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What Is Green Tourism

Published: December 12, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Nedi Breland

• Hotel Reviews
• Sustainability

Introduction

Welcome to the world of green tourism, where sustainable travel meets environmental responsibility. As the global awareness of climate change and ecological preservation continues to grow, so does the importance of adopting eco-friendly practices in the tourism industry. Green tourism, also known as sustainable tourism or eco-tourism, is a concept that focuses on promoting travel activities that have minimal impact on the environment, preserve local cultures, and provide social and economic benefits to the host communities.

Green tourism goes beyond simply visiting natural attractions or staying in eco-friendly accommodations. It encompasses a range of practices that prioritize sustainability, conservation, and respect for local communities. This type of tourism aims to strike a balance between experiencing the beauty of our planet and actively contributing to its protection.

In recent years, green tourism has gained significant momentum, with travelers becoming more conscious of their environmental footprint and seeking out destinations and experiences that align with their values. This shift in consumer behavior has prompted tour operators, hoteliers, and governments to embrace sustainable practices in their operations and make conscious efforts to reduce their carbon footprint.

Moreover, the concept of green tourism extends beyond environmental considerations. It also takes into account the social and economic impact of tourism on local communities. Green tourism initiatives often promote community involvement, fair employment practices, and the preservation of cultural heritage, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are shared with all stakeholders.

With the increasing popularity of green tourism, a range of certification programs and guidelines have been established to help travelers identify truly sustainable options. These certifications not only provide travelers with the reassurance that they are making responsible travel choices but also incentivize businesses to adopt environmentally friendly practices.

In this article, we will explore the various aspects of green tourism, including its definition, benefits, principles, and practices. We will also delve into the world of green tourism certification programs and examine real-life case studies showcasing successful implementations. Finally, we will discuss the challenges and opportunities that arise in the realm of green tourism.

So strap on your backpack and get ready to embark on a sustainable journey to explore the wonders of green tourism!

Definition of Green Tourism

Green tourism, also referred to as sustainable tourism or eco-tourism, is a form of travel that focuses on minimizing the negative impact on the environment, supporting local communities, and preserving cultural heritage. It aims to create a balance between enjoying the beauty of natural and cultural attractions while promoting responsible and sustainable practices.

At its core, green tourism revolves around three main pillars: environmental conservation, socio-cultural respect, and economic viability. These pillars guide travelers, tour operators, and destination managers in adopting sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the communities they visit.

From an environmental perspective, green tourism places a strong emphasis on reducing carbon emissions, conserving natural resources, and protecting biodiversity. Travelers are encouraged to choose eco-friendly accommodations, participate in nature-based activities with minimal disturbance to ecosystems, and support businesses that implement sustainable waste management and energy conservation practices.

In terms of socio-cultural respect, green tourism promotes the preservation of local cultures, traditions, and ways of life. It encourages travelers to interact with local communities in a respectful manner, fostering cultural exchange and supporting the local economy through the purchase of locally made products and services. By doing so, green tourism helps preserve cultural diversity and heritage, ensuring that future generations can continue to appreciate and learn from them.

Lastly, economic viability is a crucial aspect of green tourism. It recognizes the importance of ensuring that tourism generates economic benefits for local communities rather than exploiting or displacing them. Green tourism initiatives aim to create opportunities for local employment, promote fair wages and working conditions, and encourage the reinvestment of tourism revenue back into the community for infrastructure development, education, and healthcare.

Overall, green tourism strives to create a sustainable travel experience for both travelers and host communities. It encourages responsible behavior, raises awareness about environmental and social issues, and fosters a sense of appreciation for the natural and cultural wonders of the world.

Benefits of Green Tourism

Green tourism offers a multitude of benefits, not only for travelers but also for the environment, local communities, and the tourism industry as a whole.

One of the primary benefits of green tourism is its positive impact on the environment. By promoting sustainable practices such as energy conservation, waste reduction, and the use of renewable resources, green tourism helps minimize the ecological footprint of travel activities. This leads to a reduced carbon footprint, decreased pollution, and the preservation of natural habitats and biodiversity.

Furthermore, green tourism encourages travelers to engage in nature-based activities that foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of the environment. This heightened appreciation can lead to increased support for conservation efforts and the protection of fragile ecosystems.

Green tourism also brings significant socio-cultural benefits. By promoting respect for local customs, traditions, and cultures, it helps preserve and celebrate cultural heritage. Travelers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in authentic cultural experiences, engage with local communities, and contribute to the economic growth of these communities through the purchase of locally made products and services.

Moreover, green tourism often leads to the creation of employment opportunities for local residents. By supporting small businesses, eco-lodges, and community-based tourism initiatives, green tourism generates income for local communities, empowering them economically and reducing dependence on external sources of income.

For travelers, green tourism offers a unique and meaningful travel experience. It allows them to connect with nature, gain a deeper understanding of local cultures, and make a positive impact on the destinations they visit. Green tourism provides opportunities for personal growth, self-reflection, and a sense of fulfillment that comes from traveling responsibly and sustainably.

From a business perspective, adopting green tourism practices can lead to a competitive advantage. By demonstrating a commitment to sustainability, businesses can attract environmentally conscious travelers who actively seek out eco-friendly options. Green tourism initiatives also often result in cost savings through energy efficiency measures, waste reduction, and operational optimization.

Overall, green tourism benefits not only the travelers but also the environment, local communities, and the tourism industry. It offers a more responsible and sustainable approach to travel, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of our world.

Principles of Green Tourism

Green tourism is guided by a set of principles that help ensure sustainable and responsible practices in the industry. These principles serve as a framework for businesses, travelers, and destination managers to make informed decisions that prioritize environmental conservation, socio-cultural respect, and economic viability.

1. Environmental Conservation: The principle of environmental conservation focuses on minimizing the negative impact of tourism on natural resources and ecosystems. This includes reducing carbon emissions, conserving water and energy, protecting biodiversity, and promoting sustainable waste management practices. Businesses and travelers are encouraged to choose eco-friendly accommodations, engage in low-impact activities, and support initiatives that contribute to the preservation and restoration of the environment.

2. Socio-cultural Respect: Green tourism emphasizes the importance of respecting and celebrating local cultures, traditions, and ways of life. This principle encourages travelers to engage in meaningful interactions with local communities, learn about their customs and traditions, and contribute to the local economy through the support of locally owned businesses. It also emphasizes the preservation of cultural heritage and the promotion of fair and responsible tourism practices that benefit host communities.

3. Community Involvement: Green tourism recognizes the value of involving local communities in decision-making processes and ensuring that they benefit from tourism activities. This principle aims to empower local residents by creating opportunities for employment, supporting community-based tourism initiatives, and facilitating the equitable distribution of tourism revenue. It encourages social and economic development that is inclusive and sustainable.

4. Education and Awareness: Green tourism promotes education and awareness about sustainability issues among travelers, businesses, and local communities. This principle emphasizes the importance of educating travelers about responsible travel practices, environmental conservation, and cultural sensitivity. It encourages businesses to provide training and resources to employees, fostering a culture of sustainability throughout the tourism industry.

5. Collaboration and Partnerships: Green tourism recognizes that achieving sustainability goals requires collaboration and partnerships among various stakeholders. This principle encourages businesses, government agencies, NGOs, and local communities to work together in implementing sustainable tourism practices. Collaboration promotes knowledge sharing, resource pooling, and the development of innovative solutions that benefit both the environment and local communities.

6. Continuous Improvement: Green tourism embraces the principle of continuous improvement, acknowledging that sustainability is an ongoing process. Businesses and destinations are encouraged to regularly evaluate their practices, set goals for improvement, and measure their environmental and socio-cultural performance. By striving for continuous improvement, green tourism ensures that initiatives remain relevant, effective, and adaptable to changing circumstances and emerging sustainability challenges.

By adhering to these principles, green tourism aims to provide a framework for responsible and sustainable travel practices that not only benefit the environment but also contribute to the well-being and prosperity of local communities.

Green Tourism Practices

Green tourism involves a range of practices that prioritize sustainability, conservation, and responsible behavior. These practices span various aspects of travel, from transportation and accommodation to activities and interactions with local communities. Here are some key green tourism practices:

1. Sustainable Transportation: Traveling to and within destinations in a sustainable manner is an important aspect of green tourism. This includes opting for public transportation, cycling, or walking whenever possible, as well as choosing fuel-efficient vehicles or carpooling. Travelers can also offset their carbon emissions by supporting carbon offset programs.

2. Eco-friendly Accommodations: Green tourism encourages staying in eco-friendly accommodations that have implemented sustainable practices. Look for accommodations that have energy-efficient systems, water conservation measures, waste recycling programs, and use renewable energy sources. Eco-lodges, eco-resorts, and eco-hotels often prioritize sustainability and offer unique and authentic experiences.

3. Responsible Wildlife and Nature Experiences: Green tourism promotes responsible wildlife and nature experiences that prioritize the well-being and conservation of animals and ecosystems. Choose tour operators and activities that adhere to responsible wildlife viewing practices, such as maintaining a safe distance, avoiding interactions that disrupt natural behaviors, and supporting initiatives that contribute to conservation efforts.

4. Support Local Communities: Green tourism emphasizes supporting local communities by engaging in responsible and ethical tourism practices. This includes purchasing locally made products, participating in cultural activities and events, and patronizing local businesses and restaurants. By supporting the local economy, travelers can contribute to the socio-economic development of the community.

5. Minimize Waste: Green tourism encourages the reduction, reuse, and recycling of waste. Travelers are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles, utensils, and shopping bags to minimize single-use plastics. Using refill stations and recycling facilities provided by the accommodations and destinations is also important in minimizing waste generation.

6. Respect Local Culture and Customs: Green tourism promotes cultural sensitivity and respect for local culture and customs. Before visiting a destination, familiarize yourself with the local customs, traditions, and etiquette to ensure respectful interactions. Seek permission before taking photographs, refrain from inappropriate behavior, and support cultural preservation initiatives.

7. Responsible Water Usage: Water conservation is a critical aspect of green tourism. Travelers are encouraged to be conscious of their water consumption, limiting unnecessary water use such as taking shorter showers, reusing towels, and reporting any leaks or water wastage to the accommodation staff. Additionally, supporting initiatives that promote access to clean water for local communities is crucial.

These are just a few examples of the green tourism practices that travelers can adopt to minimize their environmental impact and contribute positively to the destinations they visit. By being mindful of these practices, travelers can play an active role in promoting sustainability and conservation in the tourism industry.

Green Tourism Certification Programs

To help travelers identify truly sustainable and responsible travel options, various green tourism certification programs have been established around the world. These certification programs assess and recognize businesses that meet specific criteria and standards related to environmentally and socially responsible practices. Here are a few notable green tourism certification programs:

1. Green Globe: Green Globe is a leading sustainability certification program for the travel and tourism industry. It provides certification to businesses that meet strict criteria in areas such as environmental management, social responsibility, cultural heritage protection, and economic benefits to local communities. Green Globe-certified businesses are committed to sustainable practices across their operations.

2. Rainforest Alliance: The Rainforest Alliance certification program focuses on promoting sustainable practices in agriculture, forestry, and tourism. Their certification ensures that businesses adhere to environmental and social standards that protect ecosystems, conserve natural resources, and promote the well-being of local communities. Rainforest Alliance-certified accommodations, tour operators, and attractions contribute to the conservation of biodiversity and the fight against climate change.

3. LEED Certification: LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a globally recognized green building certification program. While it primarily focuses on building design and construction, LEED certification is also applicable to hotels and accommodations that meet specific sustainability and energy efficiency standards. LEED-certified properties prioritize resource conservation, waste reduction, and indoor environmental quality.

4. EarthCheck: EarthCheck is a certification program that assesses the environmental and social sustainability performance of tourism operators and destinations. It provides businesses with feedback and guidance on ways to improve their sustainability practices. EarthCheck-certified businesses undergo regular audits to ensure ongoing compliance with internationally recognized standards in areas such as waste management, energy efficiency, and community engagement.

5. Travelife: Travelife is an internationally recognized certification program for tour operators, travel agencies, and accommodations. It assesses the sustainability performance of businesses based on a comprehensive set of criteria, covering environmental, social, and economic aspects. Travelife-certified businesses are committed to reducing their environmental footprint and contributing to the welfare of local communities through responsible practices and initiatives.

These are just a few examples of the many green tourism certification programs available worldwide. By seeking out and supporting businesses with these certifications, travelers can have confidence in the sustainability and responsible practices of the establishments they choose to visit. These certifications also incentivize businesses to continually improve and uphold environmentally and socially sustainable practices within the tourism industry.

Case Studies of Green Tourism Success

Several destinations and businesses have successfully implemented green tourism practices, showcasing the positive impact that sustainability can have on both the environment and local communities. Here are a few inspiring case studies:

1. Costa Rica: Costa Rica has long been regarded as a leader in green tourism. The country has made significant strides in the conservation of its rich biodiversity and natural resources. Costa Rica implemented a payment for environmental services program that incentivizes landowners to protect and preserve forests. It also promotes sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, and eco-tourism initiatives. This dedication to sustainability has positioned Costa Rica as a top destination for eco-conscious travelers, contributing to the country’s economic growth and environmental preservation.

2. Soneva Resorts, Maldives: Soneva Resorts is a group of luxury resorts in the Maldives that has pioneered sustainable tourism practices. They prioritize waste reduction and have implemented initiatives such as on-site composting, water filtration and bottling plants, and a carbon offset program. Soneva Resorts also actively engages with local communities, providing employment opportunities and supporting education and healthcare initiatives. These efforts have not only minimized the environmental impact of their operations but have also positively impacted the well-being of local communities.

3. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, South Africa: Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is an award-winning eco-lodge in South Africa. It focuses on conservation, sustainable land management, and community empowerment. The reserve offers guided tours that educate visitors about local flora and fauna, reforestation projects, and community development initiatives. Grootbos also supports local schools, provides training for community members, and contributes to the preservation of the unique Fynbos biome. Its commitment to environmental and social sustainability has made it a role model for responsible tourism in the region.

4. Glacier National Park, USA: Glacier National Park in Montana, USA, has implemented a range of sustainable practices to mitigate the effects of climate change and protect its pristine wilderness. The park encourages eco-friendly transportation by providing shuttle services and promoting cycling and hiking trails. It also focuses on waste reduction and recycling, energy efficiency, and the preservation of wildlife habitats. Glacier National Park serves as both a natural haven for visitors and an example of how protected areas can actively combat environmental challenges.

These case studies highlight the positive outcomes that can be achieved through the implementation of green tourism practices. From the conservation of natural resources to the support of local communities, these examples demonstrate the potential for sustainability to thrive within the tourism industry. By learning from these success stories, other destinations and businesses can be inspired to adopt and prioritize green tourism practices.

