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Promoting Green Tourism For Future Sustainability

2010, Theoretical and Empirical …

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Tourism: An international Interdisciplinary Journal

Hrvoje Caric

Sustainable tourism is extensively used as a panacea in the tourism discourse; however, there are still many challenges in its communication, understanding and effi cient implementation. Th e work presented here aims to contribute to those issues by presenting the concept of greening tourism. Greening tourism is a response to the questions of competitiveness and ecological sustainability of tourism, but also the policies of United Nations and European Union. Market demands, available support mechanisms and accumulated experience through innovation by various stakeholders illustrate the potential for more systematic implementation of the concept. More so, it is argued that there is an opportunity to increase the multiplying eff ect to the local, in this case Croatian, economy by implementing the "greening" of tourism, defi ned as environmentally responsible, ecologically informative and educational. In other words, the greening tourism means smaller ecological footprint, co...

Lawrence Pratt

Hossein Nezakati

The Seventh International Scientific Conference - THE FUTURE OF TOURISM

Katarina Stojanovic

Big changes are inevitable. The European Commission have made clear that environmental sustainability should be at the core of the response to the pandemic crisis. In this paper we analyze sustainable tourism as a green development strategy in order to determine ways to adapt to the changes that have taken place in the recent period, as a part of the sustainable tourism concept. Positive and negative aspects of sustainable consumption were analyzed. The positive effects of green areas in terms of human and ecology will be mentioned. We will analyze the possibility of implantation of green solutions to improve the tourist potential of the city.

Aliya Aktymbayeva

Tourism today is an indicator of the development of civilization, by the knowledge of reality, a way of raising the cultural level and restore health. The development of tourism must be in the "green economy" that will increase the e employment potential, socioeconomic growth, preservation of natural, cultural and architectural heritage as well as the use of natural resources will be provided renewability and sustainability of consumption. The rapid implementation of successful countries have implemented e are new energy-saving technologies, will give to Kazakhstan rise to a new level, the full implement policies in the direction of the "Green Economy". Thus, the purpose of this article is to consider the advantages of "Green Economy” in tourism. To achieve this goal we used factor analysis of statistical data. The article also provides generalized national and international experience on the issues under consideration. The results showed that the transfer t...

Ranit Kishore

Jacques Samoury

Tourism is one of the world's largest industries and one of its fastest growing economic sectors. In Lebanon, tourism is seen as a main instrument for local development because it stimulates new economic activities. However, it may also have negative impact on the environmental conservation and sustainable development. The article provides a theoretical framework for sustainable tourism when addressing the relationship between environmental conservation, green tourism, and sustainable development as a multidimensional phenomenon. Also, it refers to the management structures that are needed to achieve this end. The article concludes that green tourism is a responsible and low-impact environmentally-led form of sustainable tourism development. It is, however, employed as a vehicle for conserving and sustaining natural and cultural environments as well as their resources.

Ionel BOSTAN

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pROMOTING GREEN TOURISM FOR FUTURE SUSTAINABILITY

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(School of Housing, Building and Planning, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Penang, Malaysia)

(School of Social Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 88999 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia)

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Encouraging sustainable and inclusive tourism in protected areas to promote green recovery

Challenge 

Protected areas (PAs) are key to global efforts to conserve biodiversity. While governments see PAs as a conservation tool, they are often overlooked in economic development plans and recovery strategies. This results in limited financing of PAs and degradation of ecosystems that people depend upon, even though PAs not only conserve biodiversity, but also generate significant livelihoods for local communities and economies through nature-based tourism – a strong lever for countries to achieve their development goals while promoting conservation. However, there is limited recognition and understanding of the economic benefits of protected area tourism or its potential contribution to green recovery strategies. 

The World Bank has supported countries to promote inclusive and sustainable tourism by protecting their natural assets, growing and diversifying business opportunities, and sharing benefits with local communities. To deepen knowledge of the economic impact of PAs through sustainable tourism, the World Bank developed a rigorous economic assessment methodology using computable general equilibrium (CGE) models in local economies to measure economic impact in terms of income multipliers and jobs created. The World Bank then carried out assessments in Brazil, Fiji, Nepal, and Zambia that generated evidence that investing in PAs is good for conservation and sustainable development. This evidence has applications for tourism in marine and terrestrial PAs, and other natural resource management areas, and was shared with policymakers including via three country reports (Brazil, Nepal, and Zambia).  Clients were also closely involved in the development of the reports, including site selection, informing methodology design, providing access to data, facilitating field work.  Consultations were held with clients to get feedback on draft results, ahead of report finalization.  

Results 

Economic impact of tourism quantified in five PAs in Brazil, Fiji, Nepal, and Zambia.  Results were well received by stakeholders and governments and are being used to catalyze policy reforms and future investment in PAs and sustainable tourism. Results informed policy dialogue, project design and raised the profile of nature-based tourism to promote local economic development and generate conservation finance. Results show for every dollar invested in PAs, the economic rate of return is at least six times the original investment. The study informed the design of the pipeline Green, Resilient and Transformational Tourism Development Project in Zambia , which will invest in landscapes, including PAs, and tourism development for local development. The result of the study is being used to identify project sites, and to broaden the scope of the project to include policy and institutional reforms, specifically related to concession policies and capacity of park managers to oversee tourism operations.  The study is informing a policy track on concession policy reform in the upcoming First Nepal Green, Resilient and Inclusive Programmatic Development Policy Credit to promote private sector participation and encourage responsible investments in tourism.  In addition, in Argentina, the pipeline Sustainable Recovery of Landscapes and Livelihoods in Argentina Project aims to improve the management and resilience of ecosystems and related livelihoods (including nature-based tourism) of local communities in selected conservation and production landscapes and seascapes. Findings from this study and related products and webinars were used by the team to build a new engagement with the government on this topic.    

