Tourism can be a voice for sustainable change

By Tiomóid Foley, Net Zero Tourism Manager, VisitScotland 

Three years ago, 120 world leaders and more than 40,000 participants came to Glasgow to take part in the UN Climate Change Conference, better known as COP26. The global gathering influenced many sectors, not least tourism.  

COP26 led to an accelerated awakening, with both visitors and businesses realising that what we do has impacts on the world around us and that urgent action was needed. As an organisation, VisitScotland took accountability by becoming a member of the drafting committee and a founding signatory of the Glasgow Declaration for Climate Action in Tourism. To date, more than 850 other organisations have joined us in signing the declaration. 

With COP29 in Baku in full swing, it seems timely to look back at what we’ve achieved since Glasgow and more importantly look ahead at what opportunities and challenges remain. Climate change and social inclusion are some of the biggest challenges facing our tourism and events sector. Here in Scotland, tourism is a key growth sector, supporting one in 11 jobs and one in 11 businesses. If tourism is to continue to be a force for good, we know we need to grow the visitor economy while minimising its negative environmental and social impact.  While tourism has undoubtedly been a contributor to climate change, it also stands to suffer its consequences. 

We want Scotland to be recognised globally as a leading sustainable tourism destination.  Our responsible tourism strategy focuses on Scotland’s transition to a low carbon economy while ensuring tourism and events are inclusive and contribute to thriving communities. Supporting the protection and considerate enjoyment of Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage – our biggest draw for visitors - is also vital. 

According to Expedia, 90% of travellers are seeking more sustainable travel options. People are more aware than ever of their impact and as a result, businesses are considering their approach – both from an environmental point of view in terms of reducing emissions, but also to meet visitor demand for sustainable travel experiences.  

At VisitScotland we have focused on creating resources for tourism and events businesses to help them navigate the journey to net zero. We are supporting businesses to identify how climate change might impact them and how to mitigate the risks. We’re working with organisations like Tourism Cares to connect international travel agents and tour operators with businesses in Scotland who offer immersive, authentic experiences so that visitors can give something back to the places and communities they encounter. 

Responsible tourism is all about a collaborative approach and every day we see examples of tourism and events businesses in Scotland who are prioritising the reduction of their climate impact. From energy efficiency and waste reduction to using local suppliers or boosting biodiversity. 

Tourism, like climate change, is global. We are working with partners internationally as well as at home to innovate, share learnings and tackle the crisis together.  

2030 is a key date not only for tourism but also for the planet. It marks a significant milestone on the journey to 2045, with only 15 years left to achieve net zero. Climate change is not some far-off risk, it is here and now. More than ever, tourism can be a voice for change and collaboration at COP29 and beyond.