Challenges and Opportunities in Green Tourism

While green tourism brings numerous benefits, it also faces challenges that need to be addressed for the industry to continue its sustainable growth. At the same time, these challenges present opportunities for innovation and improvement. Here are some key challenges and opportunities in green tourism:

1. Awareness and Education: One of the main challenges in green tourism is the lack of awareness and understanding among both travelers and businesses. Many people are still unfamiliar with sustainable travel practices or the importance of choosing eco-friendly options. The opportunity lies in education and raising awareness about the benefits of green tourism. By providing information and promoting sustainable practices, the tourism industry can empower travelers to make more responsible choices.

2. Infrastructure and Technology: The availability of sustainable infrastructure and technologies is crucial for the growth of green tourism. However, implementing green infrastructure and adopting sustainable technologies can be challenging, particularly for smaller businesses and destinations. The opportunity lies in investing in renewable energy, efficient waste management systems, and eco-friendly transportation options. Collaboration between governments, businesses, and technology providers can help overcome these challenges and create more sustainable tourism infrastructures.

3. Balancing Conservation and Tourism: Sustainable tourism must strike a balance between meeting the needs of tourists and conserving natural and cultural assets. Managing visitor numbers, preserving delicate ecosystems, and mitigating the impact of tourism activities on local communities can be challenging. The opportunity lies in implementing responsible tourism practices, setting carrying capacity limits, and involving local communities in decision-making processes. By managing tourism sustainably, destinations can protect their unique assets while ensuring a positive and authentic travel experience.

4. Economic Viability: Green tourism initiatives can require upfront investments and may have higher operating costs compared to conventional practices. This can pose a challenge to businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises. However, green tourism also presents opportunities for new revenue streams and niche markets. Sustainable tourism practices can attract environmentally conscious travelers who are willing to pay a premium for a responsible travel experience. By focusing on innovative business models and promoting sustainability as a marketing asset, businesses can tap into the growing market of eco-conscious travelers.

5. Collaboration and Partnerships: Collaboration between various stakeholders, including governments, businesses, local communities, and non-governmental organizations, is essential for the success of green tourism. However, building strong partnerships can be challenging due to diverse interests, limited resources, and differing priorities. The opportunity lies in fostering collaboration and establishing platforms for dialogue and knowledge sharing. By working together, stakeholders can address common challenges, share best practices, and develop sustainable tourism strategies that benefit all parties involved.

By acknowledging and addressing these challenges, the tourism industry can embrace the opportunities presented by green tourism. Collaboration, innovation, education, and responsible practices are key to overcoming hurdles and creating a sustainable future for the industry.

Green tourism offers a transformative approach to travel, emphasizing sustainability, conservation, and responsible practices. It has the power to not only protect the environment and preserve cultural heritage but also bring economic benefits to local communities. By adopting green tourism practices, travelers can contribute to the well-being of the planet and make a positive impact on the destinations they visit.

Throughout this article, we have explored the definition of green tourism and its core principles. We have delved into the benefits of green tourism, including environmental conservation, socio-cultural respect, and economic viability. We have also examined various green tourism practices, such as sustainable transportation, eco-friendly accommodations, and responsible wildlife experiences.

Moreover, we have highlighted the importance of green tourism certification programs, which help travelers identify businesses committed to sustainable practices. We have provided case studies showcasing successful implementation of green tourism initiatives, as well as discussed the challenges and opportunities faced by the industry.

As we conclude, it is clear that green tourism is more than a trend; it is a necessary shift towards a more sustainable and responsible travel industry. The power to make a difference lies in the hands of individual travelers, businesses, and governments. By making conscious choices, supporting sustainable initiatives, and advocating for change, we can ensure the preservation of our planet’s natural and cultural treasures for future generations.

So, let us embark on our travel journeys with the principles of green tourism in mind. Let us strive to minimize our environmental footprint, respect local cultures, and support the well-being of host communities. Together, we can create a world where travel not only enriches our lives but also protects the world we call home.

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How to Travel More Sustainably

Don’t skimp on doing your own research, and be aware that ‘green’ certificates aren’t always all they’re cracked up to be.

Credit... Gabriel Alcala

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By Paige McClanahan

• April 22, 2021

So you’re vaccinated and eager to — finally — plan a real summer vacation after a rough year, but you don’t want to add to the problems you might have read about: overcrowding, climate change, unfair working conditions in the tourism industry. What’s a thoughtful traveler to do?

For those who want to travel responsibly, it comes down to this: You, the traveler, have to do your homework.

Looking for a hotel or tour operator that has earned a sustainability label might seem like a good place to start, but the reality isn’t so simple. There are around 180 certification labels floating around in the tourism industry, each purporting to certify the green credentials of a hotel, restaurant, tour operator or even a destination. And while some of those labels are well enforced, others might better be described as greenwashing — when a company portrays itself as an environmental steward, but its actions don’t match the hype.

“The range is enormous — from rigorous, impartial and excellent to, frankly, poor,” said Randy Durband, the chief executive of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council , a nonprofit organization that establishes and manages global standards for sustainable travel. “We strongly believe in the value of third-party certification, when it’s done right,” Mr. Durband added. “But the way the word ‘certification’ is used in tourism is out of control.”

Still, while the labels might be all over the map, many businesses are waking up to the importance of improving their environmental and social performance, said Andrea Nicholas, the chief executive of Green Tourism , an Edinburgh-based certification body with more than 2,500 members. The pandemic has brought the concept of sustainable tourism forward by five to 10 years, she said. Before, she added, many businesses saw sustainability as an “add-on.”

“What we’re seeing now, from the interest we’re getting, is that it’s a must-have,” she said.

There are some promising signs that consumers, too, are waking up to the consequences of their vacations. More than two-thirds of respondents to a recent seven-country global survey for American Express Travel said that they “are trying to be more aware of sustainability-friendly travel brands to support.” Another poll, this one for the digital travel company Booking.com, found that 69 percent of the more than 20,000 respondents “expect the travel industry to offer more sustainable travel options.”

What does “sustainable travel” mean, anyway?

Given the diversity of destinations and contexts that a traveler might encounter, there’s no universal answer to what sustainable travel means. A hotel’s water efficiency is a lot more important along Spain’s dry Mediterranean coastline than in rain-soaked western Scotland, for instance.

But experts say that the concept is about a lot more than just reusing the towels in your hotel room or buying a carbon offset for your flight, although those are good places to start.

Sustainability is also about the wages and working conditions of the people who are waiting tables on your cruise ship or schlepping your bag up a trail; it’s about the additional pressure you might be putting on an already-crowded city , heritage site or natural area ; it’s about whether your hotel buys its produce from a farm down the road or from a supplier on the other side of the world, or whether the money you spend goes into the community you’re visiting — or into the distant account of a multinational.

“What you need to do is marry the corporate social responsibility with an informed tourist consumer who knows what they’re asking for, and then demands it,” said Freya Higgins-Desbiolles, an adjunct senior lecturer in tourism at the University of South Australia. She listed some questions that travelers should ask themselves before they take their next trip: How can I travel in an off-peak time? How can I go to places that aren’t overcrowded? How can I ensure that the money I spend ends up in the local economy?

Johannah Christensen, a nonprofit executive and longtime concerned traveler, says that she always looks for some sort of reliable certification when she books a block of hotel rooms for an annual professional event. The Green Key label — a certification program that is headquartered in Copenhagen, where Ms. Christensen lives — is one that she has used in the past, but she is always sure to do some digging on her own. (This 2016 guide to some of the major tourism certifications can be a good starting point.)

“You can look for those green check marks, but understand what’s implied in them,” she said. “What does the hotel actually have to do to earn it? Don’t be afraid to ask questions.”

How to do your homework

Asking questions — both while you’re traveling and, more important, before you book — is one of the most powerful things that travelers can do, said Gregory Miller, the executive director of the Washington, D.C.-based Center for Responsible Travel . He recommends people start by looking closely at the websites of the tour operators, hotels and destinations that they’re considering. If they don’t find any language about sustainability, “that should be a flag,” he said.

Beyond that, he suggests that travelers check his organization’s list of responsible travel tips , which include recommendations like hiring local guides, asking permission before taking photos of people, staying on designated trails in natural areas and thinking twice about handing out money to children. While they’re traveling, Dr. Miller said, people shouldn’t be afraid to ask difficult questions of their service providers, or to call out waste or abuse when they see it — whether directly to a manager or in an online review.

“Certification can be a tool in the toolbox, but don’t be limited by that,” Dr. Miller said. “It’s about choices, and travelers do have the choice.”

Susanne Etti, the environmental impact specialist at Intrepid Travel , a global tour operator based in Australia, had other tips for travelers. She said they could start by checking the list of the more than 230 travel organizations that have joined the Tourism Declares initiative, members of which have pledged to publish a climate action plan and cut their carbon emissions.

Another reliable indicator, she said, is whether a company has been classified as a “B Corporation” — a rigorous sustainability standard that’s not limited to the tourism industry. Her company, Intrepid, has achieved the distinction, as have the apparel company Patagonia and ice cream maker Ben & Jerry’s. The B Corporation website lists some three dozen companies in the “travel and leisure” sector — from a paddle sports company in Hawaii to an Ecuadorean tour bus operator. A number of other tourism businesses are listed under “hospitality,” including Taos Ski Valley and Orlando-based Legacy Vacation Resorts.

Dr. Etti also shared some of the advice that she follows in her own travels. “When you fly, make it count,” she said, adding that, before the pandemic, when she would travel from her current home in Australia to her native Germany, she would do the long-haul flight, but then choose trains or other less-polluting ways to get around Europe, even when cheap short-haul flights were readily available.

Dr. Etti also recommended that travelers learn to slow down. “Stay in one location longer,” she said, “to really understand how life works in that community.”

Rethinking what travel means

Many travelers also need a shift in mind-set, said Dominique Callimanopulos, the head of Elevate Destinations , an international tour operator based in Massachusetts that has won a number of awards for its commitment to sustainability. People should learn to see their travels as an opportunity for exchange with a host community rather than a simple consumer transaction. Ms. Callimanopulos said that even her sustainability-inclined clientele rarely do their homework: She has received more questions about the availability of hair dryers than about the company’s environmental or social practices.

“People can make a shift from thinking just about what their personal experience is going to be to looking at the impact of their experience on the ground, on the destination and on the community,” she said.

Lindblad Expeditions , which operates adventure cruises in destinations like Alaska, the Antarctic and the South Pacific, has also won awards for its approach to sustainability and for giving back to the communities it visits. Sven-Olof Lindblad, the company’s chief executive, said that he continues to see people spending up to $40,000 on an Antarctic cruise without doing any research on the practices of the company offering the trip.

“You wouldn’t just buy a car from an ad without understanding what it was and how it compared,” he said. “I’m absolutely amazed at how little diligence people sometimes do in relationship to travel.”

Mr. Lindblad recommended that, in addition to doing their own research, travelers could speak to a travel adviser or travel agent who can help them dig for answers that might not be readily available on a company’s website.

“When people choose to travel, they should really understand what they’re getting into,” he said, “because there’s a lot of smoke and mirrors in this business.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places list for 2021 .

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Sustainable Tourism Practices and Destinations: Examples from Around the World

Sustainable Tourism Practices: Sustainable tourism is a growing trend in the travel industry that focuses on minimizing the environmental and social impact of tourism while providing economic benefits to local communities. From eco-friendly accommodations to responsible travel practices, there are many ways that tourism can be made more sustainable. Around the world, destinations and businesses are implementing sustainable tourismthat support conservation, reduce carbon emissions, and promote local cultural heritage. These efforts not only benefit the planet, but also provide a unique and authentic travel experience for visitors. In this context, we will explore some of the sustainable tourism and destinations from around the world that are leading the way in promoting responsible and ethical tourism.

Here are 40 examples of sustainable tourism and destinations from around the world:

• The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador – A protected wildlife sanctuary that limits visitor numbers to prevent environmental damage and promote sustainable tourism.
• Costa Rica – A country that has made a strong commitment to sustainable tourism, with a focus on eco-tourism, community-based tourism, and conservation efforts.
• Bhutan – A country that measures its economic success through a Gross National Happiness index, which includes the protection of the environment and cultural heritage.
• Norway – A country that is known for its sustainable tourism, including eco-friendly transportation, green energy, and sustainable tourism certification programs.
• The Netherlands – A country that is promoting sustainable tourism through initiatives such as green hotels, bike-friendly cities, and nature conservation programs.
• New Zealand – A country that has a strong focus on sustainable tourism, including eco-tourism, conservation efforts, and responsible travel practices.
• The Amazon Rainforest, Brazil – A region that has adopted sustainable tourism to promote conservation and support local communities.
• The Great Barrier Reef, Australia – A protected marine park that promotes sustainable tourism, such as reducing carbon emissions and protecting the natural environment.
• Kenya – A country that has implemented sustainable tourism, including wildlife conservation, community-based tourism, and eco-friendly lodges.
• Iceland – A country that is promoting sustainable tourism through eco-friendly transportation, renewable energy, and eco-certification programs.
• South Africa – A country that is known for its conservation efforts, including wildlife protection and community-based tourism.
• The Azores, Portugal – A group of islands that is promoting sustainable tourism through eco-tourism, whale watching, and nature conservation programs.
• The Serengeti, Tanzania – A protected wildlife sanctuary that promotes responsible tourism practices, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
• The Cook Islands, Pacific Ocean – A group of islands that is committed to sustainable tourism, including protecting the environment and supporting local communities.
• Thailand – A country that has implemented sustainable practices, including community-based tourism, wildlife conservation, and responsible travel.
• The Faroe Islands, Denmark – A group of islands that is promoting sustainable tourism through eco-friendly transportation, sustainable seafood, and nature conservation programs.
• The Lake District, England – A protected national park that promotes sustainable tourism, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
• The Annapurna Region, Nepal – A region that is promoting sustainable tourism through community-based tourism, conservation efforts, and responsible trekking practices.
• The Maasai Mara, Kenya – A protected wildlife reserve that promotes sustainable practices, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
• The Blue Mountains, Australia – A protected national park that promotes sustainable tourism practices, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
• Guna Yala, Panama – A protected indigenous territory that promotes sustainable tourism, such as supporting traditional livelihoods and preserving cultural heritage.
• The Isle of Eigg, Scotland – An island that is promoting sustainable tourism through renewable energy, eco-friendly accommodations, and community-based tourism initiatives.
• The San Blas Islands, Panama – A group of islands that is promoting sustainable tourism through eco-tourism, community-based tourism, and responsible travel practices.
• The Burren, Ireland – A protected national park that promotes sustainable practices, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
• The Bay of Fundy, Canada – A protected marine park that promotes sustainable tourism practices, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
• The Lofoten Islands, Norway – An archipelago that is promoting sustainable tourism through eco-friendly transportation, responsible fishing, and community-based tourism initiatives.
• The Tongariro National Park, New Zealand – A protected national park that promotes sustainable tourism, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
• The Danube Delta, Romania – A protected wetland that promotes sustainable tourism practices, such as eco-tourism and responsible travel practices.
• The Douro Valley, Portugal – A region that is promoting sustainable tourism through eco-tourism, responsible wine tourism, and community-based tourism initiatives.
• The Lake Titicaca, Peru/Bolivia – A protected lake that promotes sustainable tourism, such as preserving cultural heritage and supporting traditional livelihoods.
• The Everglades, United States – A protected wetland that promotes sustainable tourism, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
• The Cinque Terre, Italy – A protected coastal area that promotes sustainable tourism practices, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
• The Mekong Delta, Vietnam – A region that is promoting sustainable tourism through eco-tourism, responsible travel practices, and community-based tourism initiatives.
• The Lake District, Chile – A protected national park that promotes sustainable tourism practices, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
• The Sinharaja Forest Reserve , Sri Lanka – A protected rainforest that promotes sustainable tourism, such as eco-tourism and responsible travel practices.
• The Jasper National Park, Canada – A protected national park that promotes sustainable tourism practices, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
• The Arctic, various countries – A region that is promoting sustainable tourism through eco-tourism, responsible travel practices, and nature conservation programs.
• The Torres del Paine National Park, Chile – A protected national park that promotes sustainable tourism, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
• The Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal – A protected national park that promotes sustainable tourism practices, such as eco-tourism and responsible trekking practices.
• The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Costa Rica – A protected cloud forest that promotes sustainable tourism practices, such as eco-tourism and nature conservation programs.

