sustainable tourism meaning in tourism

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

Coral reforestation helps restore desolated reefs around Landaa Giraavaru Island on Baa Atoll in the Republic of Maldives.

For travelers, sustainability is the word—but there are many definitions of it

Most people want to support sustainable tourism, even though the concept remains fuzzy.

The word “overtourism” is a relatively new term—but its novelty has not diminished the portent of its meaning: “An excessive number of tourist visits to a popular destination or attraction, resulting in damage to the local environment and historical sites and in poorer quality of life for residents,” according to the Oxford Dictionary .  

As travel recovers from pandemic lows, travelers are once again experiencing the consequences of overtourism at enticing, but crowded, destinations. The UN World Tourism Organization, along with public and private sector partners, marks September 27 as World Tourism Day and uses this platform to discuss tourism’s social, political, economic, and environmental impacts.

This day highlights the importance of sustainable tourism —a framework for engaging travelers and the travel industry at large in supporting goals that include protecting the environment, addressing climate change, minimizing plastic consumption , and expanding economic development in communities affected by tourism.

Getting the facts

A National Geographic survey of 3,500 adults in the U.S. reveals strong support for sustainability. That’s the good news—but the challenge will be helping travelers take meaningful actions. According to the survey—which was conducted in 2019—while 42 percent of U.S. travelers would be willing to prioritize sustainable travel in the future, only 15 percent of these travelers are sufficiently familiar with what sustainable travel actually means.  

( Learn about how to turn overtourism into sustainable global tourism .)

In the National Geographic survey, consumers most familiar with sustainable travel are young: 50 percent are 18 to 34 years old. Among travelers who understand the sustainable travel concept, 56 percent acknowledge travel has an impact on local communities and that it’s important to protect natural sites and cultural places.

The survey has informed National Geographic’s experiential travel and media businesses and sparked conversations for creating solutions around sustainability. Our travel content focuses on environmentally friendly practices, protecting cultural and natural heritage, providing social and economic benefits for local communities, and inspiring travelers to become conservation ambassadors. In short, we see every National Geographic traveler as a curious explorer who seeks to build an ethic of conserving all that makes a destination unique.

Building better practices

National Geographic Expeditions operates hundreds of trips each year, spanning all seven continents and more than 80 destinations. Rooted in the National Geographic Society ’s legacy of exploration, the company supports the Society's mission to inspire people to care about the planet by providing meaningful opportunities to explore it. Proceeds from all travel programs support the Society’s efforts to increase global understanding through exploration, education and scientific research.

National Geographic Expeditions offers a range of group travel experiences, including land expeditions, cruises, and active adventures, many of which take place around eco-lodges that are rigorously vetted for their sustainability practices.  

These independent lodges incorporate innovative sustainability practices into their everyday operations, including supporting natural and cultural heritage, sourcing products regionally, and giving back to the local community.

For example, South Africa’s Grootbos Lodge launched a foundation to support the Masakhane Community Farm and Training Centre. Through this program, the lodge has given plots of land to local people who have completed the training, increasing their income and access to local, healthy foods; so far the program has benefitted more than 138 community members.

As a media brand, National Geographic encourages travelers to seek out and support properties that embrace a mission to help protect people and the environment. Not only do these accommodations make direct and meaningful impacts in their own communities, but staying at one helps educate travelers in effective ways to preserve and protect the places they visit.

Supporting sustainability

The travel industry is crucially dependent on the health of local communities, environments, and cultures. As many experts note, we need to invest in the resiliency of places affected by overtourism and climate change to achieve sustainable tourism.

( Should some of the world’s endangered places be off-limits to tourists ?)

National Geographic’s coverage stresses the importance of reducing our carbon footprint and encourages travelers to step off the beaten path and linger longer, respect cultural differences and invest in communities, reconnect with nature and support organizations that are protecting the planet. Here are 12 ways to travel sustainably , reported by our staff editors.

Storytelling can help by highlighting problems brought on by tourism and surfacing practices and technologies to mitigate negative impacts. A key goal of our storytelling mission at National Geographic Travel is to dig deeper into the topic of sustainable tourism and provide resources, practical tips, and destination advice for travelers who seek to explore the world in all its beauty—while leaving behind a lighter footprint.

Introducing Nat Geo Kids Book Bundle!

Related topics.

• SUSTAINABILITY
• SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
• ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION
• PEOPLE AND CULTURE
• CLIMATE CHANGE

You May Also Like

6 tips to make your next beach trip more sustainable

Can tourism positively impact climate change in the Indian Ocean?

6 eco-conscious alpine resorts around the world

Welcome to Hydra, the Greek island that said no thanks to cars

Kit list: the essential gear to pack like a pro, from smart luggage to bag trackers

• Environment
• Paid Content
• Photography
• Perpetual Planet

History & Culture

• History & Culture
• History Magazine
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Destination Guide
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

Sustainable tourism

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

Description

Publications.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

UNWTO Annual Report 2015

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

UNWTO Annual Report 2016

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

Emerging Issues for Small Island Developing States

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

Transforming our World: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

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

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

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

Towards Measuring the Economic Value of Wildlife Watching Tourism in Africa

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

Status and Trends of Caribbean Coral Reefs: 1970-2012

Previous Caribbean assessments lumped data together into a single database regardless of geographic location, reef environment, depth, oceanographic conditions, etc. Data from shallow lagoons and back reef environments were combined with data from deep fore-reef environments and atolls. Geographic c...

Natural Resources Forum: Special Issue Tourism

The journal considers papers on all topics relevant to sustainable development. In addition, it dedicates series, issues and special sections to specific themes that are relevant to the current discussions of the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD)....

Thailand: Supporting Sustainable Development in Thailand: A Geographic Clusters Approach

Market forces and government policies, including the Tenth National Development Plan (2007-2012), are moving Thailand toward a more geographically specialized economy. There is a growing consensus that Thailand’s comparative and competitive advantages lie in amenity services that have high reliance...

Road Map on Building a Green Economy for Sustainable Development in Carriacou and Petite Martinique, Grenada

This publication is the product of an international study led by the Division for Sustainable Development (DSD) of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) in cooperation with the Ministry of Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs and the Ministry of Environment, Foreig...

Natural Resources Forum, a United Nations Sustainable Development Journal (NRF)

  Natural Resources Forum, a United Nations Sustainable Development Journal, seeks to address gaps in current knowledge and stimulate relevant policy discussions, leading to the implementation of the sustainable development agenda and the achievement of the Sustainable...

UN Ocean Conference 2025

Our Ocean, Our Future, Our Responsibility “The ocean is fundamental to life on our planet and to our future. The ocean is an important source of the planet’s biodiversity and plays a vital role in the climate system and water cycle. The ocean provides a range of ecosystem services, supplies us with

UN Ocean Conference 2022

The UN Ocean Conference 2022, co-hosted by the Governments of Kenya and Portugal, came at a critical time as the world was strengthening its efforts to mobilize, create and drive solutions to realize the 17 Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

58th Session of the Commission for Social Development – CSocD58

22nd general assembly of the united nations world tourism organization, world tourism day 2017 official celebration.

This year’s World Tourism Day, held on 27 September, will be focused on Sustainable Tourism – a Tool for Development. Celebrated in line with the 2017 International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, the Day will be dedicated to exploring the contribution of tourism to the Sustainable Deve

World Tourism Day 2016 Official Celebration

Accessible Tourism for all is about the creation of environments that can cater for the needs of all of us, whether we are traveling or staying at home. May that be due to a disability, even temporary, families with small children, or the ageing population, at some point in our lives, sooner or late

4th Global Summit on City Tourism

The World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) and the Regional Council for Tourism of Marrakesh with support of the Government of Morroco are organizing the 4th Global Summit on City Tourism in Marrakesh, Morroco (9-10 December 2015). International experts in city tourism, representatives of city DMOs, of

2nd Euro-Asian Mountain Resorts Conference

The World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) and Ulsan Metropolitan City with support of the Government of the Republic of Korea are organizing the 2nd Euro-Asian Mountain Resorts Conference, in Ulsan, Republic of Korea (14 - 16 October 2015). Under the title “Paving the Way for a Bright Future for Mounta

21st General Assembly of the United Nations World Tourism Organization

Unwto regional conference enhancing brand africa - fostering tourism development.

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

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

What Is Sustainable Tourism and Why Is It Important?

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

• Chapman University

• Harvard University Extension School
• Sustainable Fashion
• Art & Media

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 .

• How to Be a Sustainable Traveler: 18 Tips
• Regenerative Travel: What It Is and How It's Outperforming Sustainable Tourism
• Best of Green Awards 2021: Sustainable Travel
• Costa Rica’s Keys to Success as a Sustainable Tourism Pioneer
• What Is Community-Based Tourism? Definition and Popular Destinations
• What Is Overtourism and Why Is It Such a Big Problem?
• What Is Ecotourism? Definition, Examples, and Pros and Cons
• What Is Experiential Tourism?
• What Is Voluntourism? Does It Help or Harm Communities?
• Some Advice on How to Travel More Intentionally
• 'The Last Tourist' Film Will Make You Approach Travel Differently
• Food Sovereignty: Definition, Principles, and Importance
• Top 8 Agritourism Destinations in the World
• Best of Green Awards 2021: Eco Tech
• These Travel Companies Offer Tours for a Post-Pandemic World
• Travel + Leisure's Global Vision Awards Are a Win for the Planet

Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable tourism is the form of tourism that meets the needs of tourists, the tourism industry, and host communities today without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

According to The World Tourism Organization (WTO), sustainable tourism should:

1) 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.

2) 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.

3) 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.

Definition of Sustainable Tourism

The World Tourism Organization defines sustainable tourism in the following manner:

“Sustainable tourism development meets the needs of present tourists and host regions while protecting and enhancing opportunities for the future. It is envisaged as leading to management of all resources in such a way that economic, social and aesthetic needs can be fulfilled while maintaining cultural integrity, essential ecological processes, biological diversity, and life support systems.”

While tourism is welcomed almost universally for the benefits and opportunities it creates, there is a growing recognition of the need to see tourism in its environmental context, to acknowledge that tourism and the environment are interdependent, and to work to reinforce the positive relationship between tourism , the environment and poverty reduction.

Sustainable tourism means tourism which is economically viable but does not destroy the resources on which the future of tourism will depend, notably the physical environment and the social fabric of the host community.

According to Richards , “Sustainable tourism is tourism which develops as quickly as possible, taking account of current accommodation capacity, the local population, and the environment. The development of tourism and new investment in the tourism sector should not detract from tourism itself. New tourism facilities should be integrated with the environment.”

Butler defines environmentally sustainable tourism as , “tourism which is developed and maintained in an area (community, environment) in such a manner and at such a scale that it remains viable over an infinite period and does not degrade or alter the environment (human and physical) in which it exists to such a degree that it prohibits the successful development and well being of other activities and processes.”

Sustainable Tourism Development

The World Commission on Environment and Development (The Brundtland Commission) brought the term ‘sustainable tourism development’ into common use in its seminal report (1987) called ‘Our Common Future.’

