From Davos to Copenhagen and Beyond: Advancing Tourism’s Response to Climate Change.
The climate is changing and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.
This will result in social, economic and environmental impacts. The degree of these impacts will depend on to what extent
nations, industry and individuals mitigate emissions and adapt to changes.
The issue of climate change is now firmly entrenched in the global agenda and critical negotiations for a GHG emissions
framework continue.
At a time of global economic downturn, a climate deal could fundamentally transform the global economy through the need for innovative technologies and sustainable development.
The tourism and travel sector must address the climate change issue and UNWTO has embraced the challenge of responding establishing collaborative partnerships, raising awareness, developing guidance and providing support.
UNWTO is fully committed to promoting a reduction in the impact of greenhouse gas emissions from tourism activities. However, the role tourism plays in less developed countries needs to be taken into consideration in any discussions on emission reductions.
Tourism contributes to sustainable development, poverty reduction and the Millennium Development Goals.
Any framework agreement should not disproportionately disadvantage those most dependent on tourism.
Many of the potential solutions to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and tackling climate change are complex.
It is important that partnerships are developed, maintained and enhanced and research into innovative approaches is continued.
The Davos Declaration’s specific recommendations to governments, international organizations, tourism industry and destinations, consumers, research and communication networks, set the guidelines of a comprehensive plan of action.
‘The time is right’: The time is right to further the discussion and debate on climate change and tourism.
The time is right to “seal the deal” and establish a global emissions‐regulated framework.
The time is right for governments and the public sector to invest in greenhouse gas mitigation and climate change adaptation approaches.
The time is right for public and private sectors to forge ahead with innovative low carbon initiatives that would not only create employment but would also contribute to the economy.
The time is right because any further delay in action will result in consequences for the tourism industry and the people who depend upon the sector.
UNWTO will continue to play its role to ensure that impacts are minimised, that all benefits to tourism and communities are realised and that tourism and travel continues to be a significant contributor to poverty reduction and the Millennium Development Goals.
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