why sustainable travel is important

What Is Sustainable Tourism and Why Is It Important?

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

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What Makes Tourism Sustainable?

The role of tourists, types of sustainable tourism.

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

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

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

What Is Sustainability?

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

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

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

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

Travel Tip:

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

Environment 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Local Culture and Residents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Are You a Sustainable Traveler?

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

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

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

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

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

Soft Tourism

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

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

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

Rural Tourism

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

Community Tourism

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

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

" 45 Arrivals Every Second ." The World Counts.

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

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

" GSTC Destination Criteria ." Global Sustainable Tourism Council.

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

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

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

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Protect Your Trip »

Sustainable travel: 6 ways to be an eco-conscious traveler.

Discover top things to consider while exploring the globe.

How to Be an Eco-Conscious Traveler

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There are plenty of ways to put sustainability in focus for your next vacation.

Finding sustainable ways to travel doesn't need to be burdensome. Sustainable travel is easier than you may think, whether you start by supporting local businesses or taking small steps to reduce your carbon footprint. One of the simplest things you can do is fly less, but there are so many different ways to be more intentional and responsible as you traverse the globe. This guide – with plenty of tips from U.S. News travel editors and sustainable travel experts – will help you make your future travels more sustainable and meaningful.

What is sustainable travel?

Traveling to new and exciting destinations, whether a stone's throw from home or on the other side of the world, can be a deeply rewarding experience. You have the opportunity to soak in new cultures and landscapes as you learn about the world around you – but you'll also want to consider how your visit may affect the places you go and the people who live there.

Sustainable travel means not only minimizing harm to the environment but also respecting and supporting local communities and economies. "It's not exploitative or degenerative to the host's culture, community, wildlife, ecosystem or economy," says Nora Livingstone, co-founder of Animal Experience International, a certified B Corporation that provides travelers with ethical animal-related experiences. "From the root of its name, it sustains."

Susanne Etti, global environmental impact manager at Intrepid Travel (an adventure travel company and certified B Corp), believes that great travel goes hand in hand with great responsibility. "Sustainable tourism is all about making simple choices to lessen your negative impact on a given destination," she explains. "It stresses the importance of reducing your carbon footprint and encourages travelers to step off the worn path and linger longer, respect cultural differences and invest in communities, reconnect with nature, and support organizations that are protecting the planet."

Why is sustainable travel important?

Sustainability matters just as much for travelers as it does for their host destinations. When you commit to more mindful travel, you help preserve awe-inspiring natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, not only for local citizens but also for future travelers.

"You may also have a more meaningful experience knowing that your impact on the place and people was a positive one," says Lindsey Lyons, director of sustainability learning at Dickinson College's Center for Sustainability Education.

Plus, it's important to consider sustainability as a way to protect attractions, scenic areas and destinations so that others may experience them in the decades ahead.

"Without a shift in focus to sustainable tourism, there would be little left of the places we want to visit," says Corey Determan, owner of the Bella Rose Travel agency, who has a master's degree in environmental education and 13 years of experience in ecotourism. "Implementing sustainable tourism practices ensures the survival of sensitive tourist destinations so that travelers may enjoy them for generations to come."

The choices you make while traveling have lasting effects. Opting to fly a short distance rather than take a train, for example, may save you a little bit of time – but perhaps not enough to make it worth the extra carbon emissions.

Traveling sustainably requires a balance of many factors, from your budget to the time you spend in transit. With even just a little extra planning, you can figure out what sustainable practices work best for you and how to incorporate them into your travels.

This guide will take you through tips for every step of the process, from choosing a destination to deciding what to pack.

Where to Go

Where to stay, what to pack, how to get there, what else to keep in mind.

Most trip planning begins with deciding where to go. There are many ways you can think sustainably at this step – examples include finding destinations focused on responsible tourism or exploring somewhere closer to home. Get ready to unearth some wonderful off-the-beaten-path locations.

Find places that promote sustainable tourism

One way to pick your travel destination is by consulting the Global Destination Sustainability Index rankings , which gives cities a sustainability score based on factors such as carbon emissions and public transport. Many Western European cities top the list, but there are places all over the world that focus on sustainability.

"The Azores, a Portuguese archipelago, has preserved 92% of the islands as green space and has a strong focus on renewable energy," says Elizabeth Von Tersch , a senior travel editor at U.S. News. " Victoria, British Columbia , is the first designated urban biosphere reserve in the U.S. or Canada and is going beyond net-zero emissions to become climate positive. Bhutan, the world's first carbon-negative country, enforces a sustainable development fee to preserve not only the environment but also Bhutan's people and culture."

As you're researching potential green destinations, look for signs that a place is committed to sustainability. "If a destination is focused on sustainable tourism, chances are this will be obvious in their marketing," Von Tersch advises. "But to avoid being a victim of deceptive greenwashing , make sure sustainability claims are supported with data and look for certifications from reputable groups like EarthCheck, Responsible Tourism Institute and Blue Flag (for beaches), among others."

Be mindful of overtourism

The world's most popular attractions are tourist hot spots for good reason – but too many visitors flocking to the same spot at the same time can strain fragile cultural sites and create an unpleasant experience for locals and travelers alike.

"Many popular destinations are also putting caps on the number of visitors, including Venice , Bora Bora and several U.S. national parks ," Von Tersch says. "While this may require an extra layer of planning for travelers, it's an important step in preventing overtourism to make sure these beloved places stick around for years to come."

You can also help prevent the negative effects of overtourism. Choosing unique destinations that aren't heavily trafficked can be a good option, but if iconic attractions like the Taj Mahal or the Colosseum are next on your bucket list, consider visiting outside of the peak season – or at least at off-peak times during the day.

If you have your sights set on visiting awe-inspiring natural wonders , such as the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, it's important to be prepared so you can avoid doing anything that will harm the environment. Even something small – such as wearing sunscreen that isn't reef safe on a snorkeling excursion – can damage an imperiled landscape.

Look close to home

Far-flung destinations may seem glamorous, but the truth is that travelers don't have to go far to find incredible experiences.

"Focus on local travel and exploring the areas domestically – whether it is in your state, county or region," says David Perkins, assistant professor of geography and sustainable tourism at Missouri State University. "There are so many things to explore just in our own backyards if one simply looks. This will enhance connections within your own community, increasing social sustainability all while satisfying desires to explore."

With so much potential for adventures near home, you can enjoy all the wonders of traveling while saving on transportation costs and decreasing your ecological footprint.

Vacation rankings: Explore top vacations by region and state

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Another critical component of your trip is where you'll lay your head at night. Depending on your budget and the type of experience you seek, options range from eco-conscious luxury hotel rooms and vacation rentals to communal hostel bunks and campsites.

Choose your hotel or resort carefully

Evaluating various hotel options is an important part of being a sustainably conscious traveler. Hervé Houdré, founder of H2 Sustainability, has a few recommendations for travelers to consider.

"Before booking, check if the hotel has received any environmental certifications or participates in any programs," Houdré recommends. "If not, some of the initiatives a hotel should undertake and communicate are: no single-use plastic (bottles, straws and stirrers), housekeeping linen program, energy-efficient practices, EV car chargers and locally sourced produce on the menus." He also suggests looking for hotels that participate in local not-for-profit environmental and community initiatives.

Hotels and resorts around the globe are finding innovative ways to help protect the environment. At The Brando in French Polynesia , for example, solar power strips made from recycled materials help to power the resort. In addition, the Sea Water Air Conditioning system was developed at The Brando and uses ocean water to help reduce the property's energy consumption needs.

If you're looking for more of a city-oriented escape, ARIA Resort & Casino in Las Vegas receives 90% of its daytime power from a solar array, is focused on going paperless when possible and has an advanced back-of-the-house recycling program. What's more, the property partners with a local food bank to freeze and store unserved food from events and provide it to those in need.

You'll find multiple hotel brands throughout the world focused on sustainability. All of the 1 Hotels properties are LEED certified , and its U.S. locations are 100% carbon neutral. The hotel and resort teams at Aman use the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to create the brand's sustainability strategies, as well as its four pillars: local heritage, local culture, environment protection and social responsibility. Soneva resorts combine luxury with sustainability: The company's foundation invests in initiatives designed to offset direct and indirect carbon emissions, along with other programs focused on a positive environmental impact.

Here are some things to look for when selecting a hotel:

• A sustainability policy that focuses on energy, waste and water processes, and may include certifications and accreditations such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) ratings, EarthCheck and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council
• Commitment to the environment with eco-friendly initiatives like an on-site garden, beehives, or energy- and water-conserving technologies
• Local involvement to empower members of the community through hiring local staff, promoting tours that support regional culture, and using local suppliers for its food and beverage programs

Read: The Top Ecolodges Around the World

Consider other accommodation options

Short-term rentals and homestays: With Airbnb, Homestay.com and other online marketplaces, short-term rentals and homestays have become a popular option for travelers who want a unique experience – or simply a nice place to stay without the high price tag of a hotel room. Home sharing has certain environmental benefits too: According to Airbnb, its listings waste less and consume less water and energy compared to traditional hotel accommodations.

Renting from a local host can give you a more authentic and eco-friendly experience in your destination, but keep an eye out for hosts offering many units for short-term stays without a host. Unlike home sharing, this practice drives up property values for local residents.

Hostels: Hostels are one of the most budget-friendly and sustainable types of lodging. Because most hostel accommodations are dorm-style rooms with bunk beds and shared facilities, they consume far less water and energy than private hotel rooms. Hostels allow travelers to find centrally located lodging in a city without breaking the bank, which will also cut down on the transportation needed to get to all your must-visit sights. To go a step further, seek out hostels that highlight sustainable practices, such as renewable energy and eco-friendly materials. You can search for hostels on Hostelworld .

If safety is your main concern, especially for women traveling solo , be sure to read hostel reviews from travelers like yourself. Many hostels offer dorm rooms designated only for women, but if you're nervous about sharing a room with strangers, U.S. News senior travel editor Marisa Méndez recommends opting for a smaller room with friends or even a private room in a hostel.

"Is it still more expensive to book a private hostel room? Sure. But it's less than the cost of a hotel and if you're a social human, it's a good way to meet other travelers and get their opinions on things," she says. "I think hostels are worth it and I felt so much more comfortable sharing one room with everyone I knew. It alleviated some of the stress of being in a place with strangers."

Campgrounds: Camping is an ideal option for a sustainable vacation. As you immerse yourself in nature and enjoy some outdoor adventure, you'll be using far less water and energy than you would in hotels or vacation rentals. If the more rustic side of camping isn't your thing, glamping resorts offer a more luxurious experience that can still minimize your carbon footprint. You can even find camping and glamping sites that actively promote sustainability with initiatives such as renewable energy, recycling facilities and rainwater collection.

For more information on how to be an eco-conscious camper, check out the section on adventure travel .

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Invest in eco-friendly luggage and sustainable products

Whether you're packing a weekender bag , carry-on suitcase or checked luggage , try to bring only what you need. Consider luggage constructed with sustainable materials, such as the CALPAK Terra Collection and the Paravel Aviator Carry-On , which are both made out of recycled plastic bottles and other materials.

To reduce waste, pack a reusable water bottle in your carry-on bag, such as the insulated Tree Tribe stainless steel water bottle with a leakproof lid (bonus: a tree is planted for every bottle purchased). You can also invest in a foldable shopper tote like the Standard Baggu for a picnic lunch or market finds, a Zoku reusable straw and a TSA-compliant BergHOFF Travel Flatware set .

Looking and feeling your best is always the goal, but travel-size single-use plastics aren't good for the environment. However, you can minimize your impact with eco-friendly health and beauty products. Begin with a TSA-friendly reusable Stasher silicone quart-sized bag if you're planning to fly with any liquids.

To reduce water, waste and packaging, consider solid versions of shampoo from brands like HiBAR , along with hair conditioner , facial cleanser and moisturizer bars from Ethique . For a sustainable smile, consider Bite toothpaste and mouthwash . If you're heading to the beach, a reef-safe sunscreen like the All Good sunscreen butter is key to protect both your skin and the ocean. In addition to conserving water, the solid versions of health and beauty items also help to save space in your 3-1-1 liquids bag.

For clothing, consider garments made from organic cotton and other sustainable materials. Clothing that is classic, durable and designed to work for a variety of situations provides more longevity to your travel capsule wardrobe. Méndez recommends sustainable clothing company Pact , where travel staples like leggings, long sleeve tees and dresses with pockets are carbon neutral, fair trade and constructed with organic cotton. "My favorite thing about this company − aside from the quality − is that everything comes in a set of basic colors, not just fun prints," Méndez says. "You can easily make a capsule wardrobe for travel."

Follow these sustainable packing tips:

• Pack light to help reduce fuel needed for the transportation of you and your baggage.
• Use TSA-friendly reusable bags and containers for health and beauty items.
• Bring your own reusable water bottle to reduce waste and stay hydrated. You can add a sticker from each destination as a fun souvenir of your adventures.
• Use items you already own , like your stainless steel water bottle you take to the office, your gym bag that doubles as a personal item or the suitcase you've owned for years.
• Ditch the single-use plastic bags and utilize packing cubes to keep travel essentials organized.

Choosing your means of transportation is one of the biggest determinants of the carbon footprint your travel will leave. Slower means of travel – such as by train instead of plane, or bike instead of car – are often more sustainable and can provide a richer travel experience, but your selection will depend on the options available and how much time you have to spare.

It's no secret that plane travel contributes significantly to carbon emissions. "Air travel today is inherently carbon intensive – fossil fuels account for 99.9% of aviation energy use, and choosing to board a plane is the single most emitting decision many of us will make in our lives," says Dan Rutherford, program director of marine and aviation at the International Council on Clean Transportation.

That doesn't mean eco-conscious travelers can never again travel by air, but you should be aware of the consequences of frequent plane travel and take steps to minimize your impact. "I recommend that travelers learn to fly like 'A NERD,' with the acronym referring to: A voiding unnecessary trips, flying on N ew aircraft, in E conomy class, on a R egular-sized plane, and whenever possible choosing a D irect flight," Rutherford says.

Many flight booking sites, including Google Flights and Kayak, show you the expected carbon emissions from different options, which allows you to choose flights that emit less, Rutherford says. Etti, of Intrepid Travel, recommends choosing airlines that are committed to using sustainable aviation fuels when possible – and even taking small steps like minimizing your luggage weight, which can have an impact on emissions.

Traveling by train rather than plane helps reduce harmful carbon emissions. That's why in 2022 France banned short-haul domestic flights that can be replaced by a bus or train ride of less than 2.5 hours. Taking an Amtrak train is 34% more energy efficient than flying domestically and 46% more energy efficient than car travel, according to the U.S. Department of Energy Data Book. A study by the European Environment Agency found that apart from walking or cycling, rail transportation is the most environmentally friendly mode of transportation.

Think about it this way: A traveler can conserve close to the same amount of carbon dioxide as not running your washing machine for a year, just by choosing to take a train from London to Edinburgh rather than a plane, according to Trainline, a European train booking app. Rail travel also provides a prime opportunity to see the scenery on your route, along with the option to create a multistop itinerary to explore local cultures.

Investing in an electric vehicle is a great way to reduce carbon emissions in your daily life and for travel by road, if you're able to make the switch. But EVs are not the only way to make car travel a little more sustainable: Another option is to look into carpooling websites such as BlaBlaCar or CarpoolWorld , which allow you to share a ride on long car trips. After all, more passengers means a lower carbon footprint for each individual.

Other ways you can reduce the environmental impact of your road trip a little include packing light, using cruise control on the highway to maximize your fuel, planning the most efficient route and not letting your car idle when you stop.

Boat travel can be more sustainable than flying – climate activist Greta Thunberg, for example, takes boat trips whenever possible to travel overseas. This form of transportation also takes much longer. But if you're hoping to cut down on your carbon footprint by setting sail, keep in mind that not all boats are created equal.

While a sailing boat or a vessel powered in part by wind is a greener form of transportation than a plane, staying on a luxury cruise ship can produce around double the carbon emissions of a flight and hotel stay, according to the ICCT. New technology continues to make cruise ships greener and more efficient, so if your heart is set on a cruise, do your research to see which major cruise lines are publicly committed to sailing sustainably. Newer cruise ships are also a better bet than old vessels, as the majority are now designed with at least some sustainability measures in mind.

Read: Sustainable Cruising: Cruise Lines Making Progress

Getting around your destination

Upon arrival at your final destination, the most eco-friendly ways to explore are by foot or bike.

"These options offer win/win/win solutions by providing low/no cost transport, health and wellness benefits to the walk(er)/rider, and no emissions and traffic for the community or place of exploration," Lyons explains. When you walk or bike, you get to truly experience the community while helping the planet.

Public transportation is another good option for getting from place to place in a city that will be especially convenient if you plan to stay near a metro station or a bus stop. Investigate the city's public transit options in advance so you can find the most efficient routes.

"Not only does traveling on public transport let you swap chuckles with your neighbors in their territory, but it also cuts pollution and carbon emissions," Etti says. "Zip around on a tuk-tuk in Southeast Asia, climb into the mountains on India's famous toy train, hire a bike or walk when it's convenient."

Plan an outdoor adventure

One way to explore sustainable travel is to enjoy the great outdoors at a national or state park close to you. Hiking, camping and backpacking are a few eco-friendly activities that allow you to connect in and with nature. When participating in any outdoor activity, however, there are a few things to remember in order to best protect the environment.

Leave No Trace (LNT) is a concept designed to put conservation and preservation into practice when it comes to outdoor recreation. Though there are seven principles to LNT, it boils down to one big takeaway: Respect the environment. This means properly disposing of all waste, leaving flora and fauna alone, minimizing campfire impacts, and sticking to trails and designated sites.