“Sustainable Development is the development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”

The definition has within it two concepts:

• The concept of ‘needs’, especially the needs of the poor.
• Ability to meet the present and future needs.

Basically, when we talk about sustainable development, the easiest definition is what we, the present generation, have inherited a certain amount of ecology and environment surrounding in terms of land, water, and air; when we leave it to the next generation, we should leave it at least in the same condition, of not in a better condition than what we inherited. This is the sum and substance if sustainable development, putting it in elementary terms.”

Need for Sustainable Tourism Development

Until the beginning of last decade tourism was seen as a profitable sector of business with no obvious constraints to growth, few barriers to entry to the market, an almost, universal welcome from governments and, for the most part, entailing few effective regulatory requirements to take the environment into account.

Commercial organizations, large and small, act on the Dawkin’s principle of self-interest. They do not make significant changes to the way they do business, which could be because of exhortations or out of good intentions, except in response to the pressure of external factors that cannot be avoided or to seize a competitive advantage.

International tourism has brought in a phase in which the opportunities of making quick profits from exploiting what was regarded as freely available natural resources dazzled the eyes of government and businessmen, as well as many local residents.

As there are many economic, social, ecological and political limits to tourism development, sustainable strategies are necessary to eradicate these problems.

Principles of Sustainable Tourism

Tourism Concern, 1991 in association with the Worldwide Fund for Nature(WWF) gives 1 0 principles for sustainable tourism . These are following as:

1)  Using resources sustainably. The conservation and sustainable use of resources- natural, social and cultural – is crucial and makes long-term business sense.

2) 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.

3) 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.

4) 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.

5) 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.

6) 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.

7) 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.

8) 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.

9) 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.

10) 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.

Three Dimensions of Sustainable Tourism

Tourism has environmental, economic and social impacts. Sustainable tourism is about maximizing the impacts which are positive and minimizing the negative ones.

• Environmental

Environmental Dimension

To many people, sustainability is about the environment, primarily the natural, physical environment, and its protection. However, there is far more to the environment than just the natural landscape.

Let us now move on to look at the five aspects of the environment:

The Natural Resources

Tourism makes use of a range of natural resources, and in many cases, the core attraction of a destination’s product may be natural resources such as clean air, land, mineral waters, and the water in lakes and seas.

The Natural Environment

There are few natural landscape or wilderness areas left in the world. Almost all natural landscapes have been affected to some extent by the actions of man through the centuries. Tourism is only one industry or activity which changes landscapes.

The natural landscape represents the core of the tourism product in many areas including natural forests, mountains, and regions which attract tourists because of their rivers and lakes.

The Farmed Environment

The farmed environment can cover a diverse range of agricultural systems including agriculture landscapes, man-made forests, and fish farms.

Wildlife has a number of dimensions such as land-based mammals and reptiles, flora, birds, insects, fish, and marine mammals. Tourism can clearly be very harmful to wildlife through the destruction of habitats, affecting feeding habits, disrupting breeding patterns, fires in woodlands and people picking rare plants.

The Build Environment

We also need to recognize that, in term of tourism, there are several dimensions to the built environment such as individual buildings and structures, villages and townscapes, transport infrastructure, dams, and reservoirs.

Economic Dimension

In the debate over sustainable tourism, the economic dimension is often given relatively scant attention compared to the environmental issues. Tourism is an economic phenomenon because:

• It is a major industry and foreign currency earner.
• It is the basis of the growth of many transnational corporations.
• It accounts for a significant proportion of the annual disposable income.

Economic Benefits of Tourism

Tourism contributes to the economy of a country in various ways. Economic benefits of tourism are following as:

• Job creation
• Injection of income into the local economy through the multiplier effect.
• Helping keep the local business viable.
• Infrastructure development.
• Attracts the foreign direct investments.

Economic Costs of Tourism

There are many economic benefits of tourism as well as costs. Economic costs of the tourism are following as:

• Many jobs are low paid and seasonal.
• Opportunity costs.
• Congestion.
• The need to invest in expensive infrastructure which may only be required for part of the year.
• Over-dependence on tourism makes the host economy vulnerable.

Social Dimension

The social dimension of tourism has been given less attention in the sustainable tourism debates, than the environmental impacts of tourism. This is because the socio-cultural impacts of tourism usually occur slowly over time in an unspectacular fashion. They are also largely invisible and intangible.

The social impact of tourism is usually permanent with little or no opportunity to reverse the changes once it has taken place. When the social impact of sustainable tourism has been considered the focus has normally been upon the host community .

There are a number of factors that determine whether or not the balance of socio-cultural impacts will be positive or negative in a particular location including:

• The strength and coherence of the local society and culture.
• The nature of tourism in the resort.
• The level of economic and social development of the host population in relation to the tourists.
• The measures were taken by the public sector in the destination to manage tourism in ways which minimize the socio-cultural costs of tourism.

UN Tourism | Bringing the world closer

Join us on the 2030 journey, share this content.

• Share this article on facebook
• Share this article on twitter
• Share this article on linkedin

TOURISM 4 SDGs

The World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), a United Nations specialized agency, is the leading international organization in the field of tourism.

Go to Tourism for SDGs Platform    

UN Tourism is responsible for the promotion of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism geared towards the achievement of the universal 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

UN Tourism offers leadership and support to the tourism sector in advancing knowledge and tourism policies worldwide,  advocating for responsible tourism and promoting tourism as a driving force towards economic growth, inclusive development and environmental sustainability.

With a current membership of 159 countries, UN Tourism encourages the implementation of the Global Code of Ethics in Tourism, in order to maximize tourism´s socio-economic contribution while minimizing its possible negative impacts.

• Regional Support Office for Asia and the Pacific (RSOAP)
• Member States in Asia and the Pacific
• SUSTAINABLE TOURISM OBSERVATORIES (INSTO)

© UNWTO Regional Support Office for Asia and the Pacific (RSOAP)

Understanding Sustainable Tourism: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to our in-depth guide on sustainable tourism. In recent years, the concept of sustainable tourism has gained significant attention as travelers and industry professionals alike seek to minimize the negative impacts of tourism on the environment, local communities, and cultural heritage. In this comprehensive glossary article, we will delve into the definition of sustainable tourism, its key principles, best practices, and the importance of promoting sustainable travel in the tourism industry.

Definition of Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable tourism, also known as responsible tourism or eco-tourism, refers to a form of tourism that focuses on minimizing the negative impacts of travel on the environment, local communities, and cultural heritage, while maximizing the benefits for all stakeholders involved. The goal of sustainable tourism is to promote responsible travel practices that contribute to the conservation of natural resources, the preservation of cultural heritage, and the empowerment of local communities.

Key Principles of Sustainable Tourism

• Environmental Conservation: Sustainable tourism aims to minimize the environmental impact of travel activities by promoting practices that reduce carbon emissions, conserve natural resources, and protect wildlife habitats.
• Social Responsibility: Sustainable tourism seeks to benefit local communities by supporting local businesses, creating employment opportunities, and preserving cultural traditions.
• Economic Viability: Sustainable tourism strives to ensure that tourism activities generate economic benefits that are distributed equitably among all stakeholders, including local communities, businesses, and governments.
• Cultural Preservation: Sustainable tourism values and respects the cultural heritage of destination communities, promoting cultural exchange and understanding among travelers and locals.
• Educational Opportunities: Sustainable tourism provides educational opportunities for travelers to learn about environmental conservation, cultural heritage, and local customs, fostering a sense of responsibility and respect for the destinations they visit.

Best Practices for Sustainable Tourism

Implementing sustainable tourism practices requires a collaborative effort from all stakeholders, including travelers, tour operators, accommodation providers, and local communities. Here are some best practices for promoting sustainable tourism:

• Choose Sustainable Accommodations: Stay at eco-friendly hotels, lodges, or guesthouses that have implemented sustainable practices such as energy conservation, waste reduction, and water management.
• Support Local Businesses: Purchase goods and services from local businesses, such as restaurants, markets, and artisan shops, to support the local economy and promote cultural exchange.
• Respect Local Customs: Learn about the customs, traditions, and etiquette of the destination you are visiting, and show respect for the local culture by dressing modestly, speaking the local language, and following local customs.
• Minimize Waste: Reduce, reuse, and recycle waste during your travels by carrying a reusable water bottle, using eco-friendly toiletries, and avoiding single-use plastics.
• Conserve Natural Resources: Practice responsible tourism by conserving water, saving energy, and minimizing your carbon footprint through activities such as walking, cycling, or using public transportation.

The Importance of Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable tourism plays a crucial role in promoting environmental conservation, supporting local communities, and preserving cultural heritage. By adopting sustainable practices in the tourism industry, we can ensure the long-term viability of travel destinations and create a more sustainable future for generations to come. It is essential for travelers, industry professionals, and governments to work together to promote responsible travel practices and make a positive impact on the environment and society.

Thank you for reading our comprehensive guide on sustainable tourism. We hope that this article has provided you with valuable insights into the concept of sustainable tourism and inspired you to make responsible travel choices on your next journey. Together, we can make a difference and contribute to a more sustainable and ethical tourism industry.

• Up to 7-Day Itineraries
• Maps Integration
• PDF Downloads
• Standard support
• Everything in Basic Plan and
• Up to 14-Day Itineraries
• Personalized packing lists
• Additional itinerary details (hotels, transportation, travel requirements, local sayings, etc.)
• Ad-free experience

$3 / month or $30 / year (Save $6)

€2.76 / month or €27.60 / year (Save €5.52) £2.37 / month or £23.70 / year (Save £4.74) ₹249.00 / month or ₹2,490.00 / year (Save ₹498.00)

• Everything in Plus Plan and
• Up to 30-Day Itineraries See Example
• Smartest AI with latest updates
• Private Itineraries

$5 / month or $50 / year (Save $10)

€4.60 / month or €46.00 / year (Save €9.20) £3.95 / month or £39.50 / year (Save £7.90) ₹415.00 / month or ₹4,150.00 / year (Save ₹830.00)

"This is super cool. I did three days in a relatively small town, and it came up with a nice sounding trip (relaxation focused)."

- Redditor StillKickinginAZ

"This is incredible"

- Jenny Turner

"This is so awesome! We hired a travel agent for $200 and your AI just spit out almost exactly the same itinerary the agent planned for our honeymoon in Greece!"

Share Itinerary

Sustainable Tourism – A Pathway to Sustainable Development

The expansion of tourism has brought forth substantial repercussions on both natural and human landscapes, prompting a paradigm shift towards sustainable development. The concept of sustainability, though rooted in earlier decades, has gained widespread acceptance as the guiding principle for the industry's future trajectory. Sustainable tourism transcends mere economic viability, embracing ecological integrity, long-term resilience, and its pivotal role in broader sustainable development agendas (Butler, 2001). It strives to foster practices within the tourism domain that yield positive outcomes across economic, societal, and environmental realms (UNWTO, 2024). Achieving sustainable tourism necessitates concerted efforts from diverse stakeholders, coupled with robust political leadership to ensure inclusivity and consensus. The remarkable growth of tourism over the years has not only fueled economic prosperity but has also emerged as a primary engine for job creation and wealth distribution. Statistical evidence from 2017 reveals that the tourism sector made a direct contribution of approximately 2.6 trillion US dollars to the global economy, highlighting its immense economic significance (UNEP & WTO, 2015).

