3 positive impacts of tourism

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Positive Impacts of Tourism on the Environment

If you asked random people from different countries whether tourism has negative or positive impacts on the environment, none of the answers would most likely prevail since their opinion will be based on their personal experience from travels. Tourism and environment have important, yet controversial relationship, that needs to be in a perfect balance to benefit each other.

Beautiful natural landscapes or unique flora and fauna are the main drivers of tourism into an area. But when too many tourists visit natural sites, environment and its inhabitants rather suffer from the negative impacts, which easily outweigh all the benefits due to exceeding the natural carrying capacity of a place .

On the other hand, when the number of visitors is balanced with respect for the natural environment, tourism has great potential in supporting or even starting out new conservation projects that protect unique areas and benefit local residents.

Sustainable tourism helps protect the environment

Many countries around the world depend on tourism as their main industry in providing jobs in rural areas and bringing in funds that would be otherwise out of their reach. Financial resources and employment are critical for local livelihoods and security. But as more and more countries focus on expanding their tourism sites, they often encounter problems with overconsumption of their finite natural resources, pollution, and degradation. This easily spirals into undesirable situations of negative impacts on the local environment and society.

Tourism as a fast-growing industry must follow the principles of sustainability in order to last long term while maintaining positive impacts for an area. In terms of environment, this means consumption of natural resources within acceptable limits, protecting biodiversity and making sure that essential ecological processes can take place, while providing a pleasant experience to visiting tourists [1] .

A part of striving towards sustainability is also raising awareness about the unique natural features of an area and educating visitors about their sustainable management. This helps them to understand the rules set in place and respect differences.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in relation to tourism

Tourism represents 10 percent of world GDP. The industry increasingly affects the environment, culture, and socio-economic development of a country. Due to such a great reach, it is a powerful tool in facilitating change.

According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), tourism contributes directly or indirectly to all the 17 goals of sustainable development (SDGs) that were defined together with additional 169 SDG targets to ensure safer future for life on Earth by 2030.

Since 2018, UNWTO operates even an online platform dedicated to achievement of SDGs through tourism. You can visit it here: https://tourism4sdgs.org/ . On the platform is detailed description of each sustainable development goal in relation to tourism. SDGs address areas ranging from the importance of biodiversity, protection of marine ecosystems to urgent call for sustainable production and consumption.

Following the guidelines, UNWTO has, for example, partnered with the United Nations Environment Programme and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and launched a Global Tourism Plastics Initiative to mitigate the problem of plastic pollution in the industry.     

What are the positive impacts of tourism on the environment?

Sustainable tourism is the only way to go forward if the industry wants to grow. But throughout the last couple decades, tourism has been already growing and has introduced many new places to foreign visitors. In some regions, having the option of welcoming paying guests, tourism has brought many positive impacts on the environment. Let’s see their examples.     

#1 Awareness raising and first-hand experience

Beautiful landscapes, animals in their natural environment, exotic ecosystems attract visitors from around the world. They are the primary reason why people travel. To get rest from their daily blues and experience ultimate relaxation from the connection with natural world. Tourism is the best tool to raise awareness of environmental values.

You learn the best when you do get to experience something directly, when you see it, touch it, and when you witness what threatens to destroy it. Personal visit of natural areas introduces you to the values they have for life. It makes you care about them, since you get to enjoy their special feeling. And memories you will have will encourage you to be environmentally-conscious in travel and personal life.

In January 2021, alarming pictures of the most touristy beaches in Bali buried in plastic waste that washed up on the shore due to the monsoon weather, appeared on social media of travelers and in the news [2] . The images have drawn global attention and created a bad rep for single-use plastic items, making us (consumers) more aware of the true impact.

#2 Tourism for skills learning and education

This is a special side of tourism but plays also an important role in positive impacts of tourism on the environment. Visitors do not have to be drawn to places just for entertainment or relaxation, they may come with the primary mission of learning a new skill or gaining certain knowledge. Tourists come to see a special feature in an area and often pay for their stay, for food, or training, which is a nice way to support the work they came to admire. Additionally, they may also put the new knowledge to use for their own projects.   

One nice example of this form of tourism could be visiting a permaculture farm with the purpose to learn about the practices applied on the farm and exchange ideas on what might work at home. Another example, that could inspire many, is spending time on edible forest farms, learning about planting diversity of low maintenance plants on your piece of land. Or visiting villages excelling in agroforestry farming practices which have allowed them to harvest variety of products from their lands, while protecting sensitive mountainous environments, where intensive farming would not be an option.           

#3 Support of conservation and biodiversity protection activities

Africa is a prime example of a country where tourism has had a positive effect on wildlife protection. Wildlife tourism in Africa makes around 36 percent of the tourism industry, contributing over $29 billion to the continent’s economy and provides jobs to 3.6 million people [3] .

The opportunity of seeing wild animals in their natural environment is what Africa is the most known for. This form of tourism reduces poverty and helps to empower women directly by giving them jobs, but even indirectly by allocating funds to build infrastructure – schools, hospitals.

Africa, Asia, South America, and the South Pacific focus more and more on the value of their wild natural areas. With the growth of tourism appear even new national and wildlife parks that connect sustainable tourism with biodiversity preservation.

For example, iSimangaliso Wetland Park in South Africa offers amazing experience for tourists who can choose between diving, snorkeling, kayaking or horseback riding in a landscape of 25,000 years old coastal dunes and swamp forests, while protecting the area’s sensitive ecosystems and unique species. The coastline is Africa’s only remaining nesting place of Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles [4] .

#4 Protection of endangered species

Countries begin to realize that their rare and endemic species are their symbol in the eyes of foreign visitors who are often attracted to the place because of them. Wild animals, virgin forests and a colorful palette of exotic plants are becoming an unusual sight in an economically developed world. The remaining spots that are still a home to this disappearing world are often turn to nature reserves and protected areas. This ensures better safety for endangered species that inhabit them.

Virunga National Park in East Africa has a story of conservation success to tell, even despite years of civil unrest and war in the surrounding areas, it has been declared an ecological pillar for the entire East and Central African biodiversity, having the largest concentration of birds and reptiles over other protected areas [5] .

Thanks to the initiative of the World Wildlife Fund and United Nations, the park has endured hard years and granted protection to endangered mountain gorillas, who were almost driven to extinction by human encroachment into their already limited habitat. Thanks to these extraordinary efforts and persistence, gorillas from the Virunga recovered and their number rose from 480 to over 600 [6] . The park is one of the most attractive tourist destinations, where you can see gorillas, chimpanzees, and many other iconic animals.

#5 Prevention of illegal trade and exploitation

Tourism brings new opportunities even to most remote places. The growing interest of tourists in visiting places where people live in connection with nature and animals gives chance to locals to sustain their families far from urban areas. In many cases, local communities quickly realize the need to protect what they have in order to attract tourists, as the stream of income from tourism is long-term and more advantageous than one-time sales of finite resources or poached animals.

A glimmer of hope sparked by the vision of attracting tourists takes place in two villages in Nepal that are known for being a transit points for illegal trade in pangolin meat and scales to Tibet and India.

The villages have joined a community-based pangolin conservation and education project . The goal of the project is to discourage local poachers from selling scales of pangolins to illegal traders, and thus interrupt the illegal trade pathway while protecting endangered pangolins . Participants of the project are also trained to help with long-term monitoring of pangolin population (species ecology, identification of threats and distribution).        

#6 Finance and job opportunities

One in ten jobs worldwide are directly or indirectly in the tourism industry. Tourism creates decent work opportunities and economic growth even in rural or remote areas. Tourism employs women and is often the first job experience of young people. Money from the tourism then often goes into improving local infrastructure, and sustainable management and protection of natural wonders that attract visitors.

Better infrastructure and services have a positive impact on the environment. They revolve around consumption of resources and their management. Modern infrastructure for wastewater cleaning saves water and promotes more efficient use of it. Waste management facilities focus on recycling materials rather than just dumping waste into sea or to landfills.

Tourism also directly helps to fund conservation activities of national parks, or other nature and wildlife preservation projects. Visitors are usually asked to pay entrance fees or a small tax that is meant to support the project.  

Costa Rica has one of the most successful rainforest conservation strategies, which enables the country to protect and care for its incredibly biodiversity rich rainforests, while at the same time generating income from tourism. A part of this income goes back to the rainforest conservation maintenance, research, and professional training of park guards. The rest sustains regional economy and creates balanced life opportunities for locals.       

#7 Adoption of sustainable practices and new legislation

We have partially tapped into this aspect already in the previous point. It is closely linked. More funds available to a region mean better possibilities to improve infrastructure and services. Modernization of infrastructure goes hand in hand with a transition to sustainable technologies and seeking of long-term solutions that will benefit people and the local environment.

Many travelers care about their impact on the environment. They are willing to pay for environmentally friendly services and accommodation when visiting a new place. Many destinations already follow the suit and are changing their approach to tourism by considering their environmental impact in their management.

Additionally, governments also respond to this pressure and often enforce regulations to further protect local natural resources by adopting sustainable practices in the industry.

You can see this trend in increasing numbers of eco-tourism lodges around the world; or recycling bins placed in public areas to collect different materials for more efficient waste management; in water saving measures and recommendations adopted by accommodation providers; or even large-scale renewable energy projects that power whole regions.

Several studies highlighted the benefits of renewable energy for maintaining healthy environment during the seasonal influx of tourists to island destinations. For example, a study of Mediterranean islands sees renewable energy projects as a tool to provide sufficient energy to residents and tourists during the periods of increased demand, while protecting already fragile and limited resources islands have.

Tourism and the environment could go well together

The success of tourism relies on good infrastructure and decent quality of services. The industry therefore helps the community development and brings new sources of inspiration and motivation for protection of biodiversity rich natural areas, wildlife, or whole ecosystems.

Many new conservation projects raise hope of local people in being able to sustain their families, while taking care of their home, of their legacy, of a place shaped by the nurturing hands of their ancestors. They hope that their effort will be appreciated and rewarded by respectful visitors.

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About greentumble.

Greentumble was founded in the summer of 2015 by us, Sara and Ovi . We are a couple of environmentalists who seek inspiration for life in simple values based on our love for nature. Our goal is to inspire people to change their attitudes and behaviors toward a more sustainable life. Read more about us .

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8 Ways Tourism Has Positively Impacted Our World

By Natalie Siagian

Published on Mar 08, 2024

Reviewed by: Parisa Pouramn Marketing & Communications Manager for TreadRight

Every time we travel, for whatever reason, we are all a part of a global movement; a movement that has the power to drive inclusive development, create jobs and build the sustainable societies we want for our future; a movement that builds mutual understanding and can help us safeguard our shared natural and cultural heritage. 

As world citizens, we need to raise awareness of the important impact tourism has on countries and communities around the world and its potential as a force for good, creating a better world for all. Because, together we can really make a difference.

Feeling inspired?

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1. it brings people together from all over the globe.