To help ensure LNT success, consider purchasing the following products for your next outdoor adventure:

• A camping stove: A stove is essential for minimizing fire impact while still enjoying delicious camping meals. There are a plethora of quality camp stoves on the market, such as Camp Chef stoves . And if you're backpacking, consider a lightweight Jetboil stove system.
• Binoculars: With wild animals, it's important to remember that you can be just as damaging and dangerous to them and their environment as they can be to you. It may be tempting to approach wildlife for a closer look, which is why binoculars are the perfect tool for safe viewing from afar. These top-rated Adasion binoculars are waterproof and include a phone adapter for taking photos.
• A sketchbook or camera: Instead of picking a flower or taking a unique rock home, consider drawing or taking a picture of it instead. A small sketchbook, such as this one on Amazon , is perfect for travel. A sketchbook made of recycled paper is an even more sustainable choice.
• Biodegradable soap and lotion: You can't go wrong with the Mrs. Meyer's brand when it comes to biodegradable soap and lotion. (Even with biodegradable products, however, it's still important to wash at least 200 feet away from all natural water sources to minimize impact.)

Remember to thoroughly research the outdoor area you'll be exploring or activity you'll be participating in before you begin your adventure to ensure you're safe, prepared and well equipped to leave no trace.

Read: The Best Camping in Colorado

Research attractions in advance

Museums : When it comes to attractions like museums and historical centers, check to see if the property is LEED certified – such as The Exploratorium (a top recommendation for San Francisco ) and The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. LEED certification means the building is designed and constructed to promote sustainability, improve efficiency, lower carbon emissions and more.

Zoos: Some attractions clearly call sustainability into question – zoos and animal-centered activities , for example. Amanda Norcross , content and SEO strategist for travel at U.S. News, recommends looking for accredited institutions that are dedicated to animal welfare, education and conservation efforts. "You can often find this information in an attraction's mission statement or by researching the programs and experiences they offer," Norcross says. "Be wary of any attraction that promotes animals as a form of entertainment." Examples include riding and holding animals as well as animal shows.

Read: The Top Zoos in the U.S.

Theme and water parks: It can be difficult to find a sustainable theme or water park, but more and more parks are striving to go green. Disney is making large strides toward a sustainable future: One small example is the company composting organic waste from Walt Disney World and using the soil to fertilize on-site plants. Six Flags uses sustainable packaging such as compostable containers, plates and cutlery; two of its parks (Six Flags Great Adventure and Six Flags Discovery Kingdom) use solar panels.

Book with reputable tour providers

Tours are a wonderful way to experience a destination, but it's important to find a licensed and ethical operator that prioritizes sustainability measures such as responsible waste disposal and employs local staff.

"Look for tour providers that explain on their websites what they're doing to preserve the environment," says Méndez, who is a tours expert at U.S. News. "This is particularly important if you're trying to find a tour in a fragile ecosystem like the swamps of New Orleans or the waters of Maui or Cancún ."

If you're not sure where to start, consider a walking or biking tour to minimize environmental impact.

Read: The Best New Orleans Walking Tours

Watch out for greenwashing

As you begin to research for your next trip, be careful of "greenwashing," which is a tactic companies may use to trick you into thinking their experiences or products are environmentally friendly – without any real proof to back up those claims.

"Misleading labels abound when referencing tourism, sustainability and 'green impact,' " Perkins warns. "The best way to assess whether a company is engaging in greenwashing tactics is to educate yourself on sustainability and take a few extra minutes to see if a company is actually adhering to sustainable principles."

That may be easier said than done, but there are things you can look for to see if a company is truly committed to sustainability. First and foremost, transparency is key. If a company touts a third-party certification it has received without actually detailing the nature of that certification, you should be wary of its legitimacy, Etti says.

Companies may use buzzwords and make eye-catching claims to win you over but if the information they give is vague or difficult to corroborate, chances are there's some greenwashing going on, Etti adds. Seek out businesses that actually prioritize sustainability so you can feel good about where your money is going.

Your travel choices can change the industry

There's no denying that the travel industry has a long way to go to become truly sustainable. "As travelers begin to demand less-polluting options, and reward better carriers with their business, that will change," Rutherford explains. "The aviation industry is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Government policy will lead but green travelers voting with their dollars will be important, too."

With every choice you make, from your intended destination to accommodations to transportation, you have the chance to make a difference. For the sake of the planet, you won't want to waste it.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood is a senior travel editor with a passion for nature and wildlife, especially whales and sea otters. She chooses train travel whenever she can, and seeks to visit environmentally conscious destinations and attractions. For this article, Hood used her personal experience along with research expertise.

Catriona Kendall , an associate editor, cares deeply about finding ways to make awe-inspiring travel experiences more sustainable and affordable. She'll always pick a long train or bus journey over a short flight. Kendall has stayed in more than 20 hostels around the world and navigated the public transportation options in countless cities. Her own travel experiences as well as advice from experts helped her write this article.

Leilani Osmundson , a digital producer, makes sustainability a focus in her life, from utilizing solar energy and a composter at home to shopping for many of her clothes at thrift stores. Being green extends to her favorite activities as well: backpacking, camping and hiking in the great outdoors. To write this piece, Osmundson used her own experience with adventure travel and sustainable activities along with research.

You might also be interested in:

• Print and Pack: The Ultimate Camping Checklist
• The Top Camping Tents
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The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

Sustainable Travel Guide: What, Why & How

17 March 2022 · In: Sustainable Travel

Here is a  complete guide to sustainable travel  – an incredible way to explore the world whilst positively impacting people and our planet! 

How to explore with less harm and more positivity?

Sustainable travel may be a term you have heard before, but you still wonder what it truly means. In this article, I go into more depth into the meaning of sustainable travel, why it matters, and some tips to help you travel differently. 

Don’t forget to download your free sustainable travel checklist! ↓

10- Prioritise slow travel = travel less, stay longer

What does sustainable travel mean.

Sustainable travel means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

It could be by adopting more sustainable methods of transportation, staying in more environmentally friendly accommodations, eating local and seasonal foods, and avoiding harmful activities.

What is the goal of sustainable travel?

The goal of sustainable travel is to reduce the impact of tourism on the environment and local communities. It means avoiding over-consumption, contributing to the conservation of the environment and respecting local traditions and heritage to participate in their protection.

Ultimately, the primary goal of sustainable travel is to create a better and more viable long-term future for tourism, aiming for a beneficial ‘give and take’ relationship.

Why is sustainable travel important?

Sustainable travel is important as tourism growth has had negative impacts on many places – including the destruction of lands and wildlife, deterioration of historical sites, pollution, littering, price inflation and loss of authenticity. Despite this, tourism remains an incredible way to experience the world and its beauty, share and connect with others, and generate economic benefits for a local area – and these positive effects should be the priority.

Today, tourism, a $9 trillion industry, continues to grow. That is why understanding its impact is vital to ensure a viable expansion, and current habits must change. Creating safe and responsible travel to protect our planet and communities will become crucial over time.

How to be a sustainable traveller?

You can travel sustainably by being mindful of the consequences of your journey. Responsible travel is about adjusting your habits and behaviours and paying attention to your surroundings. 

For example, ask yourself: what is the impact of my flight? Does my hotel care about the environment? Does my tour operator support local communities? 

When you travel, always consider your impact first.

Although adopting a greener way of travelling is a beautiful opportunity to slow down and be responsible, it is not magic and does not happen overnight. But step by step altogether, we can make a difference and create a better future for our planet – whilst enjoying it!

Here are some sustainable travel tips to make your next adventure greener:

1- Consider the most sustainable method of transport

How to get to your destination without harming our planet?

That is a question I have asked myself a lot, considering how much I travel by plane. Whilst doing some research, I discovered (without surprise) that transportation pollution is a significant issue caused by tourism. Air pollution has steadily increased with the number of tourists travelling by planes each year, severely affecting local air quality and contributing to climate change.

That is why, when booking your trip, try to choose the greenest form of transport possible. 

• If you use a plane, take direct flights as much as possible to reduce your carbon footprint, as landing and take-off have the worst effect. You can also choose greener flights with Skyscanner . It has an option that only displays flights with lower CO2 emissions.
• Take the train when you can, as it is one of the transports that emits the lowest levels of pollutants. It is also a beautiful way to slow travel and take time to enjoy the scenery.
• Avoid cruises . Using boats may sound like a good idea, but they have proven to be the most pollutant for our environment. According to a 2017 study , even the most efficient cruise ships emit more carbon dioxide per passenger per kilometre than commercial flights. However, a cruise is another great way to slow travel, so what do you do if you care about the environment but are not ready to abandon cruises? Look carefully at the company website, consider a smaller ship, reduce your single-use plastic consumption and be mindful of your energy and water usage.
• If using the car, try carpooling like Blablacar (the more passengers, the lower the carbon footprint). If you decide to rent a car, go for an electric or at least the smallest vehicle that suits your needs.
• Finally, whatever your choice, use EcoPassenger to calculate the environmental impact of your journey. It will allow you to become aware of your effect and offset your carbon footprint when you get home.

The method of transport you choose to reach your destination will play a crucial role in your overall holiday footprint. However, it is equally important to be eco-conscious once you are there. Here are some other tips to help you reduce your impact: walk as much as possible, use a bike, take public transport, rent an electric or hybrid car or use small-group tour operators.

2- Book eco-friendly accommodations

Once you have booked your vacation, try to reserve a hotel or B&B that adopts eco-responsible practices. Many accommodations are working toward becoming greener by innovating and reducing their impact.

What is an eco-conscious accommodation?

Eco-conscious accommodations or sustainable hotels significantly reduce their environmental impact through green practices in maintenance, services, logistics, products, and supplies. The core elements revolve around reducing waste, saving energy, and decreasing water usage.

How to know if a hotel or guesthouse is eco-friendly?

Doing your research is essential. Go further greenwashing and find a responsible retreat that helps you explore your destination whilst leaving a positive impact.

Here are some guidelines to determine if a hotel or guesthouse is sustainable and using green practices:

• It has a sustainability policy : a hotel committed to sustainability will almost always have a sustainability policy on its website.
• It is committed to limiting its environmental impact : beyond the implementation of energy and water-conserving technologies, initiatives to look out for include an on-site garden that supplies the hotel restaurant, rooftop beehives, single-use plastic-free amenities, locally made furnishings, recycling bins in guest rooms, the use of eco-friendly cleaning products, and washing linens only on request.
• It works closely with the local community : sustainable hotels empower local communities by hiring local staff, using local suppliers, supporting sustainable community programs and integrating guests with the local community.
• It encourages guests to get involved : a sustainable hotel will inspire guests to follow their lead by incorporating interactive initiatives, such as offering reusable water bottles, free or cheap bicycle rental or shared transport options, and guest experiences that support local people and businesses.

To help you further, whether you are looking for a hotel or an Airbnb, you can use EcoBnB  or  BookDifferent to find your green accommodation.

3- Pack your suitcase mindfully

After choosing your destination and booking your trip, what you pack is the next step in reducing your impact. The best way to avoid waste and plastic when travelling is to arrive prepared. That is why considering what you bring with you is so important.

Here are some ideas:

• Reusable cups or mugs are the perfect way to enjoy your trip whilst having a positive impact, as they reduce the number of single-use plastic cups you need on your journey. Here are some brands offering light and eco-friendly cups and mugs: KeepCup , Circular&Co , and Klean Kanteen .
• Reusable water bottles are also a great way to cut down on single-use plastic and should become a must-have in your life, even when you are not travelling! Stay hydrated on the go with these incredibly sustainable bottles: Pure Panda , Jococups , and Sweet Bamboo .
• Whether you like climbing the highest peaks or walking around the city, organic and eco-minded clothes are practical, functional, and a great way to celebrate the adventurer in you. Here are some brands trying to make a difference: United by Blue , Toad&Co , and Coalatree .
• Travel towels are very helpful for any adventure. A quick-drying, antimicrobial towel made of eco-friendly fibres like the Trespass bamboo towel is a must-have and all-in-one option. It is also very convenient as it folds easily, takes no space, and requires less washing.
• Having gear charged on your trip is essential to capture your beautiful adventure and come home with memories. However, it can sometimes be trouble when you are on the road, and it also consumes a lot of energy. Here are some portable solar chargers you can easily take everywhere: Goal Zero and Anker PowerPort Solar .
• Travel tote bags are an excellent substitute for single-use plastic bags and can be very helpful for shopping or the beach! They are practical, functional and easy to take wherever you go. Here is my favourite one: EcoRight .

Check out  this page  for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

Other ideas:

• Cutlery and containers (reduce single-use plastic)
• Reusable straws (reduce single-use plastic)
• Zero-waste sunscreens (protect reefs and marine life)
• Biodegradable shampoos (reduce toxic chemicals)
• Solid toiletries (reduce water usage)

Looking to stay warm and dry in winter? Check out these top 10 ethical winter coats .

4- Use eco-conscious tour operators and activities

When travelling, being mindful of the activity you choose and the travel agent you select is very important for helping reduce impact. A sustainable tour operator offers travel products or services complying with high social and environmental standards. They focus on creating benefits for local communities, protecting the environment using conservation projects, and prioritising animal welfare.

It is essential that you do your research before booking an activity or tour. Only get involved in activities that benefit the environment, locals and wildlife. Also, try using local guides and look for authentic experiences to ensure your money goes into the local economy. Most importantly, never take part in activities that do not seem right!

• Look on the website for their practices and mission.
• Look for certifications : responsible tour operators are certified by a GSTC accredited certification scheme.
• Look for information on carbon footprint : responsible tour operators take measures to minimise their environmental impact.
• Look for animal activities : responsible tour operators do not offer activities or excursions with captive wildlife or animal interaction.
• Look for statements on local benefits : responsible tour operators benefit local communities with their tourism activities and are proud of it.
• Look for collaborations with local research and conservation projects : responsible tour operators prioritise animal welfare and environmental protection.
• Look at their group sizes : responsible tour operators will not go on an excursion with large groups but with small groups to create less impact.
• Look at the offered accommodations : responsible tour operators will not book your rooms in large hotel chains but in local small-scale accommodations.
• Look for sustainable travel tips : responsible tour operators are all about sharing their knowledge and want you to travel sustainably.

Some of the best sustainable tour operators:

• Intrepid Travel
• G Adventures
• Lokal Travel

Check out this article for more inspiration: Top Ecotourism Activities Around the World .

5- Eat locally and seasonally

When travelling, being mindful of what you eat is crucial to leaving a lower footprint on your destination.

Here are some tips for eating locally and responsibly:

• Eat vegetarian or vegan.
• Ask the locals where they like to eat.
• Buy your food at local markets and shop seasonally.
• And finally, avoid big resorts and go to local restaurants supporting farmers and sustainable products.

And if you want more, check out  HappyCow .

6- Shop and buy local

The souvenirs we bring home matter as much as how we travel. Being mindful of your shopping habits is another way to become more responsible whilst exploring.

Here are some tips:

Buy local and avoid big chain stores.

Shopping locally means less fuel to move goods and food long distances and less energy to cool warehouses and trucks. It also means more money stays in the local community, enriching neighbours instead of corporations in a far-off city or country. So buy locally made gifts to take home as souvenirs. It is better to take home souvenirs unique to the country where you are travelling, rather than something from a factory elsewhere. Local markets are also a great way to ensure you buy local.

Shop responsibly.

• Ask questions to find out more about the product and its origin.
• Go for vegan and decline objects made with animal products.
• Research eco-friendly boutiques and shop vintage.
• Reduce the use of packaging and gift wrap.
• Prioritise sustainable materials or buy second-hand.

Bring reusable shopping bags.

When you bring reusable bags to shop, you adopt a more eco-friendly travel lifestyle with less plastic and waste. Reusable tote bags are lightweight and easily fit in your suitcase, so do not forget to add one to your packing list!

Ask yourself: is it needed?

It can sometimes be challenging to differentiate what you need from what you want. Most of the time, we buy things because of temptation rather than necessity. Therefore, it is essential to ask yourself if you require the product you want to purchase or if the person you are buying it for will use it.

When buying clothes, ask yourself if you really need this item in your closet. Think about how often you will wear it. Always ensure the item will add to your collection and fill a practical niche. Any article that does not meet one of these criteria is not worth the cost to you or the environment.

7- Leave the place better than you found it

Always pick up your trash, or any you come across, avoid plastic at all costs, do not touch everything, be mindful of your water and electricity usage, stay on track when you hike, smile and be grateful to the locals for welcoming you.

Be mindful of cultural sites.

Over-tourism has generated dangerous environmental effects on our sites, and we have, for instance, observed many cases of path erosions over the past few years. Therefore, be mindful and considerate of the places you attend. Learn about them beforehand and respect them whilst visiting.

8- Offset your carbon footprint

Even if you have done your best to lower your footprint, it is still a good idea to offset your carbon emissions from your trip. BUT do not use carbon offset as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like prioritising other methods of transport, avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully packing your suitcase to be ready for your green adventure.

What is a carbon offset?

A carbon offset is an act of reducing or removing emissions of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases to compensate for the emissions produced elsewhere. You can offset your carbon footprints by investing in carbon offset projects, locally or internationally, as a way of balancing your impact. For example, you can invest your money in a project in Costa Rica to offset the amount of carbon produced by your flight.

What are carbon offset projects?

Carbon offset projects allow you to invest in environmental or social projects to balance the carbon footprint of your travels. They help fight global climate change and care for local communities. For example, they can provide employment, health improvement, biodiversity, reforestation and broad social benefits to disadvantaged communities.

How to offset carbon?

To do this, visit an offset website, use the online tools to calculate the emissions from your trip, and then pay the offset company to reduce emissions elsewhere in the world by the same amount – making your journey “carbon neutral”.