These are just a few more examples of the many destinations and businesses around the world that are adopting sustainable tourism. With a growing focus on responsible and ethical tourism, sustainable tourism is becoming an increasingly important industry worldwide.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Sustainable Tourism Practices

What is sustainable tourism?

Sustainable tourism is a form of tourism that focuses on minimizing the environmental and social impact of travel while providing economic benefits to local communities.

What are some sustainable tourism practices?

Some sustainable tourism practices include supporting conservation efforts, reducing carbon emissions, promoting local cultural heritage, and supporting local communities through community-based tourism initiatives.

Why is sustainable tourism important?

Sustainable tourism is important because it helps to preserve natural and cultural resources, provides economic benefits to local communities, and promotes responsible and ethical travel practices.

How can travelers practice sustainable tourism?

Travelers can practice sustainable tourism by supporting eco-friendly accommodations, engaging in responsible travel practices, supporting local communities, and minimizing their carbon footprint.

What are some examples of sustainable tourism destinations?

Some examples of sustainable tourism destinations include national parks, protected areas, eco-tourism lodges, and community-based tourism initiatives.

How can tourism businesses implement sustainable tourism practices?

Tourism businesses can implement sustainable practices by reducing their carbon emissions, supporting local communities, promoting conservation efforts, and adopting eco-friendly practices.

What is community-based tourism?

Community-based tourism is a form of tourism that involves local communities in the tourism industry, providing economic benefits while preserving local culture and traditions.

What is responsible tourism?

Responsible tourism is a form of tourism that focuses on minimizing the environmental and social impact of travel while providing economic benefits to local communities and promoting cultural awareness.

What is the difference between sustainable tourism and ecotourism?

Sustainable tourism is a broader concept that encompasses all forms of tourism that are socially, economically, and environmentally responsible, while ecotourism is a specific form of tourism that focuses on nature-based experiences that support conservation efforts.

How does sustainable tourism benefit local communities?

Sustainable tourism benefits local communities by providing economic benefits through job creation and supporting local businesses, while also preserving cultural heritage and traditions.

How can tourists ensure they are practicing sustainable tourism?

Tourists can ensure they are practicing sustainable tourism by choosing eco-friendly accommodations, engaging in responsible travel practices, supporting local communities, and minimizing their carbon footprint.

What role do governments play in promoting sustainable tourism?

Governments play an important role in promoting sustainable tourism by establishing policies and regulations that support conservation efforts, promoting sustainable practices, and providing funding for sustainable tourism initiatives.

What are some challenges to implementing sustainable tourism practices?

Some challenges to implementing sustainable tourism practices include the high cost of implementing eco-friendly practices, lack of awareness among tourists, and limited resources in developing countries.

What is the role of tourism businesses in promoting sustainable tourism?

Tourism businesses play a critical role in promoting sustainable tourism by adopting eco-friendly practices, supporting conservation efforts, and engaging with local communities to ensure their economic benefits are sustainable.

What is the impact of sustainable tourism on the environment?

Sustainable tourism aims to minimize the impact of tourism on the environment by reducing carbon emissions, supporting conservation efforts, and promoting eco-friendly practices. This can have a positive impact on the environment by preserving natural resources and reducing pollution.

What is the role of tourists in promoting sustainable tourism?

Tourists have a crucial role to play in promoting sustainable tourism by supporting eco-friendly accommodations, engaging in responsible travel practices, supporting local communities, and minimizing their carbon footprint.

What is the role of local communities in sustainable tourism?

Local communities play a vital role in sustainable tourism by providing unique cultural experiences, supporting conservation efforts, and benefitting from the economic opportunities that tourism can bring. Sustainable tourism initiatives often involve working with local communities to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are met.

How can sustainable tourism help preserve cultural heritage?

Sustainable tourism can help preserve cultural heritage by supporting local cultural practices and traditions, promoting cultural awareness, and providing economic benefits to local communities. In doing so, it helps to maintain and celebrate cultural diversity and promote the value of cultural heritage.

What is the impact of sustainable tourism on the economy?

Sustainable tourism can have a positive impact on the economy by providing job opportunities, supporting local businesses, and promoting economic growth in tourism-dependent communities. It can also encourage investment in infrastructure and services, leading to long-term economic benefits.

What is the role of education in promoting sustainable tourism?

Education plays a critical role in promoting sustainable tourism by raising awareness among tourists, tourism businesses, and local communities. It can help to promote best practices, encourage responsible travel behavior, and foster a culture of sustainability.

How can technology be used to promote sustainable tourism?

Technology can be used to promote sustainable tourism by supporting digital platforms that provide information and resources for sustainable travel, reducing the need for paper-based materials and promoting more efficient and eco-friendly travel methods.

What is the role of sustainable tourism in climate change mitigation?

Sustainable tourism can contribute to climate change mitigation by promoting low-carbon travel options, reducing carbon emissions, and supporting conservation efforts that help to mitigate the impact of climate change on natural resources.

How can sustainable tourism be measured?

Sustainable tourism can be measured using a range of indicators, such as carbon emissions, waste reduction, water conservation, and economic impact. There are also several certification programs and sustainability standards that can be used to assess the sustainability of tourism businesses and destinations.

How can travelers support sustainable tourism initiatives?

Travelers can support sustainable tourism initiatives by choosing eco-friendly accommodations, engaging in responsible travel practices, supporting local communities, and minimizing their carbon footprint. They can also seek out sustainable tourism certification programs and support businesses that are committed to sustainable tourism practices.

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Green Global Travel

World's largest independently owned Ecotourism / Green Travel / Sustainable Travel / Animal & Wildlife Conservation site. We share transformative Responsible Travel, Sustainable Living & Going Green Tips that make a positive impact.

40 Green Travel Tips (The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Travel)

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial policies .

[Updated 12/16/2019]   If you took a poll asking people whether they’d prefer to be responsible or irresponsible travelers, most would likely choose the former over the latter.

But what does “Green Travel”   even mean? How do you do it? Do you have to sleep in a tent and cook on a solar-powered camp stove in order to be considered eco-friendly?

And how do you recognize it when a company that offers “Green Travel” experiences is, in fact, just greenwashing? 

The truth is that sustainable travel (a.k.a. ecotourism) is all about making simple choices in order to lessen your negative impact on a given destination.

Individually, each one of these choices makes only a small difference in the big picture. But collectively, becoming more conscious about these little things can have a huge cumulative impact.

So here’s an in-depth look at what Green Travel is, why it matters, and an extensive array of easy tips designed to help you travel more responsibly and sustainably.

READ MORE: What Is Ecotourism? (History & Principles of Responsible Travel)

WHAT IS GREEN TRAVEL?

When we started Green Global Travel back in 2010, the field of ecotourism was largely unknown to average travelers. It had not yet become the buzzword it is today, and was primarily a term used by insiders in the fields of responsible travel and conservation.

But green energy – renewable energy harnessed from sustainable natural sources such as sun, wind, tides, and geothermal heat– was gaining steam as a movement thanks to thought leaders such as Al Gore . Green living– the lifestyle that aspires to conserve and protect the Earth’s natural resources, habitats, and biodiversity– was beginning to grow in popularity.

“Green” became synonymous with “eco-friendly” or “environmentally conscious.” So green travel came into vogue as a broad term used to encompass ecotourism and responsible travel practices, which generally strive to benefit the environment and the social and economic well-being of the local people.

When done well, green travel is the antithesis of mass tourism. It’s all about trying to make smarter choices that help to mitigate the negative impacts we create when we travel.

We cannot control the carbon emissions of the planes we fly in, the chemicals used by the hotels in which we stay, or the plastics used in the souvenirs sold in the destinations we visit. But we can choose more eco-friendly transportation, hotels, tour operators, and shopping tactics that do less damage to the environment, and create more benefits for local people.

According to a recent TripAdvisor survey, nearly two-thirds of all travelers are increasingly inclined to make more environmentally sound choices and travel green. The problem is, how do we tell the difference between green travel and greenwashing?

READ MORE: How Mass Tourism is Destroying Destinations Travelers Love

GREEN TRAVEL VS. GREENWASHING

A play on the term “whitewashing,” greenwashing is defined as “disinformation disseminated by an organization so as to present an environmentally responsible public image.” In other words, greenwashing is about using marketing strategies in an effort to deceive customers into believing that a company’s products, activities, or policies are genuinely eco-friendly when they really aren’t.

As the green movement gradually began to enter the mainstream, countless companies proved willing to greenwash if it brought them the green they wanted most: Money. Adjectives such as “all natural,” “organic,” and “post-consumer recycled content” were rendered meaningless, as claims were rarely substantiated or verified by impartial third parties.

The travel industry was no different. Tour operators who promoted themselves as being eco-friendly still offered irresponsible activities such as walking with lions tours, elephant rides, and visits to Thailand’s Tiger Temple. So how are travelers to know whether a company is truly green, or just greenwashing?

• Truly responsible travel businesses will put the needs of the local people and environment before the needs of travelers, always striving to make a positive impact.

• If there is a voluntourism element involved, truly responsible travel businesses will work directly with local NGOs to ensure the program meets the needs of the community and are not just “feel good” experiences for travelers. Again, the primary goal should be long-term positive impact.

• Truly responsible travel businesses may be affiliated with international organizations such as World Wildlife Fund, the  Nature Conservancy , Rainforest Alliance, etc. They may also have certification from organizations such as the Global Sustainable Tourism Council or the Center for Responsible Travel, which prove that they have met certain recognized standards for sustainability.

• Truly responsible travel businesses pride themselves on openness and transparency. Most will have details on their sustainability and corporate social responsibility initiatives clearly placed on their website. And any “green” company should be more than happy to answer any questions you may have about these initiatives.

READ MORE: Why Responsible Travel Matters (and Why It Doesn’t)

40 GREEN TRAVEL TIPS

What we’ve assembled below are 40 tips that EVERY traveler can use to make their adventures more friendly to the environment and the people and animals who inhabit it.

Most of them are ridiculously simple, such as using a refillable water bottle, putting a “Do Not Disturb” sign on your hotel room door, and buying locally made products rather than imports.

But if every one of our 90,000+ unique monthly visitors gradually began incorporating these Green Travel tips into their trips , our collective impact could be amazing!

GREEN TRANSPORTATION TIPS

1.  Try to book non-stop flights whenever you can: It’s the takeoffs and landings that create most of an airplane’s carbon emissions.

2. If you’re traveling with family or friends and the destination is within driving distance, perhaps you should consider taking a road trip . But if you’re traveling by yourself, it’s actually much more eco-friendly to fly!

3. If you do fly, consider doing so with one of the 30+ IATA (International Air Transport Association) member airlines who offer carbon offset programs to neutralize the aircraft’s carbon emissions by investing in carbon reduction projects.

4. If you decide to drive to your destination and your car isn’t eco-friendly, consider renting a hybrid or electric vehicle, which use less fuel and produce less carbon emissions than gas-guzzlers.

5. If you have the time, traveling via bus, train, or ship generally has less negative environmental impact than traveling by plane.

READ MORE: List of National Parks By State (Epic Guide to “America’s Best Idea”)

  TIPS FOR CHOOSING GREEN HOTELS

6. When traveling in the U.S., check to see if the hotel has LEED Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.  The program judges hotels on sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, material selection, indoor environmental quality, and innovation in design.

7.  When traveling overseas, look for seals of approval from other certification programs, such as EarthCheck (Australia), Green Globe , Rainforest Alliance (Latin America, Caribbean), and Green Tourism Business Scheme (UK). Some countries, including Costa Rica, have their own certification programs to rate sustainability initiatives.

8. Ask if the hotel has a recycling program. If not, encourage them to start one when you leave suggestions on comments cards at check-out.

9. Ask questions about the hotel’s sustainability initiatives, such as solar power, wind turbines, rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient lighting, and low-flow toilets.

10. Find out what percentage of the hotel’s resources are local. Do they hire mostly local staff? Do they get most of their foods locally, or even grow them on the property? Do they use locally sourced materials in the décor? Companies that utilize indigenous resources tend to be more sustainable, as they’re investing in the local economy.

READ MORE: What is an Eco Lodge? (The Top 10 Eco Lodges in the World)

  WATER-SAVING TRAVEL TIPS

11. Take a BPA-free water bottle you can refill over and over again. Many international airports have free water dispensers, which saves you money and wasting plastic bottles.

12. Take showers, not baths. Showers use just 10-25 gallons of water, while baths use up to 70 gallons. Feeling frisky? Shower with a friend and save even more water!

13. Try to take shorter showers, turning the water off while you lather up, shampoo, shave, and/or brush your teeth.

14. Never use the hotel laundry, as they typically wash every guest’s clothes separately (even when there are only a few items). We usually wash our clothes as we shower, then hang them up overnight so they’re dry the next day.

15. Hang up your towels after each use, which is the universal sign that you’d like to use them again. You don’t wash your towels every day at home, so why do it when you travel?

READ MORE: How To Save Water (15 Conservation Tips)

ENERGY-SAVING TRAVEL TIPS

16. When you leave your room, always turn off all lights, heat/AC, and television. Closing the curtains and blinds can help keep out the heat of the sun in summer .

