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What is responsible tourism and why does it matter?

Responsible tourism is a term we hear thrown about a lot these days, but what does it actually mean to be a responsible tourist? Who needs to be ‘responsible’ and why does responsible tourism matter?

There is no denying the increased recognition amongst tourism industry stakeholders and tourists when it comes to social and corporate responsibility, but the reality is that whilst most of us are familiar with the term ‘responsible tourism’, many of us do not know exactly what this entails…. so in this article I will explain all.

What is responsible tourism?

Responsible tourism definition

What is the difference between responsible tourism and sustainable tourism, the growth of responsible tourism.

Why is responsible tourism important?

How can we be responsible tourists?

How can the tourism industry be more responsible, footsteps ecolodge, the gambia, eden project, cornwall, reality tours and travel, india, dolphin discovery centre, western australia, rancho margot, costa rica, responsible tourism: key takeaways, responsible tourism faqs, responsible tourism: to conclude.

In recent years there has been a clear shift away from the desire to embark on a traditional package holiday , which focusses on the concept of sun, sea and sand towards more experiential travel . Nowadays, many consumers are in search of holidays that provide them with more than two weeks on the beach , and instead are seeking deeper immersive experiences, where there is a greater focus on sustainability. This is coupled with a general trend towards more sustainable living and a greater awareness of the impacts of our actions on society and the natural environment.

In essence, responsible tourism is tourism that exhibits responsible behaviour, both in terms of the tourist and their individual actions, but also in terms of the industry and how the tourism provision is managed. Responsible tourism has become an established area of tourism research and practice and a household term, however the term is somewhat subjective and poorly understood in some contexts.

The definition of responsible tourism, both in theory and practice, has been the subject of debate for many years. The problem lies with the inherent subjectivity surrounding the term responsible- what one person may think is ‘responsible behaviour’, another may not.

Whilst many academics and industry practitioners have attempted to define the term responsible tourism, the most referenced source when it comes to defining the term remains to be the Cape Town Declaration. The 2002 Cape Town Declaration characterises responsible tourism in terms of the following:

• minimising impacts
• generating economic benefits for host communities
• involving local people in decision making
• conserving natural and cultural heritage
• providing meaningful connections between tourists and local people
• being accessible and culturally sensitive

In other words, tourism should encompass aspects of the above in order to be considered ‘responsible’.

Harold Goodwin is one of the key authors who has written about responsible tourism. If you are studying responsible tourism I highly recommend that you cite him in your work! You can find his most recent book here .

Although the term responsible tourism does share much in common with sustainable tourism , ecotourism , ethical tourism and other related forms of socially-conscious tourism, it is NOT the same. This can be quite confusing because oftentimes the terms sustainable tourism and responsible tourism are used interchangeably, but they shouldn’t be.

As I explain in detail in my article on sustainable tourism , there are three pillars to sustainable tourism- the environment, society and the economy. The World Tourism Organisation prescribes that sustainable tourism should:

• Make optimal use of environmental resources that constitute a key element in tourism development, maintaining essential ecological processes and helping to conserve natural heritage and biodiversity.
• Respect the socio-cultural authenticity of host communities, conserve their built and living cultural heritage and traditional values, and contribute to inter-cultural understanding and tolerance.
• Ensure viable, long-term economic operations, providing socio-economic benefits to all stakeholders that are fairly distributed, including stable employment and income-earning opportunities and social services to host communities, and contributing to poverty alleviation. 

Whilst there are clear aims of sustainable tourism, when it comes to responsible tourism the definition is a bit more loose, without such transparent prerequisites and instead relying on the premise of simply ‘being responsible’. In other words, responsible tourism will often encompass the elements noted above, but these are not essential.

The concept of responsible tourism may be in the public mind more now than ever before, but it isn’t new. The vision of a more responsible form of tourism was discussed at length back in the 1980s and became an important element within the fast emerging concept of sustainable tourism. More than twenty five years ago it was noted that the industry would have to adopt more environmentally orientated and socially responsible practices, yet this has only really become prominent in the past decade.

According to a study undertaken by Booking.com in 2020, over half (53%) of tourists around the world want to travel more sustainably in the future. The company, along with many other industry professionals-myself included- expects to see a more eco-conscious mindset in future years. Whilst there was a general shift towards a more sustainable mindset anyway, this was amplified by the COVID pandemic, as coronavirus amped people’s awareness of their impact on the environment and local communities.

Nowadays, the label of ‘responsible tourism’ is by far the most well-used sustainability-focussed term throughout the travel and tourism industry. In fact, a study undertaken in 2009 by SNV suggests that tour operators are almost five times as likely to use the term ‘responsible tourism’ than any other similar label (e.g. ecotourism, sustainable tourism, ethical tourism). Sadly, the subjectivity of the term does allow room for the term itself to be used exploited and for greenwashing to occur, but that’s a discussion for another day.

The UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili stated , quite rightly, that:

‘ Sustainability must no longer be a niche part of tourism but the new norm for every part of our sector. That means an opportunity to build back better and create and industry that is more resilient and aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals . ‘

The tourism industry is arguably the biggest industry in the world and it has been growing at a rapid rate over the past few decades. Unfortunately, as the industry has grown around the world, so have the negative impacts that it causes. Whilst the pandemic has been a disaster for the tourism industry and those whose livelihoods depend on it, it has also presented us with a unique opportunity to fix what was/is broken.

From the depths of the Amazon jungle to the Australian outback, there are few places in the world that have escaped the burgeoning growth of the travel and tourism industry. Unfortunately, in many cases, this has come at the expense of natural resources, local economies and indigenous populations. Responsible tourism is all about minimising these negative impacts (think erosion, littering, rises in crime, deterioration of authenticity , economic leakage and so on) and capitalising on the good stuff- the economic benefits, the preservation of natural areas and the promotion of culture and heritage, amongst other positive impacts of tourism.

Ultimately, if we want to preserve the very things that it is we are going to see (the beach, the mountain, the wildlife etc) for future generations, then we need to behave responsibly and sustainably- that’s why responsible tourism isn’t just important- it’s imperative.

We all need to think about the impacts that our actions have on the world around us. Yes, it is extremely difficult (if possible at all) to be 100% responsible for 100% of the time. BUT, there are many things that we CAN do to help to protect and preserve the environment, society and the economy. You can read a detailed account of how to be an ethical tourist here , but for now I will list a few subtle changes that you can make to help be a more responsible tourist when you travel:

• Don’t buy animal souvenirs
• Avoid unethical wildlife tourism
• Don’t drop litter
• Don’t touch coral
• Try slow tourism 
• Opt for eco-friendly transportation options 
• Turn off the lights
• Try ecotourism
• Avoid plastic
• Recycle 
• Don’t waste water
• Stick to main paths
• Limit economic leakage where you can
• Haggle fairly
• Learn the local language 
• Be respectful of local customs and traditions 
• Don’t give to beggars
• Treat people fairly 
• Avoid sex tourism 
• Don’t take photos of people without their permission 

A key aspect to ensuring sustainable tourism is achieved is through careful planning and management. Tourism industry stakeholders at all levels, ranging from the taxi driver and hotel staff at grass roots level, through to international organisations and national Government, have an obligation to facilitate responsible tourism. There are many examples of what responsible behaviour from the tourism industry might look like in practice, but here are a few to give you an idea:

• Hire local staff
• Use local products and services to minimise economic leakage
• Use ethical marketing and promotion
• Involve the local community in decision making
• Have a strong sense of corporate social responsibility
• Use environmentally friendly products and services
• Limited economic leakage
• Educate workers
• Offer training and development opportunities for staff
• Work together with other industry stakeholders

Examples of responsible tourism

There are examples of responsible tourism from all over the world! However, to give you an idea of what responsible tourism looks like in practice, I have given a few examples for you below. (Note- these can also be classified as examples of sustainable tourism .)

My first example of sustainable tourism is Footsteps Ecolodge , which I visited back in 2010.

David, the Founder of Footsteps Ecolodge expresses how when he took a relatively cheap trip to The Gambia, he discovered that the staff at his booked hotel were only earning on average £1 per day. David felt guilty for enjoying a holiday knowing that the locals were receiving little or no economic benefits at all from hosting him.

David went on to develop Footsteps Ecolodge, with a mission to improve The Gambia’s trade through responsible tourism and therefore encourages sustainable development. In fact, one of his goals has led footsteps to employ only from the local village and buy only local produce.

I loved visiting this ecolodge. It has many environmentally friendly initiatives, ranging from solar powered electricity to composting toilets. It is based far away from the main tourist areas, providing a unique and authentic holiday experience. After spending a few days in the main tourist resort of Kotu, I was happy to exchange the evening chatter in the restaurants for the humming of grasshoppers and the beach bar music for the gentle sounds of waves.

