Our thinking

‘Sustainable’ tourism?

4 February, 2022

The tourism industry is a significant contributor to the climate crisis, accounting for 8% of global emissions. However, as the world slowly opens up for travel, it is about time we go sustainably, considering the environmental impact of our wanderlust and luxurious escapes.

Thankfully, there are multiple tools we can use to navigate the complex task of finding (more) sustainable holiday options.

Bouteco is an eco-travel platform that “spotlights hotels combining luxury and sustainability and aims to publicise pioneering eco-luxe hospitality”. Their huge list of recommendations spans the globe, from Indonesia to Australia and the highlands of Scotland. Taking the domestic option will always shave a considerable chunk off your carbon footprint, but the positive contributions to people and the planet made by Bouteco-acclaimed hotels worldwide cannot go unnoticed.

Whether they are self-sufficient, aim to rewild and bring back wildlife or protect woodland, each hotel has a unique approach toward change and sustainability; all specifically deploying the “leave only footprints” mantra. Bouteco’s work doesn’t just solely advertise special hotels, but they have a consultancy division that “edutains” – that is, educates and entertains – hoteliers to change their purpose and perspective for greener futures.

Bouteco, alongside noteworthy partners The Long Run, Tree Sisters, and Tourism Declares Climate Energy aren’t disincentivising travel, but steering us in the right direction to limit the environmental and social impact of your next holiday.

Some of the most beautiful places in the world are also the most vulnerable. Bouteco are pioneering efforts to protect people, our ecosystem and the future of travel.

By Bertie Bateman