Destinations need “a new model of management” to address the concerns of residents and the impacts of tourism on the environment, Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer has warned.
Addressing Abta’s Travel Matters policy conference in London on Tuesday, Tanzer noted recent protests against overtourism, primarily in Spain, and said: “These are by no means widespread, but they’re real.
“Tourism is a partnership between visitors and destinations, and the success of our members’ business depends on destinations thriving.”
More: Abta figures show outbound travel generated £51bn+ for UK plc
He said the protests “suggest destinations need a new model of management that measures and balances impacts on residents and the environment” and suggested: “Some destinations are already embarked on this journey, and we look forward to working with them to see how incoming visitors can play a role in that new model.”
Tanzer also noted the rising temperatures and “extreme weather events” around the world and said: “The continued viability of the travel industry needs us to demonstrate we’re taking action in the drive towards a low carbon future.”
He told Travel Weekly: “If we don’t demonstrate we’re capable of moving to a low carbon environment, the solution will be demand management.”
Tanzer referred to “how turbulent the world is right now”, but said: “We’re reassured by the support the government has expressed for building a sustainable aviation fuel [SAF] industry. We hope to see similar policy support to ensure progress on the transition of the cruise sector.”
He reported Abta’s latest research shows the outbound travel sector to be worth £51.6 billion to the UK economy, 5% up on 2019, and “forecast to grow faster than the wider economy” and said: “We need to ensure outbound travel is recognised for the contribution it makes.”
Instead, he said, increases in employers’ national insurance contributions and living wage rates announced in the recent Budget “will put acute pressure on already thin margins”.
Tanzer appealed for the industry to “be given time to adapt to changes in the way money is protected” when the government finally presents proposals on Atol reform.
Aviation minister Mike Kane hailed Abta as a “cornerstone of the travel industry” and told the conference: “It’s great to be talking to you, not in Opposition but in government.”
He noted “Atol has protected more passengers than ever before” this summer.
However, he said: “We must ensure financial resilience continues. My department and the CAA continue to explore the options [on Atol reform]. I ask for your patience. I know you’ve been waiting for this a long time.”
Kane pledged: “We will consider all the options and potential for flexibility. We hope to provide an update next year. We’ll ensure an adequate transition period.”
He noted the climate crisis “is upon us” and said: “My department is committed to the transition to green transport, and we’ll introduce a revenue certainty mechanism for investors in SAF in the new year.
“I can’t promise a future free of turbulence, but I can promise the government is here to support you. We recognise the contribution you and your industry make to our economy.”