You can book a stay at Footsteps Ecolodge here .

The Eden Project is another great example of sustainable tourism.

It was built to demonstrate the importance of plants to people and to promote the understanding of vital relationships between plants and people. It is a huge complex that welcomes a wide range of tourists from the UK and overseas. In 2017, the project attracted more than o ne million visitors.

The project in fact has annual sustainability reports, monitoring its sustainable impact year on year.

You can find out more about the Eden Project in this video.

Reality Tours and Travel’s mission is to provide authentic and thought-provoking local experiences through their tours and to use the profits to create change in Indian communities.

Reality Tours and Travel is a social catalyst and works towards profit sharing programs. 80% of their profits go directly to Reality Gives which runs high quality education programs in areas where their tours work.

Reality Tours and Travel  now welcomes over 15,000 guests each year and employs over 50 members of staff. Here is a bit more information about the work that they do.

The Dolphin Discovery Centre begun when Mrs Evelyn Smith begun to feed a group of dolphins near her home. Following her discovery of the dolphin grouping, specialists were brought in to monitor and study the local dolphins.

A few years later, the Dolphin Discovery Centre allowed tourists and community members to interact with the dolphins in hope they would understand and enjoy the marine mammals.

In brief, the Dolphin Discovery Centre Adopt a Dolphin Program supports the conservation of dolphins and the broader marine environment.

To date, the Dolphin Discovery Centre not only conserves dolphins, the centre also conserves turtles too. Learn more on adopting a dolphin or turtle with the Dolphin Discovery Centre  here.

Ranch Margot is exactly what it sounds, a ranch located in Costa Rica. It all begun in 2004 when the founder of Rancho Margot, Juan Sostheim, purchased 400 acres of pasture. Despite the land being cleared of all vegetation, Juan Sostheim had a vision to grow sustainable food and raising animals.

Today, Rancho Margot focuses specifically on sustainable production and living, from the food they delivery to their energy production and the transportation used. Read more on Rancho Margot  here.

Rancho Margot’s sustainable mission is in keeping with the Brundtland Report.

“To achieve and maintain sustainable operations, we work to find better ways to satisfy our needs without compromising future generations​”

Whilst I didn’t get a chance got visit Rancho Margot during  our travels through Costa Rica , it does look like a fantastic place to go and a great example of sustainable tourism.

Now that we know a bit more about what responsible tourism is and how it works, lets summarise the key takeaways:

• Responsible tourism involves making ethical and sustainable choices when traveling.
• It is important to respect local cultures, traditions, and customs when visiting a new place.
• Supporting local communities by buying locally-made products and using locally-owned businesses can have a positive impact on the local economy.
• Minimising your carbon footprint by using eco-friendly transportation options and reducing waste can help reduce the impact of tourism on the environment.
• Being mindful of the impact of your visit on the local environment and taking steps to minimise damage, such as not littering or damaging natural habitats, is important.
• Learning about the history and culture of the destination you are visiting can help you appreciate and respect it more.
• Engaging in ethical wildlife tourism , such as visiting sanctuaries and conservation centres, can help support animal welfare and conservation efforts.
• Respecting the privacy and dignity of local people is important when taking photographs or engaging in other tourist activities.
• Supporting responsible tourism organisations and initiatives can help promote sustainable and ethical tourism practices.
• Ultimately, responsible tourism involves making conscious and informed decisions that benefit the destination and its people, while minimising negative impacts on the environment and local communities.

Lastly, lets finish off this article by answering some of the most common questions on this topic.

Responsible tourism is a type of tourism that aims to promote ethical and sustainable practices that benefit local communities and minimise negative impacts on the environment.

Responsible tourism is important because it helps promote sustainable and ethical practices in the tourism industry, which can benefit both the environment and local communities.

How can I engage in responsible tourism?

You can engage in responsible tourism by being mindful of your impact on the environment and local communities, supporting local businesses, and engaging in ethical and sustainable tourism practices.

What are some examples of responsible tourism practices?

Examples of responsible tourism practices include buying locally-made products, using eco-friendly transportation options, supporting wildlife conservation efforts, and respecting local cultures and traditions.

How can tourism negatively impact local communities?

Tourism can negatively impact local communities through overdevelopment, cultural commodification , and economic exploitation.

Can responsible tourism benefit local communities?

Yes, responsible tourism can benefit local communities by supporting local businesses and creating job opportunities.

What is eco-tourism?

Eco-tourism is a type of responsible tourism that focuses on visiting natural areas in a way that is environmentally friendly and supports conservation efforts.

Can responsible tourism help reduce the negative impact of tourism on the environment ?

Yes, responsible tourism can help reduce the negative impact of tourism on the environment by promoting sustainable practices such as reducing waste and using eco-friendly transportation options.

Is responsible tourism more expensive than traditional tourism?

Responsible tourism may not necessarily be more expensive than traditional tourism, as it depends on the specific activities and accommodations chosen.

What is the role of governments and tourism organisations in promoting responsible tourism?

Governments and tourism organisations have a role in promoting responsible tourism by creating policies and guidelines that encourage sustainable and ethical practices , and by educating tourists on responsible tourism practices.

As you can see, responsible tourism is very important to ensure that the tourism industry is sustainable. To learn more about this, visit the articles listed below:

• Ethical tourism: Everything you need to know
• Agritourism: What, where and why
• The rise of revenge tourism
• Educational tourism: Everything you need to know

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• Travel Tips

What Is Responsible Tourism?

Published: December 12, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Willow Carpenter

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• Sustainability

Introduction

In recent years, the concept of responsible tourism has gained significant traction in the travel industry. As travelers become more aware of the impact their choices have on the environment, local communities, and cultural heritage, there is a growing demand for a more sustainable and ethical approach to travel. Responsible tourism, also known as sustainable tourism or eco-tourism, seeks to minimize the negative impacts of tourism while maximizing the positive benefits.

Responsible tourism goes beyond simply minimizing one’s carbon footprint or supporting local economies. It encompasses a commitment to preserving and respecting the natural and cultural heritage of destinations, promoting social inclusivity, and fostering economic development in local communities. It aims to create a balance between the needs of travelers, the environment, and local residents, creating a more harmonious and mutually beneficial relationship.

This article will delve into the definition of responsible tourism, explore its principles, highlight its benefits, discuss the challenges in implementing responsible tourism, and provide examples of responsible tourism practices.

By understanding and practicing responsible tourism, travelers can contribute to the preservation of our planet’s ecosystems, support local businesses and communities, and engage in meaningful cultural exchanges. Whether you are an avid adventurer, a cultural enthusiast, or a leisure traveler, incorporating responsible tourism principles into your travel habits can make a significant difference in preserving our world for future generations.

Definition of Responsible Tourism

Responsible tourism can be broadly defined as a way of traveling that takes into consideration the environmental, social, and economic impacts of tourism activities. It is a concept that encourages travelers to make conscious choices that minimize harm to the environment and benefit local communities and cultures.

At its core, responsible tourism is about creating a positive impact on the destinations visited. This involves being aware of and respecting the natural environment, supporting local businesses, and engaging in cultural exchanges that are respectful and authentic.

Responsible tourism also encompasses the idea of sustainable development, ensuring that the needs of present travelers are met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It recognizes the interconnectedness of the environment, economy, and society and seeks to find a harmonious balance among them.

One of the key aspects of responsible tourism is the concept of “leave no trace.” This means minimizing the environmental footprint by taking steps such as reducing waste, conserving resources, and practicing responsible wildlife viewing and conservation. It also involves respecting the cultural and historical heritage of a destination and making an effort to engage with local communities in a sensitive and respectful manner.

Responsible tourism also encourages travelers to support local economies by staying in locally-owned accommodations, eating at local restaurants, and purchasing locally-made products. By doing so, travelers can contribute directly to the economic development of the communities they visit and help create sustainable livelihoods for local residents.

In essence, responsible tourism goes beyond being a passive observer or consumer and instead encourages active participation and engagement with local communities, cultures, and environments. It is about traveling with a sense of responsibility, awareness, and empathy, and leaving a positive and lasting impact on the places we visit.

