A coalition of travel non-profit organisations is calling for global industry action to support destinations vulnerable to climate change following release of a report entitled Climate Justice in Tourism.
The report, released today, notes 2023 was the hottest year on record and destinations are experiencing increasingly frequent and severe weather events.
It calls on the industry to act urgently to coordinate resources and ally with communities most at risk, and suggests a levy on frequent fliers, pointing out that 1% of the world’s population is responsible for more than half aviation emissions.
The findings are the conclusions of a collaboration between the UK-based Travel Foundation, the University of Waterloo, Tourism Cares, the Center for Responsible Travel (CREST) and Cuidadores de Destinos.
The report notes travel companies are increasing investment in climate action but concludes that plans published so far “show little evidence of action to address climate risks either to businesses or the communities where they operate”.
It suggests businesses which work with suppliers and the wider community in vulnerable destinations “are likely to emerge stronger, with resilient supply chains and enhanced reputations”, and urges tourism leaders to prioritise investments that “strengthen communities most dependent on tourism and most at risk from climate change”.
Dr Bobbie Chew Bigby, lead author of the report, said: “Climate action is partial if it ignores the unequal impacts and challenges of the climate emergency on supply chains, places and communities, and may even lead to unintentional harms.
“Aside from the clear social, ethical and environmental imperatives, our report highlights the business benefits and significant opportunities of taking a climate justice approach, as well as the mounting risks of not doing so.
“We hope this encourages action involving communities at the sharp end that are not currently being heard.”
The report makes 10 suggestions for “rapidly” scaling action on climate justice in tourism, including establishing a global climate fund to support green transitions and resilience-building in destinations.
It proposes pilot projects in destinations affected by heat stress and water scarcity, and suggests mobilising the travel industry as a first responder in times of crisis, supporting humanitarian agencies by repurposing hotels, kitchens, logistical expertise and other resources.
The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) welcomed the report, saying it raises “important questions”, and argued: “We must now collaborate and partner with communities to find answers and build a fairer future.”
The World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance described the report as “a beacon, guiding us towards a more equitable and resilient world”.
The report is available at climatejusticeintourism.org