This positive impact of sustainable tourism on the global economy has been halted by the pandemic and geopolitical conflicts. The pandemic has affected sustainable tourism and development in economic, environmental, social, and policy areas. The sudden halt in travel and tourism caused significant job losses, business closures, and revenue shortages, threatening sustainable tourism programs globally (Higgins-Desbiolles, 2020). This halt jeopardized ecological and wildlife conservation efforts that depend on the tourism industry. In addition, the pandemic showed the vulnerability of tourist-dependent communities, emphasizing the necessity for diversified economic strategies and sustainable tourism practices that stress local empowerment and equitable benefit-sharing (Guo et al., 2023).

Similarly, Geopolitical unrest in the world affects sustainable development and in turn sustainable development. Endangerment of cultural heritage sites, local communities are displaced, experience economic instability, and lose their means of subsistence. Tourists are deterred from visiting conflict zones due to the inherent dangers involved, which decreases visitor counts and revenue streams. This further undermines sustainable development initiatives and further weakens local economies. Moreover, the presence of geopolitical tensions may impede cross-border collaboration on sustainable tourism initiatives and disrupt global cooperation, thereby restricting the flow of information, and resources. Ultimately, broader endeavors toward sustainable development are impeded by the instability and insecurity caused by geopolitical unrest and conflicts; this perpetuates cycles of poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation in the regions impacted (Georgescu et al., 2024).

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), established to guide global efforts toward sustainability, underscore the pivotal role of sustainable tourism as an effective pathway to achieving sustainable development. Specifically, SDG 8, with its Target 8.9, emphasizes the importance of promoting sustainable tourism to generate inclusive and sustainable economic growth, productive employment, and decent work for all (Venugopalan, 2021). Sustainable tourism development entails satisfying the present requirements of tourists and local people while preserving resources for future generations (Nguyen et al., 2022). This strategy prioritizes the balanced and coordinated growth of tourist activities in alignment with society, the economy, resources, and the environment. It represents a practical implementation of sustainable principles within the tourism industry (Wu et al., 2022).

To attain sustainable tourism, it is imperative to establish a comprehensive plan for sustainable tourism development. This plan should consider various factors including social engagement, the competency of state managers, the quality of tourism services, the caliber of human resources, infrastructure development, and the quality of tourism resources (Vu & Hartley, 2022). Furthermore, sustainable tourism should actively contribute to fulfilling the requirements of visitors, conserving the environment, improving the welfare of local populations, stimulating economic growth, and advocating for local culture (Tovmasyan, 2022). Engaging stakeholders, such as local communities, tourism companies, and tourists, is essential to guarantee that development yields favorable outcomes for all parties involved (Slivar, 2018).

Effective governance is crucial for the sustainable development of tourism, as it requires the implementation of policies and management practices that can effectively address global environmental concerns and support sustainable growth in the industry (Guo et al., 2019). Furthermore, the sustainable tourism sector greatly relies on community participation, where the active engagement of the community in shaping the policies for the growth of the tourism industry is essential for achieving success (CHAMIDAH et al., 2020). Destinations might strive to achieve 'responsible' tourism by embracing a vocabulary that promotes sustainable and responsible tourist practices (Mihalič et al., 2016). In conclusion, sustainable tourism serves as a pathway for sustainable development by promoting responsible practices that balance economic growth, environmental conservation, and socio-cultural well-being. By incorporating principles of sustainability into tourism development, destinations can ensure long-term benefits for all stakeholders involved, contributing to the overall goal of achieving sustainable development.

Recognizing that Discover Sustainability is an essential forum for discussing finance policy developments and interdisciplinary research that addresses all seventeen Sustainable Development Goals established by the United Nations. The purpose of the journal is to educate the public, policymakers, and researchers on how to sustain planetary and human health to ensure the well-being of present and future generations while adhering to the constraints of the natural world. This will be accomplished through this topical collection that aims to contribute to the literature on sustainable development goals, including the concepts, theories, and practices, to provide insights into the current state of the field. This topical collection welcomes research, reviews, perspectives, comments, brief communications, case Studies, registered reports, and data notes from across the full range of disciplines concerned with sustainability.

The Collection shall appreciate multi-study submissions, while quantitative, and qualitative studies will also be accepted.

• Financial mechanism to support Sustainable tourism

• Tourism resilience and economic recovery post-crisis

• The role of tourism in expanding protected areas

• Improvement in environmental accounting techniques in sustainable tourism

• Trends and patterns in sustainable tourism research over the past 25 years

• Community-based tourism development and its impact on sustainability

• Sustainable tourist motivation and its influence on sustainable practices

• Biodiversity conservation and ecotourism in the context of sustainability

• Visitor satisfaction monitoring in sustainable tourism destinations

References:

Butler, R. W. (2001). Seasonality in tourism: Issues and implications. In Seasonality in tourism (pp. 5–21). Routledge.

CHAMIDAH, N., GUNTORO, B., & SULASTRI, E. (2020). Marketing Communication and Synergy of Pentahelix Strategy on Satisfaction and Sustainable Tourism. The Journal of Asian Finance, Economics and Business, 7(3), 177–190. https://doi.org/10.13106/jafeb.2020.vol7.no3.177

Georgescu, I. A., Oprea, S. V., & Bâra, A. (2024). An analysis of the geopolitical and economics influence on tourist arrivals in Russia using a nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag model. Kybernetes.

Guo, Q., Yin, S., Liu, Y., & Liu, H. (2019). Growth Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Small Tourism Enterprises: A Case Study of Hongcun Village. Tropical Geography, 39(5), 759–769. https://doi.org/10.13284/j.cnki.rddl.003131

Guo, Y., Zhu, L., & Zhao, Y. (2023). Tourism entrepreneurship in rural destinations: measuring the effects of capital configurations using the fsQCA approach. Tourism Review, 78(3), 834–848. https://doi.org/10.1108/TR-07-2022-0333

Higgins-Desbiolles, F. (2020). The “war over tourism”: challenges to sustainable tourism in the tourism academy after COVID-19. Journal of Sustainable Tourism, 29(4), 551–569. https://doi.org/10.1080/09669582.2020.1803334

Mihalič, T., Šegota, T., Knežević Cvelbar, L., & Kuščer, K. (2016). The influence of the political environment and destination governance on sustainable tourism development: a study of Bled, Slovenia. Journal of Sustainable Tourism, 24(11), 1489–1505. https://doi.org/10.1080/09669582.2015.1134557

Nguyen, T. Q. T., Johnson, P., & Young, T. (2022). Networking, coopetition and sustainability of tourism destinations. Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Management, 50, 400–411. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhtm.2022.01.003

Slivar, I. (2018). Stakeholders in a Tourist Destination – Matrix of Possible Relationships Towards Sustainability. Open Journal for Research in Economics, 1(1), 1–10. https://doi.org/10.32591/coas.ojre.0101.01001s

Tovmasyan, G. (2022). Promoting female entrepreneurship in tourism for sustainable development. Marketing and Management of Innovations, 1(1), 18–36. https://doi.org/10.21272/mmi.2022.1-02

UNEP, & WTO. (2015). Making Toruism More Sustainable. Unep, 53(9), 11–12.

UNWTO. (2024). TOURISM NEWS International Tourism to Reach Pre-Pandemic (Issue 34).

Venugopalan, T. (2021). Tourism and Sustainability in India – Exploring Sustainability of Goa Tourism from the Perspective of Local Community. European Journal of Business and Management Research, 6(3), 34–41. https://doi.org/10.24018/ejbmr.2021.6.3.852

Vu, K., & Hartley, K. (2022). Drivers of Growth and Catch-up in the Tourism Sector of Industrialized Economies. Journal of Travel Research, 61(5), 1156–1172. https://doi.org/10.1177/00472875211019478

Wu, D., Li, H., & Wang, Y. (2022). Measuring sustainability and competitiveness of tourism destinations with data envelopment analysis. Journal of Sustainable Tourism. https://doi.org/10.1080/09669582.2022.2042699

László Vasa

Dr. László Vasa, Professor, Szent Istvan University, Hungary. After his degrees in agricultural economics, German-Hungarian translation and international MBA studies, he completed his PhD and habilitation at Szent Istvan University, Hungary. He worked as an associate professor at this university, where he also acted as the vice dean for international affairs of the Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences. László is a research professor of the Széchenyi István University and a private professor. His main fields of research are economics of transition, Post-Soviet studies and international issues of agricultural economics.

Gagan Deep Sharma

Dr. Gagan Deep Sharma, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, India Gagan's fields of research interest include Energy Economics, Behavioral Economics, Financial Economics, and Critical Literature Reviews. He is currently the Associate Editor of JPA (Wiley), and CG (Emerald); and Editorial Board member of IJoEM (Emerald). His prominent publications are in Energy Economics, RSER, TFSC, JBR, Energy Policy, JEMA, IEEE-TEM, etc. His area of specialization is sustainable development, energy economics, green finance, neuro-finance, and evolutionary economics. He has more than 20 years of experience in Teaching, Research and Industry.

Participating journals

Discover Sustainability

• Find a journal
• Publish with us
• Track your research

Sustainable Tourism vs. Ecotourism: What's the Difference?

If you're starting to research more ways to become a more responsible traveler, you're bound to run across terms like "sustainable tourism,” "ecotourism," and "voluntourism,” sometimes even used interchangeably. But what do they all mean? In reality, ecotourism refers to the sector of low-impact tourism that includes natural areas, whereas sustainable tourism is a broader term describing sustainable practices within and performed by the tourism industry.

The environmental damages that can stem from irresponsible tourism have continued to come to light through complications from overtourism (when a destination or attraction suffers from overcrowding or an excess of tourists it isn’t designed to handle) and land degradation (when increased construction of tourism infrastructure negatively affects land resources and biodiversity). These terms are more than just travel industry buzzwords; sustainable travel is—hopefully—here to stay.

What Is Sustainable Tourism?

Sustainable tourism encompasses all forms of tourism that consider the long-term economic, social, and environmental impacts of tourism while addressing the needs of visitors, the environment, host communities, and the tourism industry itself. According to the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC)—an organization that sets global standards for sustainable travel and tourism—sustainable tourism doesn’t refer to a specific type of tourism but is rather an aspiration for the impacts of all forms of tourism.

Specifically, "sustainable tourism takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment, and host communities." This includes conservation efforts, preserving cultural heritage and traditional values, and providing equitably distributed socio-economic benefits.

Destinations and industries may practice sustainable tourism by prioritizing the natural environment when developing activities and infrastructure, respecting the cultural practices of host communities, and ensuring long-term economic operations to support the destination, to name a few.

Adopting a few sustainable practices into your travel routine isn’t just a win for the people, environments, and wildlife of your destination, it can often create more educational, meaningful, and authentic tourism experiences at the same time. Individual travelers can do things like buy locally made souvenirs, opt for public transportation instead of rental cars, buy an admission ticket to a protected conservation area (like a national park), or go low-impact camping to show their support for sustainable tourism.

