in Australia. Keep up the great work.

What I liked the most about this course is the well-defined structure, the opinion sharing with online classmates, and the up-to-date topics. It makes the experience much more effective and enjoyable.

Excellent course that sets the foundations for sustainable tourism practice.I was very new with sustainable tourism and now after the course I have very solid understanding and skills to apply to my job. In addition, the amazing network of professionals sharing ideas is another great tool!

This course provided me with a thorough understanding of how to implement sustainable travel practices. I will definitely integrate information from this training into my work with travel organizations and destinations to help them achieve short-term progress through a long-term strategy.

The GSTC training provides a comprehensive overview of key indicators for a holistic view of sustainable tourism. The training provided an excellent opportunity to network with other tourism professionals, and to share ideas, develop plans, and comment on sustainable tourism initiatives that are being implemented in a diverse array of locations globally. I’m grateful for the connections that I made and for the helpful feedback on ideas for improving sustainability in several operations.

Useful and inspiring! The way the course is organised with lots of practical experience from colleagues in the tourism sector is indeed the most useful and interesting part of the course, [making it easier] to approach the GSTC criteria.

The GSTC course was really great to me because it gave me an in-depth knowledge about sustainable tourism. The combination of the criteria explanation and the presentation from other experts was really great, as it gave us the know-how, lots of samples and case studies. Before joining this course, I had heard about the term sustainable tourism many times, but [was not sure] what it is all about and how we can achieve it. I am glad to have gained the bigger picture of sustainable tourism. I’m developing my village to be a community based tourism destination, and now I can adopt and apply the standard locally.

A great training program that gives the participants a thorough understanding on the sustainable management of both destinations and individual businesses. Anyone from the industry – from the business or the government side – should understand the bigger picture of the destination level management as well as the industrial level so that both public and private sectors can work together for a more sustainable tourism industry.

The GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program provided an up-to-date perspective and holistic approach on the topic. I really enjoyed taking part in the group discussions and hearing about the realities of other destinations and their challenges.

I think the training was very useful and gave me many insights that I will use in my daily work to develop more sustainable tourism. The training class was also a good group for networking.

The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) is the most widely recognized institution for offering sustainability courses for tourism professionals.

This is a one-of-a-kind course that provides the tools in getting you started. Not to mention, you’re also collaborating with people and organizations across the globe facing similar challenges. The feedback from fellow students was invaluable and honestly, what better way to tackle some big challenges related to the environment than with people from different countries and backgrounds. I’d take this course again just for those connections!

The [GSTC course] has been a remarkable learning experience and a great introduction to sustainable tourism. The combination of online resources, discussion forums, weekly live events with guest presenters provides a deeper understanding and useful tools in sustainable tourism. The trainers have incredible expertise in both tourism and sustainability and share their knowledge and passion about current sustainability practices. I would highly recommend this course to everyone involved in the tourism industry or have a interest in sustainable tourism.

An excellent programme run by well qualified professional staff and trainers. The guest speakers were world class and materials industry leading. A definite must for any tourism professional who is serious about making sustainable impacts for the betterment of our industry.

Amazing learning experience. Exceeded my expectations by far. Excellently organized and facilitated. Great dynamics in discussions with course participants – so much to learn from. Highly valuable best practices and interactive modules really made the best learning experience I had until now! It really motivated and inspired me to continue on the road of global sustainable tourism.

The GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training gave me the tools and network to be able to work for a more sustainable tourism sector in the area where I’m based (South Sweden). The structure with the four principles makes it easy to follow and to discuss also outside the GSTC world. The examples from the other participants were great, and we will continue sharing good and bad examples from destinations all over the world.

To work on sustainability is a never-ending story and can be overwhelming at times. The GSTC training supports a structured approach toward continuous improvement. It provides applicable tools to evaluate our sustainability performance and guidance for setting long-term strategies. It allows you to break down this massive task into achievable working packages.

The GSTC training was a great first touch point for me into the world of sustainable tourism and destination management. I loved hearing case studies from around the world and real life examples on how the GSTC criteria can make a difference. The course has enabled me to start building on these criteria within my job.

The training has enable me to go through all the GSTC Criteria thoroughly with better knowledge of sustainable tourism standard and practices. It will be useful as basic guidelines for the Foundation to use these Criteria, as the destination wants to embark in becoming a sustainable tourism destination, aiming to become GSTC-Certified.