• Presentations at five virtual events helped increase awareness of WB staff, clients, and wider global conservation audience (>500 participants).
• Partnerships with local universities in four countries trained over 70 students in survey and data collection, at least half of whom were women, building local capacity to carry out analysis of ecological and economic dynamics in the PAs.

World Bank Group Contribution 

The project received funding from PROBLUE Trust Fund (TF) ($450,000), the PROFOR Trust Fund ($125,000), the Wealth Accounting and the Valuation of Ecosystem Services (WAVES) TF ($125,000), and the GEF-financed Global Wildlife Program TF ($100,000).

The World Bank strategically organized partnerships to ensure that the results were robust, and the outreach would be effective. The methodology was developed in partnership with the University of California, Davis, and implemented in the pilot countries by national government institutions, academic institutions and NGOs. The government agencies provided technical expertise and helped determine the scope of the work. Students from universities in each of the countries were trained in data collection and surveying. NGOs played an advisory role and supported in-country logistics.  In Brazil, the team partnered with the Brazilian Ministry of Environment, the Abrolhos Marine National Park Management Authority. University of Rio de Janeiro, and Conservation International. In Fiji, the team engaged the Ministry of Fisheries, Mamanuca Environment Society and the University of South Pacific. In Nepal, the team worked with the Government of Nepal, National Trust for Nature Conservation, and the Kathmandu University. In Zambia, the team partnered with the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, Government of Zambia; Global partners who supported the design, development and dissemination of the report include- International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the United States National Park Service.

Looking Ahead 

Further technical support for governments and country teams to integrate nature-based tourism into their development agenda is being provided through a Phase 2 PASA, Economics of Nature-Based Tourism, helping increase the accessibility of the methodology, generate and share critical knowledge on nature-based tourism to strengthen project design and implementation, and influence dialogue with client countries. The methodology will be further applied to quantify and demonstrate the value of investing in PAs and nature-based tourism for development and conservation objectives and to inform upcoming operations.

Last Updated: Jun 02, 2023

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UN Tourism | Bringing the world closer

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UNWTO and IFC Partner to Facilitate Green Investments for Tourism’s Sustainable Future

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The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) continues to steer global tourism towards a more sustainable future, partnering with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to green the sector and promote recovery and responsible growth.

Under the new Investment Readiness for Green Finance Mechanisms initiative, the United Nations specialized agency for tourism will work alongside IFC, a member of the World Bank Group and the largest global development institution focused exclusively on the private sector in developing countries, on a series of training programmes. These will focus on both stimulating tourism’s recovery from the current crisis, while at the same time promoting green financing to enhance sustainability across the whole of the tourism value chain.

UNWTO Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Sustainable tourism should no longer be considered a special niche. Instead, this pause in global travel offers us a chance to rethink tourism and make the whole sector more sustainable as we grow back better and stronger. This new initiative with IFC will provide valuable guidelines on Sustainable Tourism Investments that enhance tourism’s contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals.”

Facilitating Investments in Sustainability

At present, there are 200,000 hotels providing 18 million beds worldwide, with a further 2.4 million rooms in the pipeline. These alone account for 1% of global greenhouses gas (GHG) emissions and so increasing the sustainability of this part of the global tourism sector can make a significant contribution to climate-related Sustainable Development Goals. This new initiative is aimed at furthering this.

One of the main focuses will be working with private sector partners to promote green finance and share experience in resourcing sustainable buildings. The initial cooperation will consist in a series of trainings to promote green investments for a long term recovery of the tourism sector. The first training is planned to start on June 4th, 2020 in a webinar format, and it will culminate with an accreditation training for EDGE Experts. Government officials, hospitality investors, aggregators and tourism investment consultants are all invited to register their interest at https://www.unwto.org/green-investments-for-sustainable-tourism

About IFC IFC—a sister organization of the World Bank and member of the World Bank Group—is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. We work with more than 2,000 businesses worldwide, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities where they are needed most. In fiscal year 2019, we delivered more than $19 billion in long-term financing for developing countries, leveraging the power of the private sector to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity. For more information, visit  www.ifc.org

About EDGE An innovation of IFC, EDGE helps property developers to build and brand green in a fast, easy and affordable way. EDGE is supported by free software that encourages solutions to reduce energy, water and the energy used to make building materials by at least 20 percent, which is the standard for EDGE certification. The program has been generously supported by the following donors: Austria, Canada, Denmark, ESMAP, EU, Finland, GEF, Hungary, Japan, Switzerland and the UK. For more information, visit  www.edgebuildings.com

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4 ways nature tourism can help drive a green COVID-19 recovery

Investing in eco-tourism can play a pivotal role helping green recovery programs. Image:  REUTERS/David Gray

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Stay up to date:, travel and tourism.

• Investing in eco-tourism and nature conservation could play a pivotal role helping green recovery programs, says the World Bank.
• They found that every dollar invested in protected areas and nature-based tourism, creates a sixfold return.
• Pandemic recovery plans can help promote green tourism, which in turn creates local jobs, improves incomes and helps protect biodiversity.

Most countries have yet to make much progress on greening their COVID-19 stimulus packages - but World Bank researchers say investing in eco-tourism and nature conservation could play a pivotal role in turning stuttering economies around.

For every dollar governments invested in protected areas and support for nature-based tourism in 2019, the economic rate of return was at least six times the original investment, says a World Bank report published this week.

The report focuses on four countries, including Brazil's Abrolhos Marine Park where visitors can go free-diving, Chitwan National Park in Nepal which offers hiking and wildlife trips, and safari destination South Luangwa National Park in Zambia.

The rates of return at these nature tourism hotspots ranged from six to 28 times the amounts spent in 2019 on things like roads, trails and visitor centres and wages for park managers and rangers to protect against poachers.

