A study of attitudes to water use found conflicting views among hoteliers and holidaymakers.
Dr Esteban Delgado, technical director of sustainable tourism consultancy and auditor Preverisk, reported on a survey of 400 tourists and 100 accommodation providers in the Balearics, Catalonia and the Occitania region of southern France. This aimed “to assess behaviour regarding water while on holiday, knowledge of water shortage and use, and awareness of water-saving technology”.
Most of the holidaymakers – from Spain, Germany, France, the UK and Italy – said they were aware of water-saving practices, but 71% reported a lack of information on saving water in destination. However, 70% of hoteliers said they recommended careful usage.
Four out of five hoteliers (83%) monitored water consumption, but only 18% monitored by type of use.
Delgado told the Abta conference: “We conclude there is plenty of room to improve.”