Here are some companies you can use:

• Sustainable Travel International
• Cool Effect

9- Take action = volunteer, donate or share!

Take this opportunity to come back home and feel inspired by your adventure. Now is the best time to take action, whether by volunteering locally or abroad, donating to an organisation or sharing your experience. Speak up and share your sustainable travel experience with your family, friends and followers.

The more we talk about it, the more we will change the world.

Slow travel is a way of exploring the world that accentuates slowing down and connecting with the places and locals. This approach allows you to take more time to get to know a country and its culture on a deeper level, which can also mean travelling less but staying longer = quality over quantity.

Therefore, if you can, try to always stay longer in the destination you are visiting – for at least 3 or 4 days, and avoid day trips as they contribute to overtourism.

Shop the ultimate road trip planner

Create your dream vacation and live unforgettable eco-adventures on the road.

I hope this sustainable travel guide will help make your future trips greener. Remember, always leave your destination better than you found it and educate yourself as much as you can. You got this – one step at a time!

Want to know more?

• 10 Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• Top Ecotourism Activities Around the World
• 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel & Hiking
• Carbon Offset your Flights: What, Why & How
• 10 Best Zero-Waste & Reef-Safe Sunscreens

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Do you have any other suggestions for travelling sustainably and reducing impact? Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

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Reader Interactions

28 January 2023 at 10:20

This read is such an eye opener. When we talk about sustainability, sustainable travelling is lesser talked about subject. I didnt know cruise is the most pollutant for of travel. I sometimes wonder, does cruise or boats disturb the marine life. How can we offset our carbon footprint from travel at our home without investing in other ofset companies?

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What is Sustainable Travel and Why is it Important?

As travel erupts following the gradual emergence from a global pandemic, problems of travel restrictions are being replaced with concerns about travel sustainability. Why is sustainable travel so important? Let’s explore the reasons why sustainable travel is critical from an environmental, cultural, and psychological perspective.

First, we will need to define sustainable travel. It has come to be used in a lot of different (often inaccurate) ways. Also, we will consider that it is not only a travel and environmental issue, but a psychological issue worth exploring. We’ll consider the urgency of eco-friendly tourism efforts, as well as future directions for sustainable travel. Plus, you will find additional travel sustainability resources.

What is Sustainable Travel?

What is sustainable travel? Sustainable travel refers to efforts to engage in eco-friendly travel behaviors in support of limiting the negative impacts of travel and tourism on the natural environment and local communities. One of the primary goals of sustainable travel is to help conserve the amount and quality of natural resources, preserve cultures, and protect destinations for future generations of travelers.

Travel & the Environment

As the term “sustainable” implies, our ability to continue traveling is contingent on having enough physical resources for travel. Basically, if we keep borrowing from the bank indefinitely, eventually we will look into the vault to find that there’s nothing left. Further, when important elements of travel destinations are destroyed through over-tourism, local cultures and biodiversity can become extinct.

While issues of climate change are too broad for the purposes of this article (not to mention politically divisive!), recent efforts and debates underscore the growing interest in understanding human-environment interactions.

The term “carbon footprint” is a related term. A carbon footprint is the amount of greenhouse gas emissions caused or generated by an entity. It’s a quick way of estimating the potential environmental impact that we each contribute. Many individuals and companies are striving to reduce their carbon footprint in support of environmental health.

Travel & Culture

Sustainable travel also speaks to the importance of preserving cultural identities and communities. Hosting a sustained influx of tourists can overwhelm the local population. Traditional local practices may go out the window in favor of tourist-first policies. Sometimes visitors love the destination so much they actually decide to move there in large numbers.

A potential negative result of this is that the native culture can be diffused over time. That’s not to say that new residents can never mesh or bring helpful cultural features of their own. However, the fear is that longstanding aspects of traditional cultures may be inadvertently disturbed during such a process.

In addition, there are psychological components of travel sustainability. Our choices and behaviors are guided by a common philosophy of balance between personal and environmental wellness. Continue reading below, and also check out this previous post on the mental health benefits of travel .

The Psychology of Sustainable Travel

When does sustainable travel transform from an area of interest into a deep commitment to engage in those practices? How do we shift from accepting ideas about what optimal travel behaviors might look like into putting them into action? What makes one person so avid in their pursuit of sustainable travel practices while others regard sustainable travel efforts as unnecessary?

In part, the answer to these questions goes back to how you determine where is the line between personal wellness and environmental wellness. The exact composition of that essential balance is where you will hear a lot of debate.

“Our choices and behaviors are guided by a common philosophy of balance between personal and environmental wellness.” -Psychology of Travel

Consider it like a spectrum. Convictions range substantially. For example, some believe that ALL travel is completely detrimental. Other demonstrate a complete disregard for even the possibility of over-consumption problems.

Accordingly, you may encounter people with very strong ideals about eco-travel. An unfortunate result is that sometimes discussions about travel sustainability erodes into ideologic insults and name-calling. My suggestion would be to help inform and encourage others through facts rather than appeals toward emotion or name-calling.

Why the fierce opinions on all sides of the issue? Put simply, it is because people perceive it as important and because it impacts people . We tend to get riled up about issues we’re passionate about. This is especially true when making attempts to help others or the environment. The topics that we consider irrelevant are less likely to drive such strong opinions or actions.

How Do People Make Decisions about their Travel Behaviors?

So from a psychological standpoint, how do people craft their own views about appropriate travel behaviors? They have to:

• a) understand core information about the issue
• b) have the ability to consider how the information applies to their own thoughts and behaviors
• c) rationally consider benefits and challenges of a behavior change
• d) have the ability to enact any behavior changes

An additional component of the psychology of travel sustainability is that, well, it makes us feel good! Like the feeling we get after lending a hand to a neighbor, we experience emotional positivity when we view ourselves as helping an important cause.

Hence, you wanna feel good? Understand the information, consider how it applies to you, consider the pro’s and con’s of sustainable travel actions, and enact the feasible ones you choose.

Why the Urgency for Sustainable Travel?

You may be thinking, “I have plenty of destination options right now, and I’m just one person. Does my traveling really matter in the grand scheme of things?” So why all the urgency for sustainable travel? Is it just a Millennial kind of social issue?

Proponents of sustainable travel highlight that the urgency to take conservation efforts is not only to benefit the current generation of travelers, but future travelers as well. Travel sustainability is a current investment in the world. Ultimately, the degree of our investment impacts the advantages or challenges that will be carried by future generations of travelers.

“Travel sustainability is a current investment in the world . Ultimatel y, the degree of our investment impacts the advantages or challenges that will be carried by future generations of travelers.” -Psychology of Travel

Sustainability across all sectors of public consumption has become an increasingly recognized concern over the past several years. So, it’s not just travel that contributes to carbon footprints.

The collective damage potential of overpopulated areas combined with over-tourism can deplete tangible resources like food, water, and natural fuels. We take examples from history to see that these issues can similarly degrade less tangible resources like traditional cultures, community cohesiveness, and interpersonal skills.

Where is the balance between healthy travel pursuits and trampling on weary destinations and communities? When will over-traveling get to the point that it is no longer sustainable? Some would argue that this is already happening.

What if There Was No Travel?

No discussion of travel sustainability would be complete without consideration of what happens if travel becomes (or remains, depending on your definition) unsustainable. What would the world be like without travel?

In some ways, we got a glimpse of such a world without travel during the global pandemic. Any quick check on TikTok revealed a constant stream of personal stories about missing travel, frustrations with being unable to travel, and eager anticipation of the day we could all travel once again.

Rates of stress, anxiety, and depression among Western populations increased significantly during the years of the pandemic. Of course, this was due to factors besides lack of travel as well. International stressors plus lack of ability to engage in leisure relaxation is a tough combo. Importantly, the critical joys of travel were absent including development of cultural sensitivity and travel-related stress reduction.

With travel sustainability in mind, the possibility of restricted travel opportunities and valuable destinations being closed permanently for tourism remains a chilling possibility.

Sustainable Travel Tips

If there was only one piece of advice to share about travel sustainability, it’s that people have to be aware of the need for sustainable travel before they will take any personal actions in support. So, the best thing you can do to get started is to become more informed. By reading this, you’re already taking steps to bolster your knowledge about these issues. Once you become aware of the issues and the REASONS for making any changes in your travel behaviors, you can then consider how to apply that information for yourself.

Find Sustainable Companies and Products

Certain hotels, transportation providers, restaurants, and other supportive travel sectors highlight their efforts towards climate-friendly practices. Some aim to be the slightly more ambitious “climate neutral”.

Look for information on their respective websites about company mission statements and values. This will clue you in to companies that feature sustainable efforts, and consider booking with them. Some nice business examples of this are the MELIÁ Hotels International and the Six Senses hotel brands, who clearly outline their efforts to promote caring for local populations and sustainable operations. Certain reputable organizations like EarthCheck can even provide certification those corporate efforts.

When packing, look for recyclable forms of baggage and reusable items. Even brand-name baggage producers like Vera Bradley make 100% recycled rolling duffle luggage .

There is also a huge range of travel products catered to eco-friendly travelers. From climate friendly travel shampoo to toothpaste tablets in a reusable tin , you have a bevy of options at your disposal (make that, at your recyclable ). Overall, the saying “less is more” applies to the sheer amount of items you choose to bring along with you. Consider that all of that travel laundry will eventually make its way to the water guzzling washing machine.

Read books on this topic. There are some that are more helpful than others, including Sustainable Travel: The essential to positive impact adventures by Holly Tupen. For a more academic deep-dive into the topic, consider the Handbook of Sustainable Travel .

Other Practical Tips

Get connected with sustainable travel programs and organizations. They will often offer group packages for eco-friendly travelers along with ways of giving back to the local communities. This is a refreshing take on travel where resources are generated and left in the native community rather than taking from it to bring souvenirs back home.

Other ways to proactively get into sustainable travel practices include:

• Ride a bike for the local tour rather than automobile service.
• Plan routes ahead of time to minimize idle fuel consumption.
• Use climate-friendly fuels, when available.
• Check the menu for sustainably sourced food options.
• Resist the temptation to take that unopened plastic shampoo bottle from the hotel when you depart.
• Volunteer to help build a community.
• Absorb the local culture, finding appreciation for the inherent uniqueness of the people.
• Clean up after yourself.
• Use eco-friendly products

What’s Next for Travel Sustainability?

There’s hope on the horizon. Negative impacts of over-tourism are becoming increasingly denounced. For example, many local governments in tourist destinations are taking new proactive stances against over-tourism. However, it’s not a simple problem. It can be challenging to hold to sustainable travel policies when the communities there rely on the travel industry for their livelihood and financing for civic projects.

Interestingly, various destinations reported pleasant benefits of reduced tourism during the pandemic. These perks included opportunities for locals to re-engage with the natural wonders they had been avoiding due to crowding. It allowed for reclamation and cleanup efforts in high traffic tourist areas. Plus, the psychological toll of constant hosting got a much needed refreshment.

Also, volunteerism for eco-friendly conservation efforts picked up steeply over the past several years with increased focus on problems with over-tourism. Grassroots local, national, and international organizations started including specific policies related to sustainable travel efforts. Social discussions have sprouted everywhere from urban America to rural Africa.

Technology and Travel Sustainability

Technology will play a key role in the next stages eco-friendly travel. It may take revolutionary changes to meet net-zero footprints across all sectors of travel and transportation. In the meantime, we’re already seeing a cultural emphasis on technology-inspired green transportation. Recycling and creative re-use of products generated new interest we never could have achieved with prior production technologies.

Advances in technology plus mixtures of personal and corporate reductions in over-consumption equals progress for travel sustainability. Besides direct technological reduction in carbon emissions, technology also holds the incredible capacity for information distribution. Social media influencers, blogs, and commercial campaigns spread ideals as well as ever before in human history.

The present hope is that the next generation of media format will serve to further amplify sustainable travel efforts.

Sustainable Travel Resources

Check out these great resources to get informed and take action in support of travel sustainability.

• Global Sustainable Tourism Council ; providing certifications and setting global standards for tourism sustainability
• Sustainable Travel International ; organization dedicated to healthier environments and social justice in the travel community
• As described in a previous post, remember to pace your travels , otherwise you risk travel burnout on top of an enlarged carbon footprints.
• Boutique consulting firm Sustaining Tourism
• United Nations agency World Tourism Organization ; includes an area of focus around sustainable development
• The Center for Responsible Travel ; organization that highlights stewardship for biodiversity and cultural heritage
• Some online markets have a huge range of SUSTAINABLE products for purchase and use.

What sustainable travel tips do you want to share? Comment below with more sustainable travel tips for your fellow travelers. Plus, remember to sign up for the free Psychology of Travel Newsletter for all the latest updates and winners.

Also, we now have an ebook available, check out the Psychology of Travel ebook here !

Happy Travels, Dr. L Founder, PsychologyOfTravel.com

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2 thoughts on “what is sustainable travel and why is it important”.

How great that you talk about what sustainable travel is and what it’s for. I want to go on a trip with my friends this fall that is environmentally friendly. We will find a reputable eco tour in a fun area for this.

Thanks, Dawn. Hope you have a fun and environmentally friendly vacation with your friends 🙂

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• THE BIG IDEA

Why travel should be considered an essential human activity

Travel is not rational, but it’s in our genes. Here’s why you should start planning a trip now.

In 1961, legendary National Geographic photographer Volkmar Wentzel captured two women gazing at the surf off Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia. This and all the other images in this story come from the National Geographic image collection.

I’ve been putting my passport to good use lately. I use it as a coaster and to level wobbly table legs. It makes an excellent cat toy.

Welcome to the pandemic of disappointments. Canceled trips, or ones never planned lest they be canceled. Family reunions, study-abroad years, lazy beach vacations. Poof. Gone. Obliterated by a tiny virus, and the long list of countries where United States passports are not welcome.

Only a third of Americans say they have traveled overnight for leisure since March, and only slightly more, 38 percent, say they are likely to do so by the end of the year, according to one report. Only a quarter of us plan on leaving home for Thanksgiving, typically the busiest travel time. The numbers paint a grim picture of our stilled lives.

It is not natural for us to be this sedentary. Travel is in our genes. For most of the time our species has existed, “we’ve lived as nomadic hunter-gatherers moving about in small bands of 150 or fewer people,” writes Christopher Ryan in Civilized to Death . This nomadic life was no accident. It was useful. “Moving to a neighboring band is always an option to avoid brewing conflict or just for a change in social scenery,” says Ryan. Robert Louis Stevenson put it more succinctly: “The great affair is to move.”

What if we can’t move, though? What if we’re unable to hunt or gather? What’s a traveler to do? There are many ways to answer that question. “Despair,” though, is not one of them.

In this aerial view from 1967, wall-to-wall seaside sunbathers relax under umbrellas or on beach towels in Ocean City, Maryland .

A 1967 fall festival in Guadalajara, Mexico , starred traditionally costumed musicians and dancers.

We are an adaptive species. We can tolerate brief periods of forced sedentariness. A dash of self-delusion helps. We’re not grounded, we tell ourselves. We’re merely between trips, like the unemployed salesman in between opportunities. We pass the days thumbing though old travel journals and Instagram feeds. We gaze at souvenirs. All this helps. For a while.

We put on brave faces. “Staycation Nation,” the cover of the current issue of Canadian Traveller magazine declares cheerfully, as if it were a choice, not a consolation.

Today, the U.S. Travel Association, the industry trade organization, is launching a national recovery campaign called “ Let’s Go There .” Backed by a coalition of businesses related to tourism—hotels, convention and visitor bureaus, airlines—the initiative’s goal is to encourage Americans to turn idle wanderlust into actual itineraries.

The travel industry is hurting. So are travelers. “I dwelled so much on my disappointment that it almost physically hurt,” Paris -based journalist Joelle Diderich told me recently, after canceling five trips last spring.

(Related: How hard has the coronavirus hit the travel industry? These charts tell us.)

My friend James Hopkins is a Buddhist living in Kathmandu . You’d think he’d thrive during the lockdown, a sort-of mandatory meditation retreat. For a while he did.

But during a recent Skype call, James looked haggard and dejected. He was growing restless, he confessed, and longed “for the old 10-countries-a-year schedule.” Nothing seemed to help, he told me. “No matter how many candles I lit, or how much incense I burned, and in spite of living in one of the most sacred places in South Asia, I just couldn’t change my habits.”

When we ended our call, I felt relieved, my grumpiness validated. It’s not me; it’s the pandemic. But I also worried. If a Buddhist in Kathmandu is going nuts, what hope do the rest of us stilled souls have?

I think hope lies in the very nature of travel. Travel entails wishful thinking. It demands a leap of faith, and of imagination, to board a plane for some faraway land, hoping, wishing, for a taste of the ineffable. Travel is one of the few activities we engage in not knowing the outcome and reveling in that uncertainty. Nothing is more forgettable than the trip that goes exactly as planned.

Related: Vintage photos of the glamour of travel

Travel is not a rational activity. It makes no sense to squeeze yourself into an alleged seat only to be hurled at frightening speed to a distant place where you don’t speak the language or know the customs. All at great expense. If we stopped to do the cost-benefit analysis, we’d never go anywhere. Yet we do.

That’s one reason why I’m bullish on travel’s future. In fact, I’d argue travel is an essential industry, an essential activity. It’s not essential the way hospitals and grocery stores are essential. Travel is essential the way books and hugs are essential. Food for the soul. Right now, we’re between courses, savoring where we’ve been, anticipating where we’ll go. Maybe it’s Zanzibar and maybe it’s the campground down the road that you’ve always wanted to visit.

(Related: Going camping this fall? Here’s how to get started.)

James Oglethorpe, a seasoned traveler, is happy to sit still for a while, and gaze at “the slow change of light and clouds on the Blue Ridge Mountains” in Virginia, where he lives. “My mind can take me the rest of the way around this world and beyond it.”