Given these economic benefits, researchers say pandemic recovery plans should promote green tourism, which creates local jobs, improves incomes and helps protect biodiversity.

Have you read?

Wwf: these are the biggest threats to the earth's biodiversity, tourism is responsible for a staggering 8% of global greenhouse emissions, tourism is damaging the ocean. here’s what we can do to protect it.

"The evidence we were finding ... shows that investing in protected areas and promoting sustainable tourism (in those areas) is a good economic recovery strategy," Urvashi Narain, the bank's lead environmental economist and report co-author, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

Here are some key takeaways from the report:

Why don't more countries see the importance of nature to their economies?

Better conservation and sustainable management of natural areas, such as parks, oceans, forests and wildernesses, are increasingly seen as a vital tool for nations to safeguard plants, animals and habitats, and meet targets to reduce planet-heating emissions

But many governments see funding conservation and biodiversity protection as a luxury - or fear it could threaten economies that depend heavily on natural resources. So some opt to just set aside protected areas without any real investment.

Countries are also held back from reaping the opportunities from investing in nature and eco-tourism by a lack of data.

With travel restrictions in many countries, why would anyone invest in tourism now?

Before the pandemic, there were more than 8 billion visits a year to marine and land protected areas, providing a vital source of income for communities who rely on tourism, says Karin Kemper, global director for environment at the World Bank.

By investing now, governments can create short-term jobs for laid-off tourism workers in restoring or building infrastructure in protected areas, in preparation for when visitors return.

And when tourists spend time in a natural area, their money goes beyond entry fees, flowing into hotels, souvenir shops, transport, restaurants and a range of outdoor activities, creating jobs and prosperity across the local economy.

Biodiversity loss and climate change are occurring at unprecedented rates, threatening humanity’s very survival. Nature is in crisis, but there is hope. Investing in nature can not only increase our resilience to socioeconomic and environmental shocks, but it can help societies thrive.

There is strong recognition within the Forum that the future must be net-zero and nature-positive. The Nature Action Agenda initiative, within the Centre for Nature and Climate , is an inclusive, multistakeholder movement catalysing economic action to halt biodiversity loss by 2030.

The Nature Action Agenda is enabling business and policy action by:

Building a knowledge base to make a compelling economic and business case for safeguarding nature, showcasing solutions and bolstering research through the publication of the New Nature Economy Reports and impactful communications.

Catalysing leadership for nature-positive transitions through multi-stakeholder communities such as Champions for Nature that takes a leading role in shaping the net-zero, nature-positive agenda on the global stage.

Scaling up solutions in priority socio-economic systems through BiodiverCities by 2030 , turning cities into engines of nature-positive development; Financing for Nature , unlocking financial resources through innovative mechanisms such as high-integrity Biodiversity Credits Market ; and Sector Transitions to Nature Positive , accelerating sector-specific priority actions to reduce impacts and unlock opportunities.

Supporting an enabling environment by ensuring implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and mobilizing business voices calling for ambitious policy actions in collaboration with Business for Nature .

What's the best approach for countries to invest in conservation and nature tourism?

Authorities should first formalise protected areas because without this, investment levels will stay low and it is hard to force businesses to respect higher environmental standards.

Investment from both government and private sources should then support things like paying guards or rangers to stop encroachment, creating infrastructure such as access roads, trails and visitors centres, and training guides so that visitors can learn more about the nature they are seeing.

Often managers of conservation areas are good at wildlife protection but lack the skills to bring in more visitors and make the area accessible and enjoyable.

Who will invest in and benefit from nature tourism?

The government's job is to set and enforce policy and regulation to ensure a natural area is protected, but attracting commercial investment is also important, the World Bank says.

Businesses can create jobs and provide quality services, like lodgings and restaurants, that will bring in more visitors.

Sharing the benefits is key. Areas of natural beauty should not be limited to rich tourists who only stay in expensive hotels and have no opportunity to meet the local community, the bank says.

Tourism revenue must be shared with indigenous groups and other local people, who should be able to supply goods to hotels and businesses, such as handicrafts or foods, it adds.

And if those communities suffer losses due to areas being designated as protected, including crop damage from wildlife, they should be compensated from tourist profits, it recommends.

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World Economic Forum articles may be republished in accordance with the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International Public License, and in accordance with our Terms of Use.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone and not the World Economic Forum.

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7 Best Practices for Promoting Sustainable Tourism

We’ve got something pretty awesome to share with you today. We know how much you love traveling, exploring, and being part of something bigger. So, we’ve compiled a list of 7 best practices on how to promote sustainable tourism. Yep, you heard it right – sustainable travel can be a total game-changer.

Get ready to engage with local communities, support eco-friendly accommodations, and preserve cultural heritage. Together, we can make a difference and create a world we can all proudly belong to. Let’s dive in!

Engage Local Communities

To promote sustainable tourism, it’s important for us to actively engage local communities by collaborating with them in decision-making processes.

Community involvement and local empowerment are key factors in ensuring that tourism benefits the people living in the destinations we visit. By involving the local community in tourism planning and development, we can achieve a more inclusive and sustainable approach.

This means seeking their input, listening to their concerns, and involving them in the decision-making process. We must empower local communities by providing them with the necessary tools, resources, and training to actively participate in the tourism industry.

This can include capacity building programs, educational initiatives, and opportunities for entrepreneurship. By working together, we can create a sense of belonging and ownership, where the local community feels valued and empowered, leading to a more sustainable and mutually beneficial tourism experience.

Support Eco-Friendly Accommodations

When it comes to supporting eco-friendly accommodations, there are several points to consider. First, look for green lodging options that prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility. Second, make eco-conscious hotel choices by researching their practices and certifications.

Finally, consider sustainable accommodation alternatives such as eco-lodges, eco-resorts, or even staying in local homes through platforms like Airbnb .

