VWayTour - An Overview of Net Zero: The New Trend in the Tourism Industry

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Net Zero tourism is not just an emerging trend but also a strategic approach that brings significant benefits for both travelers and the environment. As the travel and tourism industry has rebounded strongly after COVID-19 and is expected to grow rapidly over the next decade and beyond, tackling overtourism is key to achieving more sustainable and responsible tourism.

When the concept of responsible tourism was first introduced in 2002, just before the World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg, there was no specific mention of its impact on climate change. However, in the following two decades, climate concerns have become a top priority for the industry.

Recent studies estimate that the tourism sector contributes up to 8% of global carbon emissions. Therefore, the industry must take more decisive actions to mitigate and reverse the climate crisis. One of the key approaches to addressing this issue is through Net Zero Tourism.

Now, let’s explore the concept of Net Zero and its role in the tourism industry.

What is Net Zero?

Net Zero refers to the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2050 or earlier. This requires significant reductions in emissions from sources such as fossil fuels, industry, agriculture, transportation, and tourism. Achieving Net Zero means balancing the amount of greenhouse gases emitted with the amount removed from the atmosphere over a certain period.

The Challenge for the World

Reaching net-zero emissions in tourism remains a controversial topic, with some arguing that the goal is too ambitious to achieve by 2050. With a complex value chain and numerous stakeholders, identifying the right initiatives to trigger an effective transition is a challenge

One of the biggest obstacles is accurately measuring and monitoring emissions across the tourism value chain to report ESG metrics. Inaccuracies, overlaps, or leaks in the measurement process can undermine efforts and erode trust in the transparency and effectiveness of carbon-neutral initiatives. Moreover, investors and stakeholders are hesitant to back such efforts due to the lack of clear financial returns on carbon reduction investments.

The shortage of financial resources is another barrier to achieving carbon neutrality. International green funding is limited, and the strict standards make it difficult for the global economy to activate. Businesses are also reluctant to adopt emerging technologies due to the high initial costs and uncertainties surrounding new infrastructure needs.

External Challenges for Tourism

Consumer behavior plays a crucial role in driving producers and service providers, as customers are the ones paying for tourism products. Unfortunately, market support for transitioning to a low-emission economy remains weak. The rise of greenwashing scandals in some countries has caused consumers to distrust companies claiming to pursue green transitions.

Sustainable tourism also faces challenges with high costs and low customer willingness to pay for eco-friendly products. Technologies that support emission reduction are still in their early stages, and businesses are hesitant to invest due to financial constraints.

The Importance of Net Zero

Achieving Net Zero is crucial in combating climate change. Once this target is reached, it will prevent global temperatures from rising more than 1.5°C, the threshold scientists consider safe to avoid severe climate impacts.

Net Zero is not just a global goal but also one embraced by many countries, businesses, and organizations. It offers multiple benefits, including

– Climate: It helps prevent global temperature increases, protecting the environment and ecosystems.
– Economy: Net Zero creates opportunities for the growth of a green, sustainable economy.
– Society: It improves people’s quality of life by reducing the harmful effects of climate change on health and well-being.

What is Net Zero Tourism?

Net Zero Tourism refers to tourism that does not harm the environment during its operations. This type of tourism encourages businesses to implement nature-based solutions and reduce carbon emissions, working towards achieving Net Zero.

Benefits of Net Zero Tourism

Net Zero tourism brings significant benefits to both travelers and the environment. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions, it contributes positively to global climate action. Furthermore, it provides travelers with meaningful experiences by participating in environmentally friendly activities and exploring sustainable destinations.

Activities in Net Zero Tourism

– Sustainable Transportation and Destinations: Using energy-efficient transportation and promoting public transport. Choosing sustainable tourism destinations that support natural conservation and preserve local cultures.
– Eco-Friendly Tourism: Engaging in low-impact activities such as trekking, kayaking, or snorkeling, and supporting local communities by choosing their services and products.
– Education and Awareness: Organizing educational activities to raise awareness about sustainable tourism. Sharing the benefits of Net Zero tourism and encouraging people to participate in reducing the environmental impact of travel.

In conclusion, Net Zero tourism is gaining traction in Vietnam’s tourism industry, encouraging positive actions to restore nature, reduce carbon emissions, and generate socio-economic benefits for local communities. As the global effort towards sustainability continues, Net Zero tourism presents a pathway to a greener, more responsible future for travel.