Tourism has the power to bring us all together, from all walks of life, without discrimination and regardless of race, sex or age. It allows us to explore the world in compelling ways so that we can better understand each other, destinations, history and culture. Together, we can make a difference. We can learn from one another, respect cultures, and open the gateway to having different conversations so that our world can become a more understanding place. 

Image source: Contiki

2. Promote responsible travel

It is our duty to look after the world we’re in. Tourism has paved a way in promoting the importance of responsible travel. From ocean conservation to wildlife protection and local community support, sustainable tourism is important in maintaining the Earth’s natural habitat and attractions. Responsible travel is about respecting the destinations we visit, so that we can leave this Earth better than we found it. 

Want to travel more responsibly? Here’s how…

3. help us become better global citizens.

The tourism industry has seen a revolution in the past 50 years. In 1950 there were only 25 million international tourists; today there are 1.2 billion travelling the world. It’s become a huge part of our lives and helped people become better global citizens. There are incredible activists out there from Céline Cousteau, for humanitarian and environmental issues, to  Leonardo Dicaprio , who is dedicated to raising awareness on climate change. 

4. Reduce poverty

This remains as one of the world’s largest global issues. However, according to the  United Nations’ World Tourism Organization , tourism makes up 5% of the world’s Gross Domestic Product; it accounts for one in 12 jobs worldwide; and it’s either the number one or number two export earnings for 20 of the 48 least developed countries, including Tanzania and Samoa. More than ever, it’s important to rethink what it means to be a traveller in this world. We must work together to address global inequality and support local communities. 

5. Empower communities

From youth, women, Indigenous communities, people with disabilities – tourism is about total empowerment. Did you know that the Tourism workforce is mostly made up of women? With that in mind, gender equality issues have been brought to the forefront to address discrimination against women. One way we can empower communities is through our continued support of local artisan groups. For example, by purchasing a Peruvian piece of art or textile, you’re actually contributing to a person’s income which in turn helps their families and children. 

6. New innovations

If you think tourism hasn’t played a tremendous role in creating a better future, you’re wrong! From  virtual reality , wi-fi on coaches and new social media platforms – no doubt – innovation in the travel sector has played a significant role in how we interact with one another, operate and see the world. Thanks to innovative product developments, we have seen new mobile apps such as Uber, truly changing the game in the shared economy industry.

8 easy ways to become a more responsible traveller

7. protect natural habitats and wildlife.

Tourism has been the voice of animal protection and helped in defending vulnerable species. Over the many years, we have collectively supported to stop the poaching of rhinos, whaling, sharks, elephant mistreatment and sea turtle conservations. Many destinations around the world are defined by their native animals so it’s fair to protect them from further endangerment.

8. Encourage sustainable tourism

With increased tourism, there are further repercussions on the environment. Sustaining the natural and cultural beauty of our world and conserving the Earth’s natural resources has played a huge role in environment initiatives globally. One example is plastic pollution and the direct effect it has on our oceans. The Surfrider foundation collab with Contiki was launched to raise awareness about the dangers of plastic pollution and prevent marine plastic from entering our oceans. This conservation program assists in changing consumer behaviour by inspiring change. 

WATCH BELOW: Wise up to plastic documentary – Contiki Cares & TreadRight

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9 Powerful Benefits of Sustainable Tourism and Why You Should Care

August 7, 2022

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

Table of Contents

What is the Definition of Sustainable Tourism?

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

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

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

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

The Benefits of Sustainable Tourism

1. Sustainable Tourism Directly Helps Save Endangered Animals

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

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

2. Sustainable Tourism Protects Landscapes and Environments

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

Note, this is generally the opposite of overtourism.

3. Sustainable Tourism Reduces Pollution

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

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

4. Sustainable Tourism Shares Knowledge

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

• Recommended reading: Learning about Jordanian food in Beit Sitti

5. Sustainable Tourism Prevents Cash Crops and Protects Livelihoods

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

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

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

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

6. Sustainable Tourism is Good for Your Health

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

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

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

7. Sustainable Tourism Protects and Preserves Valued Traditions

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

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

For examples, see:

• Uncovering tradition in the highest vineyards in Europe

8. Sustainable Tourism Doesn’t Require Charity

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

Sustainable travel seeks a win-win situation.

It demands a formula that works for today  and  tomorrow.

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

In the words of a banker turned philanthropist.

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

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

9. Sustainable Tourism Feels Good!

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

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

In Summary: The Benefits of Sustainable Tourism

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

What Sustainable Tourism Is Not

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

Not Just a “Third World” Problem

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

Not Paternalistic

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

Not Just Being Green

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

Why? Because…

It needs to make a profit to be economically sustainable.

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

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

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

Not A Chore

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

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

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

In Summary: What Sustainable Tourism Is Not

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

FAQs About Sustainable Tourism

Who benefits from sustainable tourism?

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

What is sustainable tourism?

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

Why is sustainable tourism difficult to achieve?

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

What are the benefits of responsible tourism?

All of the above!

Sustainable Living: The Key Takeaway…

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

More on Sustainable Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Sustainable tourism

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

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Publications.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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...

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...

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...

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.

The impact of tourism: How can we all do this better?

John perrottet, beril benli.

Tourism is growing, and growing fast. After surpassing 1 billion international visitors in 2012, we are expecting 1.8 billion by 2030. Tourism is growing faster than the global economy and, for the first time, the statistics for 2015 are expected to show that there were more trips taken to the developing world than to the developed world. But what does this actually mean? Growth, on its own, is not enough. Destinations and their stakeholders are responsible for ensuring that growth is well-managed; that benefits are maximized; and that any negative externalities are minimized. This requires a continuous process of planning and management that evolves and that can be measured over time. For the World Bank Group, our clients and our development partners, this process of planning and management is a central interest. How can we help these processes to deliver more and better development impact? What kinds of interventions or types of assistance will deliver the best results? How do you define the best results – for whom? – and how do we measure them? Being able to demonstrate how the tourism sector contributes to the Bank Group’s twin goals of eliminating extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity is an imperative for all stakeholders. It’s relevant for national governments, sub-national state agencies, businesses (both multinationals and SMEs), multilateral development banks, NGOs, academics and think tanks. Moreover, it’s vital in helping guide future planning and development, gaining access to and applying for funding, and demonstrating progress to constituents at all levels.

Despite the great breadth and depth of existing impact information, however, serious concerns remain about the accuracy, complexity, gaps, comparability and sustainability of the types of the impact analyses that have been carried out. The Bank Group’s Sustainable Tourism Global Solutions Group recently convened a thought-leadership event in Washington to begin a preliminary discussion about how all stakeholders can come together to try and address some of the current shortcomings. During the “ Measuring for Impact in Touris m” event, we heard about a wide range of challenges for those working in this area and we began to map out the greatest gaps and issues. As Anabel Gonzalez, the Senior Director of the Trade and Competitiveness Global Practice, said at that conference: “We want to be better at monitoring and evaluating our impact, we want to learn from others, and we want to contribute more effectively to tourism development.  I believe these are goals most of you will share. We invite you to join this discussion – and be frank, open and provocative.”The findings can be found in our report, “ Towards More Effective Impact Measurement in the Tourism Sector: Observations and Key Issues ,” which highlights a number of priorities. Some of those challenges concern the availability, quality and consistency of data; the high cost of impact measurement for SMEs; the proliferation of different systems; issues of attribution; quantifying notions of “value”; and the ability to communicate effectively to a wide range of audiences. Some key areas for immediate follow-up and further analysis were also identified. They include:

• Exploring the theory of change by examining more closely the proposition  that, when tourism growth occurs, those living in extreme poverty benefit and by digging deeper into what tourism growth really means for the poor, especially in terms of employment. 
• Assessing the impact value of different types of tourism.
• Assessing and developing the role of technology for data collection, impact measurement and communication.
• Evaluating the use of training for better communication – including assessing what has been tried and what has worked and considering how it could be scaled up. 
• Analyzing the necessity and practicality of improving collaboration among various actors, and assessing the alignment of frameworks along with proposals for greater alignment.
• Developing ideas and proposals for the enhanced sharing and pooling of impact data.
• Developing ideas and proposals for greater inclusion of SMEs.
• Competitiveness
• Digital Development
• Urban Development

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Tourism’s Importance for Growth Highlighted in World Economic Outlook Report

• All Regions
• 10 Nov 2023

Tourism has again been identified as a key driver of economic recovery and growth in a new report by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). With UNWTO data pointing to a return to 95% of pre-pandemic tourist numbers by the end of the year in the best case scenario, the IMF report outlines the positive impact the sector’s rapid recovery will have on certain economies worldwide.

According to the World Economic Outlook (WEO) Report , the global economy will grow an estimated 3.0% in 2023 and 2.9% in 2024. While this is higher than previous forecasts, it is nevertheless below the 3.5% rate of growth recorded in 2022, pointing to the continued impacts of the pandemic and Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and from the cost-of-living crisis.

Tourism key sector for growth

The WEO report analyses economic growth in every global region, connecting performance with key sectors, including tourism. Notably, those economies with "large travel and tourism sectors" show strong economic resilience and robust levels of economic activity. More specifically, countries where tourism represents a high percentage of GDP   have recorded faster recovery from the impacts of the pandemic in comparison to economies where tourism is not a significant sector.

As the report Foreword notes: "Strong demand for services has supported service-oriented economies—including important tourism destinations such as France and Spain".

Looking Ahead

The latest outlook from the IMF comes on the back of UNWTO's most recent analysis of the prospects for tourism, at the global and regional levels. Pending the release of the November 2023 World Tourism Barometer , international tourism is on track to reach 80% to 95% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023. Prospects for September-December 2023 point to continued recovery, driven by the still pent-up demand and increased air connectivity particularly in Asia and the Pacific where recovery is still subdued.

Related links

• Download the News Release on PDF
• UNWTO World Tourism Barometer
• IMF World Economic Outlook

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How Locals Feel About Tourism: Insights and Perspectives

• October 26, 2023

Tourism has undoubtedly become a significant part of many local communities around the world. As travelers flock to various destinations, it is important to understand how locals perceive and experience this influx of visitors. This article delves into the insights and perspectives of locals towards tourism, shedding light on their thoughts, concerns, and experiences. By gaining a deeper understanding of how locals feel about tourism, we can foster a more sustainable and mutually beneficial relationship between tourists and the communities they visit.

1. Positive Impact of Tourism on Locals

1.1. boost in economy, 1.2. job opportunities, 1.3. preservation of culture, 1.4. infrastructure development, 1.5. increased standard of living, 2. negative impact of tourism on locals, 2.1. overcrowding and traffic, 2.2. environmental degradation, 2.3. rise in cost of living, 2.4. loss of authenticity, 2.5. exploitation of local resources, 3. mixed feelings towards tourism, 3.1. balancing economic benefits and cultural preservation, 3.2. promotion of sustainable practices, 3.3. importance of community engagement, 3.4. educational and cultural exchange, 3.5. addressing negative consequences.

