5 Reasons Why the Tourism Sector Needs New Professionals in Sustainability?
A Short Walkthrough of Sustainable Tourism ABC
Imagine a world where tourism, as we know it, is under threat of disappearing. It’s not some far-off scenario, it’s a harsh reality we face if we don’t prioritise sustainability. Sustainability isn’t just a side note, it’s the key element needed to sustain tourism.
According to UN Tourism, 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 intercultural 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.
Future of Sustainable Tourism and Why the Tourism Sector Needs New Professionals in Sustainability
According to the Booking.com 2022 report: “Sustainable travel holds immense importance for global travellers, as confirmed by more than four out of five (81%) individuals. Recent reports on climate change have influenced half (50%) of global travellers to opt for more sustainable travel choices, indicating a growing desire among travellers to prioritise sustainability in their journeys.”
These statistics highlight the increasing awareness among people about sustainable tourism and its significant impact on their decision-making process.For instance, the same research reveals that 78% of global travellers intend to stay in a sustainable property at least once in the coming year. As the demand for sustainable tourism continues to rise, the tourism sector will soon require new professionals in sustainability. The market operates on the principles of supply and demand, and there is a growing need for professionals who can navigate the complexities of sustainability within the tourism industry. From environmental specialists to community engagement managers, the demand for talent well-versed in sustainable practices is on the rise. This need highlights the importance of professionals who can put sustainable ideas into action and come up with new ways to handle the changing world of responsible tourism. Let’s explore the most critical reasons why the tourism sector needs new professionals in sustainability.
1. Sustainable Development Planning
For the purpose of creating and carrying out sustainable development strategies for tourist locations, sustainability experts are essential. They are able to evaluate how tourism affects the environment, society, and economy and develop plans to reduce adverse consequences while improving the sustainability of travel destinations overall.
2. Monitoring and Evaluation
Sustainability professionals play a vital role in monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of sustainable tourism initiatives. By collecting data, measuring performance indicators, and conducting impact assessments, they can identify areas for improvement and ensure that tourism activities align with sustainability goals.
3. Responsible Marketing and Communication
Effective communication plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable tourism practices and shaping traveller behaviour. Professionals skilled in responsible marketing, storytelling, and digital communication can convey messages about sustainability in a compelling and engaging manner, inspiring travellers to make more conscious choices.
4. Leadership in Sustainable Initiatives
Making tourism more sustainable is being spearheaded by experts in sustainability. They provide direction and leadership for integrating sustainable practices into resource management, community development, and other areas. These leaders encourage everyone in the tourist sector to join in bringing about positive changes that are advantageous to all parties concerned by supporting eco-friendly practices and motivating people to take care of the environment.
5. Education and Capacity Building
The need for experts who can train and develop capacity within the sector is growing as the demand for sustainability in tourism rises. When creating and executing workshops, training sessions, and educational materials to raise awareness and comprehension of sustainable tourism practices, sustainability specialists are essential. By providing stakeholders with the necessary information and skills to implement sustainable practices, these experts support the tourism industry’s long-term sustainability and prosperity.
In a Nutshell
The future of tourism relies on sustainability. As people become more aware, travel becomes easier, and economic opportunities grow, the tourism industry is getting ready for big changes. By focusing on sustainability and training new professionals, we can make sure that tourism keeps improving lives, protecting the environment, and making everyone better off.
Educational institutions are stepping up to meet this need. In recognition of this matter, the cooperative Bachelor programme between the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) and Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU) in International Sustainable Tourism is a big step in the right direction. This diverse and flexible three-year degree programme provides the chance to shape the tourism ecosystem more sustainably. This includes studying abroad and obtaining a Swiss degree,- as well as benefiting from a curriculum developed and delivered in collaboration with UN Tourism. This pioneering study programme, the first of its kind, promises to cultivate a new generation of professionals equipped with the knowledge and skills to drive sustainable tourism forward.
Sources