17. Leave the “Do Not Disturb” sign on the door of your room for the duration of your stay. This cuts down on chemical cleansing agents, electricity used in vacuuming, and the washing of bed linens.

18. Walk, bike, or use public transportation to get around whenever possible, which cuts down on gas usage and saves you money.

19. Return maps, brochures, and other tourist info once you’re finished with them so that they may be reused by future travelers.

20. Take any leftover soap, shampoo, or toothpaste with you. Unused portions are often thrown away, and you can reuse the plastic bottles in the future.

READ MORE:   Ted Turner on Saving the World With Alternative Energy

  GREEN HIKING TIPS  

21. Marked hiking trails are there for a reason. Stick to the path to avoid harming native flora and avoid any creepy-crawlies that may be lurking in the underbrush.

22. Bring along a small bag and pick up any trash you spot along your hike. Have a friendly competition to see who can clean up the most unsightly waste!

23. Never feed or touch wildlife, for any reason. Feeding animals makes them habituated to and reliant on humans, and often leads to attacks. If you get bit, the animal will most likely be killed.

24. Research weather conditions and terrain before you go hiking. You don’t want to be that guy (or girl) who got lost and required a ranger rescue, which drains public resources.

25. Keep a respectful distance from wildlife. Yes, we understand that you want to Instagram your encounter with a grizzly bear. But if you’re close enough to attract an animal’s attention, you’re too damn close!

READ MORE: 10 Best Hikes in the World (World Travel Bucket List)

  GREEN SHOPPING TIPS

26. Buy locally made (preferably handmade) products, rather than those that have been imported. Items that are flown or shipped in have a much larger carbon footprint, and who wants a cheap, cookie-cutter souvenir made on an Asian assembly line?

27. Don’t buy anything made from endangered plants/animals, unsustainable hardwoods, or ancient artifacts. Not only is it wrong, but you probably won’t be able to get them back through customs.

28. Take your own reusable bag when you go shopping. Plastic bags are SO 20 th century…

29 . Seek out indigenous artisans when you can. When you buy directly from an artist, you’re not only helping them feed their family, but in many cases you’re helping to preserve their culture. We’ve also heard some pretty amazing stories by chatting these artisans up.

30. Do not buy souvenir photos from anyone exploiting wildlife, such as the famous performing elephants of Thailand .

READ MORE: 50 Fascinating Facts About Elephants (For World Elephant Day)

ECO-FRIENDLY TOUR TIPS

31. Travel with small group tour operators, which tend to have less of an environmental impact. Membership in an organization like the Global Sustainable Tourism Council  is a good sign that the tour operator tries to conduct itself in a responsible, sustainable manner.

32. When snorkeling or Scuba diving , don’t touch/step on the coral or stir up sediment, as it can damage the reef’s fragile ecosystem.

33. Ask your snorkel or scuba diving tour operators if they chum the water to attract marine life. Doing so can change the behavior of marine species, or possibly make them sick.

34. Find out how the tour operator gives back to the local community. Do they lease the land from locals? Do they hire local guides? Do they take a leading role in preserving the area’s natural resources? Community-based tourism   is the most sustainable.

35. Don’t take any tour that promises hands-on encounters with wild animals, such as riding elephants or walking with lions . If you do, you’re supporting an industry that illegally captures, transports, and abuses millions of animals each year.

  READ MORE: 7 Harmful Traditional Practices that Tourists Should Never Support

  TIPS FOR BEING A GREEN TRAVELER

36. Honor local customs. Do a little research before you travel to learn about the destination’s local cultural traditions, so that you can speak and behave appropriately.

37. Ask for permission before taking a photo of someone. In some cultures, taking a person’s picture is like stealing their soul. and in general it’s just common courtesy.

38. Learn the language, or at least a few important words. You don’t have to do a full Rosetta Stone course. But you’d be amazed by how knowing simple phrases such as “Thank you,” “My name is,” and “Please help me” will impact the way locals will treat you.

39. Give back. Whether you sign up for a full-on voluntourism vacation or work with a non-profit like Pack For A Purpose to provide much-needed supplies to local schools, it doesn’t take a lot of extra effort to make a huge difference in the local community when you travel.

40. Immerse yourself in the local culture. Be a participant, not just an observer. Half the fun of traveling is getting an opportunity to step outside your comfort zone and try different foods, listen to different music, and explore different cultures. So, seriously, don’t be that guy who goes to India and insists on ordering a hamburger!   – Bret Love; photos by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett

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About the Author

Green Global Travel is the world's #1 independently owned ecotourism website encouraging others to embrace sustainable travel, wildlife conservation, cultural preservation, and going green tips for more sustainable living.

We've been spotlighted in major media outlets such as the BBC, Chicago Tribune, Forbes, The Guardian, Lonely Planet, National Geographic, Travel Channel, Washington Post and others.

Owned by Bret Love (a veteran journalist/photographer) and Mary Gabbett (business manager/videographer), USA Today named us one of the world's Top 5 Travel Blogging Couples. We were also featured in the 2017 National Geographic book, Ultimate Journeys for Two, for which we contributed a chapter on our adventures in Rwanda. Other awards we've won include Best Feature from both the Caribbean Tourism Organization and the Magazine Association of the Southeast.

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12 sustainable destinations we'd love to visit in 2023

By Juliet Kinsman

As sustainability editor, I'm always up for championing the destinations that are showing a whole lot of love for the wellbeing of the world. Whether powering their nations on renewables, or addressing specific environmental or community issues, these nations are making the planet a better place while inviting us to explore them in an eco-friendly way, with the widest-flung of open arms.

Weighing up what makes an entire country sustainable is a daunting task, and these countries are in our sights for lots of different reasons. Yes, hopping on long-haul flights might not feel like a fast-track to tackling the climate emergency, but if you are planning on travelling anyway, then why not become a more conscious traveller? Here, we steer you to hosts with a conscience, too.

The Scottish wilderness

We’re wild about their rewilding

Scotland was already in our heads and hearts for being the country that was first to sign up to Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency – an initiative launched in 2020 to encourage the tourism sector to reduce carbon emissions. With COP26 having seen Glasgow host the most significant changemakers and conversations around the climate emergency, we are even prouder of this nation for leading by example. As biologist and naturalist Edward O Wilson outlines in his book, Half-Earth , we must strive to conserve half the Earth’s land and sea if we’re to get things back on track; there’s no doubt the more of our planet that we can rewild the better. Wilderness Scotland has been showcasing sustainable tourism for two decades, and the European Nature Trust has our attention for their conservation of tens of thousands of acres of the Scottish Highlands at Alladale Wilderness Reserve . To find the eco-friendliest accommodation providers, Scotland's Green Tourism certification scheme badges the best options.

Bhutan’s green valleys

Light-touch, high-value tourism

If being a more sustainable traveller is to think more deeply about why we travel, as well as ensuring we're taking a trip somewhere that will do more good than harm, the last remaining Buddhist kingdom is as compelling a destination as can be. A model of sensitive tourism in the Himalayas, Bhutan is the world’s only carbon-negative country and offers a less-is-more approach to hosting visitors by carefully regulating tourism and including the protection of its forests in its constitution. Since the country has a minimum daily package rate, there is a sensible targeted approach to inbound tourism, meaning less visitors, with a higher spend, so that foreign guests are welcomed into this compassionate, inclusive community, with few barriers between them and the Bhutanese. Amid emerald-green forests and glacial valleys, there's no straying from the country’s authentic, epoch-old way of living, and you have the comfort of knowing your environmental impact is minimal. Sustainable high-end hotels include Gangtey Lodge, Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary, Six Senses , with a Habitas outpost opening here soon. MyBhutan from His Royal Highness Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck and Matthew DeSantis has introduced long-term farmhouse rentals for longer durations to allow a select group of guests to explore deeper into Bhutan. One of the 23 founding signatories of the Future of Tourism , Bhutan is also one of the best-vaccinated societies in the world.

The nourishing mountains of Slovenia

Peaks to climb and plates piled high with organic excellence

This compact Central European country with its fairytale mountain scenes of Baroque-spired churches and wooden hayracks has long since punched above its size as a hero of green tourism. More than a 10th of the rolling countryside is formally protected, spanning Alpine peaks, ancient forests, Karst plateau, the Pannonian plains' vineyards and thermal waters down to the dinky 29-mile stretch of Adriatic coast betwixt Croatia and Italy . We love the tourist board's Green Scheme of Slovenian Tourism , which navigates you to the greenest hosts and camping sites. But let’s be honest – it’s the chic and delicious eats that really woo us. And there's nowhere better to follow a climavore diet: rather than cutting out all animal products to minimise the environmental impacts as vegans might, these are more flexible climate-conscious eaters who savour nature-sensitive suppliers and dishes with low food miles. 

Slovenians consistently work wonders with local and seasonal ingredients, as commended in a recent wave of Michelin plaudits such as its inclusion of Vila Planinka, a seductive boutique bolthole little more than half an hour’s drive north of Ljubljana. In the capital itself, Zlata Ladjica is a restored 400-year-old property riverside in the cobbled centre known also for its organic restaurant . For time away that leaves an especially good taste in the mouth, we're confidently nudging you towards Vipava Valley, which is a world-class winner at showcasing small wine producers and biodynamic deliciousness. Be sure to visit Cejkotova Domacija, a tiny homestead in Goče, the oldest village in Slovenia , a unique time capsule of eras past. Big up Lake Bohinj for getting us excited about its new boutique cuties Sunrose7 and the new-look Alpina Bohinj hotels. And why fly, when you can get there or back by train on an overland adventure via Austria , Germany and France .

Voluntourism in Madagascar

Transformational travel adventures tackling the climate emergency

Showing support for a nation in need of tourism revenue and booking a nature-saving holiday is what sustainability travel is all about. With these criteria in mind, Madagascar qualifies to the max. Unexplored primaeval rainforests await on this giant African island which is host to a compelling cast of wildlife characters that can’t be witnessed elsewhere. It may have been made famous recently by the animated movie of the same name, but this Indian Ocean island country has sadly gained news coverage most recently due to the fact it has been hit by the world’s first climate-induced famine in the south. SEED Madagascar is an NGO which has been working hard to raise awareness and sustainable tourism company Earth-Changers.com has been organising volunteerism trips. Near SEED's conservation base is Manafiafy Beach and Rainforest Lodge, while Eden Lodge, half an hour from Nosy Be island, is the first Green Globe in Mada and the Tamboho Boutik Hotel is the first property to get a Green Key seal of approval.

Costa Rica’s wildlife-rich reserves

An eclectic UNESCO-protected mega-ecosystem

Boosting biodiversity is regularly cited as one of the biggest priorities in restoring equilibrium for our land, sea and atmosphere. Home to almost six per cent of the world’s species, Costa Rica is a world-leading cultivator of this essential complexity of life on Earth and one of the first countries to promote responsible ecotourism. Go for virgin rainforest and first-class accommodation from Monteverde Cloud Forest to the Osa Peninsula. Here, between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, more than a quarter of this Central American nation is set aside as protected parks and reserves, which are a precious safeguard against deforestation and logging and help guarantee that visitors encounter a dazzling cast of wildlife at every turn. Three of the country’s national conservation areas and parks are UNESCO -protected, and much of its electricity is renewably sourced. Lapa Ríos was the original eco-lodge, and its ocean-view cabins in a 1,000-acre private nature reserve are as appealing for 2022 as ever.

Fresh air in Finland

Fantasy forest adventures

You’d do well to get a lungful of ‘living’ in a nation where 80 per cent of the terrain is forested. The crisis from air pollution globally came to the fore in 2021 when the World Health Organisation declared it one of the biggest environmental threats to human health, alongside the climate emergency. Meanwhile, Finland's air and water is proclaimed the clearest. Thank you to the tourist board for laying on a Sustainable Finland programme to map out a blueprint to help visitors plan the most eco-friendly escapes and engage with nature and local culture, knowing every step of their stay has been looked at through an economical, ecological, social and cultural lens. Our eyes are on Octola especially for 2022 — a private wilderness retreat deep in the Arctic Circle with hundreds of hectares of Lapland forest. We’re especially seduced by the luxe 10-room lodge designed with Lapp and Sami traditions in mind. Sign us up to spy the Northern Lights from here — visible from these coordinates, from August until April.

Fantastic flavours and forward-thinking in Barbados

The Caribbean island setting new benchmarks

This Atlantic Ocean coral island is one to watch for its transition to renewables. One of the Lesser Antilles of the West Indies, this new republic, sized only 21 miles by 14, is regularly walloped by hurricanes. It may not be famous for next-level eco stays – yet – but we’re saluting Prime Minister Mia Mottley's mission to lead by example from the frontline of the climate crisis. As well as proselytising about the need to switch to greener energy supplies, the celebrated COP speaker is introducing dramatic targets for this island which is so especially vulnerable to the climate emergency. Tourism is the main revenue, and they’ve been hard hit economically without the usual stream of visitors in recent times, but still managed to win acclaim for looking after their residents so exceptionally well during them. 

CAST – the Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism – can attest to the strength of the country's new direction towards more nature-positive and community-focussed experiences. La Maison Michelle, owned by a Black Bajan, is a reclaimed sugar plantation which now hosts seven suites and exemplifies a new-gen hospitality business that supports community-boosting initiatives. Coco Hill Forest insists we reconnect with nature while making it clear these 53 acres of land are the beginning of big ecotourism plans from the director of the Bridgetown Film Festival. Plus, the yield of indigenous fruits and vegetables served over in its Mamu's Café is impressive. Also working hard to reverse the reliance on imported produce is Local and Co, a restaurant helmed by chef Sophie Michell and a champion of regenerative organic, hyper-local and wild food sources, and which cooked for Prince Charles on the eve of them becoming a republic. Graze on produce from the biodynamic PEG Farm and Nature Reserve in good conscience too, knowing that they model free-range animal husbandry and permaculture.

CNT Editors

Adam Turner

Connor Sturges

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

Green and serene Germany

Wellness for the world

Wellness is naturally the forte in a country with hundreds of health resorts, and here you can spa sustainably, such as at the carbon-neutral Nature Resort Schindelbruch in Südharz or while enjoying the moonlight sauna at Eifel-Therme Zikkurat. The tourist board itself is Green Globe certified and so they know what they’re talking about when they navigate visitors to 1,300 places to stay, from glamping to high-end hotels. Green Pearls is a portfolio of eco-friendly escapes that includes many members in its home country, too. If you are of a plant-based-diet persuasion, this country has the largest percentage of veggies in Europe — so you know it will be easier to keep your foodprint low. Take a train through Germany, and a reminder of the country's dedication to more sustainable eating is even visible from the on-board organic dining options. Yet more impressive than that, all its long-distance trains run on 100 per cent green electricity.