Tourism has a significant positive impact on the lives of locals in many ways. One of the most noticeable impacts is the economic benefits that tourism brings to local communities. When tourists visit a destination, they spend money on various goods and services, such as accommodation, food, transportation, and souvenirs. This influx of tourist spending helps to stimulate the local economy, create jobs, and generate income for local businesses and individuals.

Furthermore, tourism can also lead to the preservation and promotion of local culture and heritage. As tourists show interest in experiencing the authentic aspects of a destination, locals are encouraged to preserve their traditions, customs, and historical sites. This preservation not only helps to maintain the cultural identity of the community but also provides opportunities for locals to showcase their unique traditions and crafts to visitors.

In addition, tourism can contribute to the development of infrastructure and public services in a destination. The increased demand for tourism facilities and services often leads to improvements in transportation networks, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and public amenities. These developments not only benefit tourists but also enhance the quality of life for locals, providing them with better access to essential services and improved overall infrastructure.

Lastly, tourism can foster a sense of pride and appreciation among locals for their own community. As tourists show interest in learning about the local culture, history, and way of life, locals often gain a renewed sense of pride in their heritage. This increased appreciation can lead to a stronger sense of community identity and a desire to protect and preserve the unique aspects of their locality.

Overall, the positive impact of tourism on locals is undeniable. It brings economic opportunities, promotes cultural preservation, improves infrastructure, and fosters community pride. However, it is important for sustainable tourism practices to be implemented to ensure that these benefits are enjoyed in a balanced and responsible manner, taking into consideration the well-being of both locals and tourists.

Tourism has a significant positive impact on the local economy. As travelers visit a destination, they contribute to various sectors such as accommodation, transportation, and food services, which in turn generate revenue for local businesses. This increased economic activity leads to job creation and helps boost the overall economy of the region.

The influx of tourists also stimulates the growth of related industries. Local artisans, craftsmen, and souvenir shops benefit from the demand for unique products and souvenirs. Additionally, tour operators and travel agencies thrive as they cater to the needs of tourists, providing various packages and services.

Furthermore, tourism can lead to infrastructure development in the area. To accommodate the higher number of visitors, communities often invest in improving transportation systems, building new hotels, and enhancing public facilities. These developments not only enhance the overall experience for tourists but also provide long-term benefits for local residents.

The economic benefits of tourism extend beyond the immediate tourism sector. As the local economy grows, there is an increase in tax revenue, which can be allocated towards public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. This, in turn, improves the quality of life for local residents and creates a positive cycle of economic growth.

In conclusion, tourism plays a pivotal role in boosting the economy of local communities. The revenue generated through tourism activities contributes to job creation, stimulates related industries, and supports infrastructure development. The positive impact of tourism on locals is evident through improved living standards and increased opportunities for economic prosperity.

Tourism has undoubtedly brought numerous job opportunities for the locals, positively impacting their lives in several ways. The growth of the tourism industry has created a demand for various roles, ranging from hospitality and transportation to tour guiding and event planning. These job opportunities not only provide a source of income for the locals but also contribute to the overall economic development of the region.

One of the major benefits of tourism-related employment is the diversification of job options. Locals can now explore different career paths within the industry, allowing them to utilize their skills and talents in various roles. For instance, individuals with a passion for history and culture can work as local tour guides, sharing their knowledge and insights with tourists.

Moreover, the employment generated by tourism often leads to the growth of supporting industries. Local artisans, craftsmen, and entrepreneurs have the opportunity to showcase and sell their products to a wider audience, thanks to the influx of tourists. This not only helps in preserving and promoting the local culture but also enhances the overall socio-economic fabric of the community.

In addition to providing direct employment, tourism also has a positive multiplier effect on the local economy. When tourists visit a destination, they spend money on accommodation, food, transportation, and various other services. This spending creates a ripple effect, benefiting local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and shops. As a result, the increased revenue generated by these businesses leads to further job creation and economic growth.

Overall, the job opportunities generated by tourism have a significant positive impact on the lives of locals. They not only provide financial stability but also foster personal and professional growth. The tourism industry plays a crucial role in empowering local communities and uplifting their standard of living.

Preservation of Culture

Tourism plays a significant role in the preservation of culture for locals. As tourists visit different destinations, they have the opportunity to experience and appreciate the unique traditions, customs, and heritage of the local community. This exposure to diverse cultures fosters a sense of pride among locals and encourages them to preserve their traditions.

When tourists show interest in the local culture, it motivates locals to continue practicing and passing down their traditional arts, crafts, music, dance forms, and culinary skills. This preservation of cultural practices not only ensures their survival but also provides future generations with a link to their rich heritage.

Furthermore, tourism often leads to cultural exchange and interaction between locals and visitors. As tourists learn about the local traditions, they may also share their own cultural practices, creating a mutual understanding and appreciation. This exchange of knowledge and experiences strengthens cultural ties and promotes respect and harmony between different communities.

In summary, tourism has a positive impact on the preservation of culture for locals. It not only encourages locals to value and maintain their cultural heritage but also facilitates cultural exchange and understanding between diverse communities.

Infrastructure development is a crucial aspect of the positive impact of tourism on locals. When a destination experiences an increase in tourist visits, it often leads to the need for improved infrastructure to accommodate the influx of visitors. This includes the development of transportation systems, such as roads, airports, and public transportation, as well as the expansion of accommodations, such as hotels and resorts.

The improvement of infrastructure not only benefits tourists but also has a significant positive effect on the local community. It creates job opportunities for locals, both during the construction phase and afterward in the hospitality and service sectors. The increased employment opportunities help to boost the local economy and reduce unemployment rates.

Moreover, the development of infrastructure enhances the overall quality of life for locals. Improved transportation systems make commuting easier and more efficient, allowing locals to access essential services, education, and healthcare facilities with greater convenience. It also contributes to the overall development of the region, attracting further investment and business opportunities.

In addition to economic benefits, infrastructure development resulting from tourism can have positive environmental impacts as well. Efforts are often made to implement sustainable practices during the construction and operation of new infrastructure, leading to the conservation of natural resources and the protection of the environment.

Overall, infrastructure development resulting from tourism has a positive impact on locals by creating employment opportunities, improving quality of life, attracting investments, and promoting sustainable practices. It plays a vital role in fostering the growth and development of both the tourism industry and the local community.

Tourism has brought about an increased standard of living for locals in various communities across the globe. As tourists visit a destination, they contribute to the local economy by spending money on accommodations, food, transportation, and souvenirs. This influx of money creates job opportunities for locals, leading to a rise in employment rates and income levels. With more income at their disposal, locals can afford better housing, education, healthcare, and overall improvement in their quality of life. Additionally, the growth of tourism often leads to infrastructure development in the form of improved roads, transportation systems, and public facilities, benefitting both locals and tourists alike. Overall, the positive impact of tourism on locals is evident in the improved standard of living and increased opportunities it brings to their communities.

Tourism, despite its numerous benefits, can also have negative impacts on locals living in tourist destinations. One of the main concerns is the commodification and commercialization of local culture and traditions. As tourists flock to these places, there is often a demand for cultural performances, handicrafts, and traditional cuisine. This can lead to a distortion and dilution of the authentic local culture, as locals may feel compelled to cater to tourist expectations rather than preserving their own unique traditions.

Another negative impact is the strain on local resources and infrastructure. The sudden influx of tourists can put a tremendous burden on a destination’s natural resources, such as water, energy, and food. This can lead to scarcity and environmental degradation, affecting not only the locals’ quality of life but also their ability to sustain themselves economically.

Furthermore, tourism can contribute to an increase in prices for basic goods and services. As the demand for accommodation, transportation, and dining options rises, so does the cost of living for locals. This can make it increasingly difficult for them to afford housing, food, and other essential needs, leading to a widening wealth gap between tourists and locals.

Lastly, the behavior of some tourists can negatively impact the daily lives of locals. Issues such as disrespectful behavior, disregard for local customs and norms, and a lack of understanding or appreciation for the local way of life can create tensions and conflicts between tourists and the community. This can lead to a deterioration of the social fabric and a loss of trust and respect between locals and visitors.

In conclusion, while tourism brings economic opportunities and cultural exchange, it is essential to acknowledge and address the negative impacts it can have on locals. Sustainable tourism practices and responsible behavior from both tourists and the tourism industry are crucial to minimize these negative effects and ensure a harmonious coexistence between visitors and locals.

Overcrowding and traffic are two significant negative impacts of tourism on locals. As tourist destinations become increasingly popular, the influx of visitors can lead to overcrowded streets, public spaces, and attractions. This overcrowding often disrupts the daily lives of locals, making it difficult for them to go about their regular routines.

Moreover, the increased traffic caused by tourism can further exacerbate the problem. Local residents may find themselves stuck in traffic jams and experiencing longer commute times due to the high number of tourists and their vehicles.

The negative effects of overcrowding and traffic go beyond inconvenience. The strain on local infrastructure, such as roads and public transportation systems, can lead to wear and tear, resulting in maintenance issues and increased costs for the local government. Additionally, the noise and pollution generated by the increased traffic can negatively impact the quality of life for residents in tourist-heavy areas.

Overall, the overcrowding and traffic caused by tourism can create frustration and resentment among locals. It is essential for destinations to implement sustainable tourism practices to mitigate these negative effects and ensure a harmonious coexistence between tourists and residents.

Environmental degradation is a significant concern when it comes to the negative impact of tourism on locals. The influx of tourists often leads to increased pollution, deforestation, and destruction of natural habitats. Local ecosystems can suffer from the excessive use of resources, improper waste management, and the disturbance of delicate ecosystems. This degradation not only affects the environment but also impacts the livelihoods of the local communities who depend on these resources for their sustenance. It is crucial to address these issues and implement sustainable tourism practices to minimize the environmental degradation caused by tourism.

The rise in the cost of living is one of the negative impacts of tourism on locals. As tourism increases in a destination, the demand for goods and services also increases, leading to a rise in prices. This can make it difficult for locals to afford basic necessities and can push them towards poverty. Additionally, the influx of tourists often leads to the development of luxury accommodations and establishments, which cater more to the needs and preferences of tourists rather than locals. This further widens the gap between the haves and the have-nots, creating social and economic inequalities within the local community. The increase in the cost of living not only affects the financial well-being of the locals but also their overall quality of life, as they may be forced to compromise on essential needs and services.

The loss of authenticity is a significant concern when it comes to the negative impact of tourism on locals. As tourists flock to popular destinations, there is often a gradual erosion of the unique cultural identity and traditional way of life that locals hold dear. This loss of authenticity can be attributed to various factors associated with tourism, such as commercialization, homogenization, and the commodification of local culture.

One of the main contributors to the loss of authenticity is the commercialization of tourist attractions and activities. Local businesses and entrepreneurs often adapt their offerings to cater to the preferences and demands of tourists, which may result in a dilution or distortion of the original cultural experience. Traditional crafts or practices may be mass-produced, losing their authentic charm and becoming mere souvenirs for visitors.