What Is Ecotourism?

Sustainable tourism as a whole considers the economic, social, and environmental impacts of the travel industry, ecotourism tends to lean deeper into the environmental. The most cited definition of ecological tourism (or “ecotourism”) comes straight from the International Ecotourism Society (TIES), a nonprofit organization that’s been dedicated to promoting ecotourism since 1990. TIES defines ecotourism as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education.”

According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), ecotourism refers to nature-based forms of tourism where the observation and appreciation of nature and traditional culture in natural areas is the main motivation behind traveling. Specifically, ecotourism has the following characteristics:

• Contains educational and interpretation features.
• Generally speaking, tours are organized by specialized, small-group tour operators.
• Destination partners are usually small, locally-owned businesses.
• Minimizes negative impacts on the natural and cultural environment.
• Supports the maintenance of areas used as ecotourism attractions.

This maintenance support is provided by the generation of income for communities, local organizations, and conservation management authorities as well as the availability of alternative employment opportunities and increased awareness of natural and culturally significant areas.

While ecotourism is just one of several different subsets of sustainable tourism, it tends to be the most widely recognized. Since it focuses primarily on experiencing and learning about nature, ecotourism should be managed in such a way that helps contribute to the conservation and preservation of those very areas. It goes farther than wildlife, and focuses on both environmental and cultural understanding of the natural places visited. For this reason, there are some communities and even entire habitats that completely rely on ecotourism as a means for survival.

For example, Palau in the South Pacific requires all visitors to sign an eco pledge before entering the country saying that they will act in a way that is both ecologically and culturally responsible for the sake of future generations of Palauans. Tourists can also look out for Palau Pledge Certified businesses to support companies that have made a commitment to sustainability. In Africa, many governments have safeguarded national parks and natural reserves that generate revenue for the local communities while keeping some of the world’s most iconic wildlife and ecosystems protected from extinction. In turn, nature-based tourism creates countless jobs and contributes funds to help manage these protected areas.

Other Types of Sustainable Tourism

Although ecotourism is a popular niche segment of sustainable tourism in natural areas, it's not the only one. Other forms of sustainable tourism highlight different priorities such as volunteer work, small businesses, and unique local experiences.

Voluntourism

Voluntourism involves tourists who travel for the specific purpose of volunteering, such as teaching English in a foreign country, working with a wildlife rescue center, or offering medical services to underdeveloped areas. Voluntourists can travel internationally or domestically, typically for a charity or non profit, participating in voluntourism programs that positively impact local communities and benefits destinations long-term.

Soft Tourism

Soft tourism (as opposed to hard tourism) is characterized by small-scale, locally owned and operated businesses that employ local community members, respect the local way of life and local traditions, and allow tourists to experience the truly unique aspects of a destination.

Hard tourism conversely focuses on large-scale mass tourism development, which often leads to negative impacts on the environment or keeps money out of the local economies. Soft tourism typically values experiences over checking off the most popular tourist attractions, taking a class over traveling without gaining any in-depth knowledge about the destination, and spending more time in one spot over hitting a new city every couple of days.

Community Tourism

Community-based tourism puts a region's tourism industry into the hands of its local residents, and it is often sponsored by its governments or non profits with expertise in tourism development. Community members will manage homestays where tourists can get an authentic experience of local culture, become tour guides, or provide other tourism services themselves rather than sourcing out to multinational or commercialized companies. This type of tourism is important because economic benefits usually go straight towards local families and stay within the community.

Global Sustainable Tourism Council. " GSTC Sustainable Tourism Glossary: Definitions of Important Terms ." 2021.

The International Ecotourism Society. " What Is Ecotourism ." 2019.

Is Thailand Ready to Reopen Its Borders to Tourists?

How to Travel Sustainably on a Budget

Destinations Dependent on Ecotourism Are Facing a Silent Crisis

How Tourism Boards in Southeast Asia Have Been Turning to Sustainable Travel

The Ongoing Debate of “Last Chance Tourism”

How to Choose an Ethical Wildlife Experience

Regenerative Travel Brings Hotels Together for Environmental and Social Impact

Responsible Travel in Africa: The Complete Guide

What Is Overtourism—And Why We Should Be Talking About It

Top Caribbean Ecotourism Destinations

This Spanish Island Is Betting on the Environment Instead of Tourism

The Rise of Wellness Tourism

The 14 Best Backpack Brands of 2024

Slum Tourism: What Is It, and Is It Okay?

California’s Oyster Farms Offer a Unique Kind of Culinary Ecotourism

How to Find an Ethical, Authentic Food Tour

• Partners and Fundings
• events & news
• green hotels
• who’s talking about us

Discovering sustainable tourism: its meaning and potential

Our blog is all about sustainable tourism . We share new ways of travelling and green travel experiences. We give tips on how to look after our environment and our nature. And we often (well, almost every day) talk about sustainable tourism through direct experiences and interviews. But what does sustainable tourism really mean? How is it possible to travel respecting the environment, the places we visit and their local communities? Let’s find it out together.

What does Sustainable Tourism mean?

To fully understand the meaning of sustainable tourism it’s useful for us to begin with the general concept of “ sustainable development ”, which was reported in the renowned 1987 Bruntland Report : “ Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs ”.

The first definition of sustainable tourism was offered in 1988 by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO): “ 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 ”.

Sustainable tourism has then to do with our own well-being, along with the Earth’s and the future generations’ ones.

Further definitions of Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable tourism is “ able to last over time while maintaining its qualitative and quantitative values. It is able to meet locals’ and tourists’ expectations both in the long term and in the short term, without lowering the quality of the travelling experience and without damaging the environmental values of the environment ” (WWF)

Ecotourism is the “ Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people ” (The international Ecotourism Society, TIES, 1990).

According to the World Tourism Organization (WTO), “ sustainable tourism’s development satisfies the actual demands of both tourists and hosting regions, while preserving and improving the prospects for the future. It needs to manage all the resources in a way that fits the economic, social and aesthetic needs, and maintaining at ht same time cultural integrity, fundamental ecological processes, biological diversity and living systems. Touristic products should be in line with the environment, the local community and cultures “.

Tourism’s development “ shall be based on criteria of sustainability, which means that it must be ecologically bearable in the long term, economically viable, as well as ethically and socially equitable for the local communities ” (1 st principle, World Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development, Lanzarote 1995)

Tourism’s ecological footprint

Modern society has reduced tourism to a mere act of consuming, to “ the chance to go and see what has been made trite ” as Guy Debord defined it in 1969 (‘’The Society of the Spectacle”). Most of the times such a perspective has a negative impact on the environment, places and local economies, and forecasts only predict that the number of tourists all over the world will constantly grow.

Cruises are a typically depicted as an example of mass tourism, damaging both environments and locations. This touristic branch has undergone the greatest growth in the past 20 years. But cruise holidays do not just pollute 1000 times more than bike holidays in terms of CO2 emissions. In fact, they are also responsible for sea pollution, barrier reef destruction and dumping of waste at sea.

And what’s more to that, is the kind of mass tourism offered: uninterested hordes of group visits usually spend only a few hours in the different locations. This leads to negative consequences for local villages, their economies and people, which are overwhelmed by thousands of tourists in a very short time without gaining any advantage from this.

According to the EU document “Consumption and Environment 2012”, which checks on consumes in Europe and on their consequences for the environment, the fourth cause of environmental pollution and CO2 production is in fact tourism, following just after transport, household equipment, food and beverage.

The main responsible for tourism impact on the environment is transport. Planes and cars alone are  cause 75% of CO2 emissions. The second main responsible are hosting facilities, to which around 21% of CO2 emissions of the whole touristic system can be traced back (Source: UNWTO-UNEP report 2008,  Climate Change and Tourism ).

These data shouldn’t be surprising: on average, hotels consume 21kW of energy and 645 litres of water for every guest per day. At this rate, the consequences for future generations and for the environment would be tragic.

But the ecological footprint of accommodation facilities can be reduced of 90%  thanks to simple ecological measures. For example, hotel managers could choose environmental-friendly buildings and interiors and use energy from 100% renewable resources. They might decide to install solar panels for hot water and low energy light bulbs, or to prefer eco-friendly cleaning products to others. Local grown and 0 km biological food, waste sorting, linen change upon request only, can help the environment and be the key-factor attracting visitors.

Encouraging hosting facilities to satisfy these requirements of sustainability and inviting travellers to make use of green accommodation when planning their journeys, we will all help reducing CO2 emissions and water consumption to the 90%, while promoting local economies.

Sustainable Tourism and its Potentials

The touristic system has the makings for growing, especially in the ecotourism branch and in Italy. In fact, tourism can actually bring wealth and prosperity only if sustainable.

For this reason, the “Promoting Tourism for Sustainable Development and Poverty Reduction” UN measure adopted on February 21 st , 2012, underlined how green tourism can contribute to solve some of the major problems affecting our world. From poverty to climate change, from income growth to job creation and education, sustainability has a major potential.

Sustainable tourism is a real opportunity for local economies – from agriculture to handicraft – to grow, for territories and landscapes to be  , for old villages and mountain hamlets, threatened by abandon, to be restored, and also for precious traditions with thousands of years of history and culture to be valued.

Sustainable travel: what does it mean?

To travel sustainable means to reduce our impact on the environment as much as possible, to make our journey positive and beneficial ,  to help the local culture and economies.

But it also means to rediscover the authentic way of travelling , deep bounded with the places we visit and the people we meet along our way.

Sustainability is the future of tourism. It’s the chance to meet new people, to share experiences and ideas, to support projects and economies, to feel citizens of the same Earth, to share the same path .

Cover image: Etna mountain, Sicily, Italy, ph. by Giuseppe Graziano Barone via Flickr

You might also like:

A zero-emission travel by train: you can now do it in australia, tourists: what is their ecological footprint, eco-friendly travelling: 3 tips not to miss.

• Hospitality Industry

Sustainable Tourism: A Long Road Ahead

March 03, 2020 •

8 min reading

Every single second, more than  30 tourists arrive  at their destination worldwide.   With more than 1 billion passengers projected to travel in 2020 , the effect tourism has on the environment cannot be underestimated. “Sustainability” has been one of the biggest buzz words of the past decade in the industry. Yet, the proliferation of its use is not necessarily a good thing. Like other terms that are often used in marketing to promote some products or services of virtually any company, (e.g. “eco-friendly” or “green”), the word itself has in many instances lost its true meaning.

According to the   United Nations, sustainability is defined as activities that “meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."   Therefore, advertisements that, for example, praise a company´s 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions as a sustainable development are in themselves, contradictory.   Diminished harm does not equal an increased benefit to future generations. Thus, businesses that have not eradicated every unethical and harmful substance from their supply chain and daily operations cannot truly claim to be sustainable. Instead, current “green” transformations in the tourism industry are to be understood as steps in the right direction rather than the final solution to sustainability.

What can tourism industry stakeholders do in order to move towards a more sustainable tourism? What are leading businesses saying about their current impact and future strategies on environmental issues?

