PROJECTS.
It is fair to say that sustainability is a critical issue at the heart of the domestic tourism sector. What is it? How should it be delivered? What is its role in promoting it? How can guests embrace it? How should it be measured? How does the sector exist and grow responsibly whilst embracing sustainability?
Every enquiry, every stay and every guest is an opportunity to be more sustainable.
But to date adoption of sustainable practises following a sustainably designed and developed project is the exception not the norm. Big strategies must be matched by small actions. Changing policies must be realised by changing behaviours. Whilst the wider world battles with how it can become more sustainable the tourism sector has an opportunity to take the initiative and deliver.
The aspiration is that tourism projects are environmentally sustainable from conception through construction focussing upon biodiversity net gain and nutrient neutrality and socially sustainable through enhancing the quality of life in communities while providing year round careers not just jobs, for a local workforce. Whilst delivering these key pillars, all projects must maintain financially viability while creating authentic experiences that connect guests with nature and local communities
Environmental sustainability is critical from the initial construction phase, focusing on the quality of the build and adhering to sustainable principles. This includes using local, reclaimed and renewable materials, limiting the use of petrochemicals throughout the construction process, low energy systems, biodiversity net gain, nutrient neutrality, and sustainable travel plans in rural locations. Guests coming from urban settings want authentic experiences, and sustainable tourism can provide this by offering authentic experiences that connect them with nature and the local community.
Social sustainability addresses the fragile rural communities that often suffer from outflows of young workers due to the lack of opportunities and affordable housing. Sustainable tourism schemes can create year-round employment opportunities that offer careers, not just jobs, for the workforce, supply chain, and guest spending. In addition, these schemes can contribute to or create community facilities that enhance the quality of life in these communities. A well-considered holiday accommodation offering that has year-round appeal creates a virtuous circle, creating year-round employment, investment in staff training, better quality operations, a higher level of guest satisfaction, increased repeat business, and greater profitability.
Economic sustainability focuses on the long-term financial viability of tourism projects, with robust revenues that create external economic benefits for local and regional communities. These benefits come through direct employment and operating expenses, supply chain and service providers, and guest spending with local businesses and operators. Internal economic sustainability is also essential, with a focus on operating profitability and yield, ensuring a critical mass of inventory delivers operating efficiencies.