Global goals from Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Iceland

Scandinavian eco-energy superheroes

Folks are wising up to the importance of keeping the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in mind. When the UN announced its 17 SDGs at the United Nations Assembly in 2015, they were laid out as a roadmap to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all. According to the team behind them, Scandinavian countries Denmark , Sweden and Norway all rank in the top 10. Now that we know there’s so much emphasis on the need to decarbonise our energy systems, let’s show some love for the countries with the highest reliance on renewable energy. In Norway, hydropower contributes 45 per cent of its power – its energy-positive off-grid poster hotel is Svart. And we have to salute Iceland too, which is already 100 per cent powered by renewables. We’re especially drawn to family-owned Torfhús Retreat, which runs exclusively on geothermal and hydroelectric energy and where all stays are offset.

12 innovative sustainable tourism attractions you can visit around the world

Apr 4, 2022 • 5 min read

Check out these innovative sustainable attractions worldwide, like the Jewel at Changi Airport © Travel man / Shutterstock

More and more travelers are looking beyond the most affordable and comfortable way to travel and are putting more thought into how their choices might affect the destination they want to visit. 

As travel priorities shift, on top of having a great time travelers increasingly want to do the right thing by the places they visit. In this extract from Sustainable Escapes , Lonely Planet looks at how 12 worldwide tourist attractions have approached sustainability in an innovative way. 

Jewel at Changi, Singapore, is an indoor oasis

First came Gardens by the Bay with its solar-harvesting Supertrees, and in 2019 Singapore upped its urban garden game with an airport terminal you’ll never want to leave. Harnessing cutting-edge sustainable technology, Jewel at Changi is a green oasis, complete with a hedge maze, a canopy bridge, and the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.

The Points Guy:  8 sustainable travel tips from expert green travelers

New York's Climate Museum aims to inspire action on the climate crisis

New York City ’s Climate Museum has won a legion of fans for over 200 innovative public exhibitions and events it has hosted around the city since 2017. Examples include youth spoken-word programs dedicated to themes of climate change;  Climate Signals , a city-wide public art installation by US artist Justin Brice Guariglia, which flashed climate change alerts in five languages; and Beyond Lies , a public art exhibition by British illustrator and journalist Mona Chalabi, that examines climate disinformation from the fossil fuel industry. 

Cape Town's Table Mountain cableway has been carbon-neutral since 2016

Hiking Table Mountain is a quintessential Cape Town experience. But those who prefer to ride the cable car can still feel good about it. The cableway has been carbon-neutral since 2016, and maintains one of the most cohesive responsible tourism policies around, with careful water management and waste reduction practices in place.

Copenhill, Copenhagen's ski slope, is on top of a power plant

Urban ski slopes typically take the form of emissions-emitting indoor centers. But not Copenhill . Opened in 2019, this artificial ski slope sits atop Amager Bakke, a waste-to-power plant central to Copenhagen ’s goal of becoming the world’s first carbon-neutral city . The complex also has a 280ft (85m) climbing wall (the world’s highest) and, like all good ski resorts, an après-ski bar.

Byron Bay, Australia, has the world's first solar-powered train 

Connecting the center of surf town  Byron Bay  to a vibrant arts estate, the world’s first solar-powered train made its maiden journey on a scenic 1.9 mile (3km) stretch of disused rail line in 2017. In lieu of ticket machines, fares are collected by a conductor on the beautifully refurbished heritage train.

Sustainability is central at the Azurmendi restaurant near Bilbao, Spain

Proving it’s haute to be sustainable, Azurmendi , a three-Michelin-star restaurant near Bilbao , has twice won the sustainable restaurant award from World’s 50 Best Restaurants . The hilltop atrium building harnesses solar and geothermal energy, and guests can tour the on-site greenhouses and vegetable gardens that supply the inventive menus.

England's Eden Project recreates major climate systems

Occupying the site of an excavated china clay pit, the Eden Project education charity and visitor’s center in Cornwall , England , features huge biomes housing exhibitions, gardens, and the largest indoor rainforest in the world. It’s also home to the UK’s longest and fastest zip line, and a play tower for kids designed to introduce little ones to the concept of pollination. 

Ocean Atlas in the Bahamas is an artwork and artificial reef

British sculptor and environmental activist Jason deCaires Taylor is famous for his surreal underwater sculptures that double as artificial reefs. Ocean Atlas  – depicting a young girl supporting the ceiling of the water, much like the mythological Greek Titan shouldered the burden of the heavens – is a 60-plus-ton sculpture in Nassau , intended to symbolize the environmental burden we are asking future generations to carry.

A former nuclear reactor is now a theme park at Wunderland Kalkar, Germany

Following the 1986 Chernobyl disaster , German authorities decided not to put its new multi-billion-euro nuclear reactor near the Dutch border into operation. But it wasn’t a complete write-off. In the 1990s, the site was transformed into Wunderland Kalkar , an amusement park, complete with a swing ride inside the reactor’s cooling tower.

Vena Cava winery in Mexico is constructed from recycled materials

Vena Cava calls itself the hippest winery in Mexico , and when you lay eyes on this all-organic Baja winery – which was constructed from reclaimed fishing boats and other recycled materials – it’s difficult to disagree. Better yet, its cellar door is open for tastings every day of the week.

Minimize your impact when bird-watching from Tij Observatory, Netherlands

Taking its form from a tern’s egg, Tij Observatory is a stunning public birdwatching observatory in Scheelhoek Nature Reserve in Stellendam, the Netherlands , designed to rest as lightly on nature as possible. Built with sustainable wood and clad in thatched reeds, the observatory is reached via a tunnel built from recycled bulkheads to minimize disturbance to birds.

Jubileumsparken is a huge park project in Gothenburg , Sweden

The city of Lund might be getting a bicycle-powered museum in 2024, but there’s another great ecofriendly Swedish attraction you can visit now. Jubileumsparken is the ongoing redevelopment of a Gothenburg port area into an ultra-sustainable leisure hub to meet residents' requests for better access to the river and more green areas in the city. Two baths and a sauna were constructed, with ongoing work to introduce new children's play areas. Gothenburg has been ranked number one sustainable destination in the Global Destination Sustainability Index five times.

You might also like: 10 incredible places to learn to scuba dive    8 rewilding projects you can visit in Europe    The world's eco-luxury resorts that are worth the hype   

This article was first published October 2020 and updated April 2022

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What Is Sustainable Tourism and Why Is It Important?

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

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What Makes Tourism Sustainable?

The role of tourists, types of sustainable tourism.

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

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

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

What Is Sustainability?

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

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

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

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

Travel Tip:

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

Environment 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Local Culture and Residents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Are You a Sustainable Traveler?

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

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

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

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

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

Soft Tourism

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

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

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

Rural Tourism

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

Community Tourism

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

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" 45 Arrivals Every Second ." The World Counts.

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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

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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.

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Ecotourism examples around the world: the 10 best places to visit and adventure

The word ‘ecotourism’ is thrown around a lot more these days. But what is ecotourism? Why is it important? And where can you find these ecotourism destinations?

Kate Maskedtravelsx

Feb 02, 2024

What is ecotourism?

Over the upcoming years, you’re probably going to hear about ecotourism more and more. Not sure what it actually means? Let’s clear that up! The International Ecotourism Society 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.’

Put simply, it's about travelling to destinations where we make a positive long-term impact on the environment and the local communities.

These ecotourism places tend to not be the typical tourist hotspots. Mass tourism is the opposite of what we’re getting at here. Ecotourism is usually on a small scale , so that the negative impacts of travel are minimised as much as possible.

Why is ecotourism important?

Travelling is great! We all love to hop on a plane, explore new cultures and discover hidden gems. But all of these things are contributing to the destruction of our planet. Completely stopping travel isn’t a solution, but we can actively choose to reduce the impact that our travel has on the planet.  

Ecotourism is important because it promotes this awareness . It encourages people to learn about and conserve our diverse landscapes, wildlife and cultures .

Hopefully we’ve convinced you that ecotourism is the way forward. If so, here are some of the best ecotourism destinations to visit.

Top 10 ecotourism examples

Costa Rica is one of the most well-known examples of ecotourism . It’s a tropical destination boasting rainforests, cloud forests, countless beaches, volcanoes and mountains . Nature and the ‘pura vida’ lifestyle, meaning pure life, are truly at the heart of Costa Rica. 

Evidenced by the fact that over 25% of the country is made up of national parks , wildlife reserves and protected lands.

Corcovado National Park is almost the epitome of ecotourism. Being one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, Costa Rica is keen to protect it. To do this, they’ve limited the daily number of visitors and you must have a guide to visit.

You can also get involved in ecotourism in Costa Rica by volunteering! You can learn about a sustainable and eco-friendly way of life on this ecological farm.

Iceland is a dream destination for so many of us. That’s a good and a bad thing for Iceland. With the number of tourists increasing each year, they’ve seriously had to consider how to keep tourism sustainable and responsible.

But it’s also up to us as the traveller. Instead of staying in big hotels, opt for one of the many eco-friendly accommodation options. Doing a tour? Choose one where you’ll be travelling by bike, horse or hiking.

Iceland has an abundance of geothermal energy, which is used to heat water in houses and hotels. It can also be harnessed to create natural spas like the Blue Lagoon.

You might have never heard of Palau before, but this little island in the Pacific Ocean is revolutionising ecotourism .

If you visit Palau responsibly and sustainably, you’ll be rewarded. Palau has introduced an app-based rewards system where you earn points every time you help to preserve its fragile ecosystem. 

Some of these things include signing the Palau Pledge upon arrival, wearing reef-safe suncream, eating sustainably-sourced local food and learning about Palau’s culture.

Every time you tick something off the list, you’ll get closer to unlocking an exclusive activity such as diving. Ultimately the main reward is knowing that you’re truly caring and helping a culturally-rich and magnificent place on earth.

Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos have played a vital role in educating the world about our world, inspiring Charles Darwin to come up with the Theory of Evolution . This research and education is still an integral part of the Galapagos Islands today.

These islands off the coast of Ecuador are invaluable, so steps have been taken to protect it. These include a $100 conservation fee, limiting the number of visitors and planning boat routes so there aren’t too many people in one place.

Fun fact: The Galapagos Islands were the first place added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Galapagos Islands are truly magical and probably somewhere you’ll want to spend longer in. If that’s the case, consider teaching for a non-profit organisation to extend your time and help the community. Find other ecotourism job opportunities .

Kenya is arguably one of the best ecotourism examples in Africa . The government even created an organisation called ‘Ecotourism Kenya’.

Their work involves promoting sustainable tourism that will conserve Kenya’s natural environment and improve the livelihoods of local communities .

Being home to 54 national parks,  over 1 million tourists every year visit Kenya in the hopes of catching a glimpse of ‘The Big 5’. This has encouraged the government to stop illegal poaching, ban single-use plastics and plastic bags whilst promoting sustainable tourism .

What better way to learn about a place than fully immersing yourself by volunteering? There are over 150 volunteering opportunities on Worldpackers in Kenya, including farming , social media help for an NGO and providing social work .

Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon Rainforest is one of the most incredible places in the world. If you have the chance to visit, do it, and do it sustainably!

Luckily there are plenty of countries that you can visit the Amazon from - Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana.

However, the survival of the Amazon and its indigenous groups largely depends on the success of ecotourism. In 2021, the Amazon saw the highest rates of deforestation yet. Despite increasing awareness of climate change, deforestation isn’t decreasing.

Ecotourism is needed to educate people around the world on the global importance of the largest rainforest in the world. The income from tourism is also vital for the survival of indigenous people and conservation projects.

There’s nothing like disconnecting from the world and surrounding yourself in nature. Volunteering in the Amazon is the perfect way to do this, whilst contributing to its conservation. Check out these awesome opportunities in the Amazon in Peru and Ecuador .

Bhutan is one of the best ecotourism examples in the world, albeit an expensive one!

Since 1991, Bhutan has been charging visitors a daily Sustainable Development Fee. Originally $65/day, it has now jumped to $200/day in 2022 . Whilst this seems like a lot of money, the extraordinary outcomes prove that it’s worth it.

The money is used on projects such as offsetting Bhutan’s carbon footprint from tourism, supporting community education, organic farming and upskilling workers in the tourism industry .

It has led to Bhutan being the first carbon-negative country in 2017 . The country takes in more carbon dioxide than it produces!

Keep reading: Discover India's top 3 best ecotourism . 

Slovenia needs to receive more recognition for its efforts in ecotourism. 60% of the country is covered in forest and 54% of its land is protected . Tourists flock to Slovenia to see its natural beauty, whether it’s to hike one of its spectacular mountains, or to row across Lake Bled.

They’ve also made it easier for you to choose sustainable options. If an accommodation or tourism service has a Slovenia Green Label , you know that you’re helping to preserve local traditions and protect the environment .

Green camping or glamping in Slovenia is also a great way to get close to nature and support conservation efforts.

Are you desperate to visit Slovenia now? Check out this ultimate guide to visiting Slovenia .

In 2020, Chile was named the World’s Leading Nature Destination . It’s not a surprise, as it is home to 41 National Parks, 45 Reserves and 17 Natural Monuments.

A large part of Chile's conservation efforts is down to the founder of the clothing brand North Face and his wife. They purchased land and then donated it back, which has led to the creation/expansion of 15 national parks, 2 marine national parks, and over 44 million acres of land and sea being protected.

Some great ecotourism destinations to visit in Chile include Huilo Huilo, one of Chile’s most popular waterfalls; and Chiloé Island, where the local community is working hard to build sustainable tourism.

There are over 100 Worldpackers volunteering opportunities in Chile . It’s a great way to practise your Spanish, learn about the culture and help a community.

Norway is one of the most breath-taking places on earth. It’s home to picturesque fjords, glacier lakes, snow-capped mountains and endless beaches . It's an ecotourism haven. 

And the Norwegian government wants to keep it that way. They’ve done a great job at preserving their coastline by regulating hunting, fishing and oil companies .

Many activities in Norway have ecotourism at the heart of them. There are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in nature, whether it be river rafting , caving , dog sledding or hiking .

Norway can be an expensive place to visit, so why not exchange your skills volunteering in return for free accommodation?

How can you travel more responsibly?

Everyone has a part to play in ecotourism. It’s up to the governments of countries to promote and fund it, but it’s also up to us to actively make responsible choices .

Here are some things you can consider when booking your next trip:

• Visit places where less tourists go
• Stay at local and eco-friendly accommodations. Green Key  is a great website to find these
• Eat local with local ingredients
• Respect the environment - stay on paths, don’t leave rubbish, avoid touching wildlife
• Opt for walking, cycling or public transport instead

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Kate Woodley

Maskedtravelsx

Kate is a Management Consultant (and now writer) who decided to take a 2 year career break and travel the world. She shares her travels around the world and shows people the fun of solo travelling!

