The tangible benefits of sustainable tourism for people working in tourism
You know about responsibility and sustainability in tourism. You’ve read about it or you’re already implementing sustainability practices within your hospitality business.
Wherever you are on your journey in regenerative tourism, we are here to support you. We’ve identified five key benefits of sustainable tourism for destinations, hotels, lodges, and everyone involved in the travel and hospitality industry.
Environmental conservation
Economic growth and job creation
Community empowerment
Cultural preservation and heritage promotion
Education and awareness
#1 Sustainable tourism: The benefits for your hotel and your team
At its core, sustainable tourism embodies a conscientious approach to travel that seeks to balance economic prosperity, environmental conservation, and socio-cultural integrity. The aim is to minimise tourism's negative impacts while maximising its positive contributions to destinations and host communities.
#2 Benefit of sustainable tourism: Environmental conservation
Conservation education not only enhances the knowledge of those working in tourism but also allows them to develop a relationship with the environment around them. Training on conserving water resources, reducing food waste, and launching initiatives to protect wildlife and natural wonders can increase awareness of surrounding areas and, in turn, protect them.
Resorts, hotels, lodges, and other hospitality establishments that contribute positively to tourism are mindful of preserving natural habitats, ecosystems, and biodiversity.
#3 Benefit of sustainable tourism: Community empowerment
From spending a week living with a local family in a rural village for cultural immersion to participating in a mindful and relaxing yoga retreat to destress and unwind, there are various ways to travel slowly while contributing positively to the places you visit and making a sustainable impact.
Whether volunteering with conservation projects, learning traditional crafts from local artisans, or simply getting to know residents, slow travel creates connections beyond superficial tourism.
A chef picks herbs in the kitchen garden at Sasaab, Northern Kenya
#5 Benefit of sustainable tourism: Education and awareness
Today, more travellers seek ethical experiences that change or inspire them through learning and understanding. Tourism gives all of us a platform for environmental and cultural education, raising awareness among travellers about our role in conservation and responsible travel behaviour.
When sustainable tourism practices becomes part of your operational DNA, it permeates everything you do, cultivating a sense of stewardship and responsibility towards the environment and local communities. Helping to inspire guests and shift behaviours.
Need assistance with navigating your path to a more sustainable, resilient, and profitable hospitality business? The Long Run’s 4C framework is designed to support tourism businesses in their journey towards sustainability and make it as simple as possible. We guide members in setting intentions across Conservation, Community, Culture, and Commerce, enhancing standards in each area and driving progress towards greater sustainability.
Members of The Long Run have access to:
Comprehensive support: Our team of experts is here to guide members through a series of attainable steps on their journey to sustainability.
GER®: This certification is recognised by global sustainability standards and demonstrates a business’ commitment to becoming more focused on conservation. Our team of experts are there to support those members who wish to become certified and guide them through the journey.
Knowledge exchange: Members can access a network of tourism professionals and experts through webinars, forums, and meetings, allowing for continuous learning and collaboration.
Guided glacier treks with EcoCamp Patagonia, Chile