Net Zero Roadmap unveiled by WTTC for global tourism sector

The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) announced this week the launch of an ambitious and groundbreaking net-zero roadmap to guide the global tourism sector.

As an initiative to solve the climate change crisis faced by the world, the WTTC developed the net zero road map in collaboration with the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and Accenture.

The first of its kind initiative provides guidelines and recommendations to help guide tourism businesses on their journey towards net zero.

The aim of the road map is to provide milestones for meaningful climate action and emissions reduction for different industries within the sector. It also identifies the challenges ahead and measures the Travel & Tourism sector must take to decarbonise and reach net zero by 2050.

As the global travel and tourism sector is responsible for an estimated 8 to 10 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), the road identified that the industry has a key role to play in fighting climate change. To achieve some progress, the roadmap suggests the global industry will require “heightened ambitions” and differentiated decarbonisation approaches.

Commenting on the Net Zero Roadmap for Travel & Tourism WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson pointed out that many destinations are affected by the impacts of climate change with rising sea levels, deforestation, and the loss of animal and plant species.

“Communities that rely on tourism are first in line to see the impact and wanting to do something about it. The tourism sector is taking this opportunity to be a catalyst for change. We have a responsibility towards our people and planet.

“It is absolutely critical that the private and public sector we work collectively to achieve the Paris Agreement and prevent the global rise in temperatures,” said Simpson.

In a nutshell, the road map calls on businesses to increase their ambitions where possible and provides detailed recommendations for five areas; Set baselines and emission targets now to achieve individual and sector goals, Monitor and report progress regularly, Collaborate within and across industries and government, Provide finance and investment required for the transition, and Raise awareness and build knowledge and capabilities on climate change.