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Sustainable Tourism Guide: What is, Why Important, Examples and More…

Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable tourism focuses on minimizing tourism’s environmental impact and preserving natural and cultural resources for future generations. It emphasizes responsible travel practices that benefit local communities, promote cultural understanding, and conserve natural habitats. This approach is vital for maintaining the longevity and health of tourist destinations, ensuring they remain vibrant and accessible for years to come.

Key Takeaways

• Definition and Goals: Sustainable tourism minimizes environmental, social, and economic impacts while considering the needs of travelers, host communities, and the natural world, aiming for long-term sustainability and mutual benefits.
• Advantages: Key benefits include wildlife conservation, environmental protection, support for local communities, and fostering long-term positive attitudes and behaviors towards sustainable practices in tourism.
• Sustainable Tourism Types: Various forms include ecotourism (focusing on ecological conservation), community tourism (empowering local communities), rural/ethno tourism (centered on rural life), and soft tourism (prioritizing local experiences and culture).
• Challenges and Solutions: Discusses challenges like over-tourism and the depletion of natural resources and proposes solutions like implementing regulations and promoting responsible travel habits.
• Sustainable Practices: Includes using renewable energy sources, reducing waste, conserving water, and promoting local culture and heritage.

Table of Contents:

• What is Sustainable Tourism?
• What is the Goal of Sustainable Tourism?
• What is the Difference Between Sustainable Tourism and Responsible Tourism?
• Why is Sustainable Tourism Important?

Community Tourism

Rural / ethno tourism, soft tourism, 1. it looks out for wildlife, 2. it protects the environment, 3. it supports local people, 4. it can change attitudes, 5. it has a long-term focus.

• 1. Feynan Ecolodge – Jordan

2. Sustainable Tourism in Bhutan

3. luxury sustainable safari tours, 4. sustainable hostel in south africa, 5. sustainable transport on the water, 6. solar driven six senses resort in fiji.

• 7. BomBom Water Project – Príncipe

8. Atlantis Submarines – Hawaii

9. self-sustainable ‘azurmendi’ restaurant – spain, key trends in the tourism industry.

• Slow Tourism as a Form of Sustainable Tourism

Understanding Destination Marketing

Tourism management: everything you need to know, find courses in sustainable tourism, find jobs in sustainable tourism, understanding the value of sustainable tourism.

Introduction

Increased awareness of the issues surrounding climate change, deforestation, displacement of indigenous people, and the preservation of natural resources has helped to contribute to sustainable tourism growth, and those in the industry need to understand the concept. In this article, you can learn about what sustainable tourism means and why it matters while also learning about some specific real-world examples.

What Is Sustainable Tourism?

Sustainable tourism refers to types of travel where tourism’s environmental, social, and economic impacts are factored in and where relevant adjustments are made to minimize these negative consequences. It considers the needs of travelers and host communities, local businesses, and the natural world. According to the Statista Ecotourism Report , in 2022, the global ecotourism industry had an estimated worth of $172.4 billion worldwide.

This could mean adopting more sustainable methods of transportation, staying in more environmentally friendly accommodations, eating locally and ethically sourced foods, and avoiding harmful activities. Sustainable tourism can be related to leisure, business or event travel, and travel to visit friends and family.

Video: Why Sustainable Tourism?

What Is the Goal of Sustainable Tourism?

Sustainable tourism’s ultimate goal is to reduce tourism’s impact on local communities and the environment. This means making optimal use of resources to avoid over-consumption, helping with the conservation of the natural world, making a conscious effort to respect local traditions and heritage, and contributing to their preservation.

A major objective linked to sustainable tourism is making travel’s long-term future more viable, achieved through education and behavioral changes. Additionally, sustainable tourism aims to provide economic and social benefits for local communities, resulting in more of a mutually beneficial ‘give and take’ relationship.

What Is the Difference Between Responsible and Sustainable Tourism?

The concepts of sustainable tourism and responsible tourism are closely linked to such an extent that they are often used interchangeably. However, there are some differences between the two ideas, and it can be helpful to get to grips with what separates the two terms and what unites them.

Sustainable tourism is heavily focused on the long-term sustainability of the tourism industry so that current needs do not compromise the needs of future generations. Responsibility is shared between political leaders, tourism companies, and other stakeholders. On the other hand, responsible travel is primarily concerned with how individuals interact with the destinations they visit, and the focus is generally on people making behavioral changes.

Why Is Sustainable Tourism Important?

The concept of sustainable tourism is incredibly important because while travel can generate economic benefits for a local area and provide jobs for those in the industry, it can also have negative consequences, including over-use of resources, displacement of wildlife, and damage to local culture, all while contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.

As tourism is expected to continue to grow in the years ahead, current tourism habits will become unsustainable because they are causing too much harm to the environment, local communities, and the earth’s natural resources. This makes sustainable travel essential for the long-term viability of the tourism industry.

By prioritizing sustainable tourism, governments, travel companies, airlines, hotels, restaurants, and travelers can all help to ensure tourism is still possible in the years to come. When steps are taken to benefit locals and minimize the harm caused by tourism, it becomes a force for good in the world.

Different Types of Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable tourism is a broad umbrella term that has several different sub-categories. Understanding the different types of sustainable tourism can be especially important for those involved in tourism marketing .

Ecotourism is the name given to responsible or green tourism to areas of natural beauty, with a particular focus on ecological conservation. Ecotourism aims to protect the natural environment, find ways to benefit local communities while respecting their culture and educate travelers about the importance of responsible travel. Energy efficiency, water conservation, and wildlife and indigenous people protection are all key.

Community tourism occurs when a local community invites tourists to visit and provides accommodation. Crucially, this ensures that the local community always has control over their local tourism industry, making the key decisions and setting their own restrictions. Community tourism is often based on creating realistic life experiences in developing areas, and unique or unusual accommodation is a regular feature.

Rural tourism refers to travel that centers around rural rather than urban areas. It includes everything from hiking and camping trips to agritourism, where tourists may participate in farming activities and experience agricultural lifestyles. Ultimately, this kind of tourism focuses on natural features, such as forests, hills, mountains, fields, and waterfalls, rather than cities, tourist hot spots, and built-up areas.

Soft tourism is a form of travel that prioritizes local experiences, education, respect for local culture, and avoiding tourist hot spots. It can be contrasted with hard or mass tourism, which is large-scale and focused on popular tourist attractions and destinations. Companies operating according to soft tourism principles will prioritize longer stays, jobs for locals, and measures to avoid over-crowding.

Table: More Types of Sustainable Tourism & Examples

What are the advantages of sustainable tourism.

In general, sustainable tourism can be thought of as responsible travel. Still, businesses, tourism workers, and tourists need to appreciate some of the main advantages.

An important component of sustainable tourism is the conservation of wildlife, which ranks among the most significant benefits of the practice. When decisions are made about the needs of local wildlife, it prevents natural habitats from being destroyed and allows animals to thrive. Crucially, sustainable tourism also allows wild animals to stay in the wild, rather than being in captivity and used as a tourist attraction.

Another key benefit of sustainable tourism is the focus on protecting the environment. Sustainable hotels and other forms of accommodation will use eco-friendly materials and take steps to limit the amount of waste they produce or the amount of resources they use. Sustainable transportation could involve hiring a bicycle rather than using a car. Sustainable restaurants, meanwhile, will source food locally and may offer more vegetarian and vegan options.

When tourists make the conscious decision to turn to sustainable tourism companies, and when governments take steps to help those companies too, they are all contributing to the wellbeing of local people. Sustainable tourism can provide jobs for the local area, funding for local projects, and stimulate the local economy. By contrast, mass tourism, with no focus on sustainability, is often more exploitative and can inadvertently harm local culture and indigenous people.

Significant educational components are associated with sustainable and environmental tourism, which can help tourists adjust their attitudes and behaviors over the longer term. This is important because the greater demand for sustainable tourism, the more pressure will be placed on businesses and governments to deliver what customers are looking for, and, in the process, this can lead to positive and lasting change.

Ultimately, sustainable tourism has a much more long-term focus than other forms of tourism, which prioritize the needs of today at the expense of future generations and their requirements. A major advantage of sustainable travel is that it brings together businesses, tourists, and governments intending to adopt strategies that look out for the long-term future of the tourism industry, local communities, tourists, and the planet.

9 Examples of Sustainable Tourism

Now that you understand what sustainable tourism is, it is worth taking a closer look at nine specific examples of sustainable tourism in action within the real world.

1. Feynan Ecolodge – Jordan

Feynan Ecolodge is located in Dana Biosphere Nature Reserve, Jordan, and has a reputation as one of the best examples of sustainable tourism globally. The accommodation operates in partnership with the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature and is solar-powered, greatly reducing the overall carbon footprint. As a result, guests can stay in the lodge knowing that they are doing their part to protect the environment.

Video: Feynan Ecolodge

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

Safari tours have the potential to be exploitative, but several tour operators are now operating more ethical and sustainable safari tours, which give back to the local area. One example is the tour company andBeyond, which offers luxury safari tours in Botswana, Tanzania, Kenya, and various other locations. The company installs electrical microgrids to make energy consumption more sustainable while investing in local land, animals, and people.

Mdumbi Backpackers is a hostel that is specifically aimed at those with an interest in sustainable tourism. Situated in South Africa, the accommodation serves as an ideal base for hiking, whale watching, and various other activities. However, crucially, the hostel has adopted several eco-friendly practices, including a more sustainable waste management system, the use of solar power, and an ownership model that allows local employees to own shares.

Transportation is a major focus area for sustainable tourism, but water-based transport has arguably lagged behind other methods and often still relies heavily on fossil fuels. Fortunately, this is starting to change, and companies like Soel Yachts and Naval DC have created more sustainable water transport in the form of solar-powered electric vessels, which are carbon neutral. As this trend continues, water transport should become increasingly sustainable.

Video: Soel Yachts

The Six Senses Resort in Fiji is a five-star luxury resort that operates in accordance with sustainable tourism principles. For instance, the resort is entirely powered by solar energy, and it includes its own rain capture and water filtration facilities, helping to reduce the use of plastic bottles. Additionally, the Six Senses Resort promotes recycling and re-use of materials and supports several causes that help the local community.

Video: Six Senses Resort in Fiji

7. BomBom Water Project – Príncipe

Finally, the BomBom Water Project is operated by the Bom Bom resort on the island of Príncipe, off the west coast of Africa. The luxury resort introduced a recycling scheme, where refillable, stainless steel bottles would replace 50 used water bottles. The resort claims the project led to the removal of 300,000 used plastic water bottles from the island, and the resort also contributed to several water purification fountains.

Atlantis Submarines is a passenger submarine company providing dive tours in Hawaii. The company has locations on three different Hawaiian islands and allows those interested in ecotourism to participate in an experience that meets sustainable tourism principles. For example, the submarines used by Atlantis Submarines are battery-powered, meaning they do not release greenhouse gases or cause pollution within the water. This battery-powered approach also makes them significantly quieter than other submarines, which is great for protecting the natural ecosystem within Hawaii’s waters.

Azurmendi is a restaurant in Bilbao, Spain, which has been awarded three Michelin stars , highlighting the overall quality of its food. However, what makes this restaurant truly special is its approach to sustainability, which ensures that visitors to the region can enjoy the food while engaging in sustainable tourism practices. Examples of the steps to promote sustainability include using geothermal and solar energy to power the restaurant and using the restaurant’s own vegetable garden to grow vegetables for use in the restaurant’s menu. Furthermore, much of the organic waste from the restaurant is turned into compost, which local farmers use.

Video: Azurmendi

Sustainable tourism is one of the main trends in the industry today, but there are several other trends that you need to be aware of too. From the renewed focus on local customers to the rise of voice search, keeping up with the latest trends can help those in the tourism industry gain a competitive edge and satisfy customers.

To explore these trends and many more in greater depth and to find out what has influenced each of them, check out the “Tourism Trends: The Latest Opportunities for The Tourism Industry” article.

Slow Travel as a Form of Sustainable Tourism

One of the emerging sustainable tourism trends is slow travel, which is an approach to tourism based on sustainability, an appreciation of the culture and characteristics of the local area, and the enjoyment of fulfilling travel experiences. It contrasts with mass travel, packed itineraries, and a rush to visit as many attractions as possible.

You can learn more about slow tourism and its definition, read about examples of slow tourism, and understand its relationship with sustainable travel by reading “Slow Tourism: What It Is, Its Importance, and Examples” .

The concept of sustainable tourism can easily tie in with the idea of destination marketing too. Essentially, this is where marketers for hotels and other travel companies aim to attract tourists to a particular location by promoting the local attractions, features, and activities to make it a more appealing proposition.

You can explore the topic of destination marketing further and understand how it can relate to sustainable tourism by reading the “Destination Marketing Strategies to Attract More Visitors” article.

Understanding sustainable travel and its benefits for travelers and the industry is especially important for travel management professionals. This includes general managers, sales managers, marketing managers, hotel managers, guest relations managers, and many other roles.

To dive deeper into tourism management, including definitions, a list of available management roles, and the qualifications needed, read the “Tourism Management: All You Need to Know About Tourism” post.

One of the best ways to learn more about sustainable travel and gain relevant qualifications that can help you land a role in this industry sector is to look into the various available courses. Depending on your preferences, this may include distance learning courses or courses that require physical attendance.

To explore the topic of tourism courses in full and access links to some of the best websites for finding a course to enroll in, read the “Tourism Course: A Complete Overview of Courses & Tourism Educators” article.

In the end, sustainable tourism is concerned with making the tourism industry more sustainable to have a bright future and continue providing jobs. One of the reasons the industry is so valuable is that it offers roles within hospitality, airlines, the cruise industry, travel agencies, and more.

You can find out more about the tourism jobs available and identify the best job boards to help you search for a vacancy by checking out the “Tourism Jobs: The Best Tourism Industry Job Boards for Your Career” post.

For sustainable tourism to be possible, businesses and other key stakeholders involved in the local tourism trade must consciously build, maintain, and manage a sustainable industry. This process is referred to as sustainable tourism development, and it is a shared responsibility with a view to minimizing harm or negative consequences.

Read the “Benefits of Sustainable Tourism Development” post to explore the topic of sustainable travel further, learn about the value of sustainable tourism development, and read about some of the main advantages.

Sustainable Tourism FAQs

What is the meaning of sustainable travel.

Sustainable travel means visiting a place as a tourist and trying to make a positive impact on the environment, society, and economy. It involves minimizing the negative impacts of tourism and ideally leaving the place better than you found it.

What is the main goal of sustainable tourism?

The main goal of sustainable tourism is to ensure that development brings a positive experience for local people, tourism companies, and tourists themselves, while preserving the natural and cultural environment for future generations.

What are the 3 pillars of sustainable tourism?