It’s not the place that is special but what we bring to it and, crucially, how we interact with it. Travel is not about the destination, or the journey. It is about stumbling across “a new way of looking at things,” as writer Henry Miller observed. We need not travel far to gain a fresh perspective.

No one knew this better than Henry David Thoreau , who lived nearly all of his too-short life in Concord, Massachusetts. There he observed Walden Pond from every conceivable vantage point: from a hilltop, on its shores, underwater. Sometimes he’d even bend over and peer through his legs, marveling at the inverted world. “From the right point of view, every storm and every drop in it is a rainbow,” he wrote.

Thoreau never tired of gazing at his beloved pond, nor have we outgrown the quiet beauty of our frumpy, analog world. If anything, the pandemic has rekindled our affection for it. We’ve seen what an atomized, digital existence looks like, and we (most of us anyway) don’t care for it. The bleachers at Chicago ’s Wrigley Field; the orchestra section at New York City ’s Lincoln Center; the alleyways of Tokyo . We miss these places. We are creatures of place, and always will be.

After the attacks of September 11, many predicted the end of air travel, or at least a dramatic reduction. Yet the airlines rebounded steadily and by 2017 flew a record four billion passengers. Briefly deprived of the miracle of flight, we appreciated it more and today tolerate the inconvenience of body scans and pat-downs for the privilege of transporting our flesh-and-bone selves to far-flung locations, where we break bread with other incarnate beings.

Landscape architects work in their Rio de Janeiro, Brazil , studio in 1955.

A tourist photographs a towering century plant in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, in 1956.

In our rush to return to the world, we should be mindful of the impact of mass tourism on the planet. Now is the time to embrace the fundamental values of sustainable tourism and let them guide your future journeys. Go off the beaten path. Linger longer in destinations. Travel in the off-season. Connect with communities and spend your money in ways that support locals. Consider purchasing carbon offsets. And remember that the whole point of getting out there is to embrace the differences that make the world so colorful.

“One of the great benefits of travel is meeting new people and coming into contact with different points of view,” says Pauline Frommer, travel expert and radio host.

So go ahead and plan that trip. It’s good for you, scientists say . Plotting a trip is nearly as enjoyable as actually taking one. Merely thinking about a pleasurable experience is itself pleasurable. Anticipation is its own reward.

I’ve witnessed first-hand the frisson of anticipatory travel. My wife, not usually a fan of travel photography, now spends hours on Instagram, gazing longingly at photos of Alpine lodges and Balinese rice fields. “What’s going on?” I asked one day. “They’re just absolutely captivating,” she replied. “They make me remember that there is a big, beautiful world out there.”

Many of us, myself included, have taken travel for granted. We grew lazy and entitled, and that is never good. Tom Swick, a friend and travel writer, tells me he used to view travel as a given. Now, he says, “I look forward to experiencing it as a gift.”

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

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!

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

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

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

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

What is sustainable tourism?

Sustainable tourism definitions

Why is sustainable tourism important?

The principles of sustainable tourism

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Benefits of sustainable tourism

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Disadvantages of sustainable tourism

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Examples of sustainable tourism

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Eden Project is another great example of sustainable tourism.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are some examples of sustainable tourism practices?

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

How can tourists practice sustainable tourism?

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

What is the role of governments in sustainable tourism?

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

How can tourism businesses implement sustainable practices?

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

What is the impact of unsustainable tourism practices?

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

How can sustainable tourism contribute to economic growth and development ?

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

How can sustainable tourism help to address climate change?

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

How can consumers support sustainable tourism?

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

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

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

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

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

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Sustainable Travel: It’s Not Just About the Environment

A look at tours and programs that address the impact travelers have on the communities they visit.

By Elaine Glusac

The term “ sustainable travel ” has a green glow to it, connoting eco-friendly practices and environmental responsibility. But the human side of sustainability, as defined by the World Tourism Organization , addresses community impact, both social and economic, and is newly gaining traction among travel companies.

Social impact travel aims to ensure money spent on a tour or a trip stays in the community. A vital source of income to developing nations, travel is the first or second source of export earnings in 20 of the 48 least developed countries, according to the W.T.O., yet a 2013 report from the organization noted that just $5 of every $100 spent in a developing country stayed in that destination.

“There’s a lot of people who think ‘eco-tourism’ when they hear ‘sustainable tourism,’ but that’s a piece of the puzzle,” said Kelley Louise, the executive director of the Impact Travel Alliance , an industry nonprofit organization that focuses on sustainable travel. “Sustainability has a positive impact not only on the environment, but the culture and the economy of the destination you’re visiting.”

Among new developments, the Jordan Tourism Board created the Meaningful Travel Map of Jordan in March, highlighting 12 social enterprises in the country, including a Bedouin camp stay, a women’s weaving group and village tours that support local entrepreneurs. Last fall, the tour company Collette launched Impact Travel Tours , which spend half of the time sightseeing and the other half visiting community-based improvement projects. Earlier this year, the safari company andBeyond launched philanthropic-focused itineraries in Tanzania , Kenya and South Africa .

Organizations promoting social impact travel aim to emphasize not just big do-good trips, but to educate travelers about their smallest decisions, such as eating at a locally owned restaurant.

“Every time you have a meal, get accommodations or do activities, you can have a positive impact just by traveling,” said Paula Vlamings, the chief executive of Tourism Cares , a nonprofit organization representing the tourism industry that, among other programs, trains Good Travels advisers, travel agents who specialize in socially responsible travel experiences. “Leaving money in the community is such an important way to have a huge impact. The ripple effect, particularly for women, girls and the environment, demonstrates the power of travel.”

Some sustainable trips are priced like luxury vacations, a fact that prompted the 2015 launch of Giving Way , a platform linking volunteers directly with nongovernmental agencies, cutting out intermediaries that link the two.

“Volunteering should be accessible to everyone, not just a rich man’s privilege,” said Orit Strauss, the founder and chief executive of Giving Way, which now works with nearly 1,900 organizations in more than 115 countries. About half are free and the other half charge nominal fees to cover food and lodging. Activities range from working on an organic farm in Costa Rica to mentoring youth in rural South Africa.

Assessing the claims of a social impact travel company requires asking where the money goes. “That information isn’t readily available now,” said Salli Felton, of the nonprofit Travel Foundation , which tests programs that benefit local communities. “What’s critical is tracing the impact. If customers ask, they’ll start doing it. If they can’t answer that question, that should be a red flag.”

Doing good doesn’t require traveling through multiple time zones or long stays. New initiatives like Kind Traveler , which launched in 2016, aim to make each trip, however short, an opportunity to improve local lives. The hotel booking website offers discounted rooms to users who make a $10 donation to a charity affiliated with the hotel. Hotels are vetted for their sustainable practices, including environmental and community impacts. The company now offers hotels in 30 destinations in the United States, Mexico, Canada, Costa Rica and the Caribbean and plans to add hotels in Aspen, Colo., Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Va., this spring.

Day trips that take place in communities often give back to them. Ninth Ward Rebirth Bike Tours in New Orleans, for example, donates $5 of its $65 fee to local charities. Oyster hauling or crabbing with Virginia Watermen Heritage Tours provides a secondary source of income to fishermen in a string of coastal communities. The tour booking site Visit.org allows users to search for experiences by interests, including women’s empowerment and human rights.

When it launched its Experiences tours in 2016, Airbnb added social impact programs; 100 percent of the fees go to nonprofits and entrepreneurs highlighted in each tour. They may include an outing in Venice with the founder of a community garden, a LGBTQ history tour of New York with an activist or an experience making notebooks in Prague with the founder of a nonprofit that works with artisans challenged by mental and physical disabilities.

For those who have the time, tour operators offer myriad ways to contribute to social causes.

It’s not uncommon for safari companies in Africa to add community tours to their itineraries, often to show off how they’re spreading the wealth locally via education and health care. This year, andBeyond introduced Travel With Purpose trips, which spend more time visiting conservation and community projects based on the interests of millennial travelers interested in philanthropy.

“Only when you actually get your hands proverbially dirty by rolling up your sleeves and engaging in these projects and initiatives can you really learn and understand the issues and how we can make an impact, however small,” wrote Joss Kent, chief executive of andBeyond, in an email.

Many high-end tour operators such as Audley Travel and Scott Dunn partner with Me to We , the travel arm of the We Charity devoted to sustainable development, to offer social impact trips. African Travel, Inc. offers ME-to-WE Adventure to Kenya (four days from $2,195) in a Maasai Mara community, including learning traditional beading and helping to build a school. Me to We executives say half of its net profits go to the charity.

At Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort in British Columbia, guests can pay to attend its 10-day May guide school alongside resort guides. For each paying traveler, the resort will sponsor training for an indigenous youth from the area. The program, launched this year, is already sold out, but the lodge plans to offer it again in 2019 (5,000 Canadian dollars, or about $3,910).

Village Ways , named best tour operator in the poverty reduction category in 2017 by Responsible Travel , a travel agency that specializes in sustainable travel, guides trips in Bhutan, India and Nepal that focus on village life. New this year, the company will offer trips with the Anwals , migratory shepherds in the Indian Himalayas, walking with them for two days as they drive their sheep to the high meadows. The rest of the time, guests walk from village to village, staying in local guesthouses (10 days from £1,052, or about $1,480).

Sustainable Travel: What It Is, Why We Need It, And How You Can Do It

The effects of sustainable travel have a further reach than many people even realize, and this is why it's something travelers should be aware of.

When travelers visit a destination they have an impact on it. Climbers at Mount Everest are famous for leaving trash behind. National Geographic reported that in 2019 the Nepali government cleared 11 tons of trash off the world's highest peak. In Peru, Rainbow Mountain is an increasingly popular site . Locals have found a new source of employment and economic growth, but many are losing touch with their traditional pastoral way of life. Every year during tourist season, Spain's Mallorca Island experiences shortages of freshwater. In the meantime, guests there are busy taking long showers, hotels launder linens daily, and resorts water impeccably landscaped green lawns. Thinking about travel in terms of leaving an eco-friendly footprint could help humanity preserve natural and cultural gems, keeping them intact for generations to come .

What Is Sustainable Travel?

Travelers have an impact on the places they visit. Sometimes, they have a positive effect. This could be on the economy by creating new jobs or on the environment by putting pressure on local authorities to protect unique natural areas. At other times, visitors negatively affect the places they visit. For example, climbers leave trash on Mount Everest or guests use too much water at a resort.

According to Sustainable Travel International , sustainable travel is when visitors positively impact their vacation spots and the world in general. There are four main concepts to consider when planning sustainable travel. These include protecting the natural world, combating climate change, supporting community growth, and eliminating waste and pollution. More about that later on. The best way to achieve sustainable travel, though, is thoughtfully planning vacations. People might consider how choices of destination, transport, cuisine, accommodation, and tours affect the world.

related: These Were Some Of The Greenest (Eco-Friendly) Destinations As Of 2020

Why Does The World Need Sustainable Travel?

Traveling conscientiously is tremendously important. Fundamentally, it ensures that people can continue visiting new places and communities. If sustainable travel does not become the norm, authorities may choose to make attractions off-limits. Thailand temporarily closed Maya Beach on Phi Phi Island after beachgoers damaged the coral reef. In other cases, intervention comes too late, after visitors have already destroyed their destination. A selfie-seeking tourist climbed a statue of King Dom Sebastian in Lisbon's Rossio Railway Station. The 16th-century statue tumbled to the ground and shattered.

Governments can ensure sustainable travel through policy. Bruges, Belgium has asked its boat companies to convert to electric motors. That way, when they provide tours of the city's legendary canals they'll cause less noise and air pollution. More controversially, African wildlife parks use the money raised through trophy hunting towards conservation efforts.

In many destinations, lawmakers have yet to protect their natural treasures and cultural heritage. That leaves the responsibility to travelers and service providers to act sustainably. Simply considering the consequences of their travel choices is the best way for tourists to preserve and protect the sites they love.

related: Eco-Conscious French Couple Travels The World Without Ever Boarding A Plane

How Can People Travel More Sustainably?

While much of sustainable travel depends on the communities at destinations, visitors can contribute to preserving destinations and cultures. Here are ways that travelers can act responsibly.

Protect Nature

When tourists pay entrance fees to national parks and protected nature areas, they support the conservation of fragile environments and native wildlife. By following the rules at these parks, they avoid damaging fragile ecosystems.

• Visit protected nature areas
• Pay entrance fees
• Follow rules and stay on designated paths

Combat Climate Change

Air travel accounts for a huge part of greenhouse gas emissions. That means that alternative transportation is better for reducing climate change and global warming. Of course, often it's necessary to fly in order to reach far destinations. When that's the case, travelers can offset their carbon footprint by donating to organizations that plant trees to absorb CO2 or create wind farms to generate energy. Sustainable Travel International provides a list of such organizations.

• Drive in a car with 3 or 4 people
• Take trains or buses
• Only fly when necessary
• Make donations to offset carbon emissions

Empower Local Communities

When tourists spend their money at local businesses they improve the economy and increases the employment rate. Rather than eating at a chain restaurant, visitors can choose to eat at locally-owned establishments. That probably means they'll get a more authentic meal as well. By using Airbnb or small local hotels, travelers leave their money in the community. Finally, tourists can hire local guides. Often, they are more knowledgeable since they're from the destination and this creates jobs opportunities for people from the area.

Tourists can also support communities by resecting the people who live at their destination. This means following local laws and customs. Learning to say thank you, please, and other phrases in the language is welcome in many places. Taking cooking, dancing, or music classes is a way to respectfully learn about another culture without alienating or stigmatizing people.

• Eat meals at locally-owned restaurants
• Stay at local hotels
• Hire local guides
• Buy arts and crafts created by local artists
• Buy concert tickets for a show by a local musician
• Show authentic interest in learning about the way they live

Avoid Leaving Behind Trash And Pollution

To keep their destinations pristine, travelers can practice the same conservation measures as they do at home:

• Turn off the lights
• Turn down the heater or air conditioner
• Walk or bike when possible
• Avoid single-use plastics like PET plastic water bottles
• Take shorter showers

next: The 10 Most Beautiful Eco-Friendly Hotels In The World (And Where To Find Them)

Why Sustainable Travel Is Only Going to Get More Popular

According to a new survey, travelers are ready to explore the eco-friendly way. Here’s what people from around the world look for before packing their bags.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Veranda editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

The sustainable travel market continues to grow—as does traveler interest in the topic, according to Booking.com’s 2023 Sustainable Travel Report . After surveying 33,228 travelers from 35 countries and territories, researchers from the trip booking website found that American travelers are increasingly making sustainable selections that impact several parts of their trips. At the same time, they’re requesting even more eco-friendly options from travel companies.

“While travel may be back [after pandemic-related restrictions], rising living costs and climate anxiety has led to greater demand for more budget and planet-friendly options,” said Glenn Fogel, CEO of Booking.com. “Travel can be a force for good and travelers themselves are proving to be today’s changemakers, adopting more sustainable travel habits and seeking responsible experiences. More sustainable travel is an investment for the world.”

These shifts have the potential to make a difference. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council , 8 to 11 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions are linked to travel and tourism (mostly due to the commute to and from the destination).

When considering sustainable travel, it’s not just about turning off the lights in the hotel room or reusing towels. (Although many folks do! More than six in 10 people reuse the same towel multiple times, up 28% from 2022, and 71 percent flip off the lights and appliances at accommodations when they aren’t around.) Survey participants say they’re also seeking authentic local experiences that give back—or at least don’t interrupt—the community’s culture.

About 37 percent of respondents prefer traveling outside of peak season to reduce the risk for overcrowding; up 12 percent from last year. And 42 percent of travelers put a keen focus on making purchases at small, independent stores to support the local economy. Sustainable souvenirs sound like the perfect way to keep the memories alive back home until you can budget for your next trip !

More than four in 10 U.S. travelers (44 percent) admit that recent climate change news has inspired them to integrate more sustainable practices overall—including during travels. As a result, 68 percent are leaning into “regenerative” travel practices that leave the places they visit better when they arrive.

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Sustainable Travel Is the Future

Afar’s editor in chief shares a vision of travel reimagined..

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Venice, which became an international symbol of overtourism, has a chance to change the way it manages visitors.

Photo by Peter Dench

AFAR editor in chief Julia Cosgrove made the following remarks to introduce a discussion of the idea of sustainable travel and destination stewardship on AFAR Live, an online gathering of travel leaders. This edition of AFAR Live took place on May 21, 2020.

Today’s discussion around destination stewardship is so critical at this juncture. When travelers are ready to go, destinations must be prepared to welcome them in a new way.

The writer Arundhati Roy published a beautiful and poignant piece in the Financial Times last month, making the case that a pandemic can be a portal. She wrote that “historically, pandemics have forced humans to break with the past and imagine their world anew. We can choose to walk through it, dragging the carcasses of our prejudice and hatred, our avarice, our data banks and dead ideas, our dead rivers and smoky skies behind us. Or we can walk through lightly, with little luggage, ready to imagine another world.”

Getting through the portal is the uncomfortable stage we’re in the midst of now. To get to the other side will require even more patience, creative thinking, and the courage to take risks. But I’m optimistic that if we do the work now, a better world awaits.

In the days before COVID-19, of course, overtourism was the biggest concern across the travel industry. In heavily-visited areas all around the world, local residents were overwhelmed by the influx in travelers and were seeking relief from clogged infrastructure. While that feels like a lifetime ago now, it would be such a missed opportunity to not use this time to address overtourism and the other challenges facing travel then—and now.