Additionally, the homogenization of tourist destinations can also contribute to the loss of authenticity. As more tourists visit a place, there is a tendency for the local culture to become influenced by external forces, such as global trends or standardized tourism practices. This can lead to a loss of distinctiveness and uniqueness, as the local culture becomes more similar to other tourist destinations.

Furthermore, the commodification of local culture for tourism purposes can have a negative impact on authenticity. When cultural practices or traditions are solely performed or showcased for the entertainment of tourists, their original meaning and significance can be diminished. This superficial representation of culture can create a sense of inauthenticity for locals, as their traditions become reduced to mere spectacles.

Overall, the loss of authenticity is a valid concern for locals when it comes to the negative impact of tourism. Preserving the unique cultural identity and traditional way of life should be a priority in sustainable tourism practices, ensuring that local communities are not overshadowed or compromised by the influx of tourists.

The exploitation of local resources is one of the negative impacts of tourism on locals. As tourists flock to a destination, there often arises a high demand for various resources such as water, energy, and food. This increased demand can put a strain on the local community’s limited resources, leading to depletion and imbalance.

In many cases, the exploitation of local resources is driven by the desire to cater to the needs and expectations of tourists. Local businesses may overuse or exhaust natural resources to meet the demands of a growing tourism industry. This can have severe consequences for the environment and the livelihoods of local residents.

For instance, excessive water consumption by hotels and resorts can deplete local water sources, affecting the availability of water for agriculture, households, and other essential needs. Similarly, increased energy consumption by tourist facilities may lead to higher carbon emissions and contribute to global warming.

Furthermore, the demand for food products in tourist areas often leads to the intensification of agriculture and fishing activities. This can result in overfishing, deforestation, and the use of harmful pesticides, causing damage to ecosystems and threatening the sustainability of local food production.

Overall, the exploitation of local resources driven by tourism can negatively impact the environment, local economies, and the well-being of communities. It is essential to strike a balance between tourism development and the preservation of local resources to ensure the long-term sustainability of both tourism and the local communities.

Tourism has always been a double-edged sword for locals. While it brings economic benefits and opportunities for cultural exchange, it also poses challenges and drawbacks. The impact of tourism on local communities is often a mixed bag, resulting in a range of feelings and perspectives.

On one hand, locals may appreciate the influx of tourists as it stimulates the economy, creates jobs, and generates income for businesses. Tourism can boost the growth of local industries such as hospitality, transportation, and retail, providing employment opportunities for the community. Additionally, tourism can promote cultural understanding and appreciation as visitors immerse themselves in the local traditions, cuisine, and way of life.

However, there are also negative aspects associated with tourism that can leave locals with mixed feelings. Overcrowding is a common issue in popular tourist destinations, leading to strain on infrastructure and resources. Locals may feel crowded out of their own neighborhoods and face increased living costs due to the high demand from tourists. Moreover, the commodification of culture and the risk of cultural appropriation can be unsettling for locals, who may see their traditions and customs reduced to mere tourist attractions.

Another concern is the potential environmental impact of tourism. Natural landscapes and ecosystems can be negatively affected by excessive tourism, leading to pollution, habitat destruction, and loss of biodiversity. Locals who depend on natural resources for their livelihoods may worry about the long-term sustainability of their environment.

In conclusion, the feelings towards tourism among locals are complex and varied. While it can bring economic benefits and cultural exchange, there are also challenges and concerns that need to be addressed. Striking a balance between the positive and negative impacts of tourism is crucial to ensure a harmonious relationship between tourists and locals.

Tourism has always been a double-edged sword for local communities, especially when it comes to striking a balance between economic benefits and cultural preservation. While some locals embrace and appreciate the positive impacts of tourism, others have mixed feelings towards it.

On one hand, tourism brings significant economic benefits to a destination. It creates job opportunities, stimulates local businesses, and enhances the overall economy. The influx of tourists often leads to increased revenues for hotels, restaurants, transportation services, and various other sectors. This revenue, in turn, can be reinvested in the community, supporting infrastructure development, education, and healthcare systems.

On the other hand, the rapid growth of tourism can pose threats to the cultural heritage and authenticity of a place. The arrival of large numbers of tourists can disrupt the daily lives of locals, causing overcrowding, traffic congestion, and increased prices of goods and services. Moreover, the increased focus on catering to tourists’ needs and preferences may lead to the commodification of local traditions, customs, and crafts, diluting their true essence.

Thus, locals often have mixed feelings towards tourism. While they acknowledge and rely on the economic benefits it brings, they also fear the potential negative impacts on their cultural identity and way of life. Striking a balance between reaping the economic advantages and preserving the authenticity of a destination becomes crucial in ensuring long-term sustainability and harmony between tourists and locals.

Tourism has become a significant source of income for many communities around the world. While it brings economic benefits, there are mixed feelings towards its impact on the environment and local culture. The promotion of sustainable practices is crucial to address these concerns and ensure the long-term viability of tourism in a destination.

One of the main concerns is the environmental impact of tourism activities. Increased tourist arrivals often lead to greater waste generation and pollution. Local ecosystems and natural resources may suffer from overuse or exploitation. To mitigate these effects, it is important to promote sustainable practices such as waste management, energy conservation, and responsible use of natural resources.

Another aspect that generates mixed feelings towards tourism is its impact on local culture. Some locals feel that tourism can lead to the commodification and commercialization of their traditions and heritage. They worry that their cultural practices may be distorted or diluted to cater to the tourist demand. To address this, it is essential to promote cultural preservation and authenticity. Encouraging tourists to engage in respectful and responsible cultural interactions can help foster a mutual appreciation and understanding.

Furthermore, the economic benefits of tourism are not always evenly distributed among the local community. Some locals may feel excluded or marginalized from the tourism industry, particularly if it is dominated by large corporations or foreign investors. To promote a more inclusive and sustainable tourism model, it is crucial to involve and empower local communities. This can be done through the development of community-based tourism initiatives, where locals have a direct involvement and benefit from the tourism activities.

In conclusion, while tourism can bring economic opportunities, it is important to address the mixed feelings towards its impact on the environment, culture, and local communities. The promotion of sustainable practices, cultural preservation, and community involvement are key to ensuring that tourism benefits everyone involved and contributes to the overall well-being of a destination.

Community engagement plays a significant role in the tourism industry, as it helps to foster positive relationships between tourists and local communities. When tourists actively engage with the local community, it not only enhances their travel experience but also contributes to the sustainable development of the destination.

Mixed feelings towards tourism are not uncommon among locals. While tourism brings economic benefits and job opportunities, it can also result in various challenges and negative impacts. Some locals may feel overwhelmed by the influx of tourists, leading to overcrowding, increased prices, and a loss of authentic cultural experiences.

However, community engagement can help address these concerns and create a more balanced approach to tourism. By involving locals in decision-making processes, tourism can be managed in a way that respects the needs and aspirations of the community. This can lead to the development of sustainable tourism practices that benefit both tourists and locals.

Additionally, community engagement allows locals to showcase their unique culture, traditions, and heritage to tourists. It provides an opportunity for cultural exchange and learning, fostering mutual understanding and respect. Through interacting with locals, tourists can gain a deeper appreciation for the destination and its people.

In conclusion, community engagement is vital for addressing the mixed feelings towards tourism among locals. By actively involving the local community in tourism development, it is possible to create a more sustainable and mutually beneficial relationship between tourists and locals.

Educational and cultural exchange is an integral aspect of the tourism industry that often evokes mixed feelings among locals. On one hand, locals recognize the potential benefits of tourism in terms of learning about different cultures, traditions, and ideas. Through interactions with tourists, locals have the opportunity to broaden their horizons, gain new perspectives, and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.

Tourism can serve as a platform for educational and cultural exchange, allowing locals to share their knowledge, customs, and heritage with visitors. This exchange of information and experiences can foster mutual respect and appreciation between tourists and locals, creating a sense of unity and global interconnectedness.

However, there are also concerns and reservations surrounding the impact of tourism on local culture and way of life. Some locals fear that tourism may lead to the commodification and commercialization of their traditions and practices. They worry that the influx of tourists may dilute their cultural authenticity or distort their customs for the sake of entertainment and profit.

Additionally, the rapid growth of tourism can put strain on local resources and infrastructure, leading to overcrowding, environmental degradation, and increased cost of living for locals. This can create a sense of resentment and frustration among some locals, who feel that their needs and priorities are being overshadowed by the demands of the tourism industry.

In conclusion, educational and cultural exchange is a double-edged sword for locals when it comes to tourism. While it offers opportunities for personal growth and intercultural understanding, it also poses challenges in terms of preserving cultural heritage and maintaining a balanced relationship between tourists and locals.

Although tourism brings numerous benefits to a destination, it is not without negative consequences. Locals often have mixed feelings towards tourism due to several reasons.

One major concern is the impact on the environment. The influx of tourists can lead to increased pollution, deforestation, and destruction of natural habitats. Popular tourist spots may experience overcrowding, leading to the degradation of the ecosystem and loss of biodiversity. The excessive use of resources, such as water and energy, by hotels and other tourism-related infrastructure can also put a strain on the local environment.

Another negative consequence is the commodification of local culture. As tourism develops, there is a risk of traditional customs and practices being diluted or even exploited for commercial gain. Some locals may feel that their cultural heritage is being commodified and packaged solely for the entertainment of tourists, leading to a loss of authenticity and identity.

Furthermore, tourism can contribute to economic disparities within a community. While some individuals and businesses benefit from the influx of tourists, others may struggle to compete or even be pushed out of the market. This can result in widening income gaps and increased socio-economic inequality among the local population.

In addition, the behavior of certain tourists can also contribute to negative experiences for locals. Disrespectful behavior, such as littering, vandalism, or cultural insensitivity, can create tensions and resentment among the community. This can lead to a strained relationship between locals and tourists, affecting the overall perception of tourism.

It is important to address these negative consequences to ensure sustainable and responsible tourism. By implementing measures to protect the environment, preserve local culture, and promote equitable distribution of economic benefits, communities can mitigate the adverse effects of tourism while still reaping its advantages.

In conclusion, the perspectives and feelings of locals towards tourism can vary greatly. While some may embrace the positive impacts it brings, others may have concerns about the potential negative effects on their community and way of life. It is important to consider and respect the opinions of locals when developing and managing tourism initiatives to ensure a sustainable and mutually beneficial relationship between tourists and the local community.

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Justina Marceau

This article is such an eye-opener! Its fascinating to read about the different perspectives and opinions of locals regarding tourism. Its clear that there is a wide range of viewpoints, and its important for us as visitors to be respectful and considerate of the local community. Understanding their thoughts and concerns can help us have a more meaningful and responsible travel experience. Thank you for sharing this valuable insight!

Reading this article has truly opened my eyes to the range of perspectives on tourism held by the locals. It is enlightening to see such diverse opinions and viewpoints, as it highlights the complex relationship between tourism and the community. Understanding the concerns, benefits, and overall sentiments expressed by the locals is crucial for creating a sustainable and respectful tourism industry. This article serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the local attitudes towards tourism.

