Why Climate Action Means Climate Justice in Tourism
The travel industry is beginning to grapple with the wide-ranging impacts of climate change on our industry and to recon with our contribution to the problem. Yet, there's a growing recognition that not all communities are affected equally (and not all communities have contributed to the problem equally). Climate justice, a framework that addresses these disparities, is becoming increasingly central to discussions about sustainability in tourism. But what exactly is climate justice, and why should the travel industry care?
Two men push a boat full of people down a flooded street in Cuba.
What Is Climate Justice?
Climate justice goes beyond the technical aspects of reducing carbon emissions. It focuses on the human side of the climate crisis, recognizing that those who have contributed the least to global warming are often the most affected by its consequences. This includes marginalized communities in regions like the Caribbean, Central America, and Oceania, who face rising sea levels, extreme weather, such as frequent hurricanes, flooding and wildfires, and economic instability—all while having limited resources to adapt or recover.
For the travel industry, embracing climate justice means acknowledging these disparities and taking steps to ensure that our actions support, rather than harm, the communities that rely on tourism.
Why Climate Justice in the Travel Industry Needs to be Prioritized
The case for climate justice in tourism is not just an ethical one; it also makes good business sense. Travelers are increasingly looking to support companies that align with their values, and climate justice is at the forefront of this shift. By centering marginalized communities in their sustainable tourism efforts, businesses and organizations can build stronger, more resilient relationships with the destinations they serve and sell, in turn building stronger, more meaningful product.
Without a focus on climate justice, the travel industry's efforts to combat climate change may fall short. For example, renewable energy projects intended to reduce carbon footprints can inadvertently harm local communities if they are not implemented with care. It is also important to avoid pushing all of our decarbonization measurements and actions down the tourism value chain to smaller, local businesses without supporting them with the necessary resources and training to make improvements. By involving these communities in the decision-making process, the travel industry can ensure that its climate actions are both effective and equitable.
Key Findings from the New Report on Climate Justice in Tourism
Our partner in the Future of Tourism Coalition, The Travel Foundation, just (July 2024) released "Climate Justice in Tourism: An Introductory Guide," which delves deep into the intersection of climate change and social justice within the travel industry. The report highlights several critical findings that underscore the importance of integrating climate justice into tourism practices:
Disproportionate Impacts: The report reveals how climate change disproportionately affects marginalized communities, particularly in regions that are heavily dependent on tourism. For example, low-lying island nations face existential threats from rising sea levels, which not only disrupt tourism but also displace entire communities.
The Role of the Travel Industry: The report emphasizes that the travel industry has a unique responsibility to address these inequities. By prioritizing climate justice and emphasizing inclusivity, collaboration, and holistic thinking, travel companies can contribute to more sustainable and resilient communities, ensuring that tourism remains a viable and positive force for economic development.
Case Studies and Practical Steps: The report provides case studies of companies that are leading the way in integrating climate justice into their operations. It also offers practical steps that businesses can take to start addressing these issues, from engaging with local communities to reassessing their supply chains.
Beyond case studies, the report explores the broader implications of climate justice for policy and governance within the travel industry, and highlights the need for systemic change, advocating for more inclusive decision-making processes and the integration of traditional knowledge into climate adaptation strategies. Also, the report lists 10 ideas that the industry can implement to scale collaborative efforts and achieve broader impacts in promoting climate justice.
Climate Justice Module Resource
For additional resources and to dive deeper into this important issue, check out Tourism Cares’ Climate Justice Module on its Meaningful Travel Training program.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
Climate justice is not just another trend—it's a crucial component of a sustainable future for tourism. As the industry continues to evolve, we must prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable communities and ensure that our actions contribute to a fairer, more just world. As you are building out your climate action strategy, it is important to integrate environmental and social justice considerations, which are truly inseparable from not just the effects of climate change but also its solutions. The climate justice framework, through its people-centered approach, reminds us of the scale and immediacy of global climate change and the fact that we already need to adapt, but it also unites us together to strengthen our resolve and mitigate the problem as best we can as a globe.