Assuming the U.S. Travel Association projections are correct, travel spending in the U.S. will tally just a third of last year’s levels: $4.2 billion this year versus $12.3 billion in 2019. With those figures in mind, there’s never been a better opportunity to consider some radical new approaches and out-of-the-box thinking. We have to rebuild smarter. And wiser. And more sustainably. Both over-visited and under-visited destinations need to make adjustments now, not later.

As Roger Dow, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, said yesterday to an audience that included Vice President Pence, “Travel will help bring America back. The travel industry is the front door of economic development.” Let’s take advantage of this moment and imagine a brighter future for travel, akin to a Travel New Deal or a more utopian vision of the industry we all love so dearly, to help us emerge from this dark time with a bright and clear road map in hand.

So what then does this all mean, and, more importantly, how does it translate to you and your businesses?

From destination marketing to destination stewardship

In the last few years, we’ve seen destination marketing evolve into destination management and destination stewardship, and with that shift comes such enormous responsibility, to do better by the place, its local residents, its economy, and the travelers who want to visit. This philosophical shift in approach will be more necessary than ever as destinations reopen.

I don’t think it will surprise anyone on this call that based on a recent survey of AFAR readers, there’s a huge pent-up demand for travel right now.

According to our survey, more people expect to travel internationally in 2021 than did in 2019; 66 percent are planning a trip now. They are prioritizing driving destinations in the short term, but are still thinking about big trips. The top domestic destinations they want to visit once restrictions are lifted include California, Florida, New York, Colorado, and Washington State. And the top international destinations they want to visit once restrictions are lifted include France, Canada, Italy, England, and Mexico.

These are states and countries that have all faced and tackled overtourism in different ways.

Could COVID-19 be the death knell for tour bus travel and mass tourism? Possibly, at least for a while. And I would argue that’s not such a bad thing for our planet. And it’s not a bad thing for the long-term health of the travel industry.

The most obvious ways DMOs and tour operators can combat overtourism are to promote places that aren’t overrun with large groups of travelers; to promote visitation in shoulder seasons or off-peak times of year; and to spread the flow of travelers to untrammeled destinations and lesser-known sights.

I read yesterday that Prague recently created a new concept for tourism in the city. It lays out the commitment to travelers, yes, but also to locals. An official behind the initiative said: “The Prague urban conservation area has been overburdened for too long. Tourists concentrate in the historical center of the city where foreign visitors strongly outnumber local residents.”

Amsterdam, Venice, and Norway, which we’ll hear about later on in this call, as well as so many other destinations, are all committing to innovative sustainability measures, to ensure their destinations will survive and thrive for future generations of travelers and locals.

On a recent Travel Weekly Twitter chat that I participated in, one commenter wrote: “Focus on ensuring travel truly benefits local economies. Partner with small operators, local restaurants, and independent guides; make a more long-lasting, positive economic impact in the communities travelers visit.”

This approach can apply to so many types of destinations, be they small or large, rural or urban.

So we’ve got to spread the visitation flow in every way we can. For some states, regions, or countries, this might be promoting the idea and dream that a traveler can have a distinctive experience all to herself if she goes to the right place at the right time.

Travelers need to be good guests

Now in fairness, travelers will not be going to as many places as they were before COVID-19, at least in the short term. The frothiness bubble is over for a while. But the trips they will take will be more meaningful. They will not be about visiting many destinations in one week, ticking the sights off the list, and seeing things quickly and without much in the way of depth. The pace of travel (and to be honest, life) has to slow down and the experiences must become deeper, more distinctive, and more meaningful.

What role does the traveler play in all this? It becomes more incumbent on the traveler to be a good guest, just as much as it is important for a destination to be a good host. Going forward should we treat travel as a privilege? What if instead of a traveler asking “What can I get out of this place?” the traveler—the type you all want coming to your destination because she spends the most and approaches travel with the right mindset—asks “What can I do to support this place?”

Destinations should protect what is distinctive

About seven years ago I spoke about travel trends and millennials at a Caribbean tourism conference in the British Virgin Islands. I said it then and I’ll say it now: Your positioning and brand campaigns need to be about more than your destination’s equivalent of white-sand beaches. Show, don’t tell, a would-be visitor about the people, the place, and what makes your destination distinctive.

What is special about your destination? That’s your selling point. Not an Instagram influencer standing in front of an iconic point of interest or a model posing on a beach. Be real, be genuine, tell an authentic story about what makes your destination or your brand special. And share the stories of people. Be the heart. Human-centric campaigns that reveal the soul of a place are so much more memorable and effective. (And if you don’t have confidence to do this, get in touch with me and let AFAR Creates do it for you.)

There’s still a huge appetite for travel storytelling that inspires travelers, whether that’s coming from media companies like AFAR or in-house content marketing teams trying to figure out best practices and strike the right tone as their destinations reopen to travelers.

Mission, heart, and purpose will become even more vital as travelers start tiptoeing back out into the world. Focus on values and people of interest through the lens of inclusivity.

Trust. Expertise. Experience. These simple words matter now more than ever.

If the metric of success before the pandemic was heads in beds and quantity over quality, it’s time to shake out the cushions.

Our executive editor Jeremy Saum shared with me this idea: “sustainable tourism,” which to me in 2020 is shorthand simply for tourism, must meet the needs of today without sacrificing our ability to meet the needs of the future.

So let’s get to work.

>>Next: What Travel in the Age of Coronavirus Will Look Like

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

Why Sustainable Tourism is Important

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

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

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

Table of Contents

The Issue: Why is Sustainable Tourism Important?

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

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

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

What is Sustainable Tourism?

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

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

Sustainable Tourism Principles

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

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

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

The 3 Pillars of Sustainable Tourism

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

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

The environmental pillar of sustainable tourism

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

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

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

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

The social pillar of sustainable tourism

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

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

The economic pillar of sustainable tourism

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

Types of Sustainable Tourism

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

Differences Between Sustainable, Eco & Responsible Tourism

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

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

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

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

A Look Back at Why Sustainable Tourism is Important

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

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

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

What are the Benefits of Sustainable Tourism?

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

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

Benefits for Local Communities

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

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

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

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

Benefits for Tourism Companies

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

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

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

Benefits for The Individual Traveler

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

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

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

Sustainable Travel in Peru

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

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

Ecotourism in the Amazon Rainforest

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

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

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

Pachamama as Sustainable Tourism Example

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

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

Apus Peru: Adventure Travel Specialists

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

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

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

Challenges for Sustainability in the Tourism Industry

Why is sustainable tourism important?

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

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

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

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

Is Sustainable Travel Possible?

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

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

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

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

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Sustainably Forward

Why Is Sustainable Transport Important? 5 Big Reasons

Why is sustainable transport important for a healthier planet and community? Dive into eco-friendly solutions reshaping our travel.

Why Sustainable Transport Is Important? Key Takeaways:

• Why sustainable transport is important lies in its ability to significantly reduce environmental impact.
• It decreases greenhouse gas emissions, lessens reliance on non-renewable energy sources, and improves air quality.
• Sustainable transportation also fosters healthier communities and supports global efforts against climate change, making it a crucial aspect of our future.

Ever wondered why is sustainable transport important? In today’s world, as we grapple with climate change and urban congestion, sustainable transport isn’t just a good idea; it’s essential.

It’s about clean air, efficient travel, and a healthier environment for us all. Let’s explore how green transportation options are making a big difference.

Table of Contents

What Is Sustainable  Transport?

Sustainable transport is a game-changer in modern mobility, focusing on reducing environmental impact and enhancing efficiency.

It encompasses transportation methods that minimize emissions, like electric vehicles, public transit, cycling, and walking, aiming for a greener, cleaner, and more equitable way of moving people and goods.

Sustainable transport refers to ways of transportation that are sustainable in terms of their social and environmental impacts. Components for evaluating sustainability include the particular vehicles used for road, water or air transport; the source of energy; and the infrastructure used to accommodate the transport. Wikipedia

What Makes Transportation Sustainable?

Sustainable transportation is a crucial component in our journey towards a greener future.

It encompasses not just the environmental benefits , but also the social and economic impacts.

This section delves into what sustainable transportation really means, exploring its key characteristics and how it can be integrated into our daily lives and urban landscapes.

Characteristics of Sustainable Transportation: Efficiency, Low Emissions, Affordability

• Efficiency: Sustainable transportation is marked by its efficient use of resources. This includes optimizing fuel consumption and reducing waste.
• Low Emissions: A core attribute of sustainable transport is its minimal environmental impact, particularly in terms of greenhouse gas emissions. This is crucial in combating climate change and preserving air quality​​​.
• Affordability: Sustainable transport systems are not only environmentally friendly but also economically viable. They offer cost-effective options for both individuals and societies​.

Examples: Electric Vehicles, Public Transportation, Cycling

• Electric Vehicles (EVs): EVs are a prime example of sustainable transportation. They emit fewer greenhouse gases and pollutants compared to conventional vehicles​.
• Public Transportation: Buses, trains, and other forms of public transport significantly reduce the number of vehicles on the road, leading to lower emissions and decreased traffic congestion​​​.
• Cycling: Promoting cycling as a mode of transport contributes to reduced emissions, lesser road congestion, and healthier lifestyles.

The Role of Policy and Urban Planning in Sustainable Transportation

• Government Policies: Effective policies are essential in promoting sustainable transportation. This includes incentives for EVs, investment in public transport infrastructure, and regulations that encourage low-emission vehicles​​.
• Urban Planning: Integrating sustainable transport into urban planning is key. This involves creating pedestrian-friendly spaces, and bike lanes, and ensuring easy access to public transport. Urban planning can significantly influence the shift towards sustainable transportation by making it a more convenient and accessible option​​.

Table: What Makes Transportation Sustainable?

In a nutshell:.

In summary, sustainable transportation is defined by its efficiency, eco-friendliness, and affordability.

It includes a range of practices and modes, from electric vehicles to cycling and well-designed public transport systems.

Effective policies and urban planning play a pivotal role in making sustainable transportation a feasible and attractive option for all.

How Can We Make Transportation Sustainable?

Making transportation sustainable requires a multifaceted approach, combining technology, policy, and community involvement.

This section explores practical strategies and actions that can drive the transition towards more sustainable transportation systems, each playing a unique role in shaping a greener, more efficient future.

Promoting Public Transportation: Benefits and Challenges

• Benefits: Public transportation reduces the number of individual vehicles on roads, decreasing traffic congestion and pollution. It’s a cost-effective and efficient way to move large numbers of people​​.
• Challenges: Key challenges include ensuring reliability, coverage, and accessibility. Investment in infrastructure and services is essential to make public transport a preferred choice for commuters.

The Shift to Electric and Hybrid Vehicles: How They Contribute to Sustainability

• Reducing Emissions: Electric and hybrid vehicles play a significant role in cutting down greenhouse gas emissions, a critical factor in combating climate change.
• Energy Efficiency: These vehicles are more energy-efficient and have a lower operating cost over time compared to traditional fossil fuel-powered cars.

Encouraging Active Transportation: Walking and Cycling as Sustainable Options

• Health and Environmental Benefits: Active transportation like walking and cycling not only reduces emissions but also promotes physical health and well-being​​.
• Urban Design: Creating safe and convenient infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists is vital. This includes dedicated bike lanes, pedestrian zones, and ensuring connectivity with other modes of transport​​​.

Role of Technology and Innovation in Sustainable Transport

• Advancements in Transportation Technology: Innovations in vehicle design, fuel efficiency, and alternative fuels are key to sustainable transport .
• Smart Transportation Systems: Leveraging technology for smart traffic management, efficient routing, and integration of different modes of transport enhances the overall sustainability of transportation systems.

Table: How Can We Make Transportation Sustainable?

In conclusion, making transportation sustainable is achievable through a combination of promoting public transportation, transitioning to electric and hybrid vehicles, encouraging active transportation, and leveraging technology and innovation.

Each element plays a crucial role in creating a more sustainable, efficient, and environmentally friendly transportation ecosystem.

Why is Sustainable Transportation Important?

Sustainable transportation is more than a trend; it’s a vital solution to some of the most pressing environmental and societal issues of our time. 

This section underscores the importance of sustainable transportation, highlighting how it can lead to significant environmental, social, and economic benefits.

Sustainable transport is vital for several reasons:

• Environmental Protection: It significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, contributing to the fight against climate change.
• Public Health: Cleaner air means fewer health problems like asthma and heart disease.
• Efficiency and Cost Savings: Sustainable transport methods like public transit and cycling are often more efficient and less expensive in the long run than car travel.
• Reduced Congestion: Fewer cars on the road mean less traffic, making cities more livable and commutes faster.
• Energy Conservation: It lessens reliance on non-renewable energy sources, promoting a more sustainable use of resources.

Environmental Benefits: Reduced Emissions, Conservation of Natural Resources

• Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: By lowering reliance on fossil fuels, sustainable transportation helps significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, a key factor in combating climate change​.
• Conservation of Resources: Sustainable transportation methods, like electric vehicles and cycling, are less dependent on non-renewable energy sources, aiding in the conservation of these precious resources​.

Social and Health Benefits: Improved Air Quality, Reduced Noise Pollution, Healthier Communities

• Improved Air Quality: Sustainable transportation modes contribute to better air quality by reducing pollutants. This can lead to fewer health issues, such as respiratory diseases​​.
• Reduced Noise Pollution: Quieter transportation options contribute to a more serene urban environment, enhancing the quality of life for city inhabitants.
• Healthier Communities: Encouraging active transportation like walking and cycling can have significant health benefits, promoting physical activity and well-being among the population.​​​

Economic Impacts: Cost Savings, Job Creation, Economic Growth

• Cost Savings: Sustainable transportation can lead to significant cost savings for both individuals and governments, through reduced fuel consumption and lower healthcare costs due to improved air quality​.
• Job Creation: The shift towards sustainable transportation can create new jobs in sectors like public transportation, bicycle manufacturing, and infrastructure development​.
• Economic Growth: Investing in sustainable transport infrastructure can stimulate economic growth by improving access to markets and services, and by fostering a more efficient and productive workforce.

Table: Why is Sustainable Transportation Important?

In essence, the importance of sustainable transportation extends beyond just environmental preservation.

It plays a crucial role in fostering healthier communities and driving economic growth, making it a key component in building a more sustainable and prosperous future.

Sustainable Transportation Ideas

In the quest for a greener future, innovative and practical ideas in sustainable transportation are leading the way.

This section explores a range of creative solutions, from pioneering urban transportation models to grassroots community initiatives, offering a glimpse into the future of sustainable travel.

Innovative Urban Transportation Models: Case Studies from Different Cities

Integrated public transport systems.

Cities like Singapore and Curitiba, Brazil, are lauded for their integrated public transport systems. Singapore’s efficient system seamlessly connects buses, trains, and subways, making transit easy and reducing car usage.

Curitiba’s Rede Integrada de Transporte network is designed around Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), offering high-capacity, cost-effective public transport.

Smart Bike-Sharing Programs

Paris with Vélib’ and Hangzhou, China, with its extensive bike-share program, stand out as cities that have successfully integrated bike-sharing into their urban fabric.

These programs offer convenient, affordable, and flexible mobility options, significantly enhancing urban mobility and reducing reliance on motor vehicles.

Electric Public Transit

Cities like Shenzhen, China, which boasts the world’s first all-electric bus fleet , and Oslo, Norway, with its commitment to electric buses, are pioneering the shift towards electric public transit. This transition is dramatically reducing urban emissions and noise pollution.

Community Initiatives and Grassroots Movements: Local Examples of Sustainable Transport

Neighborhood carpooling schemes.

• In places like Portland, Oregon, neighborhood carpooling initiatives are organized through platforms like Getaround , reducing the number of vehicles on the road and fostering a sense of community while cutting emissions.

Community-Led Cycling Campaigns

• Amsterdam and Copenhagen are exemplary in promoting cycling through community-led efforts. These cities have developed extensive bike lanes and bike parking facilities, and host events that encourage cycling, making it an integral part of urban life.

Local Policy Advocacy

• San Francisco’s advocacy group, the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition , has been instrumental in pushing for bike-friendly policies, leading to more than 450 miles of bike lanes and paths in the city, showcasing the power of local policy advocacy in promoting sustainable transportation.

Future Trends in Sustainable Transportation: What’s Next on the Horizon?

Autonomous vehicles.

• The potential of autonomous vehicles to revolutionize urban transport lies in their ability to reduce accidents, optimize traffic flow, and decrease the need for personal car ownership. Cities like Phoenix, Arizona, are already testing self-driving car services , hinting at the future of urban mobility.

Hydrogen Fuel Cells

• With cities like Tokyo and Hamburg introducing hydrogen fuel cell buses , the technology is set to play a crucial role in future transportation. These vehicles emit only water vapor, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels.

Mobility as a Service (MaaS)

• MaaS platforms, such as Helsinki’s Whim app , aggregate various transport services, including buses, trains, taxis, bikes, and car rentals, into a single, accessible service. This model promises a shift away from car ownership to a more flexible, efficient, and sustainable urban transport system.

These ideas not only represent current successes in sustainable transportation but also pave the way for future innovations.

As we continue to develop and implement these ideas, we move closer to realizing a more sustainable and efficient transportation system worldwide.

FAQs on Sustainable Transportation

Sustainable transportation often raises several questions about its nature, benefits, and implementation.

This section aims to address some of the most common queries, providing clear, concise answers to deepen understanding and encourage engagement in sustainable transport practices.

Q: What is an example of sustainable transportation?

A: An example of sustainable transportation is the use of electric vehicles, which operate on electricity and emit no exhaust gases, thereby reducing air pollution and dependence on fossil fuels.

Q: What is the most sustainable way of transport?

A: The most sustainable way of transport is typically non-motorized modes like walking or cycling. These modes have negligible environmental impact and promote health benefits.

Q: What is sustainable travel and transport?