Green Lodging Options

One of the key ways we can support sustainable tourism is by choosing to stay at eco-friendly accommodations. By opting for green lodging options, we can contribute to sustainable travel and help protect the environment.

Here are three reasons why staying at eco-friendly accommodations is a great choice:

• Reduced carbon footprint: Eco-friendly accommodations prioritize energy efficiency and use renewable energy sources, which helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By staying at these establishments, we can minimize our carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.
• Conservation of natural resources: Eco-friendly accommodations often implement water-saving measures, such as low-flow toilets and showerheads, as well as recycling programs. By supporting these initiatives, we can help conserve precious natural resources and promote sustainability.
• Support for local communities: Many eco-friendly accommodations prioritize supporting local communities through initiatives such as sourcing local products and promoting cultural heritage. By staying at these establishments, we can contribute to the local economy and foster a sense of belonging.

Choose eco-friendly accommodations for your next trip and make a positive impact on the environment and local communities. Together, we can create a more sustainable future for tourism.

Eco-Conscious Hotel Choices

Let’s explore our options for eco-conscious hotel choices to support eco-friendly accommodations.

When it comes to sustainable hotel design, there are several factors to consider. Look for hotels that have obtained green building certification, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) . These certifications ensure that the hotel meets strict standards for energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, and use of sustainable materials.

By choosing a hotel with these certifications, you can rest assured that you’re supporting an establishment that prioritizes environmental responsibility.

Additionally, look for hotels that implement eco-friendly practices, such as recycling programs, energy-efficient lighting, and organic and locally sourced food options.

Together, we can make a difference by consciously selecting hotels that align with our values of sustainability and conservation.

Sustainable Accommodation Alternatives

To continue our exploration of sustainable tourism practices, let’s now delve into the various alternatives for sustainable accommodations that actively support eco-friendly practices.

When it comes to finding eco-friendly resorts, there are a few options that not only provide a luxurious experience but also prioritize sustainability. These resorts are designed with environmentally friendly materials, utilize renewable energy sources, and implement responsible waste management practices. By choosing eco-friendly resorts, we can support businesses that are committed to reducing their carbon footprint and preserving the natural beauty of the surrounding areas.

Another sustainable accommodation option is sustainable camping. With a wide range of eco-friendly camping gear available, we can enjoy the great outdoors while minimizing our impact on the environment.

Promote Responsible Travel Behavior

Let’s talk about how we can promote responsible travel behavior to ensure a more sustainable tourism industry.

One key aspect is educating tourists on sustainability, raising awareness about the impact of their choices and actions on the environment and local communities.

Additionally, we can encourage eco-friendly transportation options, such as cycling or using public transportation, to reduce carbon emissions and minimize the ecological footprint of travelers.

It’s time for us to take action and make responsible travel a priority for a greener and more sustainable future.

Educate Tourists on Sustainability

We can promote responsible travel behavior by educating tourists on sustainability. By providing them with sustainable travel tips and eco-conscious travel practices, we can empower them to make informed choices that benefit the environment and local communities.

Here are three essential ways to educate tourists on sustainability:

• Raise awareness: Inform tourists about the impacts of their actions on the environment and local cultures. Help them understand the importance of preserving natural resources and supporting local economies.
• Provide resources: Offer practical information and guidelines on sustainable travel practices, such as reducing waste, conserving water and energy, and respecting local customs and traditions.
• Encourage engagement: Inspire tourists to actively participate in sustainable initiatives, such as volunteering for conservation projects or supporting local businesses that prioritize sustainability.

Encourage Eco-Friendly Transportation

One of the key ways to promote responsible travel behavior is by encouraging tourists to use eco-friendly transportation options. By choosing sustainable transportation options, travelers can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to the preservation of the environment.

There are various ways to promote eco-friendly transportation, such as providing information on public transportation systems, promoting the use of bicycles or electric scooters for shorter distances, and encouraging carpooling or ridesharing services.

Additionally, it’s essential to educate tourists about the concept of carbon neutral travel and how they can offset their travel emissions by supporting projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

By embracing eco-friendly transportation practices, tourists can actively contribute to sustainable tourism and protect the destinations they visit for future generations to enjoy.

Together, we can create a more sustainable and responsible travel culture.

Preserve Cultural Heritage

Preserving cultural heritage is essential for sustainable tourism as it allows us to safeguard the rich traditions and practices of local communities. By promoting cultural awareness and preserving traditional practices, we can create a sense of belonging and foster a deeper connection between travelers and the destinations they visit.

Here are three ways in which preserving cultural heritage can evoke emotion in the audience:

• Preserving Identity : Cultural heritage allows us to celebrate the unique identity of a community, showcasing their customs, rituals, and art forms. This preservation helps communities feel pride in their heritage and instills a sense of belonging among locals and visitors alike.
• Reviving History : Through the preservation of cultural heritage, we can revive the stories and narratives of the past. This evokes emotions of nostalgia, curiosity, and a desire to learn from the wisdom of our ancestors.
• Supporting Livelihoods : By promoting and preserving cultural heritage, we support local economies and livelihoods. This creates a sense of purpose and fulfillment among community members, fostering a supportive and welcoming environment for visitors.

Preserving cultural heritage not only enriches our travel experiences but also ensures the sustainability of tourism for generations to come. Let’s embrace and protect the cultural tapestry that makes each destination unique.

To further promote sustainable tourism, it’s important to educate tourists on the principles of sustainability and their role in preserving the environment and supporting local communities. Sustainable travel initiatives and environmental awareness campaigns play a crucial role in creating a sense of responsibility among tourists. By educating them on sustainable practices, we can empower them to make informed choices during their travels.

One way to educate tourists is through interactive workshops and seminars that focus on sustainability. These sessions can cover topics such as reducing carbon footprint, conserving water and energy, and supporting local businesses. Additionally, providing tourists with informational brochures and guides that highlight sustainable practices and local initiatives can help raise awareness and encourage responsible behavior.

