The Travel Industry's Journey Toward Sustainability

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According to World Travel and Tourism Council, “in 2024, Travel & Tourism contributed 10% of the world’s economy to reach $10.9TN - an 8.5% increase on 2023, and 6% above the previous peak of 2019.”  This has continued in 2025, with international tourist arrivals up 5% in the first half of the year. Travel is a gigantic economic engine, and it has a huge impact on the planet.

As climate change and environmental degradation become increasingly pressing concerns, the travel industry is stepping up to embrace more sustainable practices.  From reducing carbon footprints to promoting local economies, various companies are implementing innovative strategies to ensure that travel can coexist with environmental responsibility.  Here’s a look at how the travel industry is making strides toward sustainability. 

Airlines Taking Flight with Eco-Friendly Initiatives – Airlines are often criticized for their high carbon emissions, but many are actively seeking ways to mitigate their environmental impact.  For instance, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has introduced a program called “Fly Responsibly,” which encourages travelers to offset their carbon emissions by investing in sustainable projects.  In 2020, KLM became the first airline to offer CO2 compensation options directly during the booking process.  The airline aims to reduce its overall emissions by 50% by 2030.  According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the aviation industry is expected to improve fuel efficiency by 1.5% per year until the end of 2025.  Furthermore, the industry aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Hotels Going Green – Hotels are also making significant changes to promote sustainability.  Many are implementing eco-friendly practices, from energy-efficient appliances to sourcing local products.  For example, Marriott International has committed to reducing its carbon footprint by 30% by the end of 2025 and has launched the “Serve 360” initiative, focusing on sustainable sourcing, waste reduction, and community engagement.  Their hotels are increasingly using renewable energy sources, and many have adopted water-saving technologies.  A study by the Green Hotel Association found that hotels can reduce energy costs by 10-20% through energy-efficient practices.  Additionally, 61% of travelers are willing to pay more for eco-friendly accommodations, according to a survey by Booking.com.

Sustainable Tour Operators – Tour operators are increasingly recognizing the importance of sustainability in their offerings, leading to a rise in eco-tourism.  For instance, G Adventures is a pioneer in sustainable travel, offering small-group tours that emphasize local experiences and minimize environmental impact.  The company has committed to the “Planeterra Foundation,” which supports community development projects in destinations where they operate.  According to a report by the Adventure Travel Trade Association, eco-tourism generates approximately $600 billion annually, with a projected growth rate of 10-15% per year.

Transportation Alternatives – Beyond airlines and hotels, alternative modes of transportation are gaining traction, promoting greener travel options.  For instance, Amtrak in the U.S., Amtrak has been promoting train travel as a more sustainable alternative to flying.  Trains produce significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions per passenger mile compared to planes.  The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that rail transportation can be three to four times more energy-efficient than road travel, and can reduce emissions by up to 45% compared to driving.

Local and Organic Food Sourcing – Travelers are becoming more conscious of their food choices while on the road, prompting many restaurants and tour companies to focus on local and organic sourcing.  For example, the farm-to-table movement has taken flight.  Many restaurants in tourist destinations are adopting the farm-to-table model, sourcing ingredients from local farms to reduce food miles and support local economies. This trend ensures fresher meals and fosters community resilience.  According to a survey by the National Restaurant Association, 72% of adults are more likely to choose a restaurant that serves locally sourced food.The travel industry is increasingly recognizing its role in promoting sustainability and is taking significant steps to address environmental concerns.  Through initiatives ranging from carbon offsetting and energy-efficient accommodations to community engagement and local sourcing, the travel industry is evolving to meet the demands of environmentally conscious travelers.

As consumers, we can support these efforts by making informed choices and choosing companies that prioritize sustainability. By doing so, we can enjoy the wonders of travel while also protecting the planet for future generations.

And as organizational leaders, we can ensure that our organizations behave in ways that promote Sustainability.  One of the most effective methods to programmatically ensure this is through obtaining various relevant certifications.

Speak with our IBEC experts to help your organization obtain certifications, such as R2, RIOS, ISO 14001, ISO 9001, ISO 27001, and many others.

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