edited by: Swati Chaturvedi
Last Update: January 30, 2023, 07:17 IST
Many people are choosing to travel closer to home by using public transport and renting a bicycle to reduce their carbon footprint.
According to the 2022 Sustainable Travel Research report by an online travel agency, 91% of Indian travelers plan to travel more sustainably next year
Sustainable tourism is gaining popularity among Indian travelers as they become more aware of the negative impact of over-tourism on destinations. Many people are choosing to travel closer to home by using public transport and renting a bicycle to reduce their carbon footprint. According to the 2022 Sustainable Travel Research Report by an online travel agency, 91% of Indian travelers plan to travel more sustainably in the next year, a 15% increase from 2021. Additionally, 94% consider sustainable travel to be an important aspect. their travel plans and 68% feel that news about climate change has affected their mindset towards sustainable tourism options. Rickant Pitti, Co-Founder, EaseMyTrip, explains how sustainable tourism is shaping travel.
essence of sustainable travel
Some of us may not be aware, but air travel is now one of the least sustainable modes of transport, producing unprecedented amounts of greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, several data points indicate that mass tourism poses a threat to the ecological resilience of many different places around the world.
Sustainable travel emphasizes environmentally conscious, sustainable tourism that does not degrade the natural environment. Such travel options reduce the harmful effects of tourism on the local ecological and social fabric. Ideally, the event stimulates the local economy and benefits the surrounding area. As awareness of this notion grows, 80% of Indian travelers claim to have stayed in a sustainable hotel in the last year, while 69% report that they actively seek information about a property’s sustainability initiatives before booking. Huh.
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Why sustainable tourism is a win-win for customers and corporates
Wherever you go, from the kitchen table to the executive suites, sustainability is the main topic of conversation. The global pandemic has caused pause for reflection and a reorganization of methods. This has given companies breathing room to introduce new ideas, shake things up and switch to more eco-friendly practices. Brands in the tourism industry will have the opportunity to promote their latest eco-friendly and comprehensive services. As a result, it’s important to take better care of the environment when you’re on the road while on vacation. The travel industry has a focus on sustainability, so it is looking for new and creative ways to reinvest in towns and destinations.
How to internalize a sustainable mindset
The journey towards sustainability is a long one, yet modest efforts can have significant results. Some simple practices, such as consuming locally sourced food, reducing the use of plastic waste, using the public transportation system, showing respect for native flora and fauna, choosing eco-friendly operators and accommodations, and buying locally Buying made souvenirs go a long way toward reducing one’s impact on the environment. Other strategies include preparing ahead of time, going off the usual road and changing different travel destinations, staying in one place for long periods of time, and most importantly, dressing up and behaving like a local. When you travel sustainably, you can gain a deeper understanding of the places you visit and the world you find yourself in.
Parting Assumption: Sustainability should be a staple
A large portion of customers are still unfamiliar with the concept, despite the fact that travelers are increasingly interested in eco-conscious places and accommodations. It would be beneficial if we could spread more information to a larger audience. The industry can greatly benefit from clearly articulated environmental policies, action plans, and a governance framework to support sustainability across all core company operations. Familiarizing customers with these practices will lead to the development of demand patterns, which will improve the industry’s ability to serve people and the environment. The tourism sector is well positioned to start this cycle of mutual benefit for companies, customers and the environment.
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