Principles of Responsible Tourism

Responsible tourism is guided by a set of principles that help shape the actions and behaviors of travelers and the tourism industry. These principles provide a framework for creating a more sustainable and responsible approach to travel. While the specific principles may vary, depending on the source and context, there are a few common principles that are widely recognized in responsible tourism practices:

• Sustainability: The principle of sustainability is at the heart of responsible tourism. It emphasizes the need to minimize negative impacts on the environment, conserve natural resources, and protect biodiversity, while promoting social and economic well-being for local communities.
• Community Engagement: Responsible tourism encourages travelers to engage with local communities and cultures in a respectful and meaningful way. This involves learning about and respecting local customs and traditions, supporting local businesses and initiatives, and fostering cultural exchanges that promote mutual understanding and appreciation.
• Environmental Conservation: Responsible tourism aims to minimize harm to the environment by practicing sustainable and eco-friendly behaviors. This includes reducing waste and pollution, conserving water and energy, and supporting initiatives that promote environmental conservation and protection.
• Respect for Local Laws and Customs: Travelers engaged in responsible tourism understand and respect the laws and customs of the destinations they visit. This includes following local regulations, respecting sacred sites, and being mindful of cultural sensitivities.
• Support for Local Economies: Responsible tourism seeks to benefit local communities by supporting local businesses, such as accommodations, restaurants, and craft industries. By purchasing locally-made products and using local services, travelers can contribute to the economic development of the destination and create sustainable livelihoods for local residents.
• Education and Awareness: Responsible tourism promotes education and awareness among travelers, tour operators, and local communities. This includes providing information and resources to help travelers make responsible choices, raising awareness about the importance of sustainable practices, and promoting cultural and environmental education initiatives.

By adhering to these principles, travelers can play a significant role in preserving and protecting the destinations they visit, while also creating a positive impact on the local communities and the environment.

Benefits of Responsible Tourism

Responsible tourism offers numerous benefits for both travelers and the destinations they visit. By choosing to travel responsibly, individuals can have a positive impact on the environment, local communities, and cultural heritage. Here are some key benefits of responsible tourism:

• Preservation of the environment: Responsible tourism practices help minimize the negative impact of travel on the environment. By practicing sustainable behaviors such as reducing waste, conserving resources, and supporting eco-friendly initiatives, travelers contribute to the preservation of natural habitats, biodiversity, and ecosystems.
• Social and economic empowerment: Responsible tourism can greatly benefit local communities by supporting local businesses and creating sustainable livelihoods. By staying in locally-owned accommodations, eating at local restaurants, and purchasing locally-made products, travelers directly contribute to the economic development of the destination. This helps create employment opportunities, reduce poverty, and empower local residents.
• Cultural exchange and understanding: Responsible tourism encourages travelers to engage with local communities and cultures in a respectful and meaningful way. This fosters cultural exchange, promotes mutual understanding and respect, and helps preserve traditional customs and practices. It provides travelers with a deeper and more authentic travel experience, allowing them to learn from and appreciate different cultural perspectives.
• Environmental education: Responsible tourism encourages travelers to learn about and appreciate the natural environment of the destinations they visit. By participating in eco-friendly activities, such as nature walks, wildlife conservation projects, or responsible diving practices, travelers gain a better understanding of the importance of environmental conservation and become advocates for sustainable practices in their own lives.
• Avoiding overtourism: Responsible tourism promotes a more sustainable approach to travel by encouraging travelers to visit lesser-known destinations or off-peak times. This helps distribute the economic benefits of tourism more evenly, reduces the strain on popular tourist destinations, and mitigates overtourism, which can lead to environmental degradation and cultural erosion.

Overall, responsible tourism allows travelers to not only explore the world but also make a positive difference. By engaging in responsible practices, individuals can contribute to the preservation of natural and cultural heritage, support local communities, and ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of our planet.

Challenges in Implementing Responsible Tourism

While responsible tourism offers numerous benefits, there are several challenges that need to be addressed in order to effectively implement it. These challenges stem from various factors, including lack of awareness, economic considerations, and infrastructure limitations. Here are some of the main challenges faced in implementing responsible tourism:

• Lack of awareness and education: One of the key challenges is the lack of awareness and understanding among travelers, tour operators, and local communities about the principles and practices of responsible tourism. Many people may not be aware of the negative impacts of tourism or the potential benefits of responsible practices. Education and awareness campaigns are needed to promote responsible tourism and encourage widespread adoption.
• Economic considerations: Implementing responsible tourism practices may require additional investment and resources, which can be a challenge for small businesses or developing destinations. It may involve making changes to infrastructure, adopting sustainable practices, and training staff, all of which require financial resources. Finding a balance between economic viability and sustainability can be a challenge, but it is crucial to ensure the long-term success of responsible tourism.
• Lack of government support and regulation: The absence of government support and regulation can hinder the implementation of responsible tourism practices. Governments play a crucial role in setting policies, enforcing regulations, and promoting sustainable tourism initiatives. Without clear guidelines and support from authorities, it can be difficult for businesses and communities to prioritize responsible practices.
• Infrastructure limitations: In some destinations, the lack of appropriate infrastructure, such as waste management systems, sustainable transportation options, and recycling facilities, can pose challenges for implementing responsible tourism. Improving infrastructure to support sustainable practices may require significant investment and coordination between various stakeholders.
• Cultural and social considerations: Balancing the preservation of cultural heritage and the needs of local communities with the demands of tourism can be complex. Responsible tourism requires respecting local traditions and customs, supporting community-led initiatives, and ensuring that tourism does not negatively impact the cultural identity and social fabric of a destination. Achieving this balance can be a challenge, especially in highly popular tourist destinations.

Addressing these challenges requires collaboration and commitment from various stakeholders, including governments, businesses, local communities, and travelers themselves. By recognizing and working towards overcoming these obstacles, responsible tourism can become more mainstream and have a broader positive impact on the environment, communities, and cultural heritage.

Examples of Responsible Tourism Practices

Responsible tourism can take many forms, and there are numerous examples of practices that individuals, businesses, and destinations can adopt to promote sustainability and ethical travel. Here are some examples of responsible tourism practices:

• Supporting local communities: Travelers can support local communities by staying in locally-owned accommodations, dining at local restaurants, and purchasing locally-made products. This ensures that the economic benefits of tourism are shared with the local population, promoting sustainable livelihoods and empowering communities.
• Respecting cultural heritage: Responsible travelers engage with local cultures and heritage in a respectful and meaningful way. This can involve participating in cultural activities, respecting sacred sites, and learning about local customs and traditions. By doing so, travelers not only enrich their own travel experiences but also contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage.
• Protecting the environment: Travelers can minimize their impact on the environment by practicing sustainable behaviors. This includes reducing waste, conserving resources, and supporting initiatives that promote environmental conservation. Examples include using reusable water bottles, avoiding single-use plastics, and participating in beach clean-ups.
• Supporting wildlife conservation: Responsible travelers seek out wildlife experiences that prioritize the well-being and protection of animals. This can involve choosing ethical wildlife sanctuaries and conservation projects that promote animal welfare and environmental sustainability. Responsible travelers also follow guidelines for responsible wildlife viewing, such as maintaining a safe distance and not disturbing the animals’ natural behavior.
• Responsible trekking and hiking: For outdoor enthusiasts, responsible trekking and hiking practices are crucial to minimize environmental impact. This includes sticking to designated trails, avoiding littering, and respecting wildlife and plant life. Additionally, it is important to book with responsible tour operators that prioritize environmental sustainability and support local communities.
• Reducing carbon footprint: Travelers can reduce their carbon footprint by choosing eco-friendly transportation options, such as taking public transportation or cycling, and opting for accommodations that have implemented energy-saving practices. Additionally, carbon offset programs can be utilized to compensate for the emissions generated during travel.
• Engaging in voluntourism: Voluntourism allows travelers to contribute to local communities through meaningful volunteer work. This can involve activities such as teaching English, building sustainable infrastructure, or participating in environmental restoration projects. It is essential to engage in voluntourism through reputable organizations that ensure positive and sustainable impacts on the local communities.
• Supporting sustainable tourism certifications: Look for accommodations, tour operators, and destinations that have obtained recognized sustainability certifications, such as Green Globe or Travelife certification. These certifications ensure that the businesses and destinations adhere to specific sustainability criteria and have implemented responsible practices.

By incorporating these examples of responsible tourism practices into our travel routines, we can make a positive impact on the environment, support local communities, and create a more sustainable and ethical approach to travel.

Responsible tourism is more than just a trend; it is a necessary and conscientious approach to travel that considers the well-being of the environment, local communities, and cultural heritage. As travelers, we have the power to shape the future of tourism by making responsible choices and supporting sustainable practices.

Throughout this article, we have explored the definition of responsible tourism, the principles it encompasses, the benefits it offers, the challenges in its implementation, and examples of responsible tourism practices. From supporting local communities and protecting the environment to respecting cultural heritage and reducing our carbon footprint, responsible tourism encompasses a wide range of actions that can have a positive impact on destinations around the world.