What Is sustainable tourism?

Sustainable tourism in general can be defined as actions by individuals, operators, and legislators that aim at reducing or stopping the negative impact of commercial tourism activities on the eco-systems in which they take place.   Long-haul flights, over-tourism and travelers’ unawareness of the impact of their actions are among the issues that need to be tackled.   In the effort of limiting the damage to our environment, it is also important to understand what the industry is trying to protect. Pristine beaches, stunning wildlife, untouched rainforests or imposing glaciers are some reasons for tourists to start their journey.

The businesses and nations marketing and exploiting these natural resources for financial gain directly depend on their longevity. The incentives to protect these locations should therefore be blatantly obvious to anyone involved.

So what can each group of stakeholders do to ensure that the tourist of the future gets to enjoy the same experiences as us today?

What can be done to travel in a sustainable way?

By tourists.

There are some relatively simple steps tourists can take to reduce the impact of their travels on the locals and the destination to ensure availability for generations of future travelers. Not littering and even picking up trash along the way is an important way to be a respectful visitor. Always staying within boundaries and, where necessary, traveling with a local guide so as not to damage historical sites or the environment are also essential yet easy to adhere to.

Another way of reducing the negative impacts of overtourism specifically, is to travel in the off-season. Not only will this guarantee travelers a less crowded and more enjoyable experience, but it will also save them money on airfare, hotels and tours.

More commitment on the traveler’s part is required in changing from plane to train travel in order to decrease carbon footprint. This is part of the growing “slow travel” trend that encourages people to go to fewer places and spend more time in each one of them. Many popular destinations including Europe, India, Southeast Asia and China have well-developed train infrastructures that travelers can use to implement these changes.

Opting for locally purified water in recyclable glass bottles or carrying re-usable bottles and filling them with boiled or purified drinking water as well as carrying tote bags to street and supermarkets will not only reduce plastic waste but also carbon footprint (as it avoids petroleum-based ingredients used in making plastic bottles and bags).

Steps like these may require a slight effort on part of the traveler, but are vitally important to counteract human-made phenomena   such as the   Great Pacific Garbage Patch   – a huge collection of human trash, including plastic items that will take hundreds of years to break down, stretching across thousands of miles of ocean.

By Governments

In many ways, the most popular destinations are victims of their own success.   Overtourism, for instance, can lead to a decrease in the quality of the traveler’s experience, frustration among locals, congested infrastructures and, of course, harm to the local ecosystems.   Governments of nations that are most affected by these detrimental influences face a difficult balancing act between economic growth and sustainable resource management.   The issue is most difficult to manage in locations whose economies largely depend on tourism revenues.   In Thailand and Italy, for instance, the income generated by the tourism sector represents respectively   21% and 13%  of the annual GDP. Decisions to curb the number of incoming tourists will therefore often encounter opposition from parts of the population. Nonetheless, many locations have realized the need for change and are working on solutions for a more sustainable approach to tourism: in Thailand,   Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh   island, made famous by the 2000 movie  The Beach , saw as many as 5,000 tourists a day. As a result, authorities decided to close the beach to visitors in June 2018 until 2021 to allow the environment to recover. Another example of governments intervening to protect a site relates to   Machu Picchu , one of the new Seven Wonders of the World and Peru’s most popular tourist attraction. Since the 1980s, the number of visitors to Machu Picchu each year grew by 700% to a baffling 1.2 million in 2013. In response, the Peruvian Ministry of Culture implemented measures which limit entrance to the site to 2,500 tourists a day and access to the Inca Trail, a 4-day trek that leads into Machu Picchu, to 500 permits a day.

Closing or limiting access to individual sites is not all that governments are doing to counter overtourism and increase sustainability in their countries and cities. In 2019, 19 million tourists flocked to   Amsterdam , a city with just 850,000 inhabitants. This number is expected to rise to 29 million in 2025. In order to protect its citizens, cultural sites and environment from the effects of mass-tourism, the ‘City in Balance’ program was introduced. Under the program, the building of new hotels, souvenir shops and ticket sales outlets has been stopped and even the famous “I amsterdam” sign outside the Rijksmuseum has been removed. The city has also imposed stark restrictions on private rental platforms, such as AirBnB. Thus, homeowners are only allowed to sublet their apartments via such platforms for up to 30 days per year. Fines for minor offenses such as drinking alcohol or urinating in public have also been raised in an attempt to get tourists to behave better. Cities such as Berlin, Barcelona, Lisbon and Venice face similar problems and are taking measures to the same effect.

Ultimately, governments will need to educate their citizens right from the start, so that everyone can practice sustainable tourism.   Italy   is the first country to take steps in this direction. As of September 2020, Italy’s school curriculum will include one hour per week on climate change and sustainable development. By making climate change lessons compulsory, Italy puts itself at the forefront of environmental education – an example that other countries should be encouraged to follow.

By Companies

The companies involved in the tourism supply chain are diverse.   From large international airlines to the owner of a small bar on the Caribbean coast, each business has its very own challenges to deal with. Some general truths do, however, ring true no matter the organization.   Reducing the resources used to deliver services and products to customers, getting rid of single-use materials and encouraging all clients to do the same is among the most important. Research suggests that   a simple reminder   of how much electricity and water a consumer is using can lead to a change of thinking that results in decreased consumption. Companies can use the behavioral tendencies of their clients to illicit positive change for the environment.   Furthermore, businesses have to realize that they will benefit in the long run from switching to renewable energy suppliers and using recyclable materials in all stages of service delivery even if hurts the bottom line in the short run.   For some sectors, particularly transportation, the dependency on fossil fuels could well be insurmountable. Yet, offsetting-schemes for greenhouse gas emissions can provide at least a short-term answer to the question "how airlines, cruise-liners and on-land transportation firms can do their part without dialing down their operations." According to  greenhotelier , a hotel in a tropical or Mediterranean region uses an average of 820 liters of water per guest per year. There are various ways in which hospitality firms can reduce their consumption. For instance, it will be important to install water and electricity-saving infrastructure (e.g. low-flow shower heads, toilets, etc.) and establishing a water management plan that allows for reliable measurements of actual results. Additionally, F&B operations worldwide can contribute a lot to the fight against climate change by increasing the number and quality of plant-based products they offer to their patrons, so as to encourage a reduction in meat consumption.

What are hospitality leaders' perspectives on sustainable tourism?

Many leading executives seem to have heard the warnings. KLM’s, the Dutch national carrier, CEO Pieter Elbers,   published a letter   in June 2019 urging their passengers to re-think whether all their flights are really necessary while also encouraging them to participate in the airline’s carbon gas offsetting scheme. Johan Lundgren, CEO of EasyJet, went one step further last November declaring that the budget air-carrier will offset carbon gas emissions of all its flights, costing the airline 25 million GBP. While some critics have quickly dismissed these messages as simple acts of greenwashing, they certainly represent a step in the right direction. Speaking at the International Hotel Investment Forum 2019, Hilton's  CEO, Chris Nassetta, said :

“The hotel industry is the second-biggest industry, but one of the risks of that is the stewardship of that responsibility”

adding that   hotel companies “fight over customers and development, but sustainability is one thing we should not fight over.   You can be a provider of fantastic experiences and be environmentally conscious.” Keith Barr, CEO of InterContinental Hotel Group   spoke to the same tune   at another 2019 conference, saying:

“I think as a hotel company and we as an industry have to get out in front about sustainability. That’s single-use plastics, that’s reducing carbon footprint, that is about building with more sustainable materials and understanding your ongoing impact on the environment. And so I think governments will legislate, but in fact businesses have to get out in front of it now."

It is big statements like these that companies all around the globe are making.   Now, at the beginning of a new decade, it will come down to consumers to make sure that these firms put their money where their mouth is by choosing responsibly when booking their next trip.

EHL Alumni 2019

Keep reading

Mastering essential hospitality soft skills: Insights from EHL Experts

May 31, 2024

Driving Regenerative Hospitality: GATE College's Impact

May 30, 2024

Restaurant manager skills list: 9 essential skills for your resume

May 29, 2024

This is a title

This is a text

• Bachelor Degree in Hospitality
• Pre-University Courses
• Master’s Degrees & MBA Programs
• Executive Education
• Online Courses
• Swiss Professional Diplomas
• Culinary Certificates & Courses
• Fees & Scholarships
• Bachelor in Hospitality Admissions
• EHL Campus Lausanne
• EHL Campus (Singapore)
• EHL Campus Passugg
• Host an Event at EHL
• Contact our program advisors
• Join our Open Days
• Meet EHL Representatives Worldwide
• Chat with our students
• Why Study Hospitality?
• Careers in Hospitality
• Awards & Rankings
• EHL Network of Excellence
• Career Development Resources
• EHL Hospitality Business School
• Route de Berne 301 1000   Lausanne 25 Switzerland
• Accreditations & Memberships
• Privacy Policy
• Legal Terms

© 2024 EHL Holding SA, Switzerland. All rights reserved.

December 2022 - You are accessing an archived version of our website. This website is no longer maintained or updated. The Sustainable Development Knowledge Platform has been migrated here: https://sdgs.un.org/

You will be redirected to the new Partnership Platform in 10 seconds.

• A/70/472 - Sustainable development: report of the Second Committee [Arabic] [Chinese] [English] [French] [Russian] [Spanish]
• A/RES/70/193 - International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, 2017 [Arabic] [Chinese] [English] [French] [Russian] [Spanish]
• A/RES/70/196 - Sustainable tourism and sustainable development in Central America [Arabic] [Chinese] [English] [French] [Russian] [Spanish]
• A/RES/70/200 - Global Code of Ethics for Tourism [Arabic] [Chinese] [English] [French] [Russian] [Spanish]
• Compendium of Best Practices in Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable Tourism : In the beginning of the tourism industry, the activities were primarily focused on the well-being of the tourists. The tourism organizations and government institutions were trying to develop amenities and facilities required for the tourists to ensure their satisfaction by fulfilling their expectations.

While developing amenities and facilities for the tourists, the impacts of these activities on the local population and environment were not given adequate consideration. This unidirectional developmental approach has caused lots of pressure to the destination and led towards dangerous negative consequences to the nature and culture. This unscientific tourism development led to irritation between the tourists and local community. 

However, in 1990s, the tourism industry has witnessed a paradigm shift in perception. The primary focus of tourism has been shifted from tourists to the host population. More people were concerned about the negative impacts of tourism to the environment and host community. This prototype has led to the concept of sustainability and sustainable tourism development.

They believed that the sustainable tourism development can ensure environmental protection, community development and preservation of local culture and traditions. In later stage, it has shaped in such a manner that the needs of the present generation must be fulfilled by consuming the tourism resources responsibly without compromising the needs of the future generations. This concept covers the needs of all the stake holders of tourism without hampering the socio economic, cultural and environmental fabric of the society. 6

Definitions

It has been defined by many experts’ in different times. The sustainable tourism development has emerged from the idea of its development proposed by United Nations Environmental program (UNEP) in the year 1987. Many definitions and explanations are developed by various scholars on this. The following definitions of sustainable tourism are more accepted by the academicians and it’s practitioners.

