The travel and tourism industry is an important contributor to economic opportunity and employment, supporting more than one in twelve jobs worldwide.
In recent years, it has weathered global shocks, with demand impacted by events ranging from the COVID-19 pandemic to the impacts of climate change on vulnerable local communities relying on tourism. The industry’s sustainability challenges—and opportunities—are complex and interconnected. Its greenhouse gas emissions are a significant contributor to climate change. Many issues threaten the resilience of travel and tourism companies, including:
- Extreme weather
- Property destruction
- Ecosystem and biodiversity loss
These, in turn, affect the health and well-being of the industry’s customers, employees, and host communities.
By reducing their impact on the natural environment and safeguarding the health and livelihoods of communities around the world, travel and tourism companies can create more resilient companies while safeguarding the destinations, cultural heritage, and communities on which they depend.
8%
Tourism’s international carbon footprint accounts for 8 percent of total global greenhouse gas emissions.
17%
According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, aviation alone represents 17 percent of total travel carbon emissions.
69%
69 percent of global travelers expect the travel industry to offer more sustainable travel options.
How We Can Help
Adding Value to Your Business and Society
We work with travel and tourism companies, including airlines, hotels, and cruise lines, to integrate sustainability into their core business strategies and strengthen the resilience of their operations and value chain.
Our offerings include:
Climate change risk and resilience strategy
Preparing boards for sustainability oversight
Nature strategy, including those that address water and biodiversity impacts
Innovative business models that engage consumers on sustainable lifestyles
Inclusive economic growth and the future of work
Identifying and building living wage programs
Human rights, human trafficking, and labor conditions
Sustainability Insights
Reports
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Our Experts
Depth of Experience and Knowledge
Our team has extensive boardroom and field experience with travel and tourism companies.
Let’s talk about how BSR can help you to transform your business and achieve your sustainability goals.