The three pillars of sustainable tourism are environmental integrity, social justice, and economic development. These ensure that tourism is ecologically sustainable, benefits local communities, and contributes positively to local economies.

What type of tourism is most sustainable?

The most sustainable type of tourism is one that minimizes its environmental impact, supports local economies, and preserves local cultures. Ecotourism, community-based tourism, and responsible tourism practices are often considered the most sustainable.

What is one key principle of sustainable tourism?

One key principle of sustainable tourism is to ensure that it provides meaningful experiences to visitors while conserving the environment, respecting local cultures, and providing tangible benefits to the local community, ensuring that tourism can be maintained long-term without harming natural or cultural resources.

Sustainable tourism is the term used to describe tourism that is intended to minimize the negative impact on the environment and local communities while making the industry itself more viable in the longer term. Responsibility for this lies with tourists, tourism companies, and local governments.

Did You Like This Article About Sustainable Tourism?

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Ecotourism: What it is, Advantages & Disadvantages, Examples & More

I really enjoy this blog about sustainable tourism. This is so useful for our nature. Thank you for the sustainable tourism ideas.

Very informative and well-written article. Thank you for the clear examples of sustainable tourism.

As a travel company, Revfine has been a fantastic resource for navigating the hospitality industry landscape. Their insightful articles and expertise provide valuable insights and practical tips that have helped us stay ahead of the curve in our profession. Thank you, Revfine, for your commitment to sharing industry knowledge!

Thank you for this insightful article on sustainable tourism! It’s refreshing to see such comprehensive coverage of the topic, highlighting its importance and practical strategies for implementation.

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5 Examples of Sustainable Tourism around the World

Tourism is one of the fastest growing sectors in the world and can provide an essential economic boost for countries pitching themselves as holiday destinations. Tourism, however, has historically had devastating effects on the environment, people and their cultural identities.

Enter the concept of sustainable tourism, which according to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation must:

• Conserve environmental resources and protect biodiversity
• Respect and preserve the cultures of host communities whilst benefiting them
• Address the needs of the visitors and industry whilst providing socio-economic benefit to all

In order for tourism to continue and for us to live within our planetary bounds and respect all people, the only option is for the world to move away from unconscious, mass tourism and learn from the existing examples of thriving sustainable tourism models.

What are some examples of sustainable tourism?

• 1. Controlled tourism in Bhutan

Bhutan, located in the East of the Himalayas, is known as one of the happiest countries in the world. The country remains relatively untouched by colonialism which has ensured that the people’s sustainable way of life has remained in tact. Bhutan’s tourism operates on the principle of “high value, low impact”. This has been achieved by enforcing strict entry requirements and a daily visitor tariff. The daily tariff includes necessary expenses for the visit such as accommodation, a licensed tour guide, meals and hiking equipment. A large portion of the tariff, however, is used to maintain and develop the country’s infrastructure, as well as contribute towards Bhutan’s free health care and education.

• 2. A solar powered resort in Fiji

Six Senses Fiji , located on the tropical Malolo Island, is a five star resort with sustainable luxury and cultural awareness at its core. The resort runs on 100% solar power, equipped with rainwater capture and its own onsite water-filtration site to eliminate the use of single-use plastic bottles. The resort aims to be as low-waste as possible, encouraging the principles of reuse whilst also practicing recycling and composting with a “worm-based septic system” and growing as much of its own herbs and vegetables as possible. All handiwork and artwork at the hotel has been produced by local villagers and the hotel supports the Rise Beyond the Reef Charity which aims to bridge “the divide between remote communities, government and the private sector in the South Pacific, sustainably creating a better world for women and children.”

• 3. A community run backpacker in South Africa

Mdumbi , a backpackers on the Wild Coast of South Africa, aims to promote “community involvement and sustainable eco-tourism”. The backpacker prides itself in being fused with the amaXhosa culture of the Eastern Cape, situated deep in the heart of a traditional village. With a number of sustainability interventions onsite such as energy efficiency, solar power and waste management, Mdumbi has a unique ownership model, with the local employees, the amaxhosa community association, and TransCape (Mdumbi’s affiliated NPO) all holding shares in the business. Mdumbi’s NPO, TransCape, aims “ to provide access to the resources, support, and knowledge necessary for communities to initiate the process of change towards a better quality of life.” In 2017, the Backpacker was also awarded a silver prize by the World Responsible Tourism Awards for best in poverty reduction.

• 4. Conservation ‘Voluntouring’ in Belize

• 5. A sustainable tour operator come foundation in Switzerland

The Swiss Foundation for Solidarity in Tourism (SST) is a non-profit foundation that grew out of one of the leading tour operators in Switzerland. The foundation, founded in 2001, supports projects and organisations in Switzerland and worldwide which look to improve the livelihoods of people in tourist destinations, contribute to sustainable tourism development and contribute to “intercultural understandings” between travellers and locals. By providing grants to deserving projects, the foundation hopes to further develop sustainable tourism online and on the ground.

These are but a few of many varying examples of models for sustainable tourism development. As the world moves towards sustainability in every facet and every industry, there is no doubt that the tourism industry will need an unprecedented overhaul in order to move towards low-impact and meaningful travel experiences that do not detriment people or the world on which we rely.

Interested in doing your bit for sustainable tourism? Why not look at studying a sustainable tourism degree or look into sustainable tourism master programs? Here at SUMAS we offer a master of international sustainable tourism management and other courses fit to prepare you for a career in sustainable tourism anywhere in the world.

• Reference Links

http://sdt.unwto.org/content/faq-climate-change-and-tourism http://sdt.unwto.org/content/about-us-5 https://inhabitat.com/100-solar-powered-fiji-resort-combines-5-star-luxury-with-sustainability/ https://epicureandculture.com/bhutan-tourism-model/ https://www.sixsenses.com/resorts/fiji/sustainability https://www.mdumbi.co.za/about_us https://www.sstfoundation.org/ https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-science/sustainable-tourism.htm

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

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Stay up to date:, travel and tourism.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Have you read?

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

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

Here are some key takeaways from the report:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who will invest in and benefit from nature tourism?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Sustainability Success

Green Tourism – QUICK Eco Friendly Guide For Tourists

What is green tourism? How to become an eco friendly tourist? Why is sustainable tourism so important, and how you can make a difference yourself? What are some examples of green tourism? In this article will be the answers to these questions, as well as explain some of the similar but different terms you may hear about this topic. Read on!

Throughout the year 2018, it is estimated there were about 1.4 billion international tourist arrivals, just over a fifth of the world population. Tourism is huge, and its negative impact on the environment and the climate is huge as well.

The number of tourists around the world has plummeted as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, and still remains far less than what they were before the pandemic, but there is little doubt that they will rise to similar levels again one day, and eventually even higher. It is incredibly important that travel becomes more sustainable in the future so that its negative impacts are reduced.

If you would like just a quick summary of green tourism , watch the above video! Then keep reading to learn more! For more amazing  sustainability videos , visit our video gallery and subscribe to the  sustainability success youtube channel .

The Meaning Of Green Tourism, Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism

So what exactly is meant by green tourism ?

Green tourism definition: green tourism is tourism with the aim of being environmentally friendly and reducing the many negative effects associated with travel. These negative effects can include environmental destruction, the unethical treatment of wildlife and animals, damage to communities and their heritage, and the high amount of greenhouse gas emissions from air transport. 

Green tourism usually involves things like visiting natural, untouched areas in responsible, non-damaging ways, getting to your destination with as little greenhouse gas emissions as possible, and avoiding tourist attractions that are harmful to nature or to society. Another aim of eco-friendly tourism is to support the local community in the location that you’re traveling to by benefiting their economy, preserving their heritage, and improving their wellbeing.

As you can tell, green tourism is somewhat of a vague and broad term, at least nowadays, which is often taken advantage of by businesses who advertise themselves as being “green” despite taking only minimal measures to reduce the negative impacts of their business. You should keep this in mind when you’re trying to plan more eco friendly trips , so you can avoid making use of businesses that do not have responsible business practices.

Often used in this topic, Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism are two similar but more specific terms that are also worth remembering. 

Ecotourism has a similar meaning to green tourism but has a more precise definition. It means traveling in a responsible way to natural, wild areas , with the aim of supporting its conservation and supporting the local people, as well as observing the natural world and learning about it. Travelling to built-up areas would not be considered ecotourism even if it was a completely environmentally friendly trip .

Sustainable tourism is a slightly different concept. It covers every aspect and form of tourism and the destinations that people travel to, not just natural areas . The aim of sustainable tourism is to reduce the negative impacts of tourism as a whole as much as possible while maximizing the positive ones, making the entire industry sustainable over the long term.

Finally, geotourism is another form of green tourism focusing on sustainable tourism in natural and cultural heritage sites. This type of tourism is still in its early stages of development, but it is growing in popularity as more and more people become interested in sustainable and responsible travel.

Geotourism can include activities such as hiking, camping, bird watching, and visiting heritage sites, and staying in eco lodges overnight. Nowadays, eco lodges are available in the USA and all over the world and are a great option for eco friendly travelers. This is a great way to learn about the history and culture of a place while also enjoying its natural beauty.

Why are Green Tourism and eco friendly tourists so IMPORTANT?

The main goal of green tourism is to reduce the negative effects of tourism, both on the environment and on the communities that are involved in tourism. It is crucial for the eco friendly tourist that wants to travel sustainably to be aware of those issues. But what exactly are these environmentally negative aspects of tourism and why are they so important to remedy?

Let’s begin with the environmental impacts. An important place to start is with the impact of air transport, the primary method of long-distance travel. Aircraft produce a significant amount of greenhouse gases, primarily CO2 but also other substances, and air travel is thought to be responsible for around 5% of global warming as a result. Although aircraft have become significantly more efficient over time, total emissions are still rising quickly because of the continued increase of people traveling by air. Aircraft are also responsible for noise pollution and air pollution, which can both have severe health effects on both humans and animals.

Another problem is the environmental damage that can be caused when people are too careless about traveling through natural environments. It is sadly a common occurrence for tourists to litter in natural areas, and when a lot of people travel through an area it will inevitably lead to erosion and a loss of vegetation in the area.

Example of unsustainable tourism

One well-known example of tourism negatively affecting a natural area is the situation on Mount Everest. The mountain attracts hundreds of climbers every year, and with every year that goes by, the problem of waste and litter on the mountain worsens further, with countless items such as oxygen canisters, camping and hiking supplies, and other waste being left behind. Attempting to remove these things from the mountain is dangerous at best and impossible at worst, as the higher you go, the progressively more difficult it becomes to carry anything back down with you. Despite this, there have been some successful cleanup operations that have removed large quantities of litter from the mountain. 

Increased tourism in the area around Mount Everest has also led to damage being caused to the habitats of vulnerable animals that live there, such as the snow leopard and Tibetan blue bear. 

Possible effects on the wildlife

Tourism can also harm wildlife in ways that may not be obvious. Even a seemingly benign activity can be harmful, for example viewing wild animals from a distance at a safari, as even the mere presence of humans and vehicles can cause wild animals to become more stressed and change their behavior.

Positive effects of green tourism

Although the negative impacts of tourism on the environment are many, it’s also important to remember the positive effects that it can have. For example, tourism to pristine natural locations can encourage conservation efforts, and by traveling to natural locations people can be educated on why it’s so important to protect the environment .

Another very important part of green tourism is to consider the impact that it has on various communities around the world.

For communities that are heavily involved in and affected by it, the effects of tourism are not all good or all bad. Tourism can have a lot of positive effects on a community and cultural sustainability , such as on the economy, which improves the quality of life, creates more jobs, lifts people out of poverty, and gives them more opportunities. It also allows people to learn about and experience other cultures first-hand, facilitating understanding and friendship.

The economies of many countries rely heavily on tourism, and as a result, they have suffered greatly during the pandemic. Increased focus on eco friendly tourism can also provide additional incentive to take the restoration and preservation of the natural environment, and historical and cultural sites more seriously, as well as aid in the preservation of cultural practices and traditions.

Be aware of the negative effects tourism can have: pursuing eco friendly solutions

The negative effects of tourism on communities around the world, both big and small, are also very real and have to be remedied in order for tourism to become truly sustainable .

To start with, when a very large amount of people travel to a particular place, it can create problems with large crowds and congestion, which is known as over-tourism . This overcrowding can cause a lot of inconvenience and stress to local residents, disrupting their daily life. This can create resentment and conflicts between the locals and tourists. It also creates a negative experience for the visitors themselves, since it’s hard to enjoy a location when it’s flooded with other tourists.

Another issue is that tourism can cause damage to a community’s uniqueness and way of life. For instance, when large companies decide to set up shops in areas that have become popular for tourism, they create a lot of competition for the local businesses that make it harder for them to survive, and many of them could be put out of business.

The effects that tourism has on the environment and on society are very complicated and vary from place to place, but hopefully, this section has given you a general understanding of the importance of green tourism and becoming an eco friendly tourist pursuing sustainability for your trips .

Finally, always keep in mind that you can make a difference and be part of the solution! Try to apply as much as possible the 6 Rs of sustainability also during and for your travels will definitively help you to become a green tourist and support the development of more eco friendly ways to travel and explore the world while respecting the environment .

Pursuing eco-friendly tourism solutions is a growing example of sustainability and how this industry can help us to protect the planet for future generations.

Sustainable Tourism Examples And Advice For Travelling Sustainably

So, now that you know what traveling sustainably is and why it’s so important, you’re probably wondering how you yourself can contribute and be eco-friendly when traveling.

Here are some examples of sustainable tourism for being a responsible tourist:

• Ensure that the businesses you’re supporting during your trip are sustainable . As mentioned before, many businesses who brand themselves as being “green” actually have very unsustainable business practices. You should do research on the businesses that you’re planning on interacting with during your trip and see whether they have actually made commitments to being sustainable, and refrain from interacting with businesses that haven’t. This is the first important step to promoting green tourism: always remember to “vote” for truly eco-friendly businesses with your wallet. This will encourage more companies to care more about the environment to attract a growing number of green tourists .
• Support the local communities that you’re visiting . This means that when out and about at your holiday destination, try to shop and eat from local stores and restaurants and use the services provided by local, small businesses rather than any of the larger businesses and chains that may be in the area. If you want a guide during your stay, try to find a local guide. This will benefit the local people and their economy and will help to preserve their uniqueness and way of life, and additionally, it will give you a more unique and authentic experience of the area that you’re in. Taking the time to learn some of the languages spoken in the area you’re in will also be very useful for this.
• Figure out ways to leave as small carbon and environmental footprint as possible . For example, you could try to use air transport as little as you can, since air travel is a massive contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Something important to note is that the per-person contribution to emissions is very high for air travel, meaning that if you fly on a regular basis, it likely accounts for a large amount of your own carbon footprint, especially if you fly first class. When it’s possible to do so, a better choice is to use other forms of public transportation such as buses or trains, or even better, use a bicycle or walk when you can. 
• Other things you could do to be an environmentally conscious green tourist are: Avoid any tourist attractions and activities that are harmful to the environment and the local wildlife or that don’t support and benefit the local communities. Another good thing to do is to travel off-season, as this helps to prevent overcrowding of tourists at your destination, which would inconvenience the locals, and it will mean you’ll have more space yourself to fully enjoy your trip and have a more authentic experience. And, importantly, remember that when you’re traveling overseas, you’re visiting somebody else’s home. Always be respectful to the people who live there and to the nature that they live near.