By educating tourists on sustainability, we can foster a sense of belonging and collective responsibility towards the destinations we visit. Together, we can preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of these places for future generations to enjoy.

Let’s embrace sustainable tourism and make a positive impact on the world.

Collaborate With Local Organizations

To effectively promote sustainable tourism, we collaborate with local organizations, enhancing our efforts to preserve the environment and support community development. By forming strong local partnerships, we’re able to amplify our impact and create a sense of belonging within the community.

Here are three key ways in which our collaboration with local organizations fosters community involvement:

• Economic empowerment: We work closely with local businesses and artisans, promoting their products and services to our tourists. This not only boosts the local economy but also empowers community members to take pride in their work.
• Environmental conservation: Through partnerships with local environmental organizations, we actively participate in conservation efforts. Together, we undertake initiatives such as beach clean-ups, tree planting, and wildlife preservation, ensuring a sustainable environment for both tourists and locals.
• Cultural preservation: We collaborate with local cultural organizations to celebrate and preserve the unique traditions and heritage of the community. Through cultural events, workshops, and interactive experiences, we provide tourists with an authentic and immersive cultural experience while supporting the preservation of local traditions.

Implement Effective Waste Management Systems

Our next step on how to promote sustainable tourism is to establish effective waste management systems. Waste reduction and recycling initiatives are key components in ensuring that tourism activities have minimal negative impact on the environment. By implementing these systems, we can minimize the amount of waste generated and maximize the resources that can be recovered and reused.

This not only helps to conserve natural resources, but also reduces pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. To achieve this, we can collaborate with local waste management organizations to develop comprehensive waste management plans that include strategies for waste segregation, recycling, and composting.

Additionally, we can educate tourists and local communities about the importance of waste reduction and recycling, and provide them with the necessary infrastructure and facilities to properly dispose of their waste. Together, we can create a sustainable tourism industry that preserves our natural environment for future generations.

By implementing these 7 best practices for promoting sustainable tourism, we can make a significant impact on preserving our planet and benefiting local communities.

Did you know that for every $100 spent by tourists in developing countries, only $5 remains in the local economy? By engaging local communities and supporting eco-friendly accommodations, we can ensure that more of our tourism dollars go directly to the people who need it most.

Let’s travel responsibly and create a sustainable future for all.

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Sustainable tourism

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

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Publications.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

UNWTO Annual Report 2015

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

UNWTO Annual Report 2016

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

Emerging Issues for Small Island Developing States

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

Transforming our World: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

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

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

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

Towards Measuring the Economic Value of Wildlife Watching Tourism in Africa

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

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21st General Assembly of the United Nations World Tourism Organization

Unwto regional conference enhancing brand africa - fostering tourism development.

Tourism is one of the Africa’s most promising sectors in terms of development, and represents a major opportunity to foster inclusive development, increase the region’s participation in the global economy and generate revenues for investment in other activities, including environmental preservation.

• January 2017 International Year of Tourism In the context of the universal 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the International Year aims to support a change in policies, business practices and consumer behavior towards a more sustainable tourism sector that can contribute to the SDGs.
• January 2015 Targets 8.9, 12 b,14.7 The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development commits Member States, through Sustainable Development Goal Target 8.9 to “devise and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products”. The importance of sustainable tourism, as a driver for jobs creation and the promotion of local culture and products, is also highlighted in Sustainable Development Goal target 12.b. Tourism is also identified as one of the tools to “increase [by 2030] the economic benefits to Small Island developing States and least developed countries”, through Sustainable Development Goals Target 14.7.
• January 2012 Future We Want (Para 130-131) Sustainable tourism is defined as a significant contributor “to the three dimensions of sustainable development” thanks to its close linkages to other sectors and its ability to create decent jobs and generate trade opportunities. Therefore, Member States recognize “the need to support sustainable tourism activities and relevant capacity-building that promote environmental awareness, conserve and protect the environment, respect wildlife, flora, biodiversity, ecosystems and cultural diversity, and improve the welfare and livelihoods of local communities” as well as to “encourage the promotion of investment in sustainable tourism, including eco-tourism and cultural tourism, which may include creating small and medium sized enterprises and facilitating access to finance, including through microcredit initiatives for the poor, indigenous peoples and local communities in areas with high eco-tourism potential”.
• January 2009 Roadmap for Recovery UNWTO announced in March 2009 the elaboration of a Roadmap for Recovery to be finalized by UNWTO’s General Assembly, based on seven action points. The Roadmap includes a set of 15 recommendations based on three interlocking action areas: resilience, stimulus, green economy aimed at supporting the tourism sector and the global economy.
• January 2008 Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria The Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria represent the minimum requirements any tourism business should observe in order to ensure preservation and respect of the natural and cultural resources and make sure at the same time that tourism potential as tool for poverty alleviation is enforced. The Criteria are 41 and distributed into four different categories: 1) sustainability management, 2) social and economic 3) cultural 4) environmental.
• January 2003 WTO becomes a UN specialized body By Resolution 453 (XV), the Assembly agreed on the transformation of the WTO into a United Nations specialized body. Such transformation was later ratified by the United Nations General Assembly with the adoption of Resolution A/RES/58/232.
• January 2003 1st Int. Conf. on Climate Change and Tourism The conference was organized in order to gather tourism authorities, organizations, businesses and scientists to discuss on the impact that climate change can have on the tourist sector. The event took place from 9 till 11 April 2003 in Djerba, Tunisia.
• January 2002 World Ecotourism Summit Held in May 2002, in Quebec City, Canada, the Summit represented the most important event in the framework of the International Year of Ecosystem. The Summit identified as main themes: ecotourism policy and planning, regulation of ecotourism, product development, marketing and promotion of ecotourism and monitoring costs and benefits of ecotourism.
• January 1985 Tourism Bill of Rights and Tourist Code At the World Tourism Organization Sixth Assembly held in Sofia in 1985, the Tourism Bill of Rights and Tourist Code were adopted, setting out the rights and duties of tourists and host populations and formulating policies and action for implementation by states and the tourist industry.
• January 1982 Acapulco Document Adopted in 1982, the Acapulco Document acknowledges the new dimension and role of tourism as a positive instrument towards the improvement of the quality of life for all peoples, as well as a significant force for peace and international understanding. The Acapulco Document also urges Member States to elaborate their policies, plans and programmes on tourism, in accordance with their national priorities and within the framework of the programme of work of the World Tourism Organization.