I would definitely recommend GSTC training to absolutely everyone in the tourism industry. The entire [GSTC] framework is extremely useful and important – a framework of values and ideas that is evolving, and that is meant for us a roadmap to make things better for people and companies that may be starting from different points in the journey towards sustainability.

The quality of this training was really first class; materials, presentations, trainer support, resources and discussions. The forum helped keep everything relevant and up to date, and I also liked the format of the live events. All guest presenters were excellent; I liked that they were sharing real life experiences and not just theoretical examples. From each and every live presentation I gained ideas, reinforcements to my own experiences and enthusiasm for what I and my colleagues are doing in our own part of the world.

The STTP programme has been a good introduction to the principles of sustainable tourism. It was a good mix of presentations and cases of sustainable tourism in real-life, insights from experts from various countries and across tourism sectors and explanation of key GSTC criteria. Participants were encouraged to share their experiences and observations through discussion forums and presentations, which made the sessions more lively. The final exam is recommended for those who wish to test their ability to put these principles to practice. I highly recommend this course to tourism industry professionals wishing to incorporate sustainable tourism management at work.

The GSTC training provided me with a deep understanding of the criteria. My fellow classmates were industry experts in various sectors from around the world, bringing the criteria to life with valuable examples/discussions of how they have implemented the very practices we were learning.

My first impression was the organization, it was perfect regarding the admin efforts and the learning tools. The course materials were really useful, as well as the live sessions from which I gained a deep understanding and experience from the other participants. I really want to have the chance to thank all the team who was involved, and of course I would recommend people working in the tourism industry to join this course

The training gave me a clear understanding of the challenges we face and the actions to take to make sustainability effective, [covering] each of the main areas in a systematic way with enough technical detail for those who needed it, without losing the less technical trainees (like myself) who needed to understand the broad overview of sustainable tourism practices

The overview of standards, coupled with best practice and real world examples has been very beneficial for my work in destination management and responsible tourism development. The ability to meet likeminded industry colleagues, who are working in this arena was also highly valuable.

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Approaches to Active Tourism in the Urals and in Perm Krai

2016, Turyzm

Located in the south of Ural, Perm Krai, apart from mineral resources and well-developed industry, can boast vast areas that lend themselves to active and qualified tourism, with the quality of an amateur sport. The development of these forms of tourism often requires large expenditure needed for adjusting the space to various types of activity. It also requires a correlation between a given character of the space and the preferred form of tourism, which often leads to environmental conflicts between the development of tourism and nature protection. The article presents the most important elements of the tourism potential in Perm Krai, as well as the sports tourism development perspectives in the context of real and potential environmental conflicts.

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The author discusses the tourism geography research which has been undertaken at Lomonosov State University in Moscow over many years. This academic institution is one of the most famous research centres dealing with spatial recreation systems. At first (from the 1960’s), research was mainly on geographical and technical issues, but the research area was gradually enlarged for example to include social and humanistic elements. The best known research has been done on ‘spatial recreation systems’, ‘polarized landscapes’, the ‘recreational economy spatial complex’, and the ‘environmental model of a spatial system’.

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This article discusses the prospects for the development of sustainable tourism as an element of the network system in Okinsky District, Republic of Buryatia, RF. Before COVID-19-related restrictions, the number of tourists in this area increased annually, which was associated with the attractiveness of this terrain for visitors. The potential of the tourism sector of Okinsky District comes from the combination of a large number of natural resources. The area has rich water resources, including rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and mineral springs, with well-preserved mountainous landscapes accompanied by a centuries-old cultural and ethnic heritage. Due to Okinsky District’s specific border location and remoteness, the area has a very large number of places for recreation. The objective of our work is to clarify key factors hindering the development of tourism in the district. The study is aimed at examining the state of natural objects and determining their importance for locals, vacatio...

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J&K CM Abdullah calls for sustainable, high value tourism policy in state

He highlighted the importance of shifting tourism efforts from high volume to high value, emphasising quality over quantity.

The chief minister proposed sustainable development measures for Gulmarg. | File Photo: PTI

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Recognising the role of tourism as the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir's economy, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday called for a more sustainable and visitor-focused approach in the UTs tourism sector.

He highlighted the importance of shifting tourism efforts from high volume to high value, emphasising quality over quantity.

Abdullah was speaking at a high-level meeting which was convened to review the functioning of the Tourism Department at civil secretariat here, an official spokesperson said.

