Sustainable Tourism and the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals

Photo by Project Aware

The 17 United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), launched in 2015, highlight 169 targets that aim to push forward the current standards of international development. The SDGs focus around many topics including targets for protecting the planet, fighting inequality and combatting the effects of climate change while involving all relevant stakeholders along the implementation process.

Tourism has a great potential to contribute towards these goals, specifically the targets in goals 8, 12 and 14, which promote sustainable economic growth, ensure sustainable production and consumption patterns, inclusivity, and the sustainable use of our oceans and marine resources, respectively. Here, sustainable tourism is firmly positioned in the 2030 Agenda. The most crucial elements in achieving this ambitious agenda are: a clear implementation outline, adequate financing, investment in technology, infrastructure and human resources. 

The question is: how can these goals be applied to sustainable tourism?

SDG 8 

It has been clear for many years that one of the driving forces of global economic growth is tourism. Tourism markets in developing countries can largely benefit from increasing their human potential by improving access to education as well as facilitating fair and equal access for improved work opportunities for women and youths, covered by SDG 8. For example, to meet the demand of sustainable tourism, the Lapa Rios Lodge on the Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica integrated practices that take into account biological sustainability as well as socio-economic involvement with their employees and the local community through trainings on good practices. This is an example how the hospitality industry can work towards integrating SDG 8 into their mission and daily operations. 

SDG 12

Sustainable consumption and production practices (SDG 12) is an important element in preserving authenticity in the face of overtourism by promoting local culture and products. For example, many restaurants and cafes around the world have recently shifted their attention towards the consumption of local and organic produce. Promotion and conservation of indigineous traditions, handicrafts and food are other ways of encouraging tourists to choose authentic experience and unique souvenirs while keeping spending in the local economy. 

SDG 14

Conservation and the sustainable use of the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development (SDG 14) has gained attention due to the widespread phenomena of coral bleaching and ocean pollution that we’ve seen recently. Coastal and maritime tourism, tourism's biggest segments, particularly for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), rely on healthy marine ecosystems. Advancing the blue economy and preserving delicate ecosystems falls directly in line with target 14.7. This target states that increasing the economic benefits of SIDS can come in the form of the sustainable management of fisheries, aquaculture and tourism. 

An example of SDG 14 coming to life is the Dolphin Discovery Center inBunbury, Australia, which is a private sector-led NGO that engages the local community (mostly volunteers) to get involved in their operations. The income generated by tourism to the center is used specifically for conservation, education and research activities. As an outcome, these activities have attracted business sponsorship and government infrastructure support to maintain this major regional tourism attraction. The Center also plays a significant role in marine-related government environmental assessment (EPA) approval processes and the successful establishment of a sanctuary zone within the busy port. The good practices of the center have been rewarded by playing a part in the greater conservation efforts in Australia, while making a name for themselves. 

Tourism hotspots around the world can use their popularity for good. Setting an example of incorporating the SDGs into business practices can encourage others to follow suit, while setting you apart from your competition. All stakeholders involved in the tourism industry should ask themselves how they can improve their own practices for improved sustainability while keeping in mind the targets for the SDG goals. 

Is your business interested in integrating the SDGs into your operations? Set up a call with us here.