Anjela Rosecan

Wow, this article really takes tourism to a whole new level! Its like entering a world of opinions where locals become the ultimate tour guides. From Tourists, we love you! to Tourists, please give us a break!, its a rollercoaster ride of perspectives. Who knew that tourism could stir up such passionate feelings? Its like witnessing a heated debate between a travel enthusiast and a grumpy local, all while munching on some popcorn. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy this fascinating collection of viewpoints. Just remember to bring your sense of humor and an open mind!

Morgana Terri

Haha, well, isnt tourism a bit like the weather? You never know what youre gonna get! Its fascinating to see how locals have such a wide range of opinions on this topic. Some might greet tourists with open arms, ready to share their culture and show off their favorite spots. Others might be like, Tourists? No thanks, Ill pass! Its like a real-life game of Love it or Hate it: Tourism Edition. Cant wait to delve into this article and see what these locals have to say about the rollercoaster ride that is tourism!

Imogene Stuppy

Thank you for sharing this insightful article! Its fascinating to discover the diverse opinions and viewpoints of locals towards tourism. Understanding the perspectives of the local community is crucial for businesses in the tourism industry to create sustainable and mutually beneficial experiences. This article provides valuable insights that can help us shape our approach to tourism and ensure we contribute positively to the communities we serve.

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What is the impact of tourism?

Benefits and problems of tourism Tourism can bring both benefits and problems to an area.

Positive effects of tourism include:

• Creates employment opportunities for local people
• Promotes cultural awareness and can help preserve local culture and traditions e.g. Masai Mara in Kenya
• Income from tourists can be used to develop local infrastructure and services e.g. new roads and airports. In LEDCs  money can be spent on developing access to education, clean water and sanitation
• Foreign currency can help local people
• Natural features that attract tourists in the first place can be protected using income from tourism

The negative effects of tourism include:

• Tourism can have a negative environmental impact . This is at a range of scales. The increase in air travel has contributed towards increased carbon dioxide emissions. On a local level natural features that attract tourists are themselves under threat due to human actions
• often local people are employed in low skill, poorly paid work in unsatisfactory working conditions
• travel agents, airline companies and hoteliers benefit more than local companies when holidays are booked to destinations in LEDCs companies based in MEDCs set up luxury hotels in LEDCs. The profits usually return to MEDCs. They also create more competition for locally run guest houses
• destroys local culture and traditions as areas becomes more westernised

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Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure pp 1–11 Cite as

Overtourism Effects: Positive and Negative Impacts for Sustainable Development

• Ivana Damnjanović 7  
• Living reference work entry
• First Online: 02 October 2020

257 Accesses

1 Citations

Part of the book series: Encyclopedia of the UN Sustainable Development Goals ((ENUNSDG))

Responsible tourism ; Tourism overcrowding ; Tourism-phobia ; Tourist-phobia

Definitions

Tourism today is paradoxically dominated by two opposite aspects: its sustainable character and overtourism. Since its creation by Skift in 2016 (Ali 2016 ), the term “overtourism” has been a buzzword in media and academic circles, although it may only be a new word for a problem discussed over the past three decades.

Overtourism is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon destructive to tourism resources and harmful to destination communities’ well-being through overcrowding and overuse (Center for Responsible Travel 2018 ; International Ecotourism Society 2019 ) as certain locations at times cannot withstand physical, ecological, social, economic, psychological, and/or political pressures of tourism (Peeters et al. 2018 ). Overtourism is predominantly a problem producing deteriorated quality of life of local communities (Responsible Tourism n.d. ; The International Ecotourism Society 2019 ; UNWTO 2018...

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Damnjanović, I. (2020). Overtourism Effects: Positive and Negative Impacts for Sustainable Development. In: Leal Filho, W., Azul, A.M., Brandli, L., Lange Salvia, A., Wall, T. (eds) Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure. Encyclopedia of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-71059-4_112-1

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10 Economic impacts of tourism + explanations + examples

Disclaimer: Some posts on Tourism Teacher may contain affiliate links. If you appreciate this content, you can show your support by making a purchase through these links or by buying me a coffee . Thank you for your support!

There are many economic impacts of tourism, and it is important that we understand what they are and how we can maximise the positive economic impacts of tourism and minimise the negative economic impacts of tourism.

Many argue that the tourism industry is the largest industry in the world. While its actual value is difficult to accurately determine, the economic potential of the tourism industry is indisputable. In fact, it is because of the positive economic impacts that most destinations embark on their tourism journey.

There is, however, more than meets the eye in most cases. The positive economic impacts of tourism are often not as significant as anticipated. Furthermore, tourism activity tends to bring with it unwanted and often unexpected negative economic impacts of tourism.

In this article I will discuss the importance of understanding the economic impacts of tourism and what the economic impacts of tourism might be. A range of positive and negative impacts are discussed and case studies are provided.

At the end of the post I have provided some additional reading on the economic impacts of tourism for tourism stakeholders , students and those who are interested in learning more.

 Foreign exchange earnings

Contribution to government revenues, employment generation, contribution to local economies, development of the private sector, infrastructure cost, increase in prices, economic dependence of the local community on tourism, foreign ownership and management, economic impacts of tourism: conclusion, further reading on the economic impacts of tourism, the economic impacts of tourism: why governments invest.

Tourism brings with it huge economic potential for a destination that wishes to develop their tourism industry. Employment, currency exchange, imports and taxes are just a few of the ways that tourism can bring money into a destination.

In recent years, tourism numbers have increased globally at exponential rates, as shown in the World Tourism Organisation data below.

There are a number of reasons for this growth including improvements in technology, increases in disposable income, the growth of budget airlines and consumer desires to travel further, to new destinations and more often.

Here are a few facts about the economic importance of the tourism industry globally:

• The tourism economy represents 5 percent of world GDP
• Tourism contributes to 6-7 percent of total employment
• International tourism ranks fourth (after fuels, chemicals and automotive products) in global exports
• The tourism industry is valued at US$1trillion a year
• Tourism accounts for 30 percent of the world’s exports of commercial services
• Tourism accounts for 6 percent of total exports
• 1.4billion international tourists were recorded in 2018 (UNWTO)
• In over 150 countries, tourism is one of five top export earners
• Tourism is the main source of foreign exchange for one-third of developing countries and one-half of less economically developed countries (LEDCs)

There is a wealth of data about the economic value of tourism worldwide, with lots of handy graphs and charts in the United Nations Economic Impact Report .

In short, tourism is an example of an economic policy pursued by governments because:

•      it brings in foreign exchange
•      it generates employment
•      it creates economic activity

Building and developing a tourism industry, however, involves a lot of initial and ongoing expenditure. The airport may need expanding. The beaches need to be regularly cleaned. New roads may need to be built. All of this takes money, which is usually a financial outlay required by the Government.

For governments, decisions have to be made regarding their expenditure. They must ask questions such as:

How much money should be spent on the provision of social services such as health, education, housing?

How much should be spent on building new tourism facilities or maintaining existing ones?

If financial investment and resources are provided for tourism, the issue of opportunity costs arises.

By opportunity costs, I mean that by spending money on tourism, money will not be spent somewhere else. Think of it like this- we all have a specified amount of money and when it runs out, it runs out. If we decide to buy the new shoes instead of going out for dinner than we might look great, but have nowhere to go…!

In tourism, this means that the money and resources that are used for one purpose may not then be available to be used for other purposes. Some destinations have been known to spend more money on tourism than on providing education or healthcare for the people who live there, for example.

This can be said for other stakeholders of the tourism industry too.

There are a number of independent, franchised or multinational investors who play an important role in the industry. They may own hotels, roads or land amongst other aspects that are important players in the overall success of the tourism industry. Many businesses and individuals will take out loans to help fund their initial ventures.

So investing in tourism is big business, that much is clear. What what are the positive and negative impacts of this?

Positive economic impacts of tourism

So what are the positive economic impacts of tourism? As I explained, most destinations choose to invest their time and money into tourism because of the positive economic impacts that they hope to achieve. There are a range of possible positive economic impacts. I will explain the most common economic benefits of tourism below.

One of the biggest benefits of tourism is the ability to make money through foreign exchange earnings.

Tourism expenditures generate income to the host economy. The money that the country makes from tourism can then be reinvested in the economy. How a destination manages their finances differs around the world; some destinations may spend this money on growing their tourism industry further, some may spend this money on public services such as education or healthcare and some destinations suffer extreme corruption so nobody really knows where the money ends up!

Some currencies are worth more than others and so some countries will target tourists from particular areas. I remember when I visited Goa and somebody helped to carry my luggage at the airport. I wanted to give them a small tip and handed them some Rupees only to be told that the young man would prefer a British Pound!

Currencies that are strong are generally the most desirable currencies. This typically includes the British Pound, American, Australian and Singapore Dollar and the Euro .

Tourism is one of the top five export categories for as many as 83% of countries and is a main source of foreign exchange earnings for at least 38% of countries.

Tourism can help to raise money that it then invested elsewhere by the Government. There are two main ways that this money is accumulated.

Direct contributions are generated by taxes on incomes from tourism employment and tourism businesses and things such as departure taxes.

Taxes differ considerably between destinations. I will never forget the first time that I was asked to pay a departure tax (I had never heard of it before then), because I was on my way home from a six month backpacking trip and I was almost out of money!

Japan is known for its high departure taxes. Here is a video by a travel blogger explaining how it works.

According to the World Tourism Organisation, the direct contribution of Travel & Tourism to GDP in 2018 was $2,750.7billion (3.2% of GDP). This is forecast to rise by 3.6% to $2,849.2billion in 2019.

Indirect contributions come from goods and services supplied to tourists which are not directly related to the tourism industry.

Take food, for example. A tourist may buy food at a local supermarket. The supermarket is not directly associated with tourism, but if it wasn’t for tourism its revenues wouldn’t be as high because the tourists would not shop there.

There is also the income that is generated through induced contributions . This accounts for money spent by the people who are employed in the tourism industry. This might include costs for housing, food, clothing and leisure Activities amongst others. This will all contribute to an increase in economic activity in the area where tourism is being developed.

The rapid expansion of international tourism has led to significant employment creation. From hotel managers to theme park operatives to cleaners, tourism creates many employment opportunities. Tourism supports some 7% of the world’s workers.

There are two types of employment in the tourism industry: direct and indirect.

Direct employment includes jobs that are immediately associated with the tourism industry. This might include hotel staff, restaurant staff or taxi drivers, to name a few.

Indirect employment includes jobs which are not technically based in the tourism industry, but are related to the tourism industry. Take a fisherman, for example. He does not have any contact of dealings with tourists. BUT he does sell his fish to the hotel which serves tourists. So he is indirectly employed by the tourism industry, because without the tourists he would not be supplying the fish to the hotel.

It is because of these indirect relationships, that it is very difficult to accurately measure the economic value of tourism.

It is also difficult to say how many people are employed, directly and indirectly, within the tourism industry.