Implementing responsible tourism practices may come with its challenges, such as lack of awareness, economic considerations, and infrastructure limitations. However, by working together – travelers, businesses, governments, and local communities – we can overcome these challenges and create a sustainable tourism industry that benefits everyone involved.

By choosing responsible tourism, we can create a more harmonious relationship between tourism and the environment, preserving the natural wonders that make our planet unique. We can support local economies, empowering communities and ensuring that tourism brings long-term benefits. And, importantly, we can foster cultural exchange and understanding, celebrating the diversity of human heritage.

As responsible travelers, it is our duty to educate ourselves, make informed choices, and encourage others to do the same. By adopting responsible tourism practices, we can travel the world with a sense of purpose, leaving a positive impact on the places we visit.

So, let us embark on our future travels with a commitment to responsible tourism, forging a path towards a more sustainable and responsible travel industry, one journey at a time.

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Responsible Tourism is what we do to make tourism more sustainable, it is about how we use tourism to create sustainable development to benefit communities and destinations

Responsible tourism news monthly.

Sabre is now sponsoring the Global Responsible Tourism Awards™ There are six categories in 2024:    (1) Making Travel Inclusive (2) Championing Cultural Diversity (3) Nature Positive (4) What are you doing about Climate Change? (5)  Increasing local sourcing- Creating shared value (6) Employing and Upskilling Local Communities. Gold winners in each regional awards programme automatically enter the Global Awards. There is further information about the 2024 […]

Sabre is now sponsoring the Global Responsible Tourism Awards™ There are six categories in 2024:    (1) Making Travel Inclusive (2) Championing Cultural Diversity (3) Nature Positive (4) What are you doing about Climate Change? (5)  Increasing local sourcing- Creating shared value (6) Employing and Upskilling Local Communities. Gold winners in each regional awards programme automatically enter the Global Awards. The Rest of the World Awards are […]

Sabre is now sponsoring the Global Responsible Tourism Awards™ There are six categories in 2024:    (1) Making Travel Inclusive (2) Championing Cultural Diversity (3) Nature Positive (4) What are you doing about Climate Change? (5)  Increasing local sourcing- Creating shared value (6) Employing and Upskilling Local Communities. Gold winners in each regional awards programme automatically enter the Global Awards. The Rest of the World Awards […]

Sabre is now sponsoring the Global Responsible Tourism Awards. There are six categories in 2024:    (1) Making Travel Inclusive (2) Championing Cultural Diversity (3) Nature Positive (4) What are you doing about Climate Change? (5)  Increasing local sourcing- Creating shared value (6) Employing and Upskilling Local Communities. Gold winners in each regional awards programme automatically enter the Global Awards. The ICRT India Foundation Awards  are open until June 30th enter […]

Sabre is now sponsoring the Global Responsible Tourism Awards. There are six categories in 2024:    (1) Making Travel Inclusive (2) Championing Cultural Diversity (3) Nature Positive (4) What are you doing about Climate Change? (5)  Increasing local sourcing- Creating shared value (6) Employing and Upskilling Local Communities. Gold winners in each regional awards programme automatically enter the Global Awards. The Africa Regional Responsible Tourism Awards are open; they close […]

The 2022 Responsible Tourism Charter points out that responsibility drives sustainability, lists the most significant issues that need to be addressed, and asserts the importance of transparent reporting to demonstrate what is being achieved and avoid greenwashing. Responsible Tourism is about using tourism to make better places for people to live and better places for […]

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CREST’s programs and research are designed to actively address four key threats to securing a sustainable future. 

Responding to the Climate Crisis

The growing threat of climate change makes responsible travel more important than ever, especially as we responsibly recover from this global pandemic.

Conserving Biodiversity and Cultural Heritage

Biodiversity and cultural heritage throughout the world are at risk due to extractive industries and short-sighted tourism models. Responsible tourism can play a critical role in conservation, protecting plant and animal life, and supporting communities to preserve their cultures, traditions, and livelihoods.

Addressing Overtourism

A strain on local environments, resources, and cultures, overtourism pre-COVID was a burden on communities around the world. A responsible recovery requires innovative tools and strategies to avoid the pitfalls of overtourism and put the focus on the quality of visitation, not the quantity of visitors.

Narrowing the Wealth Gap

As tourism rebuilds, we need to ensure that it is done so in a just, equitable, and responsible way by promoting fairer income distribution, maximizing local economic benefits through tourism, and advocating for workers.

Transforming Our Inner & Outer Worlds Through Travel

What is responsible tourism.

Responsible tourism by definition is “tourism that minimises negative social, economic and environmental impacts and generates greater economic benefits for local people.”

You may have already heard the term being used in a different context e.g. sustainable tourism, ethical travel, responsible travel, impact travel – all these terms are used to explain travel that has a positive impact rather than a negative one.

The tourism industry is a trillion-dollar industry and accounts for 10% of global GDP. That is a pretty huge industry and one that can have both positive and negative effects on people and the environment. The effects of tourism can sway depending on the implementation of responsible tourism.

In this blog, I focus on sharing ways we can travel responsibly and the resources to do so. Since the blog began back in 2015 the concept of responsible tourism has grown dramatically, with communities around the world committing to making it easier for us to be responsible travellers.

One of the main reasons I love responsible tourism is because it is an industry where there is less room for inequality. For example, the onus is on the traveller when it comes to the decision about where they want to spend their money. You can spend thousands of dollars on a hotel room or choose to spend that money in a small community homestay. This gives the opportunity for community development. If the traveller chooses the homestay then there is also a chance they will eat lunch at a nearby restaurant, or shop in a local store – again, the distribution of money becomes fairer.

Related reading:  17 Things You Can Change to Reduce Your Impact on the Environment While Overlanding [INFOGRAPHIC]

Responsible tourism also branches out into environmental impact as well. For example, travel that contributes to conservation, not destruction; travel that does not exploit or harm animals , and travel that leaves as little impact on the environment as possible. For more information about this visit my page about sustainable travel .

Thank you to Mad Monkey Hostels for providing this great infographic that provides some simple ways to be a more responsible traveller.

Responsible tourism post-pandemic

The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic almost debilitated the tourism industry. Having spent the past five years sharing stories of those whose lives had been so positively impacted by tourism it was hard to see this industry – which so many relied upon – come to a blinding halt.  Just as the topic of responsible tourism started to gain traction, the world was left wondering, where to next?

I spoke with responsible tourism expert JoAnna Haugen in a recent podcast interview about this exact topic. 

“To be sure, there are calls for the industry to return back to “normal” as quickly as possible. “Normal” being a pre-pandemic level of intensity defined by over-tourism , communities overly dependent on travellers, and environmental damage accelerated by flying . But for those calling on the industry to build back better, the question is: What does that mean? What does that look like? And what does that require?”

Listen to our interview below:

Related reading: Adopting a Tourism Model Focused on Regeneration Requires Rethinking KPIs

Related reading: The biggest travel trends for 2024, as predicted by industry insiders

Other Responsible Tourism resources

In this episode , I speak with the former Sustainability Manager of Withlocals – a platform that connects people and cultures through unique and memorable travel experiences with people, places, and the planet in mind.

In this episode , I speak with Chris Christou – a writer, educational curator, activist and founder of the End of Tourism Podcast . We discuss gentrification, exile, capitalism, tourism and radical hospitality – how they are all interrelated. Read the article here .

Travelling soon?

Before you go: Travelling offers a gateway to incredible experiences, but unexpected situations can arise. Our travel insurance and money management partners offer the protection you need while embracing local tourism: – SafetyWing , for long-term travel insurance that starts at $42 per month. – Revolut , for managing international payments with ease. – Wise , for the most affordable currency conversion fees and a virtual card that you can top-up in seconds. When considering flights, you can utilise platforms like Skyscanner or Kiwi to compare flight costs and identify flights that minimise your carbon emissions. Additionally, if you are able, you can offset your flight’s environmental impact through Offset . Recommendations: Here are some companies offering sustainable and responsible tours and experiences: – G-Adventures , for small group travel with locally based guides, supporting local communities. – Tripaneer , for wellness experiences and retreats. – Get Your Guide , for day trips and short trips. Need to learn a language fast? Try Preply – it’s like Fiverr for language exchange. Want free accommodation options? Look after pets while you travel the world with Trusted Housesitters .

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What is Responsible Tourism and Why You Should Care

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What is responsible tourism, you ask? Well, you may have heard of ethical tourism, ecotourism, and sustainable tourism. Or perhaps someone else mentioned why they are essential too. However, responsible tourism is not as widely discussed. As a result, it often falls under the radar, until now. 

