In November, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) released its second Net Zero Roadmap for Travel & Tourism report. Among notable findings is that the number of travel-related businesses committed to reducing carbon emissions jumped 27% in the past three years.
Additionally, the data shows that the aviation industry reduced its carbon intensity by 6% from 2019 to 2023, while the cruise and hotel sectors lessened their carbon intensity by 11%. The roadmap both commends these achievements and emphasizes the need for a continued sense of urgency, as the travel and tourism sector aims for net zero emissions by 2050.
Our Analysis: Partnering With Climate-Minded Businesses Will Boost Advisor Business
As the travel industry takes aim at climate change, there will likely be growing demand for transparency around who’s doing what — and who isn’t doing enough. According to the WTTC, 75% of global travelers say they want to travel more sustainably. And to do so, travelers and travel advisors will need to know what airlines, cruise lines, hoteliers, tour operators and more are genuinely putting in the work. Advisors would do well to keep their eye on — and to partner with — brands that are genuinely dedicated to climate action. Doing so is a win-win, as our industry sets a bar for preserving the planet, and advisors help wanderers explore it.
Fast Facts: Travel Industry Players Are Setting the Bar for Preserving the Planet By Aiming for Science-Based Targets
- The Net Zero Roadmap for Travel & Tourism shows that 53% of 250 leading travel and tourism businesses are striving toward set climate targets (an increase from 42% in 2021, which was when the first Net Zero Roadmap debuted).
- Of that 53%, one-third are dedicated to meeting significant emission-reduction goals outlined by science-based targets.
- The new roadmap introduces an enhanced decarbonization framework with actionable climate targets.
- Travel and tourism accounted for 6.5% of global emissions in 2023, down from a peak of 7.8% in 2019.
What They Are Saying: Climate Change is a Current and Present Threat
“The urgency of climate action in our sector has never been clearer,” said Julia Simpson, president and CEO of WTTC. “Climate change is not a future threat — it’s here, and we are all facing the consequences. This updated roadmap is a call to action for every business in Travel & Tourism. The sector is moving forward; but we mustn’t rest on the laurels. We must work together with greater ambition and urgency to create a sustainable future for Travel & Tourism. Every step counts towards preserving our planet and the livelihoods of millions.”