Furthermore, many informal employments may not be officially accounted for. Think tut tut driver in Cambodia or street seller in The Gambia – these people are not likely to be registered by the state and therefore their earnings are not declared.

It is for this reason that some suggest that the actual economic benefits of tourism may be as high as double that of the recorded figures!

All of the money raised, whether through formal or informal means, has the potential to contribute to the local economy.

If sustainable tourism is demonstrated, money will be directed to areas that will benefit the local community most.

There may be pro-poor tourism initiatives (tourism which is intended to help the poor) or volunteer tourism projects.

The government may reinvest money towards public services and money earned by tourism employees will be spent in the local community. This is known as the multiplier effect.

The multiplier effect relates to spending in one place creating economic benefits elsewhere. Tourism can do wonders for a destination in areas that may seem to be completely unrelated to tourism, but which are actually connected somewhere in the economic system.

Let me give you an example.

A tourist buys an omelet and a glass of orange juice for their breakfast in the restaurant of their hotel. This simple transaction actually has a significant multiplier effect. Below I have listed just a few of the effects of the tourist buying this breakfast.

The waiter is paid a salary- he spends his salary on schooling for his kids- the school has more money to spend on equipment- the standard of education at the school increases- the kids graduate with better qualifications- as adults, they secure better paying jobs- they can then spend more money in the local community…

The restaurant purchases eggs from a local farmer- the farmer uses that money to buy some more chickens- the chicken breeder uses that money to improve the standards of their cages, meaning that the chickens are healthier, live longer and lay more eggs- they can now sell the chickens for a higher price- the increased money made means that they can hire an extra employee- the employee spends his income in the local community…

The restaurant purchase the oranges from a local supplier- the supplier uses this money to pay the lorry driver who transports the oranges- the lorry driver pays road tax- the Government uses said road tax income to fix pot holes in the road- the improved roads make journeys quicker for the local community…

So as you can see, that breakfast that the tourist probably gave not another thought to after taking his last mouthful of egg, actually had the potential to have a significant economic impact on the local community!

The private sector has continuously developed within the tourism industry and owning a business within the private sector can be extremely profitable; making this a positive economic impact of tourism.

Whilst many businesses that you will come across are multinational, internationally-owned organisations (which contribute towards economic leakage ).

Many are also owned by the local community. This is the case even more so in recent years due to the rise in the popularity of the sharing economy and the likes of Airbnb and Uber, which encourage the growth of businesses within the local community.

Every destination is different with regards to how they manage the development of the private sector in tourism.

Some destinations do not allow multinational organisations for fear that they will steal business and thus profits away from local people. I have seen this myself in Italy when I was in search of a Starbucks mug for my collection , only to find that Italy has not allowed the company to open up any shops in their country because they are very proud of their individually-owned coffee shops.

Negative economic impacts of tourism

Unfortunately, the tourism industry doesn’t always smell of roses and there are also several negative economic impacts of tourism.

There are many hidden costs to tourism, which can have unfavourable economic effects on the host community.

Whilst such negative impacts are well documented in the tourism literature, many tourists are unaware of the negative effects that their actions may cause. Likewise, many destinations who are inexperienced or uneducated in tourism and economics may not be aware of the problems that can occur if tourism is not management properly.

Below, I will outline the most prominent negative economic impacts of tourism.

Economic leakage in tourism is one of the major negative economic impacts of tourism. This is when money spent does not remain in the country but ends up elsewhere; therefore limiting the economic benefits of tourism to the host destination.

The biggest culprits of economic leakage are multinational and internationally-owned corporations, all-inclusive holidays and enclave tourism.

I have written a detailed post on the concept of economic leakage in tourism, you can take a look here- Economic leakage in tourism explained .

Another one of the negative economic impacts of tourism is the cost of infrastructure. Tourism development can cost the local government and local taxpayers a great deal of money.

Tourism may require the government to improve the airport, roads and other infrastructure, which are costly. The development of the third runway at London Heathrow, for example, is estimated to cost £18.6billion!

Money spent in these areas may reduce government money needed in other critical areas such as education and health, as I outlined previously in my discussion on opportunity costs.

One of the most obvious economic impacts of tourism is that the very presence of tourism increases prices in the local area.

Have you ever tried to buy a can of Coke in the supermarket in your hotel? Or the bar on the beachfront? Walk five minutes down the road and try buying that same can in a local shop- I promise you, in the majority of cases you will see a BIG difference In cost! (For more travel hacks like this subscribe to my newsletter – I send out lots of tips, tricks and coupons!)

Increasing demand for basic services and goods from tourists will often cause price hikes that negatively impact local residents whose income does not increase proportionately.

Tourism development and the related rise in real estate demand may dramatically increase building costs and land values. This often means that local people will be forced to move away from the area that tourism is located, known as gentrification.

Taking measures to ensure that tourism is managed sustainably can help to mitigate this negative economic impact of tourism. Techniques such as employing only local people, limiting the number of all-inclusive hotels and encouraging the purchasing of local products and services can all help.

Another one of the major economic impacts of tourism is dependency. Many countries run the risk of becoming too dependant on tourism. The country sees $ signs and places all of its efforts in tourism. Whilst this can work out well, it is also risky business!

If for some reason tourism begins to lack in a destination, then it is important that the destination has alternative methods of making money. If they don’t, then they run the risk of being in severe financial difficulty if there is a decline in their tourism industry.

In The Gambia, for instance, 30% of the workforce depends directly or indirectly on tourism. In small island developing states, percentages can range from 83% in the Maldives to 21% in the Seychelles and 34% in Jamaica.

There are a number of reasons that tourism could decline in a destination.

The Gambia has experienced this just recently when they had a double hit on their tourism industry. The first hit was due to political instability in the country, which has put many tourists off visiting, and the second was when airline Monarch went bust, as they had a large market share in flights to The Gambia.

Other issues that could result in a decline in tourism includes economic recession, natural disasters and changing tourism patterns. Over-reliance on tourism carries risks to tourism-dependent economies, which can have devastating consequences.

The last of the negative economic impacts of tourism that I will discuss is that of foreign ownership and management.

As enterprise in the developed world becomes increasingly expensive, many businesses choose to go abroad. Whilst this may save the business money, it is usually not so beneficial for the economy of the host destination.

Foreign companies often bring with them their own staff, thus limiting the economic impact of increased employment. They will usually also export a large proportion of their income to the country where they are based. You can read more on this in my post on economic leakage in tourism .

As I have demonstrated in this post, tourism is a significant economic driver the world over. However, not all economic impacts of tourism are positive. In order to ensure that the economic impacts of tourism are maximised, careful management of the tourism industry is required.

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Chapter 1. History and Overview

1.5 Impacts of Tourism

As you can already see, the impacts of the global tourism industry today are impressive and far reaching. Let’s have a closer look at some of these outcomes.

Tourism Impacts

Tourism can generate positive or negative impacts under three main categories: economic, social, and environmental. These impacts are analyzed using data gathered by businesses, governments, and industry organizations.

Economic Impacts

According to the 2019 edition of the UNWTO International Tourism Highlights report , international tourist arrivals reached 1.4 billion, a 5% increase in 2018. UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili stated that the sheer growth of the industry was driven by a strong global economy, surge of the travel-ready middle class from emerging economies, technological advances, and more affordable travel costs among others (UNWTO, 2019). At the same time, the UNWTO (2019) reported export earnings from tourism, or the sum of international tourism receipts and passenger transport, reached a staggering USD 1.7 trillion. This demonstrates that the industry is a major economic engine of growth and development.

Europe has traditionally been the region with the highest tourism dollar spending with USD 570 billion, followed by Asia and the Pacific (USD 435 billion), the Americas (USD 334 billion), Middle East (USD 73 billion), and Africa (USD 38 billion). Asia has shown to have the strongest growths in both arrivals (+7%) and spending (+7%). Africa equally shared a +7% growth in arrivals, suggesting a new interest in travelling to the continent.

What are the trends that are motivating people to travel? The six consumer travel trends, according to the UNWTO (2019) include:

• Travel “to change” or focusing on more authentic travel, transformation, and living like a local.
• Travel “to show” or capturing “instagramable” moments, experiences, and visiting selfie-worthy destinations.
• Pursuit of a healthy life or engaging into active travel that involves walking, wellness, and sports tourism.
• Rise of the “access” economy.
• Solo travel and multigenerational travel as a result of single households and an aging population.
• Rising awareness on travel with sustainable advocacies, thoughtful consideration about climate change impacts, and plastic-free travel.

Social Impacts

Because tourism experiences also involve human interaction, certain impacts may occur. Generally, social impacts in tourism are related to guest-to-host or host-to-guest influences and changes. Studies of these encounters often relate to the Social Exchange Theory, which describe how tourists and hosts’ behaviours change as a result of the perceived benefits and threats they create during interaction (Nunkoo, 2015).

Positive social impacts in tourism include learning about different cultures, increasing tolerance and inclusion through LGBTQ+ travel, increasing amenities (e.g., parks, recreation facilities), investment in arts and culture, celebration of Indigenous peoples , and community pride. When developed conscientiously, tourism can, and does, contribute to a positive quality of life for residents and a deeper learning and appreciation for tourists.

Unfortunately, tourism also has its shortcomings and is culpable for some detrimental impacts. However, as identified by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP, 2003a), negative social impacts of tourism can include:

• Change or loss of indigenous identity and values
• Culture clashes
• Physical causes of social stress (increased demand for resources)
• Ethical issues (such as an increase in sex tourism or the exploitation of child workers)

Some of these issues are explored in further detail in Chapter 12 , which examines the development of Indigenous tourism in British Columbia.

Environmental Impacts

Tourism relies on, and greatly impacts, the natural environment in which it operates. In many cases, the environment is an essential resource that outdoor recreation and ecotourism cannot exist without. Even though many areas of the world are conserved in the form of parks and protected areas, tourism development can still have severe negative impacts from misuse, overuse, and neglect. According to UNEP (2003b), these can include:

• Depletion of natural resources (water, forests, etc.)
• Pollution (air pollution, noise, sewage, waste and littering)
• Physical impacts (construction activities, marina development, trampling, loss of biodiversity)

The environmental impacts of tourism knows no boundaries and can reach outside local areas and have detrimental effects on the global ecosystem. One example is increased emissions from necessary tourism elements such as transportation. Air travel for instance, is a major contributor to climate change. Chapter 10 looks at the environmental impacts of tourism in more detail.

A overview of the negative and positive impacts:

Whether positive or negative, tourism is a force for change around the world that is capable of transforming the environment from micro- to macro-scales at a staggering rate.

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• Pride by Mercedes Mehling is licensed under an Unsplash Licence .

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1.6: Impacts of Tourism

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• Morgan Westcott & Wendy Anderson et al.

As you can already see, the impacts of the global tourism industry today are impressive and far reaching. Let’s have a closer look at some of these outcomes.

