.png){kind=small}
Post-COVID-19 social distancing measures, many found themselves in the desire for vacations. Among the industries significantly impacted during the pandemic, the tourism sector arguably endured the most substantial setbacks. However, now that the restrictions have been removed the popularity and demand for tourism and travel services has returned. As businesses within the tourism industry strive to resume operations, there is an imperative to prioritize sustainability. Specifically, the aviation sector must exercise caution regarding the environmental impact of emissions. As tourism gradually regains momentum, businesses within the industry are tasked with identifying and implementing measures to enhance sustainability and foster environmental friendliness, ensuring a responsible and enduring recovery.
EFFECTS OF TOURISM ON ENVIRONMENT
The United Nations states that among the largest and fastest growing sectors, tourism contributes roughly 10% to the global GDP. However, the expansive nature of this sector inevitably bears environmental consequences. Research by UN Environment reveals a rising consumption of vital resources—fossil fuels, minerals, metals, and biomass—within the tourism sector. This growth parallels an increased generation of solid waste, sewage, loss of biodiversity, and heightened greenhouse gas emissions. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, air travel creates 2 percent of the world’s CO2 emissions and 12 percent of transportation emissions. Projections indicate a doubling of the world's aircraft fleet from 26,000 to 51,000 between 2018 and 2038, further exacerbating CO2 emissions as the tourism industry reopens post-COVID-19. The hotel sector, a pivotal driver of employment and economic revenue within tourism, also presents environmental challenges. Despite its contributions to industry growth, hotels and accommodations account for 2% of the 5% of global CO2 emissions attributed to the tourism sector. As the tourism industry undergoes resurgence, the increased frequency of flights and energy-intensive hotel operations amplifies the negative environmental impacts. Navigating this trajectory necessitates the establishment of sustainable practices to address existing pollution and mitigate future adverse effects as the tourism sector continues to expand.
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM INITIATIVES
Sustainable tourism is defined by the UN Environment Program and UN World Tourism Organization as “Tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social, and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment, and host communities”. Within the broader framework of ‘sustainable tourism,’ distinctions exist, including ecotourism, responsible tourism, and sustainable tourism. To expedite aviation's decarbonization, The Clean Skies for Tomorrow Coalition was established, led by influential entities such as the World Economic Forum, Rocky Mountain Institute, Energy Transitions Commission, and Mission Possible Partnership. This global initiative, comprising over 100 companies, has released a significant 2030 Ambition Statement with the goal of propelling global aviation towards 10% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) usage by 2030, a pivotal step towards achieving net-zero flying by 2050.As the deadline for emission targets approaches, many aviation sector stakeholders are developing their own marginal abatement cost curves (MACCs) to assess carbon abatement costs, enabling informed decisions on decarbonization measures. Along with aviation initiatives, the Hotel Energy Solutions (HES), initiated by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), stands out as a critical effort. Designed to provide information, technical support, and training, the project is dedicated to assisting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the tourism sector. Given the specific challenges faced by SMEs, such as outdated technology, limited resources, and insufficient awareness of sustainable alternatives, the HES project plays a pivotal role in mitigating CO2 emissions from the hotel sector. Its focus on SMEs is particularly important for enhancing competitiveness and driving sustainable practices within this vital component of the tourism industry.
As tourism begins a recovery and resumes its previous levels of popularity, it is imperative for society to avoid replicating past mistakes. The hiatus imposed on flying and traveling during certain months provided a much-needed respite for nature and the environment. Despite the potential negative impacts of the tourism industry, its undeniable role as a crucial economic driver underscores the need for a sustainable approach. If tourism is to be endorsed, it must be done in an environmentally responsible manner. As tourism makes a comeback and flights begin increasing, so do the carbon emissions. To address and counterbalance this demand and its environmental effects, organizations are actively formulating strategies to decarbonize their services.
Comments