Sustainable Development is a development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. UNEP, 1987 “Sustainability Principles of tourism refers to the environmental, economic and socio cultural aspects of tourism development and a suitable balance must be established between the three dimensions to guarantee its long term sustainability” – UN WTO.

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.

Sustainable tourism is an economic development model conceived to improve the quality of life for the local community and to facilitate for the visitor a high quality experience of the environment, which both the host community and as well as the visitors depends” (Bramwell and Lane, 1993) 

Sustainable Tourism has to meet social, cultural, ecological and economic requirements. It holds a long term view, for present and future generations, ethically and socially just and culturally adapted, ecologically viable and economically sensible and productive”. (German Forum on Environment and Development, 1999)

• Ensuring long term sustainable economic activities.
• Preservation of cultural heritage and traditional values.
• Contributing to the intercultural tolerance
• Respect the socio-cultural traditions of the destinations
• Preservation of cultural heritage and traditions values

Environmental

• Finding best way of using natural resources which are the key element of tourism development
• Protecting ecological processes
• Support the preservation of natural resources and biodiversity

Principles of Sustainable Tourism

There are many principles that put forward by different scholars and institutions. Bramwell and Lane (1993) have proposed four very basic principles it. They are,

• Holistic Planning and Strategy Making
• Preservation of essential ecological process
• Protection of both human heritage and biodiversity.
• Development to ensure that productivity can be sustained over a long term for future generations.

Difference between Mass Tourism and Sustainable Tourism

The concept has been emerged as an alternative for mass tourism. Mass tourism is movement of tourists in large volumes to popular destinations and mostly arranged by tour operators. They usually have very less interaction with local community and culture. Their consumption pattern is also likely to be much more than that of individual tourists.

The economic benefits were less dispersed among local population due to less multiplier effect of tourism revenues in mass tourism. Primary focus of mass tourism was on tourists’ satisfaction and economic gains. The concerns and preferences of local community were neglected. Due to mass tourism, destinations were overcrowded, polluted and natural resources were over consumed. 

But it is more focusing on responsible consumption and individualistic movements of tourists at destinations. It has three dimensional outlooks where the economic, social and environmental aspects of tourism development are well addressed. It ensures economic benefits to the local population by minimizing leakage of revenue and ensuring highest economic multiplier.

The ancillary services for the tourists like local transportation, lodging, accommodation and other services are more locally owned to restrict the revenue leakage.

Also read Evolution and Development of Transport

Emergence of sustainable tourism :.

It is a difficult task to trace out the history and emergence of the concept of sustainable tourism. Many literature and reports were referred to get the information on it. The literary evidences are available in a scattered form in various seminar proceedings, reports and articles. The concept was a developmental thought contributed by many scholars and institutions. The most significant contributions in the field of sustainable tourism development are described.

The concept has emerged from the wider concept of ‘Sustainable Development’ which came into sight in 1990s. The sustainable development concept was very generic and applicable to all sorts of industrial developments. Later, the idea of sustainable development was extended to travel industry and the possibility of applying the concept of sustainable development in travel industry was discussed in various policy development platforms.

The very idea of sustainable tourism was an outcome of academic deliberations held worldwide in various academic platforms to address the issues and impacts of tourism development on environment and local community. The concept was popularized and institutionalized by various international organizations engaged in the field of tourism and hospitality such as United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), Conservation International, World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) etc.

These institutions were able to produce a mammoth of literary contributions to the field development through organizing various expert level seminars, conferences, summits and discussions internationally to shape the very idea of sustainable tourism and development.

Many educational institutions in the field of travel and tourism management have included the principles and practices of sustainable tourism in their course curriculum to create awareness and to develop adequate human resource to practice and propagate the idea. The conceptual development of sustainable tourism is an ever growing activity and many changes were made in the root concept from time to time to make it perfect. 

The WTO has taken a leading role in the conceptualization and popularization of sustainable tourism since 1980’s. The early action of WTO on tourism and resource protection was the Manila Declaration on 1980. According to Manila Declaration, ”the tourism resources cannot be left uncontrolled without running the risk of their deterioration or even destruction” (WTO, 1980, P. 4). In 1985, WTO and UNEP made a joint declaration on rational management of tourism resources.

But in 1989 Hague declaration, on tourism proclaimed the concept and sustainable tourism as solution to mitigate the negative occurrences of traveldevelopment. The Rio Erath Summit has proclaimed the world to hold the principles and Practices of Development in all sectors of business including tourism industry in 1996, WTO, WTTC and Earth Council jointly drafted the Agenda 21 for Travel and Tourism Industry with practical solutions for travel business organizations and the government for implementing sustainable tourism.

Based on the Agenda 21, the UN has constituted Sustainable Development of Tourism Committee having representatives from eight rotating member states for a period of four years. In 1999, the Commission on Sustainable Development held at New York has stressed on the need for environmental protection, safeguarding the cultural identity of the local population sand sustainable consumption of host resources. The Commission suggests making partnership with the local community for decision making to ensure protection of the interest of the host population.

UNWTO has declared 2002 as the International Year of Ecotourism provided a big boost to the growth of Sustainable Tourism since it is an integral part of Ecotourism concept. The WTO Secretary General of WTO has urged the humanity to the implementation of all policies and practices of this.

Development in the plenary session of the Johannesburg World Summit on Sustainable Development. Followed by the Johannesburg World Summit, WTO has come up with an initiative widely known as ‘ST-EP (Sustainable Tourism -Elimination of Poverty) Initiative’ has provided an impetus to the concept worldwide through coordinating various tourism related official bodies of different nations. Now WTO is funding millions of Dollars for the Sustainable Tourism Development Projects Worldwide.

In 2002, PATA has come up with ‘Code for Sustainable Tourism, a code of ethic for travelers provided a long leap to the concept worldwide. Apart from PATA, WTTC has launched the ‘Blue Print for New Tourism’ in the year 2003 with strong emphasis on it for its development.

In the year 2006, UNEP has come up with Task Force for Development with an intention to establish policies, procedures and practices for development and to start pilot projects and research funding in the field of sustainable tourism projects and researches. UNEP has carried out and funded many projects under the banner of sustainable tourism development. Many of such projects are still considered as model tourism destinations. 

The Rio Conference of UNWTO held in 2012 at Rio De Janeiro has a mile stone in the development of sustainable tourism worldwide. The conference has come up the novel thought of consumption and production in tourism industry. It was a 10 year long term program to identify the destinations which are more affected by tourism development and assist those destinations to redesign the tourism activities in a sustainable manner.

The UNWTO has extended funding activities to several projects to create model tourism destinations. The most remarkable achievement of this program is the declaration of International Sustainable Tourism Year by WTO. The year 2017 has been declared as World Sustainable Tourism Year by UNWTO with lots of projects and funds for sustainable tourism development.

Milestones in the Conceptual Development of Sustainable Tourism

The conceptual development of sustainable tourism has taken many years to come in to the present shape. Many organizations and institutions have contributed immensely for the historic growth is throughout the world.

Sustainable Tourism and Local Communities :

• For local inhabitants, tourism has a financial effect as well as touches their own lives. 
• Tourism influences their ways of life, conventions, and societies and in addition their work. 
• Not at all like different players in the tourism business, must local community manage tourism regardless of whether they decide to. 
• Some rustic groups that were once tranquil and quiet are getting themselves attacked by global sightseers, the greater part of who are simply going through and not remaining to meet local inhabitants. Inhabitants have blended responses to the interruption. 
• Some need nothing to do with sightseers; others are interested by the business openings. 
• Whatever their underlying response, local inhabitants are frequently caught off guard for tourism’s requests. 

They regularly can’t contend with the capable tourism industry and don’t comprehend the wants and conduct of savagely autonomous explorers who need to find new zones. Community individuals assume a basic part in tourism.

Also read Goals and objective of sustainable tourism development

Opportunities available for local community

They may assume numerous immediate parts in the tourism business, including: 

• Renting area for improvement 
• Working as infrequent, low maintenance, or full-time staff for private visit administrators 
• Providing administrations to private administrators, for example, sustenance, guides, transportation, lodging 
• Forming joint endeavors with private visit administrators, who more often than not give showcasing, coordination, and bilingual aides, while the community gives generally benefits 

Community based tourism

• Working autonomous community-based tourism programs likewise, regardless of whether they are not specifically engaged with the tourism business, they assume numerous aberrant parts that influence the achievement of any sustainable tourism endeavour. 
• Local inhabitants’ casual collaborations with voyagers assume an expansive part in making the sightseers’ experience a positive or a negative one, i.e. regardless of whether the sightseers feel welcome, safe, and agreeable.
• Local landowners additionally assume a vital part in the natural soundness of the zone, particularly in support zones of centre ensured zones, close shorelines, around waterway mouths, and so forth. 

You may also read Sustainable Entrepreneurship

• Local community and groups themselves will be colossally influenced by tourism. 
• Their homes, towns, families and lives will be changed if tourism turns into a noteworthy piece of their territory. 
• To make the tourism cooperation a commonly gainful one, and to make sustainable tourism a win, it is of vital significance to comprehend the advantages and dangers of tourism for local groups. 
• Indigenous people group and individuals can assume a noteworthy part in saving biodiversity, imperative issues identifying with support, land and asset utilize, majority rule government still should be tended to with regards to tourism improvement. 
• Local experts have a fundamental part as arbitrators and facilitators of strengthening for local groups.

Read more on Local Community Involvement in Tourism Development

• In like manner, ways to deal with tourism advancement that don’t consider local individuals’ needs can be undermined by common agitation, antagonistic vibe toward voyagers, and diminished security for travellers. 
• The local community isn’t an undifferentiated mass, yet includes individuals of various monetary classes, tribes or family gatherings, ethnic gatherings, the two sexes, and different specific vested parties. 
• Each community is unique and incorporates numerous gatherings included straightforwardly or in a roundabout way with asset. 
• Endeavours to include the community should perceive and regard these distinctive gatherings and the assorted variety of groupings inside the community.   

Sustainable Tourism and Local Communities

You Might Also Like

Role and Importance of Information Technology in Aviation industry

Cost-Benefit Analysis Technique for Tourism Development

9 Powerful Benefits of Sustainable Tourism and Why You Should Care

August 7, 2022

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

Table of Contents

What is the Definition of Sustainable Tourism?

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

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

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

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

The Benefits of Sustainable Tourism

1. Sustainable Tourism Directly Helps Save Endangered Animals

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

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

2. Sustainable Tourism Protects Landscapes and Environments

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

Note, this is generally the opposite of overtourism.

3. Sustainable Tourism Reduces Pollution

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

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

4. Sustainable Tourism Shares Knowledge

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

• Recommended reading: Learning about Jordanian food in Beit Sitti

5. Sustainable Tourism Prevents Cash Crops and Protects Livelihoods

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

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

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

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

6. Sustainable Tourism is Good for Your Health

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

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

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

7. Sustainable Tourism Protects and Preserves Valued Traditions

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

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

For examples, see:

• Uncovering tradition in the highest vineyards in Europe

8. Sustainable Tourism Doesn’t Require Charity

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

Sustainable travel seeks a win-win situation.