Asking the department to chart the way forward for a more sustainable and visitor-focused approach, the chief minister highlighted the potential of tourism to create substantial employment opportunities for youth.

There is a need to treat tourism as a structured, long-term endeavour, rather than an ad-hoc activity, by adopting a tourist-centric perspective. We need to enhance the tourist experience, so visitors are more likely to revisit and recommend J&K as a destination, he said.

The meeting discussed additional plans for promoting adventure activities like skiing and river rafting besides reviewing the progress on central government schemes such as Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) and Swadesh Darshan'.

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Abdullah expressed dissatisfaction over the poor condition of the waste dumping site at Gulmarg and exhorted the concerned officials to improve the waste management facilities in the famous ski resort on priority.

The chief minister proposed sustainable development measures for Gulmarg and called for revitalizing the cable car known as Gondola' service.

He took a serious view of mismanagement in Gondola service ticketing which has irked the tourists and has led to black marketing of tickets.

He directed JK Cable Car Corporation to streamline the ticketing process with efficiency, leveraging the technology and making tickets easily available to visitors.

For skiing development, he recommended hiring reputed consultants and experts for proper alignment of skiing drag lifts and emphasized that all plans should consider the impacts of climate change.

Sonamarg has the potential to emerge as a Skiing destination given the abundance of snow there and it needs our attention, he said, also underlining the need for taking up green field tourism development projects.

The chief minister called for focused efforts in garbage disposal and waste management through sustained campaigns and stakeholder awareness.

He also noted the urgent need for additional wayside amenities and certified clean toilet facilities along major tourist routes and at key destinations to elevate visitor satisfaction.

We must build environmentally conscious infrastructure that respects J&K's unique heritage and architecture, he added.

He also urged regulated infrastructure growth in newly proposed destinations and developing tourist spots to ensure sustainable development.

The chief minister stressed the need for synergized efforts with the local community, advocating for all tourism projects to consider heritage preservation and environmental sustainability.

To further improve the tourist experience, the Chief Minister favoured creation of a feedback portal directly linked to his office, enabling tourists to share their experiences and suggestions.

He emphasised routine inspections of homestay facilities to maintain cleanliness and essential infrastructure standards, ensuring a welcoming environment for all visitors.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

Omar Abdullah says situation in J-K cannot be normalised in a vacuum

L-G Sinha, CM condemn killings of 2 VDGs by terrorists in J&K's Kishtwar

BJP slams Cong on J&K Assembly resolution for restoration of special status

BJP holds protest against special status resolution passed by J&K Assembly

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First Published: Nov 11 2024 | 9:51 PM IST

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Traveloka Highlights the Importance of Collaboration for Sustainable Tourism at the 50th ASEAN-Japan Business Meeting

BANGKOK , Nov. 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Traveloka, Southeast Asia's leading travel platform, proudly participated as the sole online travel agency (OTA) invited to the tourism panel discussion at the landmark 50th ASEAN-Japan Business Meeting (AJBM). Organized by the Japan Association of Corporate Executives (Keizai Doyukai), the AJBM has been a key forum since 1974 to foster economic collaboration and strengthen ties between Japan and the ASEAN region.

Speaking on a panel at this year's AJBM, Joydeep Chakraborty , Chief Strategy and Investment Officer at Traveloka, emphasized the importance of collaboration in driving sustainable tourism. He stated, "At Traveloka, we believe collaboration is essential to building a future where tourism benefits all—supporting local communities, protecting cultural heritage, and respecting the environment. Through partnerships with communities, governments, and industry leaders, we're committed to creating sustainable travel experiences that celebrate diverse cultures while protecting the environment."

About Traveloka

Traveloka is Southeast Asia's leading travel platform, empowering consumers to explore, book, and enjoy a wide range of travel products. The platform offers extensive transportation options, including flights, buses, trains, car rentals, and airport transfers. Traveloka's accommodation offerings are equally broad, encompassing hotels, apartments, guest houses, homestays, resorts, and villas. Additionally, the platform enhances the travel experience by offering cruise packages and access to various local attractions, such as theme parks, museums, day tours, and more.

Founded in Indonesia in 2012, Traveloka has expanded its operations to Thailand , Vietnam , Singapore , Malaysia , Australia , and the Philippines . The company is committed to providing exceptional customer service with 24/7 support available in local languages and acceptance of over 40 payment methods. With nearly 140 million app downloads and nearly 50 million monthly active users, Traveloka stands as one of the most popular travel apps in the region.