Ethical tourism, responsible tourism, ecotourism, and sustainable tourism are similar yet different. Each type of tourism combines traveling and learning how to be more mindful travelers. But responsible tourism can be all-encompassing and does not have to stop when you return home. 

Engaging in responsible tourism is not new. And there are many responsible tourism examples and practices out there. So here’s a breakdown of responsible tourism and why you should care about being a responsible tourist .

Table of Contents

What is responsible tourism?

Tourism itself is one of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to help stimulate economies worldwide. Whether it is a sustainable way to do so is still up for debate. But people have been trying to make it happen.

According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), responsible tourism is about respecting the world and its differences, no matter how we travel. Advancements pre the COVID-19 pandemic made travel more accessible. As a result, more people were traveling than ever before, from ridiculously cheap flights to the rise of the hotel-alternative Airbnb . 

But what is the impact of more accessible travel? What happens when overtourism occurs in tourist hotspots? How do we minimize people being displaced by tourism? These are the questions responsible tourism seeks to answer and provide new approaches. 

Responsible tourism is about minimizing the social, economic, and environmental effects of tourism on destinations worldwide. It is about making travel more sustainable for locals and tourists alike. Responsible travel is our duty, in any way that we can, as we explore.

Understanding the differences between responsible tourism, ethical tourism, sustainable tourism, and ecotourism

Responsible tourism, ethical tourism, sustainable tourism, and ecotourism are often lumped together. They are used interchangeably to describe the impact of tourism practices. And yes, they do sound the same. Yet, they are different.

Ethical tourism is meant to encourage tourists and tourism operators to evaluate our decisions and the ethical implications of our actions. Ethics of tourism often arise with animal tourism and the animal abuse that occurs. But ethical tourism also refers to thinking about the local people in tourist destinations and how tourism affects their lives. 

Sustainable tourism encompasses some principles of responsible tourism. However, the UNWTO divides sustainable tourism into three detailed parts. They are as follows:

– Make optimal use of environmental resources that constitute a key element in tourism development, maintaining essential ecological processes, and helping to conserve natural heritage and biodiversity .

– Respect the socio-cultural authenticity of host communities , conserve their built and living cultural heritage and traditional values, and contribute to inter-cultural understanding and tolerance.

– Ensure viable, long-term economic operations, providing socio-economic benefits to all stakeholders that are fairly distributed, including stable employment and income-earning opportunities and social services to host communities, and contributing to poverty alleviation.

Shortened from ecological tourism to ecotourism, it is closest in definition and practice to sustainable tourism. However, each one is distinct. Ecotourism leans more into the environmental implications of tourism. It primarily refers to learning from and observing nature while traveling. 

Ecotourism focuses on local organizations leading tourism in their natural environments. Ecotourism also concentrates on conservation and understanding the cultural significance of natural habitats. In some cases where countries need the natural environment to survive, they require tourists to sign an ecotourism pledge.

Responsible tourism essentially encompasses practices from ethical tourism, sustainable tourism, and ecotourism.  However, responsible travel has a slightly broader focus. Similar to the Tourism 4 SDGs , responsible tourism touches on multiple lanes of other types of tourism. 

However, for more in-depth knowledge and context of the environment, one may use sustainable tourism or ecotourism. And for questions of conduct and ethics, while traveling, some would refer solely to ethical tourism. It truly depends on the audience and the discussion!

Why is responsible tourism important to travelers?

Responsible travel goes beyond our visit to a destination. Responsible tourism can transform how we view ourselves and others. When you travel with a responsible tourism mindset, your adventures stay with you long after your trip.

Intercultural understanding is also vital to responsible tourism and conscious traveling . Our adventures enhance this intercultural understanding by bringing people together. Often, we meet people who would not have the opportunity to get to know otherwise. These experiences can happen in a cooking class while you learn about local cuisine or during a conversation at a market. 

Responsible tourism encourages these encounters for us to have a more immersive experience. We are moved to engage with locals and other travelers. However, responsible tourism is also about reciprocity. As responsible travelers, we must not forget that either.

While intercultural understanding can be one benefit, there are others to consider that de-center tourists’ transformation. Luckily, the World Travel & Tourism Council has compiled why responsible tourism is vital to local communities. Their list includes:

• A better community for residents that can be reinvested in local economics
• Create lots of jobs (pre-COVID 1 in 10 people were employed in tourism)
• Promotes more creativity and entrepreneurship for locally-owned small businesses
• Access to opportunities for people of historically underinvested populations (women, Black and brown people, disabled people, etc.)
• Preserves the cultural heritage of destinations as 40% of people identify as “cultural tourists”
• Revitalize and preserve wildlife, restrict illegal poaching, and promote conservation
• Encourage more sustainable technology and innovation

The list that the World Travel & Tourism Council compiled was a start. And there are still questions of the economic sustainability of tourism after the COVID-19 pandemic. However, responsible tourism is evolving just as often as we are in society. Moreover, each country has its own cultural and historical traditions. Therefore each destination’s concept of responsible tourism can vary.

Responsible tourism examples

Due to the cultural diversity of each destination, responsible tourism is not a one size fit all situation. However, for some examples of responsible tourism practices, check out how these destinations view the sector. They are fascinating, innovative, and promote the responsible tourism we want to see.

Hawai’i

Though branded as a paradise for tourists, there is more than meets the eye with Hawai’i . Native Hawaiians will tell you this too. It is known as the endangered species capital of the world. They also are under illegal occupation by the United States, which you can learn about from this documentary called Act of War . Remember understanding a destination’s history is part of being a responsible traveler!

But Hawaiians are trying to reclaim the narrative of Hawai’i’s tourism. The book Detours: A Decolonial Guide to Hawai’i outlines more of this history and is written by Native Hawaiians. More resources such as the Sustainable Tourism Association of Hawai’i , the Pono Pledge for Big Island, and the Aloha Pledge for Kauai on sustainable and responsible travel. Even as you travel to Big Island, you will find responsible tourist tips such as honoring sacred places on the island by not climbing on them or leaving trash anywhere.

South Africa

In 1996, South Africa became the first country to include responsible tourism in its national tourism policy. This white paper outlined the guidelines for responsible tourism. These guidelines were declared the Cape Town Declaration and included:

• minimizing negative economic, environmental, and social impacts;
• generating greater economic benefits for local people and enhances the well-being of the host;
• involving local people in decisions that affect their lives and life chances;
• making positive contributions to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage, to the maintenance of the world’s diversity;
• providing more enjoyable experiences for tourists through more meaningful connections with local people, and a greater understanding of local cultural, social, and environmental issues;
• providing universal access to tourists with disabilities, the elderly, and families with young children; and
• maintaining cultural sensitivity, engendering respect between tourists and hosts, and building local pride and confidence.

It also outlines the role of each player involved in responsible tourism. South Africa says that responsible tourism entails:

• tourism industry responsibility to the environment, through the promotion of balanced and sustainable tourism and a focus on environmentally-based tourism activities;
• responsibility of government and business to involve the local communities that are in close proximity to tourism infrastructure and attractions, through the development of meaningful economic linkages;
• responsibility of tourists, business and government to respect, invest and develop local cultures, and protect them from over-commercialization and over-exploitation;
• the responsibility of local communities to become actively involved in the tourism industry, to practice sustainable development, and to ensure the safety and security of visitors;
• the responsibility of both employers and employees in the tourism industry, both to each other and the customer (responsible trade union and employment practices); and
• responsible government and the responsibility on the part of tourists to observe the norms and practices of South Africa.

They also have different aspects of responsible tourism, including community-based tourism. One example of this is the Kassiesbaai Cultural and Craft Centre in Arniston. Kassiesbaai is a fishing village near Cape Agulhas, the most southern tip of Africa. The local community created the center to encourage and develop home industries and assist in social upliftment. The craft center helps women to learn skills to earn an income to support their families and depend less on seasonal incomes from fishing. 

Palau 

Like Hawai’i’s pledge in Kauai and Big Island, Palau was the first to have an eco-pledge. A small island, Palau has a deep history of environmental conservation. Due to its ecosystem and reliance on the land for survival, Palau has one of the most intense (and necessary) pledges. The children of Palau even drafted the Palau Pledge. You are required to get a stamp in your passport upon arrival with the Palau pledge and sign it.

Palau is vulnerable to climate change and other natural catastrophes. Therefore they take their sustainable tourism seriously. For example, tour operators are banned from using single-use plastic, and tourists are fined for violating the pledge. There are initiatives to focus on local food production instead of exportation too. 

These are just a few of the many responsible tourism measures Palau enforces to preserve itself for future generations. In addition, Palau is in the process of becoming the first carbon-neutral tourism destination! How amazing is that?

Why should you care about responsible tourism?

