“Facing the Reality: How Tourism Industry’s Carbon Emissions are Impacting Global Warming”
Aashish Gupta, consulting CEO of FAITH, delivered a keynote address highlighting the significant implications of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industry on global warming and climate change. Despite being a crucial economic activity contributing 10 percent of the global GDP, the industry’s carbon emissions have been steadily increasing over the past few decades.
Gupta pointed out that the tourism sector alone has seen a rise in emissions from 3.5 gigatonnes in 2013 to 5 gigatonnes in the latest count, a concerning trend that needs urgent attention. The overall global emissions have reached 60 gigatonnes as of 2019-20, leaving only 800 gigatonnes of carbon credits remaining. At the current rate of consumption and emissions, these credits are projected to be depleted within the next 5 to 6 years.
The impact of global warming on aquatic life, particularly endangered species, is becoming increasingly severe. The phenomenon of green washing in the sea is threatening coral reefs in popular tourist destinations like Australia, Kenya, and Costa Rica. Wildlife is also facing significant challenges due to climate change, which could have detrimental effects on the tourism-dependent economies of many smaller countries.
Gupta emphasized the urgent need for the industry to take action. While major corporate entities, including global hotel companies, have pledged to reduce emissions by 50 percent by 2030 and achieve Netzero targets by 2050, the unorganized sector within the industry still lacks comprehensive strategies and commitments to climate action.
The rising sea levels pose a significant threat to the survival of island nations worldwide, further underscoring the urgency for collective action. Gupta urged industry stakeholders to prioritize sustainability and climate resilience to mitigate the adverse effects of global warming on both the environment and the economy.
The conclave, attended by around 200 industry delegates, serves as a platform for discussions and collaborations to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change in the tourism sector. As the industry grapples with the need for transformation, the call for proactive measures and sustainable practices has never been more critical.