Promoting green tourism for future sustainability

Alhilal Furqan and Ahmad Puad Matsom and Rosazman Hussin (2010) Promoting green tourism for future sustainability. Theoretical and Empirical Researches in Urban Management, 8 (8). pp. 64-74. ISSN 2065-3913

Green tourism is defined as environmentally friendly tourism activities with various focuses and meanings. In a broad term, green tourism is about being an environmentally friendly tourist or providing environmentally friendly tourist services. The green tourism concept would be highly appealing to tourism enterprises and operators owing to increasing governmental pressure to improve environmental performance by adopting effective and tangible environmental management techniques. Furthermore, achievement and promotion of internationally recognized environmental awards would be instrumental to the tourism enterprises in marketing their services. As a result, many concerned and responsible parties put forward recommendations for green tourism products to regulate tourism's negative impacts. This conceptual paper attempts to discuss green tourism concept, green tourism certification and its processes as well explain the comparative approaches of green tourism in a few countries. Towards the end, by this green labeling, the industry can legitimately open up new areas for the more discriminating and wider range of the market, and tourists or visitors can enjoy the holiday they want with a clear conscience.

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A green future: Dublin joins the EarthCheck Sustainable Destinations program

• September 12, 2024

The announcement comes shortly after Dublin’s recent accolade as the 2024 European Capital of Smart Tourism, reinforcing the city’s commitment to innovative and sustainable practices.

The collaboration underscores Dublin’s commitment to sustainable development, and aligns perfectly with the city’s new Tourism Strategy 2023-2028. The initiative will ensure that Dublin continues to be a world class destination while prioritising environmental responsibility, community well-being, and innovative practices. 

Furthermore, the EarthCheck Sustainable Destinations program is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), providing a structured roadmap for achieving the city’s sustainability objectives.

Councillor James Geoghegan, Lord Mayor of Dublin, says he is immensely proud of his city’s commitment to sustainability. 

“Joining the EarthCheck Sustainable Destinations program is a testament to our commitment to creating a greener, more resilient city,” he says. “This partnership will not only enhance our environmental efforts, but also enrich the experience for both resident and visitors. We are excited to embark on this journey towards a sustainable future together.” 

Mary Macsweeney, Executive Manager of Culture Recreation and Economic Services for Dublin City Council, agrees. 

“We are delighted to have partnered with EarthCheck to deliver the first ever designation sustainability certification for Dublin City,” she says. “Having been early signatories of the Glasgow Declaration on Sustainable Tourism, undertaking this certification is our next step in making our tourism industry in Dublin more sustainable.” 

Dublin’s new Tourism Strategy is shaped by three key goals: 

• Focusing on people-centred and community-based growth 
• Being proactive and accountable towards our climate goals 
• Promoting future-facing, creative and digitally advanced initiatives 

By fostering a sustainable tourism industry, the city aims to meet the objectives of Ireland’s National Climate Action Plan, and Dublin’s City Development Plan 2022-2028. 

How it works 

To achieve EarthCheck Sustainable Destinations Silver Certification, Dublin will have to measure its performance against EarthCheck’s rigorous standards, and have that performance verified by an independent auditor, in the following metrics: 

• Energy efficiency, conservation and management 
• Greenhouse gas emissions 
• Air quality protection, noise control and light pollution 
• Management of freshwater resources 
• Wastewater management, drainage and streams 
• Ecosystem conservation and management 
• Land use planning and development 
• Transport 
• Solid waste management 
• Management of environmentally harmful substances 
• Cultural and social management 
• Economic management 

Maintaining this status will require Dublin to continually monitor and optimise its performance, with regular independent audits to confirm the city’s commitment. After five years, the city will be eligible for EarthCheck Sustainable Destinations Gold Certification.

Why this matters 

Dublin’s inclusion in the EarthCheck program brings numerous benefits, including: 

• Environmental stewardship: Implementing best practices to reduce the city’s carbon footprint and preserve natural resources.
• Community Engagement: Ensuring local communities benefit from sustainable tourism and have a voice in the process.
• Economic Resilience: Strengthening Dublin’s economy through sustainable tourism practices that attract conscious travellers.
• Cultural Preservation: Celebrating and protecting Dublin’s unique cultural heritage for future generations to enjoy.
• Measurement and Benchmarking: Leveraging EarthCheck’s scientific benchmarking and certification to measure Dublin’s sustainability progress and set targets for continuous improvement.

Stewart Moore, EarthCheck Founder and CEO, says Dublin’s rich cultural heritage and forward-thinking tourism strategy make it an ideal partner in his company’s mission to promote sustainable tourism globally. 

“We are delighted to welcome Dublin to the EarthCheck Sustainable Destinations program,” he says. “We look forward to working closely with the city to achieve its sustainability goals and create a positive impact for future generations.”

Learn more about the EarthCheck Sustainable Destinations program . 

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Acknowledgement of Country

There are more than 476 million Indigenous Peoples, found in all regions of the world, from the Arctic to the tropical forests. They make up more than 6 per cent of our global population.

