‘Speed up green practices’

A recent report presented at Arabian Travel Market highlights significant challenges in achieving the UN’s tourism-related sustainability goals, with only 15 per cent on track for 2030. The findings stress the need for increased investment in sustainable development.

TT Bureau

An exclusive whitepaper produced for Arabian Travel Market (ATM) by the Digital Tourism Think Tank (DTTT) has revealed that the tourism sector is significantly lagging behind in meeting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The report highlights that only 15 per cent of tourism-related SDGs are on track to be achieved by 2030, underlining the need for more concerted action across the sector.

The findings are based on United Nations research which predicts alarming increases in resource consumption due to tourism. By 2050, tourism is expected to cause a 154 per cent rise in energy consumption, a 152 per cent rise in water use, and a staggering 251 per cent increase in solid waste production. The sector is also predicted to contribute a 131 per cent increase in greenhouse gas emissions. These figures make it clear that there is a critical need for higher investments in sustainable practices to mitigate these impacts. Further research by Visa and Oxford Economics has revealed that consumers are struggling with a lack of transparency and insufficient information about sustainable travel options. This gap in knowledge presents a challenge for both the tourism industry and its customers as they look to make more eco-conscious decisions.

Nicholas Hall, Founder and CEO, DTTT, commented, “The discussions surrounding sustainability in tourism at the ATM Innovation Wall highlighted the multifaceted challenges we face. Achieving sustainability requires a holistic, multi-pronged approach—whether it’s managing plastic waste, encouraging responsible travel behaviours, or ensuring tourism benefits local communities. Importantly, sustainable tourism cannot be achieved with a one-size-fits-all approach. By collaborating across sectors and perspectives, we can develop more effective solutions.”

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, ATM, said, “ATM provides a vital platform for the tourism industry to advance its sustainability goals. By fostering collaboration, ATM encourages the development of region-specific sustainability frameworks that integrate environmental, social, and economic dimensions. We advocate for community-driven tourism strategies that preserve cultural heritage, empower local populations, and enhance destination resilience.” The strategic partners for ATM 2025 include Dubai’s DET, Emirates, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Al Rais Travel.