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The top five Sustainable Tourism markets in 2021

Industry: Niche Tourism
Current: Market Sizing & Shares

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The top five Sustainable Tourism markets in 2021

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Climate change is one of the biggest issues globally. The world is already facing the effects of climate change such as extreme storms, frequent wildfires, regular drought, etc. The public and the private sector are aiming to tackle climate change issues by reducing pollution, keeping their carbon emissions in check, optimum utilization of natural resources and adopting sustainability practices. Tourism is dependent on natural resources which are at-risk, employs a vast number of people both directly and indirectly, and relies on carbon-intensive practices such as aviation. Consequently, rebuilding a tourism industry, in the aftermath of COVID-19, that is economically, socially, and environmentally sustainable is critical.

Travelers are also increasing their interest to embrace sustainable practices such as preferences for more environmentally friendly transport choices, slow travel, and consideration of business sustainability credentials. There is still a value-action gap, which should be addressed by considering complex factors such as knowledge, budget, time, and a sense of personal responsibility.

COVID-19 and subsequent travel restrictions left the tourism sector devastated with international travel plummeting in 2020. As tourism begins to reopen across economies, sustainable tourism will play a pivotal role in driving green recovery across the industry. According to GlobalData, the US, China, France, the UK, and Switzerland were the top five sustainable tourism markets (by value) in 2021. The US was the leading sustainable tourism market in 2021. The market value of sustainable tourism in the US recorded a value of $27,839 million in 2021, up 12.2% YoY. China ranked second (by value in 2021) with a market value of $16,550 million, up 11.5% YoY, with the other three markets (France, United Kingdom, and Switzerland) having a cumulative market value of $23,831 million in 2021.

Tourism can play a pivotal and proactive role by embracing green business practices that align with COP26’s vision for tourism's transition to net zero. As such, travel can not only repair its image as a destructive force but set the stage for a new phase of global growth. With international arrivals in some countries not expected to exceed pre-COVID levels until 2024/25, according to GlobalData forecasts, it is critical that growth is sustainable and inclusive with positive contributions to local communities, natural ecosystems, and cultural heritage which tourism depends on. To this end, it is crucial to encourage stakeholders at all levels to recognize not only the value of tourism but the importance of a sustainable approach.