In the spirit of reconciliation, EarthCheck acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout the world and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Indigenous Peoples today.

EarthCheck acknowledges that Indigenous Peoples are guardians of the forests and biodiversity hotspots we all depend on. Research shows that lands managed by Indigenous Peoples, with secure rights, experience lower deforestation rates, store more carbon, hold more biodiversity, and benefit more people than other lands — including protected areas.

We recognise and support the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), the most comprehensive international instrument on the rights of Indigenous Peoples. The Declaration is a positive document that maps out a path for Indigenous Peoples to be free from discrimination and secure in their identities and life choices.

EarthCheck Certified: Aligned globally

EarthCheck science and products were developed by the Australian Government Sustainable Tourism Co-operative Research Centre (STCRC) over ten years. Our science is reviewed annually to ensure that it meets international standards relative to greenhouse gas protocols, responsible tourism, and certification.

EarthCheck products and services are built on the Agenda 21 principles for Sustainable Development endorsed by 182 Heads of State at the United Nations Rio De Janeiro Earth Summit in 1992 and aligned to the SDGs.

EarthCheck Certified provides a framework for organisations to achieve the desired outcomes for sustainable development as set out in the final report of the World Summit for Sustainable Development held in Johannesburg in 2002.

EarthCheck Certified complies with the Mohonk Agreement (2000), which outlines the guidelines and principles for an international sustainable tourism certification program. It is also a Recognised program of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).

EarthCheck Certified is a verification standard accepted by CDP. It is also an approved program of the Certification and Accreditation Administration of the People’s Republic of China (CNCA), London & Partners, the Mexican Secretary of Tourism (SECTUR) and the City of Sydney.

EarthCheck Certified is an approved program for meeting the EU Energy Directive for the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (Bundesamt für Wirtschaft und Ausfuhrkontrolle – BAFA) in Germany and the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy) in the Netherlands.

EarthCheck partners with international research organisations to maintain the currency of EarthCheck science and our benchmarking systems.

The EarthCheck brand signifies scientific excellence, better environmental, economic, and social performance, improved community interactions, and savings through more efficient use of resources. It provides recognition and promotional support to a global consumer market.

Promoting green, sustainable tourism towards net zero tourism for the future - Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism

(TITC) - On September 5, within the framework of ITE HCMC 2024, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism coordinated with the People's Committee of Ho Chi Minh City to organize the High-level Tourism Forum "Green Transformation, Net Zero Travel and Tourism - Creating the Future".

Developing green and sustainable tourism is Vietnam's strategic orientation

Speaking at the opening of the Forum, Minister Nguyen Van Hung informed that developing green tourism and sustainable tourism is set as an important strategy to enhance the competitiveness of the tourism industry, and at the same time, becomes a premise for the orientation of developing net zero tourism in Vietnam.

Many destinations have shown strong commitment and action in managing and protecting the tourism environment such as Hoi An, Ninh Binh, Khanh Hoa, Ben Tre, Con Dao, Co To, Sa Pa...

Mr. Nguyen Van Dung, Vice Chairman of the HCM City People’s Committee, said Ho Chi Minh City is striving to develop tourism in harmony with the ecological environment and local culture, aiming for sustainable development in terms of economy, culture, and environment.

Ho Chi Minh City is committed to promptly reviewing and perfecting solutions, policy mechanisms and specific action plans to continue effectively implementing the green transformation, aiming for net zero and preserving cultural, historical and natural values.

Mr. Nguyen Trung Khanh, Chairman of Vietnam National Authority of Tourism said that at COP26, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh announced a commitment to gradually eliminate coal-fired thermal power by 2040 and achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 (also known as net zero).

Vietnam is also striving to build a green economy, reduce emissions, and enhance resilience to climate change, actively implementing the "National Strategy on Green Growth for the 2021-2030 period, vision to 2050".

Developing a sustainable tourism ecosystem, strongly promoting the digital transformation and green transformation programs as stated in Resolution No. 82/NQ-CP of the Government on key tasks and solutions to accelerate recovery and accelerate effective and sustainable tourism development.

According to Mr. So Mara, Cambodian Ministry of Tourism pointed out that the world is facing an unprecedented environmental crisis, so immediate and resolute actions across all countries are urgently required. Given the importance of tourism in the economy and cultural preservation, reaching the global target of net zero is not only a national issue but also a responsibility of the business community.

Innovating the tourism growth model towards greening

At the forum, some speakers had presentations on an overview of Vietnam's net zero policy; Net zero tourism and typical examples in the world of successful implementation of net zero tourism; The role of green transformation, promoting the development of net zero tourism in destination promotion; Promoting green transformation in sustainable tourism development in Ho Chi Minh City; Green tourism - the inevitable path for Vietnamese tourism businesses; Experience in applying net zero tourism to promote green transformation for sustainable tourism development in Quang Binh...

Developing tourism products in a green, sustainable direction, based on traditional cultural values

Appreciating the opinions discussed at the forum, Minister Nguyen Van Hung said that  green tourism must be organized and implemented based on the foundation of tourism products originating from culture, bearing cultural imprints. Each citizen participating in the green tourism process must benefit and be a friendly ambassador of tourism.

Minister Nguyen Van Hung suggested that tourism businesses should continue to study the experiences of other countries to approach and implement green tourism. At the same time, promote the connection between businesses, localities and internationally to take advantage of support for technology transfer and the shift of global financial resources for low-emission development in Vietnam as well as in the region.

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Local Skills, Local Flavours: The Future Of Sustainable Tourism?

Two decades ago, during my early travels to remote destinations, I found inspiration in boutique hotels and gained my first insights into what an owner-run, offbeat hotel could be. What left a lasting impression on me was the happiness of the people and the deep respect they had for their workplace—the hotel and its owner. These homestays, bungalows, and small hotels embodied thoughtful ideas, such as conserving forest paths or restoring old colonial bungalows while integrating local cuisine, culture, and design from nearby villages.

