What is the one common thing that almost all travellers will be looking out for
when they book their next vacation? 

You guessed right … Sustainability. 

According to various surveys around 70 per cent of travellers are actively
seeking sustainable travel options for 2023 as they look to minimize the
impact that their travel makes on the world. Several large travel corporations
have added a “Least CO2” sorter for travellers looking for environmentally
friendly flights and holidays. 

Sustainability today has moved from the “nice to have” to a “major focus” area
for tourism brands.

What is Sustainable Tourism?

@ sustainable-environment.org.uk

All of us love going on vacations and exploring new places. However we have also
come to realize the harm that our travel is causing to the environment and local
communities. Sustainable tourism is a way of traveling that helps protect the
environment and the communities you visit. It’s like being a superhero for the planet
while having fun!

Sustainable tourism brings together the need to minimize the current and future
economic, social and environmental impacts of travel while at the same time
addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host
communities.

Why is Sustainable Tourism Important for the Tourism Industry

Financial Incentives for the Industry

@ Technavio

Sustainable tourism need not be expensive and can be profitable as well as cost-
effective, if planned carefully. As the market size grows rapidly they
become financially rewarding and self-sustaining.  Sustainable destinations like the
Faroe Islands, Norway, New Zealand, Costa Rica, Slovenia and Kenya have started
topping the bucket list of travelers whereas crowded unsustainable locations are
struggling.

Collective Win For Everyone

Sustainable tourism creates a virtuous cycle, whereby the natural environment draws
in travelers, leading to better opportunities for the local communities, who in turn
create environmentally friendly offerings, which leads to preservation of the
environment.   

For example, Bhutan in South Asia is one of the unique tourist destinations in the
world, and the entire country operates a “high value, low impact” model, to maximize
economic benefits while minimizing any negative impact. They have strict entry
requirements and charge a daily tariff to enforce this. Some of the money generated
from this policy goes to conservation efforts and investment in the country’s
infrastructure, culture, and public services.

How Can I Make My Business Sustainable

Use Online Resources & Training Courses

Our website has a lot of training courses that will help you rethink your business in a
way that will help you deal with the challenges of managing natural resources.  They
will give you practical insights & expert guidance on how to integrate sustainable
practices in your business.

Partnering With Eco Friendly & Sustainable Suppliers

While it is difficult to eliminate flights completely, encourage your travelers to choose
direct flights whenever possible to lower the carbon footprint. You can partner with
eco-friendly hotels, resorts, lodges, or guesthouses that prioritize energy
conservation, waste management, water efficiency, and local sourcing.

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or Green Globe are organizations
that provide eco-certifications. And you should also find ways to collaborate with local
communities to offer authentic cultural experiences that provide economic benefits
directly to the residents. This can involve homestays, village tours, traditional craft
workshops, or opportunities to participate in community development projects.

Provide Actionable Tips For Your Travelers

You can recommend local restaurants and businesses that prioritize locally sourced,
organic, and sustainably produced food and handicrafts. You can help emphasize
responsible behavior and give important guidelines to travelers on the importance of
leaving no environmental trace on the places the travelers visit.

Start Conservation Initiatives at Your Office

Charity begins at home, so you must encourage your employees to turn off lights and
equipment when not in use and consider investing in energy-efficient appliances and
equipment. By minimizing paper usage, and encouraging digital documentation and
improving technology, you can not only become more efficient, but also
environmentally conscious. Also, explore options for composting organic waste, such
as food scraps or coffee grounds. And rest assured that not only will you be saving
money & the environment, you will also become a living proof to your customers of
your desire to become sustainable. 

Today’s travelers are increasingly conscious of their environmental and social
impact. They actively seek out travel experiences that align with their values,
including sustainable practices. By offering sustainable options you can attract and
retain a growing segment of environmentally and socially conscious travelers.
Responsible travel is not only better for our world, it’s also more interesting and
memorable.