For more information, please visit Traveloka .

View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/traveloka-highlights-the-importance-of-collaboration-for-sustainable-tourism-at-the-50th-asean-japan-business-meeting-302300967.html

SOURCE Traveloka

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The Key Success Factor for Sustainable Rural Tourism Development in Madura Using Integration of the IPA-Kano Model

• Fitri Agustina Universitas Trunojoyo Madura https://orcid.org/0009-0000-7770-4813
• Bain Khusnul Khotimah Universitas Trunojoyo Madura https://orcid.org/0009-0006-7254-0999
• Dhony Susilowanto Universitas Trunojoyo Madura
• Putri Rahma Maulida Universitas Trunojoyo Madura

The momentum for the rise of global tourism after the COVID-19 pandemic has become an opportunity for developing local tourism and Indonesia's creative economy. One of the promising tourism regions in Indonesia is Madura. The tourism potentials on the island of Madura are historical, religious, natural, and cultural. Unfortunately, Madura's tourism potential has not been fully utilized, and as a result, the benefits have not emerged to strengthen the Madurese community's economy. In addition, tourism development directions are also partial without looking at environmental sustainability, community welfare, and other social aspects. Therefore, this research was conducted to determine the key success factors of sustainable tourism by integrating the Important-Performance Analysis method with the Kano model. This study was conducted in Sampang, Madura, specifically in a tourist village called Bira Tengah. The result of the study is that the tourist village should adopt key success factors such as leading to maintaining the destination environment, improving the contribution of tourists and local communities in area conservation, increasing the competitiveness of tourist destinations, conducting more intensive tourism promotions, creating fun tourism activities, increasing participation of the community and stakeholders of tourist villages, using local and environmentally friendly materials, improving the cleanliness of destinations, disseminating local cultural information and increasing employment opportunities. The cultural factors are a highlight in improving sustainable tourism performance. In addition, to enhance tourism performance, it needs to benchmark with developed and autonomous tourist villages that have demonstrated success in sustainable tourism.

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Traveloka Highlights the Importance of Collaboration for Sustainable Tourism at the 50th ASEAN-Japan Business Meeting

2024/11/11 16:52

BANGKOK, Nov. 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Traveloka, Southeast Asia's leading travel platform, proudly participated as the sole online travel agency (OTA) invited to the tourism panel discussion at the landmark 50th ASEAN-Japan Business Meeting (AJBM). Organized by the Japan Association of Corporate Executives (Keizai Doyukai), the AJBM has been a key forum since 1974 to foster economic collaboration and strengthen ties between Japan and the ASEAN region.

Speaking on a panel at this year's AJBM, Joydeep Chakraborty, Chief Strategy and Investment Officer at Traveloka, emphasized the importance of collaboration in driving sustainable tourism. He stated, "At Traveloka, we believe collaboration is essential to building a future where tourism benefits all—supporting local communities, protecting cultural heritage, and respecting the environment. Through partnerships with communities, governments, and industry leaders, we're committed to creating sustainable travel experiences that celebrate diverse cultures while protecting the environment."

About Traveloka

Traveloka is Southeast Asia's leading travel platform, empowering consumers to explore, book, and enjoy a wide range of travel products. The platform offers extensive transportation options, including flights, buses, trains, car rentals, and airport transfers. Traveloka's accommodation offerings are equally broad, encompassing hotels, apartments, guest houses, homestays, resorts, and villas. Additionally, the platform enhances the travel experience by offering cruise packages and access to various local attractions, such as theme parks, museums, day tours, and more.

Founded in Indonesia in 2012, Traveloka has expanded its operations to Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, and the Philippines. The company is committed to providing exceptional customer service with 24/7 support available in local languages and acceptance of over 40 payment methods. With nearly 140 million app downloads and nearly 50 million monthly active users, Traveloka stands as one of the most popular travel apps in the region.

For more information, please visit Traveloka .

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PR Newswire 1954年に設立された世界初の米国広報通信社です。配信ネットワークで全世界をカバーしています。Cision Ltd.の子会社として、Cisionクラウドベースコミュニケーション製品、世界最大のマルチチャネル、多文化コンテンツ普及ネットワークと包括的なワークフローツールおよびプラットフォームを組み合わせることで、様々な組織のストーリーを支えています。 www.prnasia.com

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