A: Sustainable travel and transport refer to modes of transportation that have a low environmental impact, promote efficient use of resources, and are accessible to all sections of society. This includes public transit systems, cycling, walking, and the use of electric or hybrid vehicles.

Q: What are the goals of sustainable transport?

A: The goals of sustainable transport include reducing greenhouse gas emissions, minimizing pollution, conserving energy, promoting equity and social inclusiveness, and enhancing the overall efficiency and safety of transportation systems.

Q: What are 5 sustainable transportation modes?

• Public transit (buses, trains)
• Car-sharing using electric or hybrid vehicles
• Electric scooters or bikes

Q: Why should we switch to sustainable transport?

A: Switching to sustainable transport is crucial to reduce environmental impact, particularly greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality and public health, conserve natural resources, and create more livable, efficient urban environments.

Q: Who benefits the most from sustainable transportation?

A: Everyone benefits from sustainable transportation, including urban residents who enjoy cleaner air and less congestion, people who experience improved health outcomes due to reduced pollution, and the global community through the mitigation of climate change.

Q: What are the problems with sustainable transport?

A: Problems with sustainable transport include higher initial costs for infrastructure and vehicles, technological limitations (such as battery range in electric vehicles), the need for widespread behavior change, and sometimes limited accessibility or convenience compared to conventional transport.

Q: How effective is sustainable transportation?

A: Sustainable transportation is highly effective in reducing environmental impact, particularly in lowering greenhouse gas emissions and urban air pollution. It also contributes to improved public health, energy conservation, and enhanced urban mobility. However, the effectiveness can vary based on the extent of adoption and integration into existing transportation systems.

Why Is Sustainable Transport Important? Conclusion

As we’ve explored, sustainable transportation is not just a beneficial choice, but a necessary one for our planet’s health and our quality of life.

This journey towards eco-friendly transportation and sustainability in transport involves a collective effort and a shift in how we view and use transportation.

Recap of the Importance of Sustainable Transport

• Sustainable transportation significantly reduces environmental impacts, notably greenhouse gas emissions and pollution, helping combat climate change and preserve air quality​​​.
• It also offers social and health benefits, such as improved public health due to better air quality and reduced noise pollution, as well as encouraging physical activity through walking and cycling​​​.
• Economically, sustainable transportation can lead to cost savings, job creation, and contribute to economic growth through efficient and eco-friendly transport systems​​​.

Call to Action: Encouraging Reader Involvement and Support for Sustainable Transport Initiatives

• Individuals can make a difference by choosing more sustainable modes of transport, like walking, cycling, or using public transit.
• Support local and national policies that promote sustainable transportation. This can include advocating for better cycling infrastructure, more efficient public transport systems, and incentives for electric vehicle use.
• Stay informed and spread awareness about the benefits of sustainable transport. Sharing knowledge and experiences can inspire others to make eco-friendly transportation choices.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, embracing sustainable transportation is a vital step towards a healthier, more sustainable future.

It requires the collective effort of individuals, communities, governments, and businesses.

By understanding its importance and taking action, we can all contribute to creating a more sustainable world.

For those interested in diving deeper into the world of sustainable transportation, here are some valuable resources and readings:

• Overview: Discusses the various benefits of sustainable transportation, including reduced traffic congestion and climate change mitigation.
• Link: Scale Climate Action
• Overview: Offers insights into different modes of transport and their environmental impacts, including comparisons between trains and cars, and airplanes versus trains.
• Link: Climate Selectra
• Overview: Highlights five key environmental benefits of sustainable transportation, such as less pollution and clearer skies.
• Link: UCLA Transportation
• Overview: Provides a comprehensive look at sustainable transport in the context of sustainable development, including its role in energy efficiency and reducing pollution.
• Link: UN Sustainable Development
• Overview: Explores various initiatives and programs worldwide that promote sustainable transport.
• Overview: Details the role of sustainable transport in sustainable development and climate action.
• Link: UN News
• Overview: Discusses the role of business in advancing sustainable transport.
• Link: UN DESA
• Overview: Elaborates on why transport is fundamental to economic activity and human welfare, and its environmental impacts.
• Overview: Discusses the need for sustainable mobility in cities, focusing on issues like equality and fossil fuel dependence.
• Link: Taylor and Francis Insights

These resources provide a wealth of information for those looking to understand the various facets of sustainable transportation, its importance, and the steps being taken globally to promote it.

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Sustainable Travel – Why It’s Important

While it is lovely to travel and take in both the history and culture of a place, in today’s world eco travelling ensures the long-term sustainability of a location and its ecosystem. We have put together a guide to help highlight just how critical sustainable travel is and how you can be a more conscientious traveller.

What is sustainable travel?

Sustainable travel, also commonly referred to as eco travelling or ethical tourism, aims to reduce the negative impact caused on the environment and ecosystem of the places you are visiting.

By design, tourism gets people to visit places precious to a country and our world, whether it’s for the landscapes, wildlife, people or food. Although it can help create demand for jobs and boost the economy, the environmental impact of tourism can be devastating if it is not properly managed or maintained. This can also result in long-term negative effects on local communities, not to mention potentially destroying history and culture.

Over time, as the desire to visit far-flung places around the world has grown – spurred on a great deal by beautifully curated travel content – our yearning to tick places off our to-visit lists has unfortunately resulted in several places slowly being ‘ruined’ by tourism. And, in smaller ways, tourism’s negative impact can be felt in many popular destinations worldwide.

The importance of eco travelling and ethical tourism

If you’re not quite sure what ethical tourism is, it simply means to keep in mind how your actions as a tourist can affect the environment and the local community of the areas you visit.

Sustainable travelling aims to reduce the negative impact of tourism while increasing the benefits. This includes:

• Protecting natural environments and animal welfare
• Managing tourist activities and numbers
• Raising environmental awareness
• Benefiting local communities and businesses
• Allowing visitors to truly see the place they are visiting for what it is

How to be more conscious about ethical tourism

Today, along with the threat of climate change, tourism can pose a great risk to many countries, with places being damaged by too many visitors. Coral reefs are just one example of this, as global warming causes the temperature of the ocean to rise, and tourists damage reefs through careless diving or removing coral.

That is why it’s important to try and be as sustainable in our travels as possible. As a tourist, you should:

Protect and conserve natural environments, resources and wildlife where possible

This can be anything from removing litter to making sure you don’t change the environment, such as by taking away stones, cutting plants, or introducing something that wouldn’t otherwise be there (ie feeding wild animals food intended for humans).

Take care of heritage places and historical sites

Heritage places and historical sites are a key reason why people like to travel, as they represent the history of the local people. We need to do our part to protect them as much as possible, particularly as there are many instances of thoughtless people vandalising them.

Lower your ecological impact by planning in advance

While tourism of any kind will have some environmental impact, generally speaking, ethical travel means you can still experience the wonders a place has to offer without too many negative consequences. By researching and planning all aspects of your trip, including where you might eat and how you’ll travel around, you can see the sights, sustainably experience the culture, and lower your environmental impact as a tourist.

Try to stick to locally sourced foods

Importing food can be a considerable cost, both environmentally and economically, whereas consuming local delicacies is a great experience and can support local farmers, fishermen, and businesses.

Be more conscious about your impact as a traveller

In today’s world, being more mindful about your carbon footprint goes a long way. But, it’s not all we need to think about as travellers – some locations and communities may also not be able to sustain large numbers of tourists due to infrastructure. In cases like this, it can be best to consider alternative destinations or visit at a less busy time of year, if possible.

Think about the animals

Many countries offer activities such as donkey riding and camel safaris as a unique experience. Every year, thousands of animals are used in the tourism industry to transport holidaymakers on rides, treks and tours, and help support the income of local families and communities. However, not all animals are kept in the best condition and many can miss out on the care, rest and nutrition they need. As a tourist, it’s essential to check the condition and general health of any animals before you consider any rides or activities, and do your homework about the tour providers. This is where ethical animal tourism becomes crucial.

Increasing popularity in animal tourism can sadly have negative consequences for working animals. As a tourist, seeking ethical animal encounters can help ensure the welfare of the animals and subsequently influence the way owners care for their animals.

At SPANA, we created our Holiday Hooves Guide , full of advice on how to ensure animals you may encounter on your excursions are fit and healthy, and what to do if you have concerns about an animals’ welfare while on holiday. By doing some research, and making informed choices, you can help make a big difference in promoting responsible tourism.

Our teams also work tirelessly to provide free veterinary care to working animals across the world, including those used in the tourist trade, and your continued support helps make this possible. Please donate today to help us continue to ensure working animals across the world can be looked after.

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Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Sustainable tourism worldwide - statistics & facts

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

Detailed statistics

Ecotourism market size worldwide 2022-2028

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

Global travelers who believe in the importance of green travel 2023

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

Current statistics on this topic.

Leisure Travel

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

Related topics

Recommended.

• Tourism worldwide
• Hotel industry worldwide
• Sustainable tourism in the U.S.
• Sustainable fashion worldwide

Recommended statistics

Industry overview.

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

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

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

Sustainable initiatives travelers would adopt worldwide 2022, by region

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

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

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

Environmental impact

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

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

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

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

Carbon footprint of tourism-related transport worldwide 2005-2030

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

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

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

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

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

International tourism figures

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

Number of international tourist arrivals worldwide 1950-2023

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

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

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

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

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

Global air traffic - number of flights 2004-2024

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

Global air traffic - scheduled passengers 2004-2022

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

Opinions and behavior

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

Main drivers for visiting a country by people worldwide 2023

Reasons to visit a country according to respondents worldwide in 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Demand for sustainable hotels by global corporate travel managers 2022

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

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Travelers Say They Want Sustainable Options – But It’s Not the Top Priority

Dennis Schaal , Skift

April 22nd, 2024 at 6:38 PM EDT

The survey encapsulates a seeming dilemma for the travel industry. What proportion of their resources should they pour into promoting sustainable travel choices when a wide swath of travelers aren’t focused on the issue.

Dennis Schaal

For more than a decade, travel companies have been saying sustainability would gain in importance – Tripadvisor said the “ the green travel trend is gaining momentum” back in 2012.

There’s no question travelers say they want sustainable options. But, as Expedia Group CEO Peter Kern said last September at the Skift Global Forum, travelers have yet to change their trip patterns .

A global online survey of 31,000 travelers in 34 countries and territories that Booking.com revealed Monday is consistent with Kern’s assessment.

In the survey, some 83% of traveler respondents indicated that making sustainable travel choices was important to them.

However, Booking.com uncovered a counter-trend. “New insights show a sense of weariness could be emerging globally, fueled by the ongoing challenges that travelers experience to make more sustainable travel choices,” Booking.com said.

In fact, 45% said sustainable travel choices are important but not an overriding concern when planning or booking a trip. Indeed, 28% globally responded that they are weary of hearing about climate change. That sentiment was even higher (32%) among U.S respondents.

Some 33% of travelers said they thought climate change damage had already taken place, and that their individual travel choices would not make much of a difference.

Looking for Government Action on Climate Change

Some 44% of those surveyed globally said governments would make the most difference – not individual travelers – and 43% thought it would be travel companies.

To qualify for the survey, individuals had to be at least 18 years old and involved as a decision maker in their trips. They had to have traveled at least once in the previous 12 months, and planned to travel again in 2024. The survey took the sentiment of travelers across 34 countries and territories in North America, South America, Europe, Africa and Asia, including China.

What Should Travel Companies Do?

These findings leave travel companies a tough choice: Should the invest in sustainability if it doesn’t lead to more sales?

We posed that question to a spokesperson for Travalyst, the not-for-profit organization founded by Prince Harry, which conducted its annual meeting last week in France. Coalition members include Amadeus, Booking.com, Expedia Group, Google, Mastercard, Sabre, Skyscanner, Travelport, Trip.com Group, Tripadvisor and Visa.

The spokesperson said part of Travalyst’s mission is to encourage consumers to make better travel choices from an environmental perspective.

“Travalyst is on a journey to changing behaviour and that all starts with clear, consistent and credible information which is accessible at scale,” the spokesperson said.

Much of the discussion centered around how the travel industry needs to offer more sustainable choices, the spokesperson said, adding that businesses need to lower their Scope 3 emissions, and that governments need to support these efforts.

“The overall sentiment was that it’s not just down to the consumer; the journey towards a more sustainable travel industry is a shared one,” the Travalyst spokesperson said.

Booking.com’s Strategy

A Booking.com spokesperson said Friday it will seek to publicize “accessible, trustworthy and understandable travel options that will help increase traveler adoption.”

That statement came a month after regulators in the Netherlands, where Booking.com is based, said its efforts to designate certain listings with Travel Sustainable and green leaves badges “was a possibly misleading sustainability claim.”

The company, though, hopes to use third-party certifications to showcase more sustainable travel choices,” the Booking.com spokesperson said Friday.

“While the data shows that sustainable travel remains important, it also shows that there is more work to be done in terms of cross-industry collaboration to accelerate efforts to make sustainable travel choices easier, which we remain committed to,” a Booking.com spokesperson said. “We are encouraged that the research shows that consumers have positive intentions and motivations to travel more sustainability.”

The Daily Newsletter

Our daily coverage of the global travel industry. Written by editors and analysts from across Skift’s brands.

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Tags: booking.com , climate change , online travel , online travel newsletter , prince harry , sustainability , travalyst

Photo credit: A traveler enjoying the solitude. Pxfuel

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Sustainable travel: what’s it all about & why is it so important?

Hostelworld Blog | Posted on April 20, 2018 |

“Sustainability”: it’s the word on everybody’s lips these days. We’re constantly hearing about responsible tourism, eco-lodges and waste being dumped into the ocean. The concept of “being green” has filtered down to all of us in one way or another – but how do we ensure it doesn’t become another shallow Instagram trend? It’s time we all engage seriously with the issue of sustainable travel.

What is sustainable travel?

Are you one of those people who occasionally feels guilty getting flying? You’re not alone. When I started to think more about my own carbon footprint, one issue loomed so large it ended up becoming the elephant in the room, something I couldn’t keep ignoring: how could I square my passion for travel with sustainability? On the face of it, it seemed like the answer was simply “you can’t”. However, once I took a closer look, I discovered there are a lot of ways to solve this problem.

The concept of sustainable tourism rests on three main pillars, namely: • The ecological pillar: e.g. conserving the natural environment of the destination you visiting • The economic pillar: e.g. supporting local businesses there • The social pillar: e.g. supporting cultural projects there

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The ecological pillar: consider your impact on the environment

Planes are a major issue when it comes to the environment – the CO2 emissions per-passenger are huge. So it’s important to consider the length of your trip in relation to the distance you’re travelling. In practice, this means the further you fly, the longer you should stay there. So if you’re considering a trip to the Caribbean then you should stay for at least a fortnight rather than flying there and back in a week. Another way to minimise your environmental impact on a trip is to eat less meat when travelling – and try to cut down at home too. Intensive livestock farming is still the number one cause of CO2 emissions.

A key sustainable travel practice (which may sound really obvious but you would be surprised how many travellers still do this), is to always take all your rubbish with you. Never ever leave anything behind on a beach or on a hiking trail – pack it away and dispose of it properly later. An easy solution is to bring your own reusable flask from home instead of constantly buying plastic bottles in the supermarket. Research in advance if the tap-water is safe to drink in the country you’re visiting (fun fact: it is in Curaçao!) or look out for a water cooler in your hostel. It’s also a good idea to take old t-shirts or broken or worn out shoes home and dispose of them there. A lot of countries just burn their rubbish instead of recycling it, which is unbelievably damaging to the environment.

Another big misconception is that eco-lodges are really expensive, which is understandable given that the term is often used to beautiful luxury hotels located by sustainable beaches. Despite this, it’s actually really easy to find environmentally-friendly hostel accommodation too. If the hostel is made out of wood from the rainforest, provides meals made from locally sourced ingredients and uses electricity from solar panels then you’ve got the makings of some really great eco-accommodation.

Costa Rica: the perfect destination

Around 25% of Costa Rica’s countryside and parts of its coastline have been set aside as conservation areas for decades, meaning the country has been home to some genuinely pioneering work in the field of ecotourism. They even introduced certification in 1999, the “CRT”, that rates the country’s accommodation according to how well it conforms to the principles of sustainable development. In Costa Rica, you’ll always be within easy distance of jungle, rainforest and beaches (like other-worldly beaches), making it all the more important, even as a tourist, to protect the country’s natural landscape. Here’s how to do it.

Book yourself into an eco-hostel

Eco hostels are ten a penny here. How about the Cerro Chato Eco Lodge ? This small, secluded B&B is located at the base of the Arenal Volcano and is surrounded by lushly landscaped grounds abundant with tropical flowers and birds. There are plenty of homestays and hostels scattered across the whole country that are subject to sustainable standards and bear Costa Rica’s Sustainable Tourism certification. The people running these environmentally-friendly properties are usually open and friendly people who welcome visitors with open arms and are happy to explain sustainability to you in more detail.

On your bike!

Leave the scooters behind and jump on a bike in Costa Rica instead. In touristy areas like the Puerto Viejo hippie-village, you can rent out comfortable cruiser-bikes for day-trips or longer periods. Although going by bike takes longer, you’ll get closer to nature. Plus, sustainable tourism is just as much about “slow travel” as it is about cutting emissions to protect the environment. After all, what could be nicer than cycling through a palm-forest and taking in all the sounds of the rainforest? None of that’s possible with a scooter-engine rattling away in the background.

The economic pillar: support local businesses

First of all: the tourism industry in all its forms can boost the economy of a country, which is a great thing. However, resorts and large hotel chains with all-inclusive deals are often run from abroad. So, if you want to directly support the local people and the economy of the country you’re visiting, then avoid big hotel chains and book accommodation run by locals. The same goes for businesses: did a local fisherman offer you a tour in his own boat? Did you have a really enthusiastic and friendly local guide in the national park? Then leave them a bigger tip and recommend them to other people.

