Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable tourism

Travel is important. New experiences and interpersonal connections bring us closer and help us overcome barriers. However, this can take its toll on our planet and its inhabitants.

Tourism has a significant impact on a company's overall carbon footprint. A carbon footprint is a measure of greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2), that are directly or indirectly caused by human activity.

Travel contributes to the carbon footprint mainly through CO2 emissions from means of transport such as planes, cars and ships. Air transport is particularly known for its high proportion of CO2 emissions per person and distance travelled. Fossil fuel vehicles are responsible for a significant proportion of greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming. In addition to transportation, travel activities can also impact the carbon footprint through energy consumption in accommodations, dining, water use, and other services. For example, energy-intensive luxury hotels may have a higher carbon footprint than greener alternatives.

However, there is also a growing awareness of sustainability in tourism and efforts to reduce the carbon footprint. Some ways to reduce the carbon footprint of travel include:

1. Choosing greener means of transport: Preferring to travel by train, bus or electric car instead of a plane or car can significantly reduce your carbon footprint.

2. Travel locally and sustainably: Supporting local economies and communities by avoiding overcrowded tourist attractions when traveling and opting for smaller operators and routes outside of the main tourist spots.

3. Emissions offsets: Many organizations offer the option of voluntarily offsetting the carbon footprint of travel. This is often done through financial contributions to projects that reduce CO2 emissions or capture carbon, such as planting trees or promoting renewable energy.

4. Energy-saving and environmentally friendly accommodation: Choosing accommodation with an emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainable practices can reduce the negative impact on the environment.

It is important that tourism continues to reduce its carbon footprint and find innovative ways to minimize negative environmental impacts. Collaboration between the travel industry, governments and individuals is key to achieving a more sustainable future for travel.

Positive attitude of entrepreneurs in the tourism industry

"Investment in sustainability paid off in the short term by saving water, energy and food costs. In addition, it will contribute to the creation of a better world in the long term."