Bota Posted on 2025-01-17 14:20:00

Tourism expansion pollutes the planet - According to the report, carbon emissions could double every 20 years

From Kristi Ceta

Tourism expansion pollutes the planet - According to the report, carbon

The tourism industry has come under scrutiny for its greenhouse gas emissions, which are growing at a rate more than double that of the global economy. According to a study led by the University of Queensland, carbon emissions from tourism now account for nearly 9% of the world's total, raising significant concern in the context of the ongoing climate crisis.

The surge in travel demand has led to a significant increase in tourism-related emissions. “Without urgent intervention in the global tourism industry, we predict annual growth of 3 to 4%, meaning they will double every 20 years,” the report says. This growth threatens international climate goals, including the Paris Agreement, which calls for a reduction in emissions of more than 10% per year.

The study tracked international and domestic travel in 175 countries, revealing a sharp increase in emissions from 3.7 gigatonnes (Gt) to 5.2 Gt between 2009 and 2019. The aviation sector, utilities and private vehicle use for travel were the biggest contributors. The growth rate of tourism emissions stood at 3.5% per year, significantly outpacing the 1.5% increase in global emissions over the same period.

The main drivers of this pollution are slow technological advances and the rapid expansion of demand for travel services. According to analysts, the biggest challenge lies in air travel. The study recommends measures such as reducing long-haul flights, introducing carbon taxes and budgets, and using alternative fuels.

Tourism businesses can also take action at the local level. Switching to renewable electricity for accommodation, food and recreational activities, as well as using electric vehicles for transportation, are some of the suggested steps to reduce emissions.

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