Malawi: the perfect destination

Yep, you read that right. This small state in southeast Africa, bordering countries such as Tanzania and Zambia, is one of the poorest in the world. However, that’s exactly why it’s worth putting Malawi on your bucket list for when visiting this region. The place has hardly been touched by tourism, despite the fact that it’s home to Lake Malawi (the ninth biggest lake on the planet). On top of this, there are tea plantations, beaches and a mountain range to hike in. Head there now and boost the country’s economy!

Hostels run by locals

A lot of the hostels in Malawi have been set-up by locals. The more local people involved in running the day-to-day business the better. This works particularly well at the Pakachere Hostel in Zomba. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s a brilliant base if you’re staying in the small city of Zomba and it lies on a stunningly beautiful plateau that’s perfect for hiking. In the evening, the Pakachere is a popular meeting spot for many expats, locals and travellers, and there are regular games nights too. Another benefit to accommodation options in poorer countries like this one is that they also support a range of aid organisations , meaning you can donate money or goods when you visit, safe in the knowledge that everything will go to where help is needed.

Choose local operators

To explore this part of Malawi, you can get a seat on a minibus for a small fee – just make sure you aren’t in a hurry. These buses only leave once they’ve filled-up, which can take hours. If you’d prefer to rent a car, team up with a couple of people from your hostel and go to a local company and book one there (instead of using the internet). If you fancy going on a safari, it’s better to ask about a guide than to drive through the park yourself. Park employees know their way around, meaning you’ll get to see a lot more – including things you might otherwise have missed (animal tracks for instance). Ask your guide as many questions as you like, but also remember to give them a good tip as well.

The social pillar: respect the culture and the people

This section is complicated since it touches on a broad spectrum of issues: the violation of human rights, modern-day slavery and disrespect for cultural traditions are just some of the things that ill-informed tourism can lead to. A lot of things go on behind closed doors that you wouldn’t be aware of, so rather than feeling guilty, you should educate yourself to ensure you’re better informed on your next trip. It’s also important to be aware of the cultural traditions of the place you’re travelling too. To start with, being generally respectful towards the people there and showing an interest in the country is important and allows you to recognise any cultural differences or misunderstandings. Start thinking about the country you’re visiting and the people who live there as you plan your trip. Are you flying to a poor country? Then check out Pack for a Purpose , which sets out all the aid supplies you can take with you.

India: the perfect destination

This huge subcontinent has bags of surprises in store. There are incredible temples scattered across the whole country just waiting for you to visit. You’ll have the chance to encounter a wide range of religions, cultural traditions and people from different backgrounds. Even though Indian people are generally very friendly, helpful and full of curiosity, the country’s poverty and hygiene standards can be a shock at first. What better place to broaden your horizons and question your assumptions while meeting with other people, leaving your preconceptions behind you?

Respecting other cultures

India is a very ethnically and culturally diverse country. It is home to over 100 different languages, as well as countless religions and cultures, all in one big melting-pot. Followers of Hinduism make up 80% of the population, meaning it’s the country’s largest religion, followed by Islam and other religions. In this regard, it’s important to check your guidebook (or check online) before or during your trip through each region. The subcontinent is huge, and the differences between each state are just as big. If you respect cultural practices, such as taking off your shoes before going into a temple, the country will open its doors to you.

If you’re travelling solo or just want to chat and get together with other travellers for excursions, you’ll be able to find travel buddies and open conversations in your hostels. The Wanderers Nest Hostel , located in Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is a great place to stay. The hostel has even committed to reducing plastic waste and supporting the local community.

Be open when meeting the locals

In India, people often stare at tourists and come up to them. It can take a little getting used to at first, but if you’re willing to be open towards people you don’t know, you should give it a go in India. There will be a lot of people who want to have their photo taken with you. It’s even true that female tourists are often asked to hold a local baby – it’s supposed to bring good luck. Sometimes the endless attention you receive can get a bit annoying, disconcerting and tiresome. You’re not a robot, so it’s ok to say “no” sometimes. However, most of the time the encounters will be really interesting and allow you to get a broader view of the world. Anyway, you came here for a reason, right? To get to know another culture? So get going and do just that!

Support social projects in a meaningful way

A lot of travellers really want to help, but forget that aid work is really complex. If, for example, you decide to volunteer in an Indian orphanage, you won’t realise until you’re leaving how difficult it is for the children to see you go. The emotional bonds they form are ripped apart, again and again. So, what else can you do to help out? Well, one way is supporting social infrastructure through responsible consumption, which is something you can easily do at home too. The German label “Glimpse Clothing” offers Indian women somewhere safe to work and rescues them from the spiral of violence. Another piece of advice: before visiting a region, approach a couple of local aid organisations and ask if there is a need for any specific aid goods (e.g. pens, books, chalk) so bring a few useful products with you.

The responsibility to travel the world in a sustainable way lies with us. It’s not always just about having fun, but isn’t that part of the experience of travelling? To get a broader view of the world and a glimpse what really lies beneath the surface? In twenty years’ time, don’t we still want the experience of travelling to be the same as we imagine now? Standing by a clear mountain lakes and walking along spotless beaches? Encountering other cultures and learning new things now and again? If you answer is YES, then we’ll have to choose to travel in a way that is sustainable and responsible now. The reality is, it’s not that hard. We just have to make a start (at long last).

About the author

Anika Landsteiner has a blog , where she writes about (sustainable) travel, capturing moments, as well as life at home and on the road. You can also follow her on Instagram . Her book, Gehen um zu bleiben ( Going away, so you can stay ) has been out since 2017.

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Why is Sustainable Tourism Important?

Last Updated on October 5, 2023

Travel brings many incredible benefits to individual travelers as well as local communities. But it can also  threaten the preservation of our planet’s nature, culture, and history. 

With travel becoming increasingly accessible, the need for sustainable tourism is becoming more urgent, because there are both pros and cons of tourism .

Many of us, particularly those of us in the western hemisphere, have travel privileges that enable us to travel the planet easier than ever before. For example, budget airlines have made it simple to book a quick weekend away in another country or city. 

Because of this growing travel accessibility, it’s important that we acknowledge and address the impact that travel has on natural environments, wildlife, local communities, culture, heritage, and economies. This is where sustainable tourism comes in.

So why is sustainable tourism important? Let’s find out.

Positive Impacts of Tourism

Negative impacts of tourism , what is sustainable tourism, environmental, socio-cultural, 1. creates better experiences for all. , 2. sustinable tourism reduces overtourism. , 3. protects natural environments and supports conservation., 4. sustainable tourism supports local communities. , 5. fosters learning and cultural understanding. , developing sustainable tourism, 1. vote for sustainable tourism with your dollars. , 2. amplify sustainable travel issues and advocate for solutions. , 3. practice sustainability on your own travels. , the impact of tourism.

Hundreds of millions of tourists travel every year to destinations all over the globe, and the tourism industry is a huge economic force. In 2021, the market size of tourism worldwide was estimated at approximately 1.31 trillion U.S. dollars .

Tourism is a global phenomenon, and as a result, in has both positive and negative impacts on our planet and people.  

Tourism has many benefits. It can strengthen communities by providing more income, resources, and infrastructure. It creates higher employment rates, helps preserve culture and language, and leads to more cultural understanding. 

Unfortunately, there’s a downside to tourism, too. Overtourism can impact quality of life in local communities, diminish natural resources, and cause gentrification. There can occasionally be a risk of communities becoming dependent on tourism. 

Some destinations also find that tourism causes “disneyfication.” This is when cultural experiences becoming so commodified, that they are no longer authentic. 

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.

In short, sustainable tourism acknowledges the harms of the tourism industry, and aims to create models of tourism that protect people and the planet. It’s a solution for addressing the negative impacts of tourism. 

Sustainable tourism is important because it ensures the benefits of tourism outweigh the negatives, making tourism a positive force. With sustainable models of tourism, people, culture, heritage, language, wildlife, natural resources, our environment, and everything else that makes this planet special are protected. 

Sustainable travel means committing to traveling in a way that has the least impact possible. With this approach to tourism, we can reduce the effects of overtourism , support local and Indigenous communities , protect natural resources and wildlife , and more.

Sustainable tourism helps every tourist become a more responsible traveler, and it provides an opportunity to give back to the regions and communities that we visit. 

Types of Sustainable Tourism

The term “sustainable” is often associated specifically with environmental concerns, because it’s a term that’s used when talking about solutions for our climate crisis. But in the context of tourism, sustainability isn’t just about nature and wildlife. It also includes people, culture, and social issues. 

It’s helpful to break down global sustainable tourism into these two categories: Environmental, and socio-cultural. 

A 2018 study by Nature Climate Change found that tourism accounts for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions . This is a significant amount of impact, and that’s why environmental sustainable tourism is so important. The environmental type of sustainable tourism focuses on protecting wildlife from the impact of tourism, increasing wildlife conservation, protecting the habitats of wildlife, creating protected natural areas, and ensuring natural resources aren’t diminishing because of tourism.  

Socio-cultural sustainable tourism is focused on maintaining (and improving!) the quality of life of people in tourist destinations, ensuring culture and language is protected, and conserves natural heritage and heritage sitesclima. It’s about making sure local communities are actually benefiting from tourism, economically and socially. 

Both environmental and socio-cultural concerns factor into sustainable tourism. Together, they ensure people and the planet are benefitting from tourism rather than hurting from it. 

5 Reasons Sustainable Tourism is Important

Through sustainable tourism, both travelers and locals in the visited destinations will have a better experience. 

This is because the focus of sustainable travel is on creating a positive, and regenerative impact, while minimizing the harmful impacts of travel. 

As a result, locals will tangibly benefit from tourism, and visitors with have more authentic and meaningful experiences on their travels. 

Overtourism is when there are too many tourists in one place at a time. It can have detrimental effects on places, as well as the people that visit them. 

For example, crowds can reduce the quality of life for both local people and tourists, and overtourism can also create economic dependence on tourism. 

Reducing overtourism through government policies and marketing leads to better balance, and also encourages tourists to explore areas outside of the popular tourist hotspots.   

When tourists want to visit a natural area, there’s motivation and means to protect that area. For example, Algonquin Provincial Park leverages funds earned through tourism to support conservation and protection of the park and it’s wildlife.

Tourism incentives both governments and organizations to institute environmentally focused policies, as well as conservation measures. This can include creating national parks, nature reserves, and other protected areas. 

Conservation around the globe also encourages better treatment of animals and wildlife in the tourism industry. 

As people become more informed about responsible wildlife tourism , tourism is shifting away from interactive wildlife experiences to observation-only experiences. This helps ensure that wild animals get to stay wild.  

One of the greatest benefits of tourism is economic. Both small communities and entire countries can benefit a lot from the money brought in by tourism. 

For example, it’s expected that in 2023, Portugal’s GDP could reach almost €39.5 billion , representing 17.4% of the whole economy. This contribution leads to wider benefits for a community and country.

Economic gains from tourism can help support infrastructure in a community and across a country, support more resources for locals, and in general improve the quality of life of those locals. 

Sustainable tourism aims to create a positive relationship between communities and the people who visit them. This can lead to tons of great benefits. 

For locals and tourists alike, interaction through tourism fosters learning. Both get to learn about eachother’s cultures, practices, and norms.

This creates a mutual cultural understanding, and can also help to eradicate cultural biases and ethnocentrism, as well as problematic cultural appropriation .

The learning also extends to practical knowledge! Travelers can use tourism as an opportunity to learn history, politics, and the world’s dynamics. 

Who’s responsibility is it to develop sustainable tourism? It falls on the mixture of players that create the tourism industry across the globe. This includes governments, tourism boards, tourism operators, marketers, airlines and more. 

Developing sustainable tourism starts with information. To create sustainable models, players across the industry need to be well informed about sustainability issues, and how to address them.  

Some strategies that the travel industry can use in working toward sustainable tourism include tax incentives for switching over to carbon neutral solutions, controlling volume of entry into popular sites, and marketing campaigns that emphasize lesser-known destinations. 

There should also be incentives for developing sustainable tourism. This can come in the form of governmental policy, but incentives can also be driven by tourists. 

For example, if more and more tourists choose hotels that are eco-conscious, the hotel industry will recognize that sustainability is important to travelers, incentivizing more hotels to shift toward eco practices. 

Achieving sustainable tourism is a slow and continuous process that needs the participation of everyone who is involved in the tourism industry, or adjacent to it. 

How to be a Sustainable Tourist

Building sustainable tourism models requires work from the travel industry itself. But individual tourists can definitely help! 

As a tourist, you’re able to influence the travel industry by voting with your dollars. This means making a point to spend your money on hotels, tours, experiences, and transport that are committed to sustainability. 

Before booking accomodation or tour operators, do some research. Look to see if there’s any public mention of sustainable practices on their website, and read reviews to get a sense of what other travelers have observed. 

For example, if you’re renting a vehicle for your trip, see if there’s the option to rent an electric vehicle. By choosing electric cars whenever possible, you send the signal that there’s demand for electric cars over gas cars. 

Making sustainability part of the tourism conversation is a simple thing to do, and it helps! Talking about sustainable tourism brings wider awareness, which encourages more travelers to make sustainable tourism choices. 

And, it further emphasizes to companies and organizations in the tourism industry that sustainable tourism is essential, and worth investing in.  

There are simple things that every person can do on their own travels to help reduce their impact. Like mentioned above, start by booking the most sustainable options for flights, hotels, tour operators, etc. 

From there, minimize your short haul flights, travel lightly, pack zero-waste and reusable toiletries, and use a water filtration system to avoid buying bottled water. 

Read 12 detailed sustainable tourism tips for travelers.  

More from Pina Travels:

• How to be a Responsible Tourist (+20 Responsible Travel Tips!)

Your Guide to Unpacking Travel Privilege

How to avoid contributing to overtourism.

• 10 Helpful Tips For Responsible Wildlife Tourism

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Erin has been traveling for over a decade, both solo, and with her partner. She’s now traveled to countries across 6 continents, and has lived in 2 countries abroad. Erin also hosts the travel podcast, Curious Tourism , where she interviews travel industry thought leaders and experts about responsible tourism. Learn more about Erin, and get in touch with her, here .

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When is Earth Day 2024? How the day raises awareness about climate change, our environment

Earth day started over 50 years ago, on april 22, 1970, and the celebrations are still going strong..

Earth Day is today. But what does the day even mean? Here's what you need to know about the annual commemoration and how to celebrate our planet while fighting climate change .

"For me, every day is Earth Day," Leila Yassine, Rainforest Alliance's global advocacy engagement manager, told USA TODAY. "But I think it's really important to have this Earth Day as a yearly wake-up call for everyone."

She goes on to say that the day itself brings attention to organizations that are working to bring attention to climate change and what folks can do to help the Earth recover.

Earth Day 2024: In honor of Earth Day, today's Google Doodle takes us on a trip around the world

When is Earth Day?

Earth Day falls on April 22 every year. This year, however, it falls on a Monday and shares the date with the start of the Jewish holiday, Passover.

The day has been celebrated for over 50 years, but isn't federally recognized, as previously reported by USA TODAY .

Why do we celebrate Earth Day?

The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970 when 20 million people went to inaugural events at schools, universities and other public areas around the country, according to the Library of Congress's website .

Senator Gaylord Nelson advocated for Earth Day and called on "students to fight for environmental causes and oppose environmental degradation with the same energy that they displayed in opposing the Vietnam War," states the library.

Then, the library adds, in July of 1970, the Environmental Protection Agency was created after the public demanded cleaner water, air and land as more disasters caused by climate change and pollution impacted the country.

How can we celebrate Earth Day 2024?

Yassine said her favorite way to celebrate Earth Day is by taking a walk through nature.

"It just reminds us how the earth is beautiful and how nature is powerful," said Yassine. "So I think for me this is a way of celebrating Earth Day."

But, she adds that it isn't the only way to celebrate Earth Day, and there are simple things folks can do, too.

She said people can do something as small as going to the grocery store and buying sustainable produce.

Since Earth Day falls on a Monday, it can also be celebrated by participating in Meatless Monday. The movement, according to its website, was started in 2003 by Sid Lerner, with the Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future. It aimed to reduce the amount of meat in one's diet to improve health and the health of the planet.

According to a study published by the National Library of Medicine , a more plant-based diet would not only improve environmental health, but human health too.

But, if that's not your cup of tea, there's always the option to go to a local park, beach clean-up or attend an Earth Day event in your area.

"Everyday actions count," said Yassine. "Fighting climate change doesn't always require that we have ground-breaking innovation or technology."

Folks can also research news regarding climate change and the work that needs to be done. But, Yassine says it's important to look at positive news regarding the situation, too.

Have a positive outlook on Earth Day 2024

According to Yassine, sharing positive news about the climate crisis and avoiding doom-scrolling on social media can encourage others to tackle the issue and keep folks optimistic about the future of the climate crisis.

No matter how one chooses to celebrate Earth Day or fight against climate change, Yassine said it's important to stay positive about the future.

"Share ideas and this will really cultivate collective optimism," she said. "It's like you have little seeds and then you're feeding it. You're feeding it until gives you this beautiful tree of hope."

Julia is a trending reporter for USA TODAY. She has covered various topics, from local businesses and government in her hometown, Miami, to tech and pop culture.   You can follow her on  X, formerly known as Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok : @juliamariegz

Insider Q&A: Avelo Airlines CEO Andrew Levy describes the challenges of starting a new carrier

It’s not easy to break into the U.S. airline industry, which is dominated by four big carriers and a sprinkling of other niche players, but that didn’t scare away Andrew Levy.

Neither did a pandemic that briefly caused air travel to plummet more than 90%.