If you follow the green tourism examples listed above you will be much more eco-friendly during your holidays.

In addition, in the future, there may also be other ways to travel, including having eco-friendly vacations on solar yachts . In fact, these catamarans offer the possibility to travel extensively without any emissions, because they are powered by solar energy !

Hopefully, this article has clarified what is meant by green tourism and why it’s so important for us to take action on reducing the negative impacts of the tourism industry. 

Traveling in the modern world without leaving a trace on the environment can be very difficult at times, but travelers who take sustainability seriously still have many options for reducing it and for helping to make a difference, especially if you know how to think outside of the box. You should take into account the places that you’re traveling to, what things you can see and do there, and be creative in thinking of ways to have a positive impact while on your eco friendly journey !

Related topics

• The Magic Of Ecotourism In Belize (Unmissable Experiences!)
• Mexico Ecotourism (Discover 10 Hidden Gems!)

References And More Information

• Ecotourism – Wikipedia
• Sustainable Tourism – Wikipedia
• Overtourism – Wikipedia
• Tourism – Our World In Data

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What is Green Tourism?

Green tourism, a form of ecotourism , is low-impact tourism with an eye toward protecting the environment and culture of an area. The United Nations has set up certain criteria for ecotourism, but green tourism can cover a wide range of standards and conditions, from fully compliant to less stressful on the environment than standard tourism. There are many opportunities for green travel available worldwide.

The number of tourists traveling the world has been increasing, which makes green tourism not only preferable but a necessity in some areas. It might seem wiser to some people to protect natural habitats and pristine, fragile environments by banning visitors completely to these areas, but many areas depend on the income from tourism to support the local economy. Green, sustainable tourism is considered offer the best of both worlds, protecting the ecology of an area while keeping local schools and businesses thriving.

Green tourism doesn't necessarily mean a vacation spent roughing it with little or no comforts. On the contrary, many people believe that it can be a wonderful adventure. Ecotourism resorts and ecolodges exist in almost every style and taste. From recycling and gray water systems to tents on tree house-like platforms with a rain forest canopy, there are numerous vacationing options. Simple efforts, such as keeping to designated pathways, eating where locally grown cuisine is served and visiting cultural areas instead of typical tourist attractions, can go a long way toward "greening up" a standard vacation.

A very green holiday can be spent studying the local flora, fauna and cultural heritage of the area, as well as learning ways to protect and preserve it. Guides, tours and wildlife-viewing platforms help tourists experience all that an area has to offer while making little or no impact on the environment. There also are trips available in which vacationers take an active part in improving the local area by working to preserve the natural habitat, helping to build a school or performing other services that benefit the area. These vacations can be a lot of work, but many people find them to be very rewarding and interesting learning experiences.

As green tourism becomes more popular, there are likely to be more vacationing options available. More resort areas likely will take steps to have less of an impact on the surrounding environment, and sustainable tourism could easily become the standard. Local economies might be able to take full advantage of the booming tourist trade without compromising the local environment, allowing tourists to enjoy the beauty that these areas have to offer for many years to come.

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Discussion Comments

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• By: amelie Wildlife viewing is a no-impact activity used in green tourism.
• By: phtphoto Green tourism promotes the preservation of ancient sites, like the Newgrange tombs in Ireland.
• By: Harry HU Some upscale beach resorts in the Caribbean are evolving to become more eco-conscious properties.
• By: HappyAlex Activities such as nature hikes are part of green tourism.
• By: wiktor bubniak Green tourism is also known as ecotourism.

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Sustainable Tourism, Green Tourism, Ecotourism Explained

 Posted on April 7, 2021 by Yonature

  4 Comments

Sustainable tourism is now a new way of practicing tourism .

As it is, tourism plays an important role in the economy of most countries. In the past, mass tourism led to several detrimental impacts on the environment, physically and socio-culturally. But, since the environmental movement in the 1970s/80s, the focus of the tourism sector changed. The well-being of the host community became the priority instead of the tourists.

Over time, people used several terms to define this new type of tourism. Some examples are alternative, endemic, sustainable, eco and green tourism.

And eventually, different organizations defined the different terms in relation to the purpose of the tourism activity.

We will concentrate on the definitions of sustainable tourism, ecotourism and green tourism mainly. Though people use these three terms interchangeably, they actually refer to different things.

Sustainable tourism

History of sustainable tourism.

Since the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio, all economic sectors had to decrease their environmental impact s. They were compelled to be more sustainable. Sustainable here refers to economic vitality, social equity and environmental preservation. The tourism sector, one of the largest global industries, had to comply as well.

In the early days, tourism suppliers basically supported environmental conservation. Many also advocated for the preservation of local culture and traditions. But, generally, researchers, businesses and academicians mostly debated the idea of sustainable tourism. The media also did not give it much attention.

As the years rolled by and the threats of climate change became more visible, sustainable tourism became an obligation.

Definition of sustainable tourism

According to the UNWTO,

Sustainable tourism is tourism that takes full account of its current and future environmental, social and economic impacts. It addresses the needs of visitors, the environment, host communities and the industry.

Basically, sustainable tourism is the integration of the sustainable development principles into the tourism sector. A harmony must exist between the environment, economy and society.

Hence, it is not a sub-sector of tourism per se. Rather, it is an umbrella under which all forms of tourism fall, including eco-tourism.

Sustainable tourism rests on specific development guidelines and management practices. It also includes both mass and niche tourism.

Principles of sustainable tourism

Basically, the principles for sustainable tourism are

• Using environmental resources wisely,
• Respecting and conserving socio-cultural authenticity of host communities
• And providing economic benefits to host communities.

Thus, sustainable tourism is quite complex in nature and requires the efforts of all stakeholders including the government. It is also a continuous process, with adjustments as required.

At the same time, the experience must enrich the tourist significantly. It must raise awareness of environmental issues . And encourage sustainable gestures .

Ways to be sustainable in the tourism sector

So, all stakeholders play an important role in making the tourism sector sustainable. It includes small, local operations to large, international companies. As it is, the sector provides various services like accommodation, transport, attractions and food. Hence, we can implement sustainable practices at different stages and in many activities.

1.       Sustainable practices in transportation

         i.            airlines.

• Maintain a young fleet as far as possible as new technology helps to reduce carbon emissions .
• Also, choose non-stop flights.
• Airlines should encourage high load factor flights because when more people travel, the energy used per passenger decreases.
• And reduce operating weights as the less planes weigh, the less energy they use.

       II.            Cars

• Generally, promote the use of low-emission cars.
• Or replace old cars with environmentally friendly ones .
• And avoid SUVs as far as possible.

     III.            Railways and coaches

• Use renewable sources of energy.
• Recycle materials as much as possible.
• Likewise, renew infrastructure to attract more customers and decrease energy use.
• And improve customer service and trips to attract more tourists.

2.       Accommodation

• Save energy with better air conditioning/heating systems.
• Generally, use energy-saving lighting systems such as sensors or even control vegetation growth.
• Opt for local foods to reduce transport costs.
• Likewise, invest in renewable energy sources like solar power .
• And recycle waste .

3.       Tour operators

• Re-think and re-structure their distant destinations with closer ones.
• They should also develop low-carbon holidays such as train-based trips.
• And offer carbon offsets for flights.

4.       Tourists

• Minimize air travel or choose alternative methods.
• Even travel less frequently and stay for longer periods of time.
• Likewise, voluntarily choose to offset flights that they cannot avoid.
• And choose airlines/destinations/services/activities that are eco-friendly.

Eco-tourism

Definition of ecotourism.

According to The International Ecotourism Society,

‘ecotourism is the responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment. It also sustains the well-being of local people and involves interpretation and education.’

So, ecotourism is not only engaging in nature-based activities. Rather, it is a way to preserve the natural environment and sustain local communities.

History of ecotourism

Ecotourism first appeared in 1965 when Hetzer coined it with responsible travel. Eventually, other authors used it to refer to eco-development in parks in Latin America and Canada.

During the 1970s/80s’ environmental movement, the term became famous. Mass tourism was heavily degrading the environment and tourists wanted nature-based experiences .

At the same time, people in less developed countries were mutilating their natural resources for agriculture and development. They also realized that they could preserve their natural environment while gaining foreign currency.

Eventually, people used several different terms to promote concepts linked to ecotourism like responsible tourism. Some terms were vague in nature and we no longer use them. Others are basically subdivisions of ecotourism such as wildlife tourism.

Principles of ecotourism

For ecotourism to be successful, proponents must adhere to certain principles. These are:

• Keep environmental, behavioural, social and psychological impacts to a minimum.
• Likewise, respect the culture of host communities and their environment.
• Also, directly finance environmental conservation and host communities.
• Maximize tourist and host satisfaction.
• Build infrastructure that have the minimum impact on the environment.
• And, understand and recognize the spiritual beliefs of indigenous communities and help support them.

Ecotourism in Ecuador as an example

Perhaps one of the most successful ecotourism destination is Ecuador. Historically, it became a famous ecotourism site because of the rare species that inhabit the Galapagos Islands.

Eventually, though, many indigenous groups adopted ecotourism as part of their development strategy.

Today, a wide range of community groups including indigenous people, Afro-Ecuadoreans and mestizos work on diverse ecotourism projects. These range from the majestic Amazon forest to the high sierra and the coast of Ecuador.

Importance of ecotourism in Ecuador

Indeed, Ecuador is one of the most biologically diverse regions on Earth. The Oriente, especially, where the majority of the land belongs to indigenous communities like the Quicha, Achuar, Huaorani and Shuar is very rich.

Ecotourism helped massively in the preservation of natural areas. Otherwise, investors would have destroyed the Amazon forest for oil.

In general, tour operators and NGOs help small communities to make the most of ecotourism based on their own terms. Thus, it allows indigenous people to sell traditional knowledge and use natural resources sustainably.

At the same time, it gives these communities much needed international support when they face tough decisions regarding the exploitation of natural resources. Additionally, it is a form of self-defence for indigenous communities. It helps them preserve their culture, traditional economies and remaining wild places on Earth.

For sure, small rural communities offer memorable experiences to tourists. They share their homes with them and teach them about their local customs and traditions. Or sometimes, they build eco-lodges in their localities with traditional materials and minimum impact on the environment.

Ecotourism activities

In general, ecotourism activities vary greatly from place to place. It typically revolves around the environment and the local customs of the community.

In Ecuador, the main ecotourism activities are

• Visiting the Ecuadorian forests ( mangrove , cloud forest, high mountains etc.)
• Observing the flora and fauna
• Artisanal canoe rides and boat tours
• Forests, cliffs and beaches walks
• Artisanal fishing and octopus catching on rocky beaches
• Preparing and tasting traditional foods and drinks
• Artisanal fabric, jewelry, musical instruments, masks making
• Visits to sacred places, traditional shamans, midwives

Types of ecotourism

There are many subsectors that are related to ecotourism. We define them purely according to the principal attraction or product. They do not necessarily conform to the criteria applied specifically in ecotourism.

So, the main types of ecotourism are principally nature-based, wildlife, adventure, farm and cultural tourism.

Nature-based tourism

As a general rule, nature-based tourism refers to tourism where the natural features of the environment are the centre of attraction. It includes broad trips to visit landscapes or more specialized products like wildlife sightseeing. Camping, stargazing and birdwatching are examples of nature-based tourism.

Wildlife tourism

As for wildlife tourism, it is a large part of nature-based tourism itself. Wildlife tourism products vary greatly from terrestrial to marine tourism. The most common activities are safaris, guided rides, sport hunting, recreational fishing and animal feeding.

Adventure tourism

Adventure tourism refers to commercial tours where the principal attraction is an outdoor activity. This activity typically depends on the natural features of the terrain. It is exciting for the tourist and generally requires specialized sports equipment. Examples include skiing, snowboarding and surfing.

Farm tourism

Farm tourism in fact originates from bed-and-breakfast establishments and ranches. Today, many landholders are investing in it to provide tourists a unique experience of rural life and farming. Some examples are French vineyards, rice paddies in South-east Asia and dairy farms in the Swiss Alps.

Cultural tourism

In cultural tourism, tourists travel to experience different cultures and traditions. The aim is to learn and understand traditional cultures and visit historical sites. It includes folkloric music, art and dance, museums and traditional artefacts. An example is the traditional Kawa hot bath, in the Philippines.

Green tourism

History of green tourism.

The term green tourism emerged in the 1980s referring to small groups of tourists visiting natural areas. They had the minimum impact on the environment. Eventually, people used it interchangeably with ecotourism and sustainable tourism.

Definition of green tourism

The UNWTO defines green tourism as

‘Activities that can we can maintain indefinitely in their environmental, social, economic and cultural contexts.’

Principles of green tourism

Basically, green tourism is a way to promote sustainable tourism.

As it is, the tourism industry will always have impacts given the large number of sectors involved. But, we can decrease these impacts.

Green tourism thus aims to help sectors engage in activities and make choices that have less environmental impacts, benefits society and the economy.

It includes ways to

• Reduce energy use,
• Also, minimize food miles,
• Promote biodiversity,
• And adopt sustainable practices.

Difference between sustainable tourism, ecotourism and green tourism

• Sustainable tourism refers to the incorporation of sustainable practices in the tourism sector.
• Ecotourism is a branch of tourism.
• Green tourism is a catalyst to achieve sustainable tourism.

• Buckley, R., 2009.  Ecotourism: Principles and practices . CABI.
• Maldonado-Erazo, C.P., del Río-Rama, M.D.L.C., Noboa-Viñan, P. and Álvarez-García, J., 2020. Community-Based Tourism in Ecuador: Community Ventures of the Provincial and Cantonal Networks.  Sustainability ,  12 (15), p.6256.
• Weaver, D.B. ed., 2001. The encyclopedia of ecotourism. Cabi.

 Category: Human activities      Tags: characteristics of sustainable tourism , difference between sustainable tourism and green tourism , ecotourism activities , ecotourism example , ecotourism meaning , green tourism examples , green tourism meaning , green tourism practices , how to achieve sustainable tourism , how to be sustainable in tourism sector , importance of green tourism , principles of ecotourism , principles of green tourism , principles of sustainable tourism , Sustainable tourism meaning , types of ecotourism , ways for tourism to be sustainable

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