Tourism will not survive without responsible tourism. Point blank period. If you love visiting new places, meeting new people, and engaging with new cultures, you need to prioritize responsible tourism. Preserving history, culture, and the environment makes those experiences possible. 

Before COVID-19, tourism accounted for 10% of the global gross domestic product (GDP). This fact means that tourism and the economy go hand-in-hand. Even though we may be tourists, the locals are not. People around the world build their lives around tourism. They need it to survive and provide for their families. 

Tourism is more than money. It is about people. Our travels are nothing without the locals. We cannot have half of the experiences, such as cooking classes, nature excursions, etc., without locals. They take care of their countries year round. We owe it to them to treat their homes with dignity and respect. Responsible traveling does just that. 

How to be a responsible tourist 

Responsible tourism practices can be a slight learning curve. But now that we have broken down what responsible tourism is and why it is important let’s apply our knowledge. Here are some examples of responsible tourism to help you embody the practices of being a responsible tourist. 

Unpack your travel privileges

When we think about how to be a responsible tourist, we often forget the self-reflection process. However, there is some internal work we need to do to be responsible tourists externally. Understanding our travel privileges is one way we can do that.

Our social identities influence how we show up in the world. The barriers we do or do not face are correlated with our identities. We should process how race, ethnicity, gender, nationality, citizenship, etc., affect how and why you travel. Processing how they affect us at home can help us be more conscious travelers abroad. Write them down, reflect, and repeat. 

Learn about cultural appropriation vs. appreciation

Remember that intercultural understanding and open-mindedness? Well, with your newfound knowledge of responsible tourism comes tremendous responsibility (corny, I know). But this means assessing situations to know when it is or is not appropriate to participate in cultural activities while traveling.

Cultural appropriation vs. cultural appreciation is one of the most talked-about travel dilemmas. When is it appropriate to participate? What are power dynamics at play? Educating ourselves, especially if you are a tourist from the Global North (also known as a “developed” country) is essential. Read this post to get some insight. 

Be mindful of animal-centered activities

Animal-focused activities are when ethical tourism and responsible tourism converge the most—finding ethical wildlife practices while traveling can be difficult. Many tourist sites can be misleading. However, resources, such as distinguishing an authentic elephant sanctuary by PETA , are helpful tools to use. It takes some research, but it is worth every Google search.

These are not the only ways to be a responsible tourist. There are more responsible tourist tips to learn, always! We need to hold ourselves accountable. For more in-depth responsible tourism examples and how to be a responsible tourist, check out these 25 tips here . 

Responsible tourism is necessary for the future of travel

Responsible tourism impacts us all. I hope this article helped you understand what responsible tourism is, how to be a responsible tourist, and examples of responsible tourism! It is a necessary topic to discuss. Taking these steps and keeping all of this information in mind can transform the tourism industry. It helps all of us travel more intentionally and, of course, more responsibly.

Did you know overcoming culture shock helps you be a responsible tourist? Read more to find out.

Like this post? Pin it for later!

Sojourner White is a remote social worker, train travel queen, and award-winning travel journalist. Hailing from Milwaukee, Wisconsin she has been a digital nomad and called both Spain and Germany home. Through her platform Sojournies, she helps 9-5ers fulfill their career goals and bucket list dreams to find freedom and flexibility outside the office. Sojourner has been featured in Buzzfeed, PopSugar, The Matador Network, HuffPost, and Thrillist and written for Travel + Leisure, USA Today, Fodor’s, Insider, Lonely Planet, Viator, and more.

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Responsible Tourism: making less Photos and shaking more Hands

What is Responsible Tourism? Respecting the environment, but also supporting local communities and making better places for people to live in.

Tourism is probably the most profitable industrial sector in the global economy, although it is not a purely economic phenomenon. As a matter of fact, tourism can create opportunities for sharing and awareness-raising of important social themes. This is the reason why it is necessary to develop this concept into a dualism between tourism and sustainability to coin an innovative definition of ecotourism, responsible tourism,  and sustainable tourism

From Ecotourism to Responsible Tourism

“ Ecotourism means travelling responsibly in natural surroundings, respecting the environment and the sake of local people ” (TIES 1991)

“Ecotourism means traveling with environmental awareness and visiting natural areas almost pure in order to enjoy and appreciate nature (such as the cultural attraction of past and present). This encourages the preservation, it has a few negative consequences and promotes an active and beneficial socioeconomic participation of local people ” (Elisabeth Boo, 1990)

“Ecotourism is a way of traveling responsibly in almost natural environments. It tries to reduce negative environmental effects and sociocultural transformation. It helps to finance protected areas and creates possible sources of income for local people” . (working team “Ecotourism” for German Ministry)

According to WTO (World Tourism Organization, a division of the United Nations), there is no universal definition of ecotourism. However, its main characteristics can be summarized in this way:

• All forms of tourism in which the main motivation of the tourist is observing and appreciating nature or traditional cultures in a natural environment;
•  It has educational and interpretative features;
•  It is mostly organized – not always – in small groups of small specialized companies run by local people . There are also some foreign operators of different dimensions that organize, manage and distribute ecotouristic tours, usually for small groups;
• It reduces negative effects  on the natural and cultural environment;
• the creation of economic advantages for the host locations, organizations and institutions that manage protected areas, to protect them;
• the production of alternative jobs and sources of income in local communities;
• the formation of conscience for the protection of natural and cultural heritage in local people and tourists’ minds.

Since the 1990s to date, the focus towards ecotourism has been growing more and more leading to a real ecological boom. For this reason, some alternative definitions of ecotourism have become popular. From “green” tourism to low environmental impact tourism, from rural tourism to slow tourism. This has certainly raised awareness of environmental issues and attention to eco-tourism.

Though responsible ecotourism

Ecotourism, ecological tourism or responsible tourism? There are a lot of words defining the same concept, this can lead to confusion. Responsible ecotourism makes clear the social responsibility of the tourist. It doesn’t mean raising awareness only of nature and visited places, but also being respectful  of local communities that live there.

The new frontier of ecotourism is sustainable tourism or responsible tourism: An environmentally friendly tourism, that must also be respectful of local communities who have to be economically supported through tourism. How? You should buy in local markets, prefer hotels and restaurants run by local people, choose local tour guides. In this way, the money you spend during your travel can arrive directly to local people, this has a positive impact on local communities.

What is responsible tourism?

First of all, it is appropriate to point out that the so-called “ responsible tourism ”, “sustainable tourism” or “ green tourism ” is not just about being environmentally-friendly in terms of natural environment, hotel accommodation or transport used in touristic experiences. It is also based on the concept of the social inclusion of local communities.

Travelling is a synonym of curiosity and knowledge. “Classical” tourism does not allow us to communicate with local people, which is the primary basis in order to build a bridge between two cultures .

In this way, the “ sense of place ” is created, it means a sort of “emotional geography” where emotions are situated in the middle of the touristic experience. Perhaps, the most important aspect of this concept is in the homecoming, when we understand that printed colour photographs are not the only thing that is engraved in our memory .

The green requirements

Moreover, the “ Responsible Tourism” label can be used only if sustainable accommodation fulfils strict rules and requirements. “ Green label ” and “ Green key ” are just two labels among so many others that are used to highlight an experience that certainly respects the environment . For instance,  the requirements to understand the Ecological Quality of your accomodation .

An increasing number of people have shown to be sensitive to environmental issues and preservation . Moreover, this type of tourism could find the appropriate incentive to cover the considerable amount of investments required to start the project thanks to additional awareness campaigns.

Advantages of responsible tourism

Responsible tourism can be developed with many different initiatives . The main goal of these kinds of experiences is creating a safe business that allowed us to provide economic benefits for the  global community . It should be organized in order to either interact with people with very different social values and encouraging a local and environmentally-friendly economy for a better future .

Would you like to know something more about sustainable tourism ? Discover now 5 myths about Ecotourism you need to stop believing .

Would you like to organize your next travel in a more eco-friendly way? Check this link!

Featured image: photo by Avel Chucklanov, on Unsplash

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Responsible Tourism: The Key to Building Back a Better Industry

Transforming Vision Into Action - Oped

5 June 2020

In this guest post for World Environment Day, the CEO and CSO of Iberostar Group reflect on working towards a responsible recovery from COVID-19 for the tourism sector. 

Sabina Fluxà Thienemann, Iberostar Group Vice-Chairman and CEO and Gloria Fluxà Thienemann, Iberostar Vice-Chairman & CSO

This World Environment Day,  Iberostar Group  is delighted to stand alongside the One Planet Vision for a Responsible Recovery of the Tourism Sector. The vision provides recommendations for recovery plans that balance the needs of people, planet and prosperity through six lines of action: public health, social inclusion, biodiversity conservation, climate action, circular economy and governance and partnerships.