It demands a formula that works for today  and  tomorrow.

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

In the words of a banker turned philanthropist.

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

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

9. Sustainable Tourism Feels Good!

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

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

In Summary: The Benefits of Sustainable Tourism

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

What Sustainable Tourism Is Not

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

Not Just a “Third World” Problem

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

Not Paternalistic

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

Not Just Being Green

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

Why? Because…

It needs to make a profit to be economically sustainable.

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

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

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

Not A Chore

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

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

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

In Summary: What Sustainable Tourism Is Not

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

FAQs About Sustainable Tourism

Who benefits from sustainable tourism?

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

What is sustainable tourism?

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

Why is sustainable tourism difficult to achieve?

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

What are the benefits of responsible tourism?

All of the above!

Sustainable Living: The Key Takeaway…

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

More on Sustainable Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leave a comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• GSTC Mission & Impacts
• GSTC History
• Market Access Program
• GSTC Board of Directors
• Assurance Panel
• Working Groups
• GSTC Sponsors
• GSTC Members
• Recruitment
• Contact GSTC
• GSTC For the Press
• Criteria Development, Feedback & Revisions
• Sustainable Tourism Glossary
• SDGs and GSTC Criteria

GSTC Industry Criteria

Gstc destination criteria, gstc mice criteria.

• Criteria Translations
• GSTC-Recognized Standards for Hotels
• GSTC-Recognized Standards for Tour Operators
• GSTC-Recognized Standards for Destinations
• Recognition of Standards (for Standard Owners)
• GSTC-Committed
• Certification for Hotels
• Certification for Tour Operator
• Certification for Destination
• Accreditation for Certification Bodies
• Accredited Certification Bodies
• Stakeholder Consultations
• What is Certification? Accreditation? Recognition?
• Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP)
• Upcoming Courses
• Professional Certificate in Sustainable Tourism
• Professional Certificate in Sustainable Business Travel
• GSTC Trainers and Partners
• FAQs: GSTC Training Program
• Organization Membership Application
• Destination Membership Application
• Membership Policy
• Membership Categories & Fees
• Membership Payment Options
• Webinars for GSTC Members
• Members Log In
• Upcoming Webinars
• GSTC2024 Singapore, Nov 13-16
• Upcoming Conferences
• Past Conferences
• Destination Stewardship Report

GSTC Criteria Overview

The GSTC Criteria serve as the global standards for sustainability in travel and tourism. The Criteria are used for education and awareness-raising, policy-making for businesses and government agencies and other organization types, measurement and evaluation, and as a basis for certification .

They are the result of a worldwide effort to develop a common language about sustainability in tourism. They are arranged in four pillars:

• Sustainable management
• Socioeconomic impacts
• Cultural impacts
• Environmental impacts (including consumption of resources, reducing pollution, and conserving biodiversity and landscapes)

The GSTC Criteria have been built on decades of prior work and experience around the world, and they take into account the numerous guidelines and standards for sustainable tourism from every continent. During the process of development, they were widely consulted throughout the globe, in both developed and developing countries, in several languages. They reflect our goal in attaining a global consensus on sustainable tourism. The process of developing the Criteria was designed to adhere to the standards-setting code of the ISEAL Alliance, the international body providing guidance for the development and management of sustainability standards for all sectors. That code is informed by relevant ISO standards.

The Criteria are the minimum, not the maximum, which businesses, governments, and destinations should achieve to approach social, environmental, cultural, and economic sustainability. Since tourism destinations each have their own culture, environment, customs, and laws, the Criteria are designed to be adapted to local conditions and supplemented by additional criteria for the specific location and activity.

Three sets of GSTC Criteria:

This set of Criteria relates to the sustainable management of private-sector travel industry, focusing currently on Hotels and Tour Operators.

This set of Criteria relates to sustainable management of Tourism Destinations.

This set of Criteria relates to the sustainable management of Venues, Event Organizers, and Events & Exhibitions.

GSTC Criteria Translations

The GSTC Criteria are used for a variety of applications (education and awareness-raising, policy-making for businesses and government agencies and other organization types, measurement and evaluation, and as a basis for certification). Therefore, the GSTC Criteria have been translated into many languages, available to the public to download on the GSTC website:

Translations of the GSTC Criteria in other languages

Future revisions of the gstc criteria.

The GSTC Criteria is being revised every few years, in a manner to comply with the ISEAL Alliance standard-setting code. The revision process includes two public consultations, allowing anyone interested to comment.

More details on the GSTC Criteria Revision & Feedback

Commercial use of the gstc criteria.

The GSTC Criteria are available from the GSTC website free of charge for their non-commercial use. As the owner of the GSTC Criteria, the GSTC reserves the right to assess and charge fees for the commercial use of the GSTC Criteria.

Small Towns, Big Impact: 10 Examples Of Sustainable Tourism in Picturesque Locations

• Small towns like Giethoorn, Hallstatt, and Cinque Terre showcase sustainable tourism practices with car-free streets, eco-friendly transportation, and a focus on waste management, preserving natural beauty while promoting responsible travel.
• Travelers can appreciate the commitment to sustainability in towns like Sintra, Gimmelwald, and Bled, where eco-friendly transportation, regional products, and conservation efforts ensure a minimal impact on the environment and support local communities.
• Tasiilaq and Portree exemplify sustainable living with self-sufficiency, renewable energy sources, traditional practices, and preservation of cultural heritage, setting a standard for eco-conscious practices and responsible exploration.

Sustainable tourism has never been so discussed, and people have been significantly seeking trips that support sustainable tourism . Luckily, many small towns are committed to sustainability , promoting responsible travel practices that respect local communities, protect fragile ecosystems, and preserve cultural heritage.

When it comes to eco-friendly tourism, small towns have a lot to teach the world. From car-free streets and efficient public transportation to encouraging local producers, these places prove that finding a balance between tourism and preservation is possible.

Embracing sustainable tourism is an ethical choice and a crucial step towards ensuring a harmonious coexistence between humans and the environment, forging a path to a more balanced and resilient world. Here are 10 examples of sustainable tourism in some of the world's most scenic towns.

RELATED: Here Are 10 Ways You Can Be Eco-Minded When Visiting National Parks Sustainably

Giethoorn, The Netherlands

Giethoorn, often called the "Venice of the North," is a picturesque village in the Netherlands. The only way to navigate this town where cars aren't allowed is by bike, boat, or foot.

Giethoorn stands out as a model of sustainable tourism, promoting eco-friendly practices such as electric boat transportation and maintaining a car-free town center. This commitment to preserving its idyllic waterways and natural surroundings has earned Giethoorn a reputation as a leading example of how tourism and environmental conservation coexist.

Visitors can explore this tranquil village while appreciating its dedication to sustainability.

• Population: 2,135

There are no train stations in Giethoorn , and the closest station is located in Steenwijk, where travelers can get a bus or rent a bike.

Hallstatt, Austria

Travelers spending the weekend in Hallstatt , Austria, will discover more than a breathtaking Alpine scenery, but a place committed to sustainability.

This village has implemented various eco-friendly initiatives, such as restricting car access in the center during the daytime. It's a way to encourage cycling and promote renewable energy sources.

Additionally, Hallstatt emphasizes waste management and conservation of its pristine environment. Visitors can explore the village's stunning lakeside setting and charming architecture while appreciating its dedication to preserving natural beauty for generations to come.

• Population: 734

Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre is arguably Italy's most stunning coastal area . Despite its popularity and increasing number of tourists, the country created rules to mitigate the environmental impact. Initiatives focus on waste management, protecting the marine environment, and educating both residents and visitors about sustainable practices.

The use of cars is limited, with an efficient train system connecting the villages. Businesses focus on sustainability, promoting local products like wine producers , farmers, and fishermen.

• Population: 3,500

Sintra, Portugal

Sintra is a lovely town in Portugal where travelers can spend at least two days . It attracts visitors due to its colorful constructions and history heritage, as it's a UNESCO World Heritage site.

When visiting, many travelers might not be aware of Portugal's efforts to make it a sustainable destination, as it ranks among the world's 100 Green Destinations . The town promotes eco-friendly transportation and encourages visitors to explore on foot or via electric trams, and strict zoning laws prevent overdevelopment, ensuring the historic charm remains intact.

Local businesses emphasize regional products, reducing the carbon footprint. Efforts are made to manage waste effectively, and conservation programs protect the lush surrounding forests.

• Sustainable accommodations: Penha Longa , Rosegarden House

RELATED: 10 Countries In Europe Perfect For Sustainable Tourism

Gimmelwald, Switzerland

Gimmelwals is located 300 meters above sea level, and its small-scale tourism bolsters the local economy and fosters a sense of community. Tourism became possible by creating an efficient local train and cable car. Nestled in the Swiss Alps, the villages in this region are entirely car-free , which helps to preserve the clean mountain air.

Hiking trails lead through pristine landscapes, and traditional wooden chalets seamlessly blend with the scenery. Locally-owned accommodations and eateries prioritize regional fare, reducing food miles.

• Population: 130
• Sustainable accommodations: Pension Gimmelwald , Mountain Hostel Gimmelwald

Bled, Slovenia

Bled, Slovenia, has been committed to sustainable tourism for many years. It also ranks among the Top 100 Sustainable Destinations thanks to initiatives such as efficient public transportation, allowing travelers to leave their cars behind.

Some areas in the city have walking-only areas so people won't damage the site. The pristine Lake Bled is central to the community's commitment to conservation, with electric boats available, leaving no environmental footprint.

Bled's compact size encourages exploration on foot or by bike, minimizing reliance on motorized transportation. Additionally, efforts to preserve cultural heritage and support the local economy further contribute to its sustainable ethos.

• Sustainable accommodations: Hotel & Glamping RIBNO Bled

Jalapão, Brazil

Located in the heart of Brazil, Jalapão has been recently discovered by the tourism hub. This paradise is home to South America's largest savanna, waterfalls, vast fields of golden grass, dunes, and natural water springs where it's impossible to sink.

The best thing about Jalapão is that locals run tourism, including tourism agencies, hotels, and restaurants in local communities. The locals are committed to preserving the fragile ecosystem, and it's forbidden to use sunscreen when entering the natural water springs as it can affect the fish.

• Recommended agency: Jalapão Brasil

Portree, Scotland

Portree is a coastal town that thrives on renewable energy sources, harnessing wind and water power. Locals are also committed to sustainability and are familiar with eco-conscious practices, from recycling initiatives to community gardens.

Portree's compact layout encourages walking or cycling, reducing car needs. The town's rich Gaelic heritage is preserved through cultural events and initiatives.

Accommodations often prioritize energy efficiency and local sourcing. By harmonizing with its breathtaking natural surroundings, Portree showcases a model of sustainability for small communities worldwide.

• Sustainable accommodations: Skeabost Country House Hotel

Tasiilaq, Greenland

Tasiilaq, Greenland, is home to several Viking settlements , and it's a beacon of sustainable living in the Arctic. With a mere 2,000 residents, this remote town champions self-sufficiency. Energy is primarily sourced from renewable hydroelectric power, minimizing reliance on fossil fuels.

