More than 1.4 billion tourists went somewhere last year, and that number is due to grow by 3-4?% by the end of 2019, making tourism one of the fastest-growing economic sectors in the world. That’s great for the tourism industry, but it also puts pressure on our planet’s resources. Well managed tourism, however, can help preserve the natural and cultural highlights of any destination, and make a positive impact on the community.
Sustainable Accommodation
One of the first considerations when planning a holiday is where to stay. But wherever you decide to lay your head these holidays, make sure it is doing something positive for the planet and its people.
ISO 21401, Tourism and related services – Sustainability management system for accommodation establishments – Requirements, helps accommodation providers do just that by reducing their impact on the environment, promoting social exchange and making positive contributions to their local economies.
Festival Fever!
Summer means music festivals, sporting events, open-air theatre and many other outdoor events that are good for both body and soul. Thanks to ISO 20121, Event sustainability management systems – Requirements with guidance for use, which was used for the London 2012 Olympics, organizers of any kind of event can manage their operations in a sustainable manner. This includes such things as effective use of resources, upholding workers’ rights, and assessing impact the event has on the local community. A win-win situation for all.
Diving into Clear Waters
Planning on plunging deep into the sea this summer? ISO has a number of International Standards for recreational diving, including those for training programmes. The upcoming standard ISO 21416, Recreational diving services – Requirements and guidance on environmentally sustainable practices in recreational diving, for example, will help dive centres and services be kind to the aquatic environment. It features international best practice such as deterring divers from feeding or removing aquatic life, or how to operate boats in an environmentally-friendly manner.
It will be joined by ISO 21417, Recreational diving services – Requirements for training on environmental awareness for recreational divers, which aims to educate divers on the environmental impact of their sport so that they are in a better position to reduce the risks of harming our waters.
Off the Beaten Track
Looking to get back to nature? ISO 18065, Tourism and related services – Tourist services for public use provided by Natural Protected Areas Authorities – Requirements, helps the authorities of such nature hot spots as protected forests or conservation areas meet the needs of visitors while giving priority to their conservation objectives. Tourists can thus experience the natural environment while respecting it at the same time and learn more about the importance of conservation.
Sustainable Adventures
Looking for a few thrills and spills when you travel? Adventure tourism is booming as tourists seek more challenging experiences. ISO 20611, Adventure tourism – Sustainability good practices – Requirements and recommendations, gives adventure tourism providers the guidance they need to minimise, or mitigate, the negative environmental, economic or social impacts of tourism and enhance the positive ones.
