Question

research and elaborate on the changes that have taken place in sustainable tourism development up to this present time.

Answer 1

Urban destinations are increasingly focusing on sustainability

With the growth in urban tourism around the world, and the very direct interactions between visitors and residents, it is not surprising that urban destinations are increasingly focusing on sustainability. Encouraging visitors to walk or use public transport, renovating unused industrial buildings for tourism purposes, creating a sense of place through design, culture and cuisine, and engaging residents in tourism planning and promotion are all increasingly on the agenda for urban destinations.

Addressing climate change is an increasing priority

Addressing carbon emissions is now a critical part of any credible sustainable tourism initiative, whatever its overall focus. Reducing carbon emissions be it through retrofitting buildings, sustainable transportation, offsetting initiatives, or using renewable energy is now part and parcel of any sustainable approach.

The rise of social enterprises in tourism

Tourism and social entrepreneurism are increasingly going hand in hand. This is partly driven by the opportunities offered by mobile technology and social media in terms of connecting people and making mainstream markets more accessible, as well as being a result of NGOs and charities needing to find new and sustainable income streams. We have seen an evolution from government and NGO driven community-based tourism projects, and community initiatives within privately owned companies to social enterprises.

It’s all about people

Sustainable tourism has always been about balancing the needs of people, the environment, and businesses. Tourism which engages and directly benefits those who live around and work in destinations, hotels, and other businesses is a key element of a sustainable approach, however it is increasingly apparent that encouraging people to work in tourism and training them appropriately is vital for sustainable tourism development as well.

Biodiversity is still a top priority

Although many things have evolved over the years, there has been one constant and that is the continuing commitment from sustainable tourism initiatives to conserve and protect biodiversity.

The bar is increasingly high

Measuring, monitoring, and reporting impact has become of the most important ways for companies that are committed to sustainability targets to win over sceptical stakeholders and enhance their global reputation. Just doing the basics or having a general sustainability goal is simply not enough anymore; data driven evidence with targets and monitoring is now embedded into the sustainability activities of those at the forefront of sustainable tourism.

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE LEAVE A LIKE. IT'D BE SO HELPFUL. THANKS A LOT.