Pandemic fuels demand for sustainable travel

A report by booking.com found that tourists are now prioritising eco-friendly options

Booking.com’s Sustainable Travel Report says Covid-19 pandemic has been pivotal for travellers who want to be more eco-friendly. 

The study focused on American tourists who said they are more committed than ever to travel in a mindful way. According to the findings, 73% of US travellers think sustainable travel is vital, with 46% stating that the pandemic made them want to travel more sustainably in the future.

Almost half of those surveyed admitted that the pandemic has shifted their attitude to make positive changes in their everyday lives, with recycling and the reduction of food waste being the top priorities at home.

Respect for the host community is also high on the list of shifting priorities with 65% of travellers wanting to have authentic experiences that are representative of the local culture. In addition, 74% stated that increasing cultural understanding and preservation of cultural heritage is crucial. 

Booking.com director of sustainability Marianne Gybels said: “Over the six years we’ve been conducting this research, it’s been inspiring to see awareness of the importance of sustainable travel consistently grow, both with our customers and now with our partners, too. The good intentions are there on all sides, but there is still a lot of work to be done to make sustainable travel an easy choice for everyone.”

Properties appear to be on the same page as travellers, with 82% of Booking.com’s global accommodation partners surveyed viewing sustainability in the hospitality industry as being important.