In April 2021, while COVID-19 still raged and billions of dollars from taxpayers were propping up big airlines, Levy launched Avelo Airlines with flights between Burbank, California, and Las Vegas.

The airline saves money by flying older Boeing 737 jets that can be bought at relatively low prices. It operates out of less-crowded and less-costly secondary airports, and flies routes that are ignored by the big airlines.

Levy was involved in the launch of ValuJet, which became Allegiant Air, and he also did a stint as the chief financial officer of United Airlines before starting Avelo (it rhymes with yellow).

He spoke with The Associated Press about the challenges of starting a new airline, how the carrier is doing, and plans to sell shares to the public. The answers were edited for length and clarity.

Q: Why did you think you should start a new airline?

A: Shortly after I left Allegiant in 2014, I actually started thinking about about doing this. The market had become very consolidated, and there was a lot of opportunity that was out there that wasn’t being served by the existing, incumbent carriers. You have these four behemoths that are massive, that are protected by the government it seems, because certainly they’re stronger than they have ever been, after the pandemic. My view was we had room for more.

Q: What have you learned?

A: While there are these four behemoths, the toughest challenge, quite honestly, might even be the regulatory regime. For smaller companies like ours, it imposes these really substantial burdens on us. I’ll give you an example. For the (Department of Justice) lawsuit (against) JetBlue and Spirit, we had to go spend a ton of money on our end to produce documents for something that we really didn’t care how it ended up. And they’re trying to get us to do the same thing for Alaska-Hawaiian, which again, we could care less if Alaska and Hawaiian merge.

Q: How do you get people to fly on a new airline?

A: Number one, you have an awareness issue. You want people to know that you exist. So that’s one challenge, which is more of a marketing challenge. The other challenge is of course getting people to trust you. Like, ‘Who are these people? Are they going to really get me there? What’s the airplane going to look like? Is it safe? Is it reliable? What happens if something goes wrong?’ All those questions that most consumers may have when they think about choosing an airline that perhaps they’re unfamiliar with. You just have to focus on doing a really great job. Obviously not every flight is on time, but as time goes on I think people recognize that, hey, you know what? These guys offer a lot of value. We offer great convenience.

Q: Where does the name, Avelo, come from?

A: There’s no great story there. I wish I could tell you it was. It was a play on two words: velocity, which is swift in Latin, and convenience.

Q: Avelo reported a profit for fourth quarter 2023 but gave no details. Was that on a GAAP (generally accepted accounting principles) basis? And how much was it?

A: We actually have cash that generates interest income nowadays. Those are GAAP numbers where we have audited financials from Ernst & Young. These are real numbers with no adjustments or anything else. I’m not going to give you the numbers because we are a private company and so we have no real need to provide that kind of information. I’ll tell you that we made money in the first quarter as well.

Q: You've talked about your cost advantage as a startup. Is that sustainable?

A: Most costs creep up over time for every airline because our labor costs are tied to pay scales, but it is very sustainable. It’s based on how we designed the business. We distribute our product directly to the customer so we don’t use third-party intermediaries. We go in to smaller, more convenient, less-expensive airports. Your taxi times are lower; you’re not burning gas. We spend money on things that matter, and that includes our people. Our pilot pay is very competitive. It’s not the same as United Airlines, but it’s extremely competitive. We operate older equipment also — midlife (Boeing) 737 NGs, and those are certainly less expensive than brand-new aircraft. They burn a little bit more gas, but not much, and we like that trade.

Q: Do you plan to sell stock to the public, and when?

There’s obviously two issues. The single biggest one is one we don’t control, which is when are the IPO markets going to be actually open and vibrant, and they’re not right now. Beyond that, we have to be ready as a company. We put two straight quarters of profits ... so we expect every quarter this year to be profitable. We hope that we’ll have a company that people would want to own, and hopefully by year end or sometime next year. There’s no magic to being public for us. It’s just that historically that is typically the best way to access the capital markets for companies like ours. It is a very capital-intensive industry.

Q: What advice would you give to somebody else looking to start a business?

A: There’s nothing more rewarding than taking control of of your destiny. Just make sure you know what you think you know about whatever it is you’re going to start. I think you have to be wired a certain way to want to do something like this because it’s unbelievably difficult. I’ve been at this now for almost six years. When we get to a certain point, I’ll look back and feel really good about what we’ve done. We’re not there yet, but we’re getting close.

Best Cruise Travel Insurance of May 2024

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A cruise vacation can take much of the stress out of planning a vacation. With a pre-set itinerary on the high seas, you don't have to worry about how you're getting to your destination and what you're going to do there. However, an unexpected emergency can take the wind out of your sails and money out of your travel budget. So you'll want to ensure you have the best cruise insurance plan that won't leave you high and dry in an emergency.

Our top picks for the best cruise insurance

• Best Overall: Nationwide Travel Insurance
• Best for affordability: AXA Assistance USA
• Best for seniors: Seven Corners Travel Insurance
• Best for expensive trips: HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance
• Best for exotic locations: World Nomads Travel Insurance

How we rate cruise insurance companies »

Compare the top cruise travel insurance companies

While booking a cruise takes off much of the pressure when coming up with itineraries, your trip can still encounter several hitches, which is where cruise travel comes in. The best cruise travel insurance will have high coverage limits on emergency medical evacuations, as sea to land evacuations can be expensive. They'll offer coverage for baggage delay, trip interruption, and it might be a good idea to have some adventure sports coverage if you plan on participating in any outdoor activities like snorkeling or scuba diving. 

Here are our picks for the best cruise travel insurance companies in 2024.

Best overall: Nationwide

Nationwide Travel Insurance  is a long-standing and reputable brand within the insurance marketplace that offers cruise insurance plans with solid coverage and reasonable rates.

It has three cruise insurance options: Universal, Choice, and Luxury. The Nationwide Choice plan, for example, offers $100,000 in emergency medical coverage and $500,000 in emergency medical evacuation coverage.

The right plan for you depends on your budget and coverage needs. But each plan offers cruise-specific coverages like ship-based mechanical breakdowns, coverage for missed prepaid excursions if your cruise itinerary changes, and covered service disruptions aboard the cruise ship.

Read our Nationwide Travel Insurance review here.

Best for affordability: AXA

AXA Assistance USA  offers three comprehensive coverage plans: Gold, Silver, and Platinum. Each of these plans offers coverage for issues like missed flights, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and more.

The highest-tier Platinum plan provides $250,000 in medical emergency coverage and $1 million in medical evacuation coverage. The baggage loss coverage is $3,000 per person, and their missed connection coverage is $1,500 per person for cruises and tours.

In addition, travelers can take advantage of AXA's concierge service, which provides an extensive network of international service providers. They'll be able to assist you with things like restaurant reservations and referrals, golf course information, and more. This service could come in handy if you're stopping at a variety of unfamiliar destinations during your cruise.

The coverage limits on AXA's policies are on the higher end compared to other providers. And you can buy coverage for a little as 4% of your trip cost depending on your age, travel destination, and state of residence.

Read our AXA Travel Insurance review here.

Best for seniors: Seven Corners

Seven Corners Travel Insurance lets cruisers enjoy traveling in their golden years with the knowledge they're covered in the event of an accident or emergency. While other providers do offer coverage to those 80+ years old, Seven Corners is known for its affordable premiums while offering above-average medical expenses and medical evacuation coverage limits — two areas of travel insurance coverage that are even more important as we get older.

Seven Corners also offers the option of a preexisting conditions waiver and CFAR insurance at an additional cost, plus "Trip Interruption for Any Reason" coverage, which you won't find on many policies.

You can choose between the Trip Protection Basic or Trip Protection Choice plans, with the higher-tier Choice plan costing more but providing more coverage.

Read our Seven Corners Travel Insurance review here. 

Best for expensive trips: HTH Worldwide

HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance  offers three levels of trip protection: TripProtector Economy, Classic, and Preferred. The higher the tier, the more coverage you'll get for things like baggage delays, trip delays & cancellations, and medical expenses. But their premiums remain reasonable even at the highest tier of coverage.

Not only does the HTH Worldwide Trip Protector Preferred plan offer higher-than-average medical emergency and evacuation coverage limits ($500,000 and $1 million, respectively), but you'll also get a baggage loss coverage limit of $2,000 per person and coverage for trip interruption of up to 200% of the trip cost. You also have the option to add CFAR coverage for an additional cost.

Read our HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance review here.

Best for exotic locations: World Nomads

World Nomads Travel Insurance  has been a top choice for comprehensive travel insurance for many years now. And it's a great option when it comes to cruise coverage, too.

Even the most basic Standard Plan comes with $100,000 in medical emergency coverage and $300,000 in emergency evacuation coverage. And you'll get higher coverage limits with their Premium Plan. Plus, unlike many other providers, World Nomads trip cancellation and emergency medical coverage include COVID-19-related issues.

What sets World Nomads apart from many other insurance companies is that its policies cover 200+ adventure sports. This can be important for adventurous cruisers who plan to take part in activities like jet skiing, scuba diving, or parasailing during their cruise.

Read our World Nomads Travel Insurance review here.

Introduction to Cruise Insurance

Cruise insurance may offer unique coverage like missed port of call and medical evacuation coverage. You might not need the flight protections of a regular travel insurance plan if you're catching a cruise at a port near you, but medical and cancel for any reason coverage could be critical. The best travel insurance plans will provide flexibility to add coverage options to fit your travels needs.

Understanding the Basics of Cruise Insurance

At its core, cruise insurance is your financial lifeboat, designed to protect you from unforeseen events that could disrupt your sea voyage. Whether it's a sudden illness, adverse weather, or other unexpected occurrences, having the right insurance can make a world of difference.

Why Cruise Insurance is Important

Picture this: You're all set for your dream cruise, but a sudden family emergency means you can't set sail. Or worse, you fall ill in the middle of the ocean. Without cruise insurance, you're not just missing out on an adventure, but also facing potentially huge financial losses. That's why securing cruise insurance isn't just recommended; it's a crucial part of your cruise planning.

Types of Cruise Insurance Coverage

Cruise insurance isn't a one-size-fits-all life jacket. There are various types of coverage, each tailored to protect different aspects of your cruise experience.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Coverage

This coverage is like your safety net, catching you financially if you need to cancel your trip last minute or cut it short due to emergencies, be it due to personal, health-related, or even certain work conflicts.

Medical Coverage

Being on a cruise shouldn't mean being adrift from medical care. Medical coverage ensures that if you fall ill or get injured, your medical expenses won't sink your finances.

Emergency Evacuation Coverage

In the rare case that you need to be evacuated from the ship due to a medical emergency or severe weather, this coverage ensures you're not left adrift in a sea of expenses.

Baggage and Personal Effects Coverage

Imagine reaching your dream destination only to find your luggage lost at sea. This coverage ensures that lost, stolen, or damaged baggage doesn't dampen your cruise experience.

Buying Cruise Insurance

Securing the best cruise insurance isn't just about finding the best price; it's about ensuring it covers all your potential needs. 

When to Purchase Cruise Insurance

Timing is everything. Purchasing your insurance soon after booking your cruise can often provide additional benefits and ensure you're covered for any early surprises. As you get closer to your trip your coverage options may get more expensive, and certain providers may not be able to offer you coverage.

How to Find the Best Deals on Cruise Insurance

Keep a lookout for deals, but remember, the cheapest option isn't always the best. Balance cost with coverage, and ensure you're getting the protection you need at a price that doesn't rock your financial boat. A travel insurance comparison site like SquareMouth is a good place to compare multiple quotes from all of the major carriers at once.

How we reviewed cruise insurance plans

When comparing cruise travel insurance providers, we evaluated them based on the following criteria to come up with our list of top picks:

Customer Satisfaction

We look at ratings from JD Power and other industry giants to see where a company ranks in customer satisfaction. We also look at customer review sites like Trustpilot and SquareMouth.

Policy Types

We look at policy types and offerings, from standard travel protections to adventure sports coverage. We look at the amount of insurance offered

Average Premiums

We compare average premiums per trip. Some companies also offer annual plans, and we compare policies accordingly.

Claims Paid

How frequently do companies pay claims easily and quickly? We check customer reviews and other resources to see which companies honor policies most effectively.

We look at the company's overall behavior. Is it operating ethically? Companies can earn additional points for such behaviors.

You can read more about how Business Insider rates insurance here.

Best cruise travel insurance FAQs

How much does insurance cost for a cruise.

As a rule of thumb, you can expect to pay between 5% and 10% of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses for cruise insurance coverage. The price will vary depending on factors like your age, your travel destination, and whether you require additional coverage.

When is the best time to buy cruise insurance?

If you're booking a cruise, we recommend purchasing travel insurance when you make your first trip payment. That could be for the cruise itself or an expense like airfare to get you to your cruising destination. This way, if you have to cancel your trip, you'll have the most extended coverage period possible.

What cruise insurance coverage do I need?

Your cruise insurance should have high coverage limits for emergency medical evacuations, trip delays, interruption, and adventure sports.

What is the difference between travel insurance and cruise insurance?

The difference between traditional travel insurance and cruise insurance is that cruise insurance offers more specialized coverage, for situations such as missing a departure port and more coverage for medical evacuations, since it's more expensive to evacuate someone at sea than on land. 

Can I claim for missed ports on a cruise?

Most cruise insurance includes coverage for missing a departure port, so you should be able to claim for a missed port. Just make sure you check the details of your policy before you file a claim, and before you travel so you know what compensation you're entitled to.

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Sustainable building materials: how to make your home more resilient.

Within the ever-evolving landscape of green architecture lies the demand for more sustainable homes. While there are many ways to achieve this — sustainable energy sources like solar panels and energy-efficient smart homes , for example — there’s another simple solution to consider. The key? Going back to the basic building blocks — literally. Durable, sustainable building materials can help make our homes more comfortable while also becoming potential strongholds for sustainability.

What are sustainable building materials?

In construction, environmentally friendly materials (also known as green building materials) are ones whose production, usage and maintenance have been done through a sustainable lens. They must be durable, safe, reusable, recyclable or include recyclable materials in their composition. These materials may be natural, often made from substances like:

Most importantly, they must not be vulnerable to natural environmental conditions like cold, heat or humidity. Oftentimes, sustainable building materials have a low embodied energy content (the amount of energy required to produce the material), use local renewable energy sources or are made from materials that contribute fewer greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere.

What are the most sustainable building materials?

Now that you understand the importance of these building blocks and how they contribute to the eco-conscious nature of a home, you’re probably wondering what these materials are. Luckily, we live in a world where innovation knows no bounds, and there are multiple materials that may be sourced to help build sustainable homes, including:

• Cob: A blend of clay, sand and straw that can withstand extreme temperatures, cob is often used to help build walls, fireplaces, ovens, insulation and other foundational elements.
• Recycled steel: This material is known for its strength, durability and versatility. It is often recycled from scrap yards and demolition sites, among other spots, and used as a structural framework for many parts of a home.
• Sheep’s wool: Sheep’s wool is a recyclable, renewable and environmentally friendly source of raw material, which consists of 60% animal protein fibers, 10% fat, 15% moisture, 10% sheep sweat and 5% impurities on average. It’s often used to help insulate homes.
• Upcycled wood: Upcycling wood means taking wood waste and using it to make something else. Upcycled wood is often used as a sustainable material to help build furniture or flooring.
• Cork: Cork is a natural material derived from the bark of cork oak trees. You may have popped it out of a wine bottle or two. What you may not know is that cork is also used as a sustainable building material for flooring, walls and ceilings.
• Bamboo: Bamboo comes from bamboo plants and has been used in construction in Asia for thousands of years. It is now having a moment in Western culture as a sustainable building material. Bamboo is fast growing, incredibly strong and can be used to build the foundation of a home, among other things.
• Recycled plastic: Recycled plastic is another sustainable building material. Some green construction companies have been known to melt down plastic and turn it into hard bricks used to help build homes.
• Stone: Natural stone has been used as a building material since the dawn of time. It’s known to withstand weathering conditions and is often used internally and externally in the homebuilding process. For example, some homes sport stone walls or fireplaces as a decorative statement, while others may use the resource for more functional foundational purposes.
• Straw bales: Straw bales have been used as a natural building method across the world. Code-approved by almost every state in the U.S. in the International Residential Code (IRC), straw bale is often used to help support roof structures.

Examples of sustainable construction

Now that you know more about sustainable building materials, let’s discuss a few ways to apply them. There are sustainable ways to physically construct homes or specific home features that may be more sustainable than others. For example:

• Prefab modular construction: Prefabricated homes are partially manufactured in a factory. The pieces are then brought to their sites and put together to make the final home. Prefabricated homes are more methodical than traditional, stick-built homes and produce less waste.
• Smart appliances: Smart appliances are tech-savvy appliances that can help automate power sources throughout a home. For example, smart thermostats can control the temperature of a home automatically to ensure energy isn’t being wasted in cooling or heating.
• Cool roofs: Cool roofs are designed to reflect more sunlight than a conventional roof by absorbing less heat energy. This helps reduce the temperature of a building and may be particularly useful in warmer climates.
• Green insulation: Green insulation is the concept of using eco-friendly materials to help insulate a home: for example, using sheep’s wool in between the foundation of a home and the walls to help warm the home in colder weather.
• Solar power: Solar power uses the sun to help produce electricity instead of using less sustainable methods like burning fossil fuels. Solar power is often produced by installing solar panels on the roofs of homes.

Sustainable building materials help build homes that not only withstand the test of time but also leave a minimal environmental footprint. Embracing sustainable building materials during the home construction process is one seemingly small, but mighty step toward a better housing market — one with resilient, energy-efficient and environmentally responsible homes that don’t compromise quality.

Take the first step and get preapproved.

Have questions connect with a home lending expert today.

• building a home

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