Locals engage in traditional hunting and fishing practices, respecting ecological balance. The Visit Greenland's website highlights the country has been recognized as an "Eco-tourism and Responsible Travel Destination."

• Sustainable accommodations: The Red House

RELATED: Eco-Tourism For Dummies: 10 Ways To Get Involved With Sustainable Missions While Traveling Abroad

Tahoma, California ( Vikingsholm)

Nestled in the picturesque town of Tahoma, Vikingsholm, located on the shores of Lake Tahoe, California, embraces the historic Scandinavian-style mansion and showcases early 20th-century architectural brilliance while prioritizing eco-conscious practices. Surrounded by the Emerald Bay State Park, it encourages responsible exploration and education on local flora and fauna. Visitors can access the site through emission-reducing shuttle services, minimizing individual carbon footprints. Vikingsholm serves as a testament to preserving natural beauty while offering a glimpse into the past.

They encourage visitors to take the Traveler Responsibility Pledge .

Chat With Us

Schedule A Call Back

Our Experts are ready to assist you, Let's Connect with Us By submit your enquiry.

Welcome to Corpseed. Please type your query, and we shall provide immediate assistance.

Didn't receive code? Resend OTP

Your Enquiry has been received !!

Our legal advisor will contact you shortly.., how to start a sustainable tourism business in india.

• What is Sustainable Tourism

The Tourism Industry is one of the largest and most rapidly expanding sectors globally, thus playing a significant role in the destination country's economy. It creates jobs is a key contributor to a country's GDP growth and provides a major source of foreign currency. However, it's not only about enjoying the advantages of a specific sector; upon closer inspection, the other side of the coin may show a darker aspect of it. Often overlooked, the negative impacts and consequences of an industry must be considered alongside its successes. The Tourism Industry is subject to the same situation. While we celebrate the growth of forex reserves, we often overlook the effects of mass tourism on our environment and society. Whether you're in the tourism sector or just a traveller, learning about and adhering to sustainable tourism practices is important.

Table of Contents

Sustainable Tourism

Types of sustainable tourism.

• Why is it necessary to implement Sustainable Tourism Practices?
• What is the significance of sustainable tourism practices?

Certification for Sustainable Tourism for Companies and Businesses

Advantages of stci certification.

• What is the process for obtaining STCl certification?

--------------Blog Contact Form-------------

Before we start talking about sustainable tourism practices, let's first comprehend the definition of sustainable tourism. The World Tourism Organization defines sustainable tourism as considering its economic, social, and environmental impacts now and in the future while meeting the needs of visitors, industry, environment, and host communities.

In other words, it involves taking a comprehensive and well-rounded approach in the worldwide tourism sector to reduce negative impacts on the environment and society while enhancing its positive aspects. Some examples of sustainable tourism practices include reducing waste, reusing and recycling resources, utilizing energy-efficient lighting, conserving water, and more. The purpose of this idea is to minimize the negative effects of tourism on the environment and society as a whole. Its primary focus is on ensuring long-term sustainability to safeguard the needs of future generations.

Over time, environmental activists have coined different phrases to raise awareness about the importance of implementing sustainable practices, even when traveling. Numerous ideas and expressions have been created to establish a specialized area within the expansive tourism sector. 'The concept of 'Sustainable Tourism' covers a wide range of narrower concepts, including the following:'

• Eco-Tourism

Sustainable travel focuses on experiencing nature and promoting conservation.

In the 1980s, the term 'Eco-tourism' gained popularity, often mistaken for Sustainable Tourism. It's important to note that Sustainable Tourism encompasses economic, social, and environmental sustainability for long-term viability in the tourism sector. On the other hand, eco-tourism is a term that specifically centers on nature-based experiences and environmental conservation.

• Cultural Tourism

Ethno Tourism, also known as Rural Tourism, is centered on rural areas and lifestyle. Travelers are interested in exploring ethnic communities, their cultures, and practices. It is popular in Asian countries such as India, Japan, and China. While it provides income for rural communities, an increase in travelers can disrupt rural life and deplete resources. Therefore, it is necessary to include ethno-tourism in the realm of sustainable tourism too.

• Tourism within the local community

Community Tourism is a form of sustainable tourism that allows individuals to immerse themselves in ethnic communities, experiencing their food, culture, and customs firsthand for a unique and unforgettable experience. Unlike the previous two types of sustainable tourism, this particular category aims to support and assist communities instead of solely concentrating on the environmental aspects of tourism.

• Sustainable tourism, focusing on environmental conservation and eco-friendly practices

Green tourism, which emerged in the 1980s, is a term that falls within the realm of sustainable tourism. The initial aim was to create economic benefits and reduce environmental harm by using eco-friendly practices like using green products and reusing supplies. However, the concept failed because the hotel industry began misusing it through "greenwashing," where they falsely claimed to promote green tourism without actually implementing any green practices.

Why is it Necessary to Implement Sustainable Tourism Practices?

After talking about sustainable tourism, let's briefly consider why it is important to implement sustainable tourism practices. Tourism is a thriving global sector with the power to greatly influence the countries it visits, but if not managed properly, it can also bring about numerous adverse effects. Therefore, it is crucial to tackle these difficulties, and sustainable tourism practices have become a key principle to address these issues. Several strong arguments highlight the importance of implementing sustainable tourism practices.

• Worries about the environment: Tourists and travellers prefer to discover regions that are near natural surroundings, which are often areas with fragile ecosystems. Moreover, the presence of numerous tourists often results in increased gas emissions, waste littering, and resource depletion, among various other impacts. Therefore, it is necessary to reduce the impact of tourism on these delicate ecosystems by implementing methods to lessen the carbon footprint of the tourism sector to protect the beauty of our ecosystems and tackle environmental pollution simultaneously.
• To benefit the local economy: As previously mentioned, tourism plays a major role in the host country's economy, leading to job creation and income generation. By adopting sustainable tourism practices, we can ensure the enduring sustainability of our natural and cultural resources, leading to long-lasting economic viability. It also aids in fairly distributing these economic advantages among the local communities and, consequently, assisting in alleviating poverty.
• Reducing Negative Socio-Economic Effects: While economic tourism can benefit an economy, it also has hidden negative impacts. The benefits are distributed unevenly, with the least developed countries unable to fully benefit from them. Therefore, it is necessary to adopt sustainable tourism initiatives to enhance the well-being of indigenous and local populations in developing and underdeveloped countries.
• Preservation of Cultural Heritage: Tourism plays a significant role in promoting cultural exchange and blending, enhancing understanding between different cultures. Yet, when tourism is unsustainable, it can endanger the authenticity of cultures by ignoring the importance of heritage and relying on stereotypes. This insufficient integration of cultures can lead to negative social, political, and economic consequences.

What is The Significance of Sustainable Tourism Practices?

The UN and the World Tourism Organisation have repeatedly emphasized the importance of implementing sustainable practices within the tourism industry. The UN designated 2017 as the "International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development." The UN's Sustainable Development Goals Report outlines goals to create and enforce sustainable tourism policies by 2030, aiming to generate employment opportunities and support local culture and products. When viewed through an Indian lens, the importance of sustainable tourism practices is heightened due to the significant impact on the country's GDP, forex reserves, and the job market. In addition to this, there are numerous other advantages of adopting sustainable tourism practices, including:

• Conservation of the environment

The main emphasis of sustainable tourism practices is on protecting and conserving the natural environment and ecosystems. This involves conserving natural resources, minimizing waste, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, preventing resource depletion, and encouraging the adoption of renewable energy sources.

• Impact on the economy

The financial aspect of sustainable tourism focuses on how the tourism industry contributes to the economy of a country. By advocating for ethical practices, tourism can be beneficial for assisting economically disadvantaged nations to prosper. These measures can also aid in promoting local arts and crafts industries.

• Advantages for businesses to be competitive

In addition to the environmental, social, and cultural advantages, becoming certified and labelled as a sustainable tourism company gives you a competitive edge in the market by signalling to conscious customers that you prioritize these values and are working to minimize negative impacts while maximizing the benefits of sustainable tourism.

The STCI is a crucial component of the National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism, introduced in April 2022 in India. It is a certification that evaluates and authorizes all tourism activities in India based on international standards for sustainable tourism. It serves as a roadmap for tourism service providers to promote sustainable tourism and ensure compliance with it in the country.

STCI Certification allows service providers in the tourism sector to evaluate their impact on the environment and society through self-assessment and monitoring. This provides them with a chance to establish sustainable tourism management systems, which in turn helps support the nation's sustainable development goals. This certification is currently available for lodging establishments (11 categories), travel agencies (3 categories), and tourist destinations. The tourism service provider has the option to request a Gold, Silver, or Bronze Certificate.

The following are some of the key advantages of acquiring the STCl Certification.

• It gives recognition at a national level to providers of sustainable tourism services.
• Securing this certification gives you an extra edge in the tourism sector, enhancing your competitiveness. Establish your business as eco-friendly.
• This certificate recognizes and confirms your environmentally friendly practices, setting you apart from service providers that falsely claim to be sustainable.
• It also raises awareness among both residents and visitors about sustainable tourism practices and educates the public on its potential impacts.
• It enhances the quality of service your business provides and also contributes to elevating the industry standards as a whole.

What is The Process for Obtaining STCl Certification?

Below is a detailed outline for you to acquire STCI Certification:

• Just visit the Nidhi Portal, which stands for the National Integrated Database of Hospitality Industry, sign up for your establishment, and get a Nidhi ID that is one-of-a-kind.
• Afterward, you must submit your application for the certification, which entails providing all requested details and necessary paperwork.
• After you have submitted your application successfully, it will go through a Desktop Assessment.
• Following this, a group of qualified field officers will schedule a visit to your facility for an On-Site Assessment to determine your eligibility and compare your unit to the category you have applied for.
• Once you meet the requirements, you will receive the sustainability tourism certificate.

Implementing sustainable tourism practices is not just a moral responsibility to encourage tourists to engage in environmentally-friendly behaviour, but also a strategic decision for businesses. Due to the rise of environmental law worldwide, there is a growing global awareness of the environment, leading more individuals to opt for eco-friendly and sustainable choices. Hence, through the encouragement and implementation of sustainable tourism practices, Indian businesses can draw in a greater number of eco-friendly tourists while also improving their image, leading to a competitive edge. Obtaining licensing and certification for your business unit offers numerous benefits, as previously mentioned. If you remain unsure and require expert advice, you can seek guidance from a professional.

This portion of the site is for informational purposes only. The content is not legal advice. The statements and opinions are the expression of author, not corpseed, and have not been evaluated by corpseed for accuracy, completeness, or changes in the law.

BOOK A FREE CONSULTATION

Get help from an experienced legal adviser. Schedule your consultation at a time that works for you and it's absolutely FREE.

Tanya Sharma

Latest articles.

Thank you for your vote! Would you have any suggestions for improvements?

Thanks so much for sharing your experience with us , we hope to see you again soon. .