What does the new tourism look like?

A new approach to travel aims to leave a place better than you found it, writes Jane Nicholls.

As the world emerges from the pandemic pause, it’s a good moment to reassess how we travel and put into practice the fruits of our reflections. How do we make the travel we missed so much a positive act for all concerned? How do we look after the people and places we’re visiting and the precious planet we’re again crisscrossing?

The UN World Tourism Organisation promotes responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism, urging travellers and operators to take into account the environmental, economic and social-cultural aspects of travel. There are numerous agencies, companies and even countries on board to help guide the way.

New Zealand has completely redefined the value of its tourism industry, giving equal weight to nature, culture, society and economy. “Tourism must create jobs, restore nature, enhance our heritage, build our national reputation and make us proud,” says the 2021-2025 Statement of Intent for Tourism New Zealand’s Enrich Aotearoa initiative. “It must inspire and enable us to celebrate who we are, our unique people and place.”

It’s a neat summation of how travellers need to check their priorities before they check their bags. How can we make each trip – for business or pleasure – more meaningful? What can we do to minimise impact, maximise connection and elevate the experience? How does our visit support and respect local communities?

Consider it a given that you will eschew modes of transport that don’t offer an accredited carbon-offset program. Accommodation must have sustainability practices that go way beyond asking guests to hang their towels. Transparency of all these initiatives is vital and travellers should be encouraged to research the operators’ credentials.

The Future of Tourism Coalition, a group of NGOs that joined forces during the pandemic, is working to help the sector build back better. Members must sign up to 13 guiding principles, including seeing the whole picture beyond the primary tourism businesses, closing the loop on resources and redefining economic success (as New Zealand has done). Signatory Ecotourism Australia has certified hundreds of members for its Green Travel Guide.

Regenerative travel aims to make the world a better place in measurable ways. Longtime US tour company The Travel Corporation has launched the TreadRight Foundation and Make Travel Matter, a collection of experiences that support 11 defined goals. A clearly defined legend allows travellers to research how each specific tour will support a goal, from clean water and sanitation to reduced inequality for minority groups.

Travel has sustained us in myriad ways for centuries. Now it’s our turn to find ways to give back, take less and ensure our wanderings benefit all. “Travel can play a critical role in building connections with the people and places who are working to restore the balance with nature many of us have lost,” says filmmaker Céline Cousteau, Planet Ambassador for the TreadRight Foundation. “This pause has given me more time to deepen my own relationship with the planet.”