Early pioneers of this approach included places like Sitla Estate, Ramathra Fort, Kipling Camp, and Shahpura Bagh. These owner-run hotels used the local community and environment as valuable assets, setting themselves apart by telling stories of conservation, heritage, rural life, and nature. I was fascinated by the creativity in local crafts, seasonal cuisine, building techniques, farming practices, and daily art and performances, all woven seamlessly into the hotel experience. When managed efficiently and integrated into tourism, it creates a win-win situation for everyone involved.

Hospitality and tourism are among the largest contributors to global employment. This raises an important question: How much of this employment benefits the people living in the immediate destination, whether in the same city or town or, in the case of remote areas, the surrounding communities? Unless it's a community homestay or a project specifically designed to create a positive local impact, a significant portion of the tourism and hospitality workforce is often brought in from places that offer cheaper labour. This is a trend that shouldn't come as a surprise.

This trend continues today; in India, people from the hills and nearby Nepal work in service-oriented industries like cafes, restaurants, and hotels. So, what’s wrong with that? While it provides valuable job opportunities, the migration of predominantly male workers from small villages to larger tourism towns creates shifts that can have social and psychological effects on the migrants and the communities they leave behind. Though this phenomenon exists in many industries, the solution for tourism and hospitality lies within the sector itself. By employing more locals—ensuring that a significant portion of the workforce comes from within a commuting distance—providing them with hospitality training and integrating their local knowledge and skills, businesses can create a happier, more authentic, and more stable workforce.

Reviving Nature

Ramathra Fort in Sapotara, Rajasthan , began with a mission to "stay the axe," restoring a forest of Dhok (Anogeissus pendula) around the 350-year-old fort, which now stands in solitary beauty as a haven for travellers exploring the popular Golden Triangle. It has become a pioneer in effortless rewilding, community employment, skill development, and high-value heritage tourism. Meanwhile, Kipling Camp, one of the first lodges in Kanha, established in the early 1980s, has its heritage and is entirely powered by a team from nearby villages. The camp plays a significant role in supporting the community, addressing issues like alcoholism, and promoting health and hygiene. Sitla Estate in Mukteshwar , Kumaon, where urban resettlers are increasingly common, continues to protect its 40 acres of orchards and forests. The estate offers hikes and trails guided by local experts, some of whom have been employed there for over 25 years.

Cultural Conservation Through Tourism

One of the least discussed aspects of community-inclusive travel is how responsible tourism and hospitality can positively impact local crafts, textiles, and performing arts. There are many examples: the floor art that adorns mud-plastered floors in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh , local weaving units, and metalworks that thrive when incorporated into signature design and décor. These crafts gain continuity and profitability, as seen with the preservation of frescoes in Rajasthan. Crafts like Phad paintings and the painted havelis of Shekhawati have experienced a revival through tourism, leading to restoration efforts and increased visits. Performing arts, such as Baul music and Chhau dance from Mayurbhanj, have also found new life through cultural tourism, supported by visionary initiatives from hotels like Bari Kothi in Murshidabad and The Belgadia Palace in Odisha .

Skilling And Employment

A common question in remote locations is hoteliers' options if they do not employ local people. The answer lies in hiring locally, training them in hospitality, and ensuring fair and regular wages according to Niti Aayog guidelines. Beyond training, I am particularly passionate about incorporating local skills and knowledge into the hotel's operations. This can greatly enhance the hotel's character from a marketing perspective. For example, utilising local woodfire cooking techniques, recipes, wellness traditions, hand-done plastering, floor art, and thatch and wall art can contribute to the hotel's design and foster a sense of pride within the community. Purchasing local produce, using local crafts, reusing local wood and stone in the hotel's design, and collaborating with local farmers and craftsmen provide direct revenue and increased visibility for the community.

Local Culture And Local Design

Intentionally incorporating local design, themes, and operations inspired by regional architecture helps create a familiar and meaningful space for the community. Employing local craftspeople to build and design spaces encourages them to appreciate their architectural and cultural traditions. Celebrating local festivals, such as Dussehra in Kullu, as highlighted by experiences at ShivAdya in Manali, showcases our cultural diversity and promotes tourism in lesser-known areas during off-peak times. The cuisine is another crucial element; for instance, Himachali Dham and Sadhya in Kerala , as well as dining experiences by The Blue Yonder in the backwaters, such as eating on Chinese fishing nets, offer both romantic experiences for travellers and additional income for local fishing communities facing challenges like climate change and overfishing.

Homestay and community-based tourism can present several challenges. The unchecked proliferation of homestays, along with a lack of focus on quality and poor management, can create unhealthy competition within the community and negatively impact the traditional occupations of local people. These projects should be designed to support local livelihoods rather than transform artists, artisans, and farmers into hoteliers. The goal should be to enhance and preserve existing roles within the community rather than disrupt them.

Buying locally and integrating local crafts, textiles, regional cuisines, arts, and performing arts are effective ways to give a hotel a unique character and convey an authentic destination story. By preserving heritage tourism in this manner, a destination-centric narrative is created, which fosters community growth and adds value for all stakeholders. Community-inclusive tourism helps retain people in their towns and villages, generates job opportunities, supports development initiatives, and promotes local art and performing arts, all while nurturing pride in local culture. Additionally, it drives revenue by purchasing local produce and creates opportunities for hotels to build shared value, promote the destination, and support local enterprises. As the tourism industry grows, addressing its challenges through such inclusive strategies offers a future-forward approach to sustainable tourism and hospitality.

Shoba Rudra is the Founder of RARE India, the largest community of boutique, owner-run hotels and travel experiences in the Indian subcontinent that focus on promoting community-inclusive and planet-sensitive travel.

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