Tourism Impacts

Tourism can generate positive or negative impacts under three main categories: economic, social, and environmental. These impacts are analyzed using data gathered by businesses, governments, and industry organizations.

Economic Impacts

According to the 2019 edition of the UNWTO International Tourism Highlights report , international tourist arrivals reached 1.4 billion, a 5% increase in 2018. UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili stated that the sheer growth of the industry was driven by a strong global economy, surge of the travel-ready middle class from emerging economies, technological advances, and more affordable travel costs among others (UNWTO, 2019). At the same time, the UNWTO (2019) reported export earnings from tourism, or the sum of international tourism receipts and passenger transport, reached a staggering USD 1.7 trillion. This demonstrates that the industry is a major economic engine of growth and development.

Europe has traditionally been the region with the highest tourism dollar spending with USD 570 billion, followed by Asia and the Pacific (USD 435 billion), the Americas (USD 334 billion), Middle East (USD 73 billion), and Africa (USD 38 billion). Asia has shown to have the strongest growths in both arrivals (+7%) and spending (+7%). Africa equally shared a +7% growth in arrivals, suggesting a new interest in travelling to the continent.

What are the trends that are motivating people to travel? The six consumer travel trends, according to the UNWTO (2019) include:

• Travel “to change” or focusing on more authentic travel, transformation, and living like a local.
• Travel “to show” or capturing “instagramable” moments, experiences, and visiting selfie-worthy destinations.
• Pursuit of a healthy life or engaging into active travel that involves walking, wellness, and sports tourism.
• Rise of the “access” economy.
• Solo travel and multigenerational travel as a result of single households and an aging population.
• Rising awareness on travel with sustainable advocacies, thoughtful consideration about climate change impacts, and plastic-free travel.

Social Impacts

Because tourism experiences also involve human interaction, certain impacts may occur. Generally, social impacts in tourism are related to guest-to-host or host-to-guest influences and changes. Studies of these encounters often relate to the Social Exchange Theory, which describe how tourists and hosts’ behaviours change as a result of the perceived benefits and threats they create during interaction (Nunkoo, 2015).

Positive social impacts in tourism include learning about different cultures, increasing tolerance and inclusion through LGBTQ+ travel, increasing amenities (e.g., parks, recreation facilities), investment in arts and culture, celebration of Indigenous peoples, and community pride. When developed conscientiously, tourism can, and does, contribute to a positive quality of life for residents and a deeper learning and appreciation for tourists.

Unfortunately, tourism also has its shortcomings and is culpable for some detrimental impacts. However, as identified by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP, 2003a), negative social impacts of tourism can include:

• Change or loss of indigenous identity and values
• Culture clashes
• Physical causes of social stress (increased demand for resources)
• Ethical issues (such as an increase in sex tourism or the exploitation of child workers)

Some of these issues are explored in further detail in Chapter 12, which examines the development of Indigenous tourism in British Columbia.

Environmental Impacts

Tourism relies on, and greatly impacts, the natural environment in which it operates. In many cases, the environment is an essential resource that outdoor recreation and ecotourism cannot exist without. Even though many areas of the world are conserved in the form of parks and protected areas, tourism development can still have severe negative impacts from misuse, overuse, and neglect. According to UNEP (2003b), these can include:

• Depletion of natural resources (water, forests, etc.)
• Pollution (air pollution, noise, sewage, waste and littering)
• Physical impacts (construction activities, marina development, trampling, loss of biodiversity)

The environmental impacts of tourism knows no boundaries and can reach outside local areas and have detrimental effects on the global ecosystem. One example is increased emissions from necessary tourism elements such as transportation. Air travel for instance, is a major contributor to climate change. Chapter 10 looks at the environmental impacts of tourism in more detail.

Whether positive or negative, tourism is a force for change around the world that is capable of transforming the environment from micro- to macro-scales at a staggering rate.

Pros and Cons of Tourism

Be it Niagara Falls, The Grand Canyon, or the Amazon Rainforest, these places have numerous reasons to attract tourists every year. Tourists love to visit such spots looking for fun, amusement, and even finding peace of mind. Tourism has turned into a thriving industry in many countries. Governments and local communities reap the benefits of tourism in many different ways. But those advantages come with certain risks as well. However, like everything else, there are pros and cons of tourism . You should be taking a closer look at the good and the bad of tourism before you set a vacation schedule alone or with your friends and families.

What are the Pros of Tourism?

In 2021, tourism to Grand Canyon National Park made a significant contribution of $710 million to the local economy, reports National Park Service.

1. Economic Boost

Tourism is a significant contributor to the economy of a country. By attracting tourists, nations can create sustainable revenue streams, generate job opportunities, and boost growth across several sectors. According to a report by NPS, the park welcomed approximately 4.5 million visitors to the Grand Canyon, spending an estimated $710 million in the surrounding gateway regions.

2. Cultural Exchange

Travel can bring people together and provide a unique opportunity to share ideas and experiences. Travelers often have an open mind about different cultures and customs, so they are eager to explore new places. This type of exchange can break down cultural barriers between countries by allowing each party to understand the other's culture better. This exchange of cultural values can be counted as one of the major advantages of tourism.

3. Environmental Conservation

All natural heritages are tourist spots, and people come to admire the view. One of the significant advantages of tourism is that it can help protect and preserve the environment. Local governments can invest the revenue generated by tourism for the betterment of environmentally sensitive regions and areas with fragile ecosystems.

4. Improved Infrastructure is Among the Pros of Tourism

With the influx of tourists, countries can consider upgrading their infrastructure to accommodate visitors' needs. This includes constructing new airports, roads, accommodations, and public facilities such as parks and museums. This positive change can be felt both by the tourists and the inhabitants.

5. Global Recognition

Tourism is an essential part of many countries economies, and it can also provide significant global recognition for the destination. A well-designed tourism strategy that attracts a high volume of international visitors can bring in foreign money, create jobs, and help to develop infrastructure. It also raises awareness about an area, leading to increased interest from the rest of the world.

What are the Cons of Tourism?

Besides the positive changes, tourism also has its share of downsides. Most of the cons of the tourism industry are associated with the misuse of natural resources. Some of the other problems with tourism include:

1. Environmental Damage

Tourism can lead to environmental damage in many ways. For example, it can impact water resources through increased water and wastewater production demand. It can also add to pollution by generating emissions from transportation as visitors travel around the area. Additionally, tourists may increase pressure on local land resources, leading to deforestation and loss of habitats for native species.

2. Displaced Communities

Tourism often brings economic benefits to local communities. Still, when done in a way that does not consider the local community's needs and aspirations, it can cause displacement. Communities may be displaced from their traditional lands or homes, pushing them away from the resources they need for subsistence. This can be particularly detrimental if these resources are already scarce or difficult to access.

3. Cultural Erosion

Cultural Erosion is one of the most dreaded cons of tourism. A tourist destination with a distinct local culture is prone to changes due to the influx of tourists. The more tourism activities are higher the chances of community displacement.

This phenomenon is often compounded by the fact that many tourists come from cultures very different to those of the local community, and their presence can lead to a sudden change in cultural values. This rapid transition can significantly damage a community as its members may no longer feel represented or respected.

4. Economic Dependence

The COVID-19 pandemic best explains how tourism can suddenly burden an economy. As the pandemic wiped out all income for many countries' businesses, many had to rely heavily on government support and bailouts as their primary sources of revenue. This has resulted in rising debts due to emergency aid distributions and other fiscal measures associated with relief during this crisis.

5. Overcrowding

Visiting a particular area can harm the environment and local culture as tourism grows. One of the main disadvantages of tourism is overcrowding, which can strain resources, increase pollution, and damage natural habitats.

Overcrowding can decrease the quality of life for residents, as tourists take up public space and resources. It can also affect the health and safety of visitors who may be exposed to increased levels of crime or air pollution.

Conclusion on the Pros and Cons of Tourism

The pros and cons of tourism are complex if you evaluate them thoroughly. It is easy to see that people benefit from increased access to new cultures, experiences, and destinations.

On the other hand, there are real risks associated with tourist activities like over-tourism and the destruction of natural spaces. Therefore, it's up to individuals to assess these impacts on their own terms. It's up to every citizen to become responsible travelers who understand tourism's positive and negative effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the cons of tourism.

Tourism frequently exerts excessive strain on natural resources due to overconsumption, particularly in areas with limited resources. It places immense pressure on local land utilization, resulting in soil erosion, heightened pollution levels, loss of natural habitats, and increased jeopardy for endangered species.

What are the pros of tourism?

It fosters job creation, bolsters the local economy, facilitates infrastructure development, preserves the natural environment and cultural heritage, and works towards alleviating poverty and inequality.

What are the social benefits of tourism?

Tourism brings forth numerous social benefits, showcasing its positive impacts on society. These encompass the preservation of local culture and heritage, the fostering of vibrant communities, the provision of essential social services, the promotion of cultural and artistic commerce, the revitalization of customs and art forms, as well as the safeguarding of our precious heritage.

Who does tourism help?

Tourists contribute to the local economy by spending their money, leading to job creation and economic growth. This support is particularly crucial for small businesses, which often struggle to generate substantial profits.

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Positive and negative impacts of tourism

This article aims to explore some of the positive and negative impacts of tourism on the economy, infrastructure, culture, and environment of a country. Tourism is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world. Mostly developed nations used to benefit from tourism in the past; however, developing nations are now-a-days becoming popular destinations as well. Tourism creates employment opportunities for local people and contributes to the GDP of a country. However, mass tourism (when large numbers of tourists go to one place) has both positive and negative impacts on the country.

Positive and negative impacts of tourism on economy

Tourism can have several positive and negative impacts on the economy of a country. For instance, it creates employment opportunities that benefit local people. According to the 2017 Economic Impact Report by the World Travel & Tourism Council, cited in Farr (2018), 1 out of 10 jobs worldwide is created by tourism. However, many jobs in the tourism industry have been criticised as they are usually seasonal and poorly paid. Many people engaged in this industry find themselves unemployed during the off-peak seasons.

There is no doubt that tourism generates money for a country. However, what is the percentage of a tourist’s holiday expenditure that contributes to the local economy? The answer is shocking, as according to the UNEP, for every $100 spent by a tourist on a holiday in a developing nation, only $5 stays in the host community. 95% of a tourist spending goes out of the country to overseas companies that are owners of hotels, restaurants, piers, and other facilities in the destination.

Global sporting events such as the Olympics, World Cup Football, World Cup Cricket, and others can benefit a destination by attracting the attention of global visitors. Large numbers of spectators visit the destination and inject substantial amount of money into the local economy. However, mega events often disrupt the day to day lives of local people.

Positive and negative impacts of tourism on culture

Both tourists and locals can benefit from each other culturally. Their mutual interactions offer opportunities for better understanding and removing any misconceptions and prejudices as in the words of the famous American writer, and humourist Mark Twain ‘Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness…’ However, there is also a risk that both tourists and locals may hurt each other feelings due to a lack of understanding.