Here, Sabina Fluxà Thienemann, Vice-Chairman and CEO and Gloria Fluxà Thienemann, Vice-Chairman & CSO, reflect on working towards responsible recovery. 

In the last few months, we have spent countless hours taking new measures to protect ourselves and the ones we love.

Now people around the world eagerly anticipate more freedom. Some anticipate returning to work. Others might be fortunate enough to take the vacations they canceled or postponed.

Tourism must come back and it presents us with a choice: to return to business as usual (or worse, take backwards steps in progress), or to use sustainability as a core driver of our return. For all of our bottom lines, responsible tourism must lead the way to help tourism companies build back better.

We say this not only as owners or managers of more than 120 hotels in 19 countries, a business responsible for the health and safety of almost 10 million guests a year and the livelihoods of 34,000 employees. We say it as part of an industry that is responsible for our oceans. Eighty percent of our properties sit alongside them. The sooner tourists return, the faster we can expand our efforts to restore and protect these ecosystems and the communities where we operate.

We hope to be among the companies setting examples for others to follow, one of several in the  UNWTO’s latest position paper  on a vision for a responsible recovery of the tourism sector. We believe tourism companies who want to achieve long-term resilience have to adopt three characteristics.

First, hotel and tourism companies have to adopt a long-term vision.

Iberostar’s entire operations will be single-use plastic free by 2020, as far as local regulation allows. We’ll be waste-free by 2025. For the tourism sector, there’s a sector-wide goal to be neutral by 2050. We aim to be there by 2030. We hope to quantify how tourism, when done correctly and guided by science, can actually improve coastal regions.

Importantly, we’re calling out these efforts for guests so they feel a part of our movement  Wave of Change   and we’re actively asking them to share their feedback.

Secondly, we have to base our decisions and priorities on science.

Because a healthy environment acts as a natural barrier to future pandemics, we’ve hired a Medical Advisory Council not only to provide counsel but as part of our core business operations team. It’s made up of internal talent and renown experts in public health, health security, virology and epidemiology. With them at the table for business decisions, in accordance with guidelines by the UNWTO and others, we will inspire confidence among guests, challenge misinformation and innovate around health and safety measures that create long-term resilience. 

Finally, we must consider all the ways our businesses affect the environment.

A cornerstone of our efforts to combat climate change include our commitment to be a net zero, carbon neutral company by 2030, even in places where renewable energy is just starting to take foot. We do this by not only minimizing our footprint, but offsetting with blue carbon solutions such as our mangrove and coral reef restoration programs.

We will be launching one of the sectors most ambitious roadmaps to 100% responsible seafood sourcing by 2025. Part of those plans means we’ll source at least 45% of our total seafood from responsible sources by the end of 2020. 

As more people venture out, we hope they will carry with them an environmental awareness they adopted in recent months and ask new questions about the places they choose to visit. By incorporating ocean management, sustainable seafood and other elements of responsible tourism into travelers’ experiences we can build back stronger and create a Wave of Change.

Iberostar Group is a 100% family-owned multinational Spanish company, dedicated for more than 60 years to tourism, and with origins in the footwear industry dating back to 1877. The main line of business is Iberostar Hotels & Resorts with a portfolio of over one hundred 4 and 5-star hotels in 16 countries, and a global workforce above 34,500 people of 91 nationalities. As a leader in quality, Iberostar Group promotes differentiation in the customer experience through constant product innovation and digital commitment. The company has positioned itself as an international benchmark in responsible tourism by promoting a more sustainable business model focused on the care for people and the environment, and boosting circularity policies. It pursues its own 2030 Agenda aimed at eliminating waste, neutralizing carbon emissions and improving the health of the ecosystems surrounding its hotels, among other targets. The Wave of Change movement reflects this commitment and the company's effort to share it with all of society.

How to Be a Responsible Tourist

November 21, 2021

Travel can be an amazing force for good in this world. But it can also cause a lot of harm. Here we discuss the idea of how to be a responsible tourist.

Table of Contents

We can all probably agree on what makes a bad tourist. But how about what makes a good one? Even if you prefer to think of yourself as a traveller rather than a tourist, the question remains the same.

And it’s a question I’ve pondered for year after year on the road.

The Importance of Travel

Overall, people love to travel. Not everyone, for sure, but most people. When it comes to deathbed wishes, while no-one wishes they’d spent more time in the office, many, many people wish that they had travelled more. As a former doctor, I lost count of the times that I heard patients yearn to travel, tired and breathless, expressing their sense of loss at leaving the world unseen and unexplored.

Beyond the natural human desire to travel, sustainable travel brings many benefits. Not only do I believe that travel can be a force for good but I’ve built my life’s work around that concept.

The Good and the Bad

But I’m also realistic. The travel industry, and the tourists that come with it, can also cause everything from annoyance and inconvenience to deep suffering and harm.

So when Intelligence Squared and the World Monuments Fund invited me to join an expert panel to talk about “how to be a good tourist” the time seemed right to put my thoughts down in one place.

Here is my initial guide on how to be a responsible tourist. It’s a starting point, a cyber bookmark that I will add to month on month, year on year, bringing you more examples, more resources and more ideas.

But for now, it is a start.

I look forward to hearing your thoughts.

What is the Difference Between Responsible Tourism and Sustainable Tourism?

To most people, they sound the same and, to be honest, for most people, that’s as far as you need to go.

But for travel and tourism industries and organisations, there is a subtle difference.

Sustainable tourism talks about how tourism needed to be beneficial for the environment, the economy and the local and visiting populations. It refers to the industry as a whole.

Responsible tourism talks more about the actions taken by individual people, businesses and destinations as they try to create that important model of sustainable tourism.

It’s often put this way: that sustainable tourism is the strategy and responsible tourism, the tactics.

How to Be a Bad Tourist

Let’s face it, trying to be good can sound just plain dull. Sometimes, it’s easier to make a point by being bad. Here’s how not to be a responsible tourist.

• Dress inappropriately.
• Make no effort at all with local language and customs.
• Walk wherever you want without looking up or gauging reactions of people around you.
• Get angry if someone tries to explain something to you.
• Block pavements, group areas, escalators and generally be oblivious to people trying to go about their daily lives.
• Drop litter. everywhere.
• Smoke where you shouldn’t, drink where you shouldn’t, have sex where you shouldn’t. Smuggle drugs and other contraband items.
• Expect and demand food just like the kind you have at home. Complain if it isn’t there. In fact, complain a lot.
• Laugh and point at different clothes, customs, food, dance, the lot.
• Look bored and talk through important ceremonies, museums and processions.
• Try to steal important artefacts or wildlife and smuggle them home
• Ignore rules about what to put in the toilet.
• Ignore advice about what sunscreen or shampoo to use to protect the water and marine life.
• Make a lot of noise in nature reserves, bang the glass at aquariums and shine torches around delicate turtle breeding grounds.
• Ignore safety advice and then put other people at risk when you need to be rescued.
• March into someone’s house and treat it like a petting zoo
• Shove your camera in front of someone and continue to take photos of them even when it’s clear they don’t want you to.
• Feed animals all kinds of junk. Extra points if someone asks you to stop and you continue.
• Give children sweets or money on the streets.
• Press people to answer questions that invite them to criticise their government in places where that can lead to jail or worse.
• Pressure your guide to break the law on your behalf so that you can get a better photo/ experience/whatever.
• Don’t bother learning the rules of the road when you travel – just use the same rules as at home.
• When driving, be sure to ignore the speed limit and park to block access to people who live there.
• Use any pretty location as an instagram backdrop no matter whether it’s someone’s home or somewhere religiously significant or poignant.
• If in doubt, shout.

A Word About the Word Locals

Local communities, local food, local initiatives. These are all useful ways of describing people, cuisine and projects. Using just the word “locals” to talk about people is more controversial.

While some people relish the use of the word, others find it dehumanising, patronising and, depending on context, racist.

It’s a term I’m trying to weed out of my writing as I do not want to cause harm like that in any way.

How to Travel Responsibly

So, now that we’ve covered some real life obnoxious examples, we can start talking about how to be a responsible tourist.

Truthfully, there is no one perfect way. There is no way to avoid any and all problems except by staying at home. And, if you ask me, that is also irresponsible as it robs the world of the fundamentally important exchange which occurs when you mix populations and perspectives. I write more about that here, with these five ways that travel actually helps the planet.

But, there is a lot that you can do.

