The travel industry is witnessing a shift from over-tourism to sustainable tourism, raising questions about sustainability’s real impact and benefits. According to Gregory Miller, executive director of the Center for Responsible Travel, sustainable tourism is about building a meaningful connection between visitors and locals, emphasising community and shared passions. Consumers are increasingly aware of the consequences of their travel choices and are actively seeking sustainability-friendly brands. Surveys show that a significant percentage of travellers are looking for more sustainable options, indicating a growing trend shaping the future of travel.

Major players in the industry, namely airlines and hotels, are under scrutiny as consumer expectations surpass simple initiatives like towel reuse. Travellers now demand transparency regarding sourcing hotel produce and reinvesting money back into the local community. This pressure drives airlines and hotels to align their corporate social responsibilities with local projects, enabling travellers to witness the positive impact of their contributions on the local economy.

Airlines, primarily targeted for their fuel consumption on long-haul flights, are making strides towards sustainability, especially in shorter flights, with the introduction of zero-emission electric planes. For longer flights, the focus shifts towards sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) that aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions throughout the entire lifecycle. Although SAFs claim emissions reductions, their large-scale production remains limited. Nevertheless, the industry is also exploring lighter and less toxic materials for aircraft construction. Material advances, such as composites, can significantly reduce an aeroplane’s weight by up to 20%, leading to lower fuel consumption and emissions.

Amidst these changes, Travel Management Companies (TMCs) play a crucial role in helping corporate customers manage their sustainable travel goals. TMCs guide businesses in implementing sustainable travel policies, selecting eco-friendly partners, measuring carbon footprints, and fostering corporate social responsibility initiatives. Additionally, the EcoVadis platform provides valuable sustainability ratings and assessments, aiding corporate customers in making informed decisions and promoting transparency across their supply chains.

For the third year in a row, BCD Travel has received a Platinum rating from EcoVadis, demonstrating our commitment to responsible business practices and positively influencing stakeholders, including customers, investors, and employees.

Collectively, the travel industry is transitioning towards sustainability, driven by consumer demand, collaboration with local communities, advancements in fuel and materials, and the support of TMCs and platforms like EcoVadis. This concerted effort is shaping a future where responsible and sustainable travel practices prevail, benefitting the environment, communities, and the industry as a whole.