Positive and negative impacts of tourism on infrastructure

Through private and public initiatives, a destination may see a lot of infrastructural development. New roads, houses, hotels, restaurants, and other facilities are developed to cater for the needs of the visitors. However, mass tourism is often a cause of overcrowding and traffic jams that disrupt the lives of local people. Many attractions and the infrastructure of the destination may also suffer wear and tear due to heavy tourist presence and movements. Similarly, many local may be pushed out of towns or houses so hotels, highways or other industrial buildings can be built to support rampant tourism development.

Positive and negative impacts of tourism on environment

A host destination can spend money generated from tourism on protecting natural attractions. However, mass tourism has often been blamed for bringing damages to the natural environment in the forms of air pollution, noise pollution, footpath erosion, littering, and others (BBC, 2019). Likewise, unplanned construction of tourist facilities such as hotels, cafes, restaurants, etc. in a destination without appropriate provision for safe disposal of sewage, can damage the environment severely.

We hope the article ‘Positive and negative impacts of tourism’ has been helpful. You may also like reading Impact of Tourism and Factors affecting tourism demand . Other relevant articles for you are:

Sustainable tourism

Stakeholders in tourism development

SWOT analysis of Emirates Airline

Marketing mix of Pepsi (PepsiCo)

PESTEL analysis of the UK

Ecotourism – definition and characteristics

Enclave tourism – definition and characteristics

Different types of business within the hospitality industry

If you liked any of these articles, please feel free to share with others by clicking on the icons below. Also enter your email address at the bottom of the site to ‘Join us’ free for our newly published articles and newsletters.

Last update: 23 August 2019

References/Further reading:

BBC (2019) Tourism, available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zqk7hyc/revision/3 (accessed 22 August 2019)

Farr, L. (2018) Positive & Negative Effects of Tourism, available at: https://traveltips.usatoday.com/positive-negative-effects-tourism-63336.html (accessed 20 August 2019)

Photo credit: Pixabay

Author: m rahman.

M Rahman writes extensively online and offline with an emphasis on business management, marketing, and tourism. He is a lecturer in Management and Marketing. He holds an MSc in Tourism & Hospitality from the University of Sunderland. Also, graduated from Leeds Metropolitan University with a BA in Business & Management Studies and completed a DTLLS (Diploma in Teaching in the Life-Long Learning Sector) from London South Bank University.

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Rising global temperatures are already affecting the tourism industry - here's how

From rising heat to rising seas, holiday hotspots the world over are at risk from climate change. Image:  Gaddafi Rusli on Unsplash

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Stay up to date:, travel and tourism.

Listen to the article

• Tourism is crucial to many economies, but rising global temperatures are putting parts of the industry at risk.
• The climate crisis is changing the face of many tourist destinations and is already making some holidaymakers rethink their plans.
• The World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on the Future of Sustainable Tourism is working to help the tourism sector build towards a more sustainable future.

Hot weather is what many people go on holiday for. But record global temperatures have been sending people home early from their vacations this July, raising questions about what kind of impact the climate crisis could have on the tourism sector – and on tourism-dependent economies.

Greece – where travel and tourism make up 15% of GDP – has had to evacuate over 2,000 holidaymakers after wildfires broke out on the island of Rhodes. Athens took the unprecedented step of closing its top tourist attraction, the Acropolis, after temperatures reached 45°C .

"The climate crisis is already here ,” said Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. “It will manifest itself everywhere in the Mediterranean with greater disasters."

Over in Italy, visitors to Rome have been returning home early because of the heatwave, while hospitals have faced a rise in the number of medical emergencies . Admissions at one hospital reached their highest since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Soaring temperatures have not just been ending holidays – they’ve even stopped some from getting started. This is because aircraft find it harder to get off the ground in hotter conditions, as it makes the air less dense .

US airlines flying out of Las Vegas – where temperatures hit 46°C – have consequently had to reduce passenger numbers, remove baggage, reduce the level of fuel they are carrying or delay flights until temperatures fall.

The impact of the climate crisis on tourism

The climate crisis has played an "absolutely overwhelming" part in the northern hemisphere heatwave , according to World Weather Attribution. And heatwaves will become hotter and longer unless the world quickly halts its use of fossil fuels, they say.

The tourism sector creates around a tenth of the greenhouse gas emissions that are driving the climate crisis , according to the World Travel & Tourism Council. Practically half of all transport emissions stem from global tourism, other studies say. And total emissions from tourism are forecast to rise by a quarter between 2016 and 2030, says the UN World Tourism Organization.

But the tourism industry and tourism-dependent economies are also highly vulnerable to the impacts of rising temperatures.

The Caribbean attracted over 28 million visitors in 2022 and its economy is more reliant on travel and tourism than any other region , according to the World Travel & Tourism Council. Tourism makes up around 90% of GDP in Aruba and the British Virgin Islands .

Yet these low-lying states are seeing sea levels rise almost 10% faster than the global average , according to the World Meteorological Association. The vast majority of holiday resorts in the Caribbean are coastal, leaving 60% of them at risk from sea level rise , according to the University of Cambridge.

Biodiversity damage

Coral bleaching and increasing droughts are already impacting the Caribbean’s tourism potential , the UK government notes.

Meanwhile, South-East Asia’s most popular costal destinations are suffering environmental damage from factors including pollution and overtourism . Thailand’s Maya Bay, Malaysia’s Sipadan Island and the Philippines’ Boraca Island are all being impacted, and some countries in the region are now closing tourist spots to give the most damaged areas time to recover , the Harvard School of Public Health notes.

“As the prime motivation for visitors to come to the region hinges on local landscapes, biodiversity, heritage and cultures, the sector’s survival depends on the ability to retain and preserve as much of these natural resources as possible,” The ASEAN Post reports.

The prospects of African safaris could also be hit by the climate crisis, which is forecast to lead to the loss of over half of the continent’s bird and mammal species by 2100 and trigger huge losses of plant species .

Measures are being taken to protect the continent’s natural bounties. The Seychelles islands off East Africa have added conservation guidlines to the national constitution – the first time a country has done so.

Sustainable, nature-based tourism is a potentially huge economic driver for Africa , and could create 40% more full-time jobs than agricutlure, the UN Environment Programme says.

High temperatures will change tourism patterns

Rising temperatures are likely to result in tourists travelling in spring and autumn rather than the summer , as well as opting for cooler destinations, Italy’s environment ministry says.

There has already been a 10% drop in the number of people planning to visit the Mediterranean in June-November this year following last year’s high temperatures, according to the European Travel Commission. It says tourists are considering trips to the Czech Republic, Denmark, Ireland and Bulgaria instead.

On top of this, “ large-scale land loss” is already eating into the Mediterranean’s beaches , according to Germany’s federal environment agency. One beach in Mallorca now has space for half the amount of huts it used to have, as well as fewer sun loungers, DW News reports.

The Global Risks Report 2023 ranked failure to mitigate climate change as one of the most severe threats in the next two years, while climate- and nature- related risks lead the rankings by severity over the long term.

The World Economic Forum’s Centre for Nature and Climate is a multistakeholder platform that seeks to safeguard our global commons and drive systems transformation. It is accelerating action on climate change towards a net-zero, nature-positive future.

Learn more about our impact:

• Scaling up green technologies: Through a partnership with the US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, John Kerry, and over 65 global businesses, the First Movers Coalition has committed $12 billion in purchase commitments for green technologies to decarbonize the cement and concrete industry.
• 1 trillion trees: Over 90 global companies have committed to conserve, restore and grow more than 8 billion trees in 65 countries through the 1t.org initiative – which aims to achieve 1 trillion trees by 2030.
• Sustainable food production: Our Food Action Alliance is engaging 40 partners who are working on 29 flagship initiatives to provide healthy, nutritious, and safe foods in ways that safeguard our planet. In Vietnam, it supported the upskilling of 2.2 million farmers and aims to provide 20 million farmers with the skills to learn and adapt to new agricultural standards.
• Eliminating plastic pollution: Our Global Plastic Action Partnership is bringing together governments, businesses and civil society to shape a more sustainable world through the eradication of plastic pollution. In Ghana, more than 2,000 waste pickers are making an impact cleaning up beaches, drains and other sites.
• Protecting the ocean: Our 2030 Water Resources Group has facilitated almost $1 billion to finance water-related programmes , growing into a network of more than 1,000 partners and operating in 14 countries/states.
• Circular economy: Our SCALE 360 initiative is reducing the environmental impacts of value chains within the fashion, food, plastics and electronics industries, positively impacting over 100,000 people in 60 circular economy interventions globally.

Want to know more about our centre’s impact or get involved? Contact us .

The spike in temperatures is also worrying the organizers of the 2024 Olympics Games in Paris . They are closely monitoring long-term weather models, with International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach saying the climate crisis is affecting how sporting events – a major driver of tourism – will be organized around the globe.

Colder climates are suffering, too

The Alps region attracts around 120 million tourists a year , and tourism is critical to the economies of many local towns. Skiing and snowboarding are top of many visitor lists, but rising global temperatures have reduced seasonal snow cover in the Alps by 8.4% per decade in the past 50 years.

Canada’s Whistler ski resort has responded to this by offering more snow-free activities – so much so that it now makes more money in summer, according to TIME magazine.

But adapting in this way is not an option for all tourism destinations, such as coastal resorts. With coastal tourism accounting for more than 60% of European holidays and more than 80% of US tourism revenues, the tourism industry and the countries that rely on it may need to urgently rethink the way they operate.

“In the coming years, the success of travel and tourism businesses and destinations will be increasingly tied to their ability to manage and operate under ever greater ecological and environmental threats,” says the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index .

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Sustainable tourism is one way to help protect countries and economies at risk from the climate crisis. It is also one of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals .

The UN 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".

This could include limiting tourist numbers (as is being done in Southern France to help protect ecosystems ), banning polluting forms of transports (as the Dutch capital Amsterdam is doing with cruise ships and the Spanish city of Barcelona is trying to do ).

Staying only in environmentally friendly resorts is another option. Some are ensuring they run on renewable power, harvest rainwater and cut waste.

Avoiding flying is another option. British eco-charity Possible is promoting this through its Climate Perks initiative . UK companies who sign up agree to give staff increased paid leave to cover the time needed for slower, greener modes of transport such as trains or coaches when they go on holiday.

Ditching planes is also part of the “slow travel” trend . It advocates dropping the “bucket list” approach of ticking off as many destinations as possible, with travellers instead staying in one place and experiencing a local culture more fully.

The World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on the Future of Sustainable Tourism is working to help the tourism sector create pathways towards net-zero, nature-positive tourism that benefits local communities.

“Diversifying tourism strategies and activities is essential for countries to build resilience against economic fluctuations, mitigate overreliance on a single industry, and foster sustainable development that benefits both the local communities and the environment,” says Topaz Smith, Community Lead for Aviation, Travel and Tourism at the World Economic Forum.

“Long-term planning is crucial for a more risk-resilient travel and tourism sector that anticipates and plans for future headwinds while maximizing development potential.”

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