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IN BRIEF
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Over the past few decades, tourism has experienced an exponential growth, becoming a pillar of many economies around the world. However, this development is not without consequences for the environment, particularly regarding carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. This article explores the extent of tourism’s impact on CO2 emissions, as well as the environmental challenges we must face as a society.
The overall environmental impact of tourism
The tourism sector is responsible for around 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions. This contribution is mainly due to the various modes of transport used for tourist travel, with airplanes representing a significant share. Indeed, a long-haul flight can generate considerable amounts of CO2, often exceeding the carbon footprint of an average resident over an entire year.
The role of transport in CO2 emissions
Transport plays a crucial role in the ecological footprint of tourism. In addition to airplanes, cars, buses, and trains also contribute to CO2 emissions. The increase in mass tourism has led to an unprecedented demand for these different modes of transport, thereby exacerbating their environmental impact.
Tourist destinations on the front line
Tourist cities are particularly affected by overtourism. According to some studies, in certain regions, tourism can account for between 30% and 80% of CO2 emissions in their territory. For example, cities like Venice or Barcelona suffer from the pressure exerted by a massive influx of visitors, which leads not only to high emissions but also to the degradation of local infrastructure and environmental imbalances.
The stakes of sustainable tourism
In light of this concerning situation, the concept of sustainable tourism has become a priority. This type of tourism aims to minimize the environmental impact of tourist activities by favoring low-emission transport modes, supporting local economies, and preserving ecosystems. However, the transition to a more environmentally friendly tourism requires collective awareness and concerted efforts among governments, businesses, and tourists.
Measures to consider
To reduce the impact of tourism on CO2 emissions, it is essential to consider concrete solutions. This could include increasing investments in public transport, promoting eco-tourism practices, and developing carbon offset initiatives. Furthermore, raising travelers’ awareness of their impact on the environment is crucial to encourage more responsible travel choices.
A call for collective action
To address the rise of tourism and its environmental impact, collective action is needed. Stakeholders in the tourism sector must collaborate to develop strategies aimed at reducing CO2 emissions and promoting a sustainable tourism model. This also involves better informing tourists about the consequences of their travel choices, encouraging them to adopt more ecological behaviors.