Prepare Before you Travel

Even before you leave home, you can take plenty of steps towards being a responsible tourist. Here are some starter ideas:

• Brush up on the local customs, especially around food and clothing.
• Learn a few words of the language. Start with hello, thank you, please and excuse me.
• Buy a reusable water bottle to cut down on plastic while on the road.
• Pack some reusable cutlery, whether bamboo or otherwise, to cut down on disposable single use items.
• Make sure you have reef safe sunscreen.
• Try to book accommodation in locally run places where possible, with eco friendly credentials.
• Make sure you take out adequate travel insurance .

You may also find this guide handy for preparing for an international trip.

Don’t Be an Ass

I hate to be so blunt, but simply put, don’t be an ass. Treat people how you would like to be treated and imagine that you live in the destination (and have to face people again) rather than are just passing through.

Read back through all the ways you can not be a responsible tourist and take them to heart. Most of them involve treating people with respect and behaving humbly when you are the one in a new environment.

Get Involved Locally

A key component of being a responsible tourist means that it matters where you go and what you do when you get there. Don’t just hide away in a huge corporate hotel or ship. Instead, try these ideas for getting to know the area, culture and customs.

• Visit markets
• Take walking tours
• Take a cooking class and share a meal
• Stay away from the tourist centres for sleeping and eating
• Walk off the beaten path. Here are some ideas as to how you can get off the beaten track.
• Visit places in small groups (ideally fewer than 8)

Try to Ease Overtourism

Overtourism, as the name suggests, refers to the damage done when too many visitors congregate in one place time after time, day after day.

While some of the problems are about the issue of crowds, others involve the erosion of local culture, the pricing out of local people from their homes and other infrastructure issues involving waste disposal and environmental damage.

Here are some tips to avoid the crowds. Use the other sections to find out more about how you can better engage with local communities.

• Get up early. Seriously, even in Venice and Petra, you can have the place to yourself if you get there first.
• Wander off the beaten track. Again, here are some tips on getting off the beaten path.
• Go in the off season.
• Only see the must-sees you really want to see.
• Consider staying in a nearby neighbourhood or city.

The Cape Town Declaration

Drawn up in 2002, the Cape Town declaration talks about responsible tourism as a model which:

• Minimises negative economic, environmental, and social impacts;
• Generates greater economic benefits for local people and enhances the well-being of host communities, improves working conditions and access to the industry;
• Involves local people in decisions that affect their lives and life chances;
• Makes positive contributions to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage, to the maintenance of the world’s diversity;
• Provides more enjoyable experiences for tourists through more meaningful connections with local people, and a greater understanding of local cultural, social and environmental issues;
• Provides access for physically challenged people;
• Is culturally sensitive, engenders respect between tourists and hosts, and builds local pride and confidence.

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

As we probably all know by now, to combat climate change, we need to reduce our carbon footprints.

And the big issue here involves flights. It’s a controversial topic with no easy answers.

I mean, it’s an easy answer if you live somewhere with good public transport and plenty of paid leave from work and other responsibilities. It’s not so easy for everyone else.

Research from the aviation industry looks promising; it is likely that carbon neutral flights will become available within our lifetime. But right now, they are far from that.

Short vs Long Haul Flights

Given that most fuel is burned during take off and landing, as a gross simplification, short flights are worse than long haul per passenger mile. But long haul flights burn more fuel overall.

So, while some people have different guidelines, these are mine to help minimise this damage.

• Avoid short haul flights where possible
• Stay longer in a destination if possible
• Think hard before booking that flight
• Aim to reduce your carbon footprint in every other sphere of your life

Reducing Your Carbon Footprint Beyond Your Flight

Don’t forget that there are many ways to reduce your carbon footprint while you travel, such as:

• Walking instead of driving
• Ordering local food instead of imported food
• Closing doors and windows, switching off lights etc
• Using reusable water bottles, cutlery and so on
• Stay in an Eco-Lodge where possible

Your Carbon Footprint at Home

For most of us, we spend more time at home than we do travelling. When it comes to reducing our carbon footprint, for example, we can have a powerful impact on that at home as well as abroad.

While the aviation industry is responsible for around 2% of manmade carbon emissions, it is responsible for only 12% of total transport carbon emissions, while road transport contributes 74% of the transport total.

Added to that, the fashion industry contributes 10% of all carbon emissions (that’s right, more than flying and shipping combined) and the internet contributes 3.73% (again, more than flying.)

Now, these are not straight forward comparisons, of course. Everyone needs clothes while not everyone will take a flight each year, or even in their lifetime. But it does show that fighting climate change is about more than just aviation.

So, remember to do the basics like:

• Insulate your home
• Wear second hand clothes where possible
• Reduce, reuse, recycle
• Walk or cycle instead of driving where you can
• Lift share or use public transport instead of driving
• And you can find more information on how to reduce your carbon footprint here.

Be Generous With Your Time

Sure, it’s important that your funds get into the local economy. But when it comes to the question of how to be a responsible tourist, travel isn’t just about financial transactions.

Be courteous and generous with your time and your presence. Where possible, reply to conversations and allow people to take photos of you. Stay safe and street smart, of course. But most people who approach you will be genuinely curious and want to learn more about who you are and where you came from. Just like you do when you made the decision to travel.

Use Your Voice

Powerful solutions to the world’s problems usually involves change at a governmental or corporate level. Because of this, it’s easy to feel discouraged and powerless in the face of inequality and climate change.

But you, as a customer, have many ways to bring about that change.

Hotel managers listen to feedback. If enough customers start asking for the same thing, they’ll start to do it. They will then feed that back up the chain and, voila, a huge change can ripple out from those few small initiatives.

Here are some ideas:

• Simply ask what the hotel is doing to promote responsible tourism
• Decline straws and ask for reusable water refills
• Ask about the artwork on the walls and ask about local artists
• Ask for and about local food

Conundrums in Responsible Travel

You’ve heard the saying that no good deed goes unpunished. Well, nowhere is that more true than in the world of responsible tourism.

Look out for the following pitfalls.

Giving to People in Need on the Street

It’s an understandable human desire to want to help someone in need. Unfortunately, such well meaning action can lead to horrific consequences.

In several instances around the world, children are removed from school in order to beg on the streets for money. They may be beaten or maimed in order to look more desperate. Orphanages have been founded as money making enterprises, with children taken or sold from the family home in order to populate them to earn money from well-meaning foreigners.

Please, think very, very carefully before you give so as to avoid encouraging these devastating practices. Instead, give to well regulated, transparent charities with plenty of oversight.

Voluntourism and Charities

Unfortunately, well-regulated charities with plenty of oversight aren’t always that easy to find either.

Again, from well-meaning origins and pure intentions can come great harm. In addition to the corrupt “charities” mentioned above, voluntourism can also cause problems.

One of the most common points of conflict involves the use of unskilled labour. I’ve certainly been involved in projects whereby fit and able, but largely unskilled, people have travelled to build a school, a wall, a well and so on.

The problem is that few places are lacking in manual labour and so these projects take work away from local builders and the local economy.

In orphanages and childcare settings, highly vulnerable children are presented with an ever changing roster of unskilled carers, which can cause lasting psychological harm, no matter how loving and kind someone was for the few weeks they looked after the child.

It is a hugely complex area. And I do not believe that we should give up trying to help if we are in a position to do so. But we do need to think deeply about it and consult with experts. Because sometimes our attempts to help can cause deep harm.

Should we boycott certain countries or corporations? Will it make a difference?

This, I believe, is a thorny question. International and consumer pressure can bring about change but it can also cause harm and suffering to populations who are often powerless to bring about the change desired.

Furthermore, blanket bans and boycotts risk alienating populations further and delaying the peaceful exchange of ideas that travel facilitates.

And which country or corporation is blameless?

Personally, I would always rather travel to a destination to try to better understand it but I have colleagues who, for example, boycott countries on the grounds of animal welfare, human rights and other issues.

Living a Responsible Life

Not a perfect life. That would be exhausting and impossible. But a responsible one.

It’s easy to fixate on one issue, such as whether or not you should book that flight. But in the grand scheme of things, that is a small decision. The decisions that we make day in, day out will lead to greater change and a life lived well.

Examples of Responsible Tourism

• Stargazing in the desert at the Feynan Ecolodge in Jordan
• The Juma Eco Lodge in the Amazon Rainforest
• Setting up the Cheese Road in Austria

More on Sustainable Travel

• Start here: how to be a responsible tourist
• Is dark tourism ethical? What you need to know.
• Get inspired by this collection of the best sustainable travel blogs.
• 9 powerful benefits of sustainable tourism (and why you should care)
• The unmistakable emotional meaning of home
• Why you need to know about the cork trees in Portugal
• The importance of doing nothing
• How to find the most ethical travel destinations
• 15 sustainable beach tips for your next trip to the sea

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