How can travel contribute to achieving UN’s sustainability goals?

Do we really need tourism? This is a question being raised by more and more people worldwide, as concerns about climate, biodiversity, and the well-being of local communities continue to grow. It's a complex issue without a simple answer.

As someone working in tourism, my outlook can vary from day to day. One morning, I might wake up feeling highly motivated to make a difference for many people. The next, I may question our path, wondering if we can really continue like this. Yet deep down, I genuinely believe in the importance of what we do. Perhaps it’s also worth asking: Why is tourism still important?

Tourism is one of the world’s largest industries and can have many positive impacts on society. Yet, it’s clear that there are both benefits and challenges. Maybe it’s time to consider tourism’s full impact more thoughtfully, recognizing both its contributions and its costs.

This article doesn’t aim to give definitive answers but rather to encourage reflection and inspire more sustainable practices. It may also offer some perspectives on the broader role tourism plays around the world.

Development is more important than perfection

It’s been a while since I stumbled into tourism. Being able to make a living from my hobbies, made sure I never looked back. My focus has gradually shifted over to helping small tourism companies operate sustainably. Whatever that means.

When it comes to sustainability there are an incredible number of guidelines, opinions and practices around the world, and also a lack of these. I also suspect that several of the schemes are marketing measures. It seems as if each country, each certification and each company has its own perception of what sustainability is. And we have numerous words. Sustainable, responsible, circular, regenerative, fair and so on.

The search to do right can be frustrating, but at the same time, every provider that focuses on sustainability is also a step in the right direction. It is much better with tens of thousands of actors trying to do as best they can, than just praising those who do everything right.

Just praising perfection, wouldn’t leave much to cheer for.

Development is more important than perfection. Besides, perfection is a relative and subjective quantity in the travel industry.

If we can give Covid-19 a somewhat undeserved pat on the back, the situation gave us time to reflect and time to increase our skills and knowledge. I, like many others spent time on things like getting my certification in sustainable tourism through GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council). I also wanted to get more acquainted with the UN’s sustainability goals and Agenda 2030. SDG Academy offers a number of courses on the UN’s sustainability goals, and I enrolled in a course called “How to achieve the SDG goals”.

These goals provide a good starting point in understanding sustainability, and I have been thinking a lot about how the tourism industry can contribute to each goal. The lecturer, Dr. Jeffrey Sachs, is a joy to listen to by the way, and I can really recommend the course which is both instructive and inspiring. I’ve taken many other courses later. But this was the spark.

What are the UN’s Sustainability Goals and what do they have to do with tourism?

The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are, in short, the world’s joint work plan for achieving a better and more sustainable future for all. “Transforming the World: 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”, as it is called. The 17 goals address the global challenges we face including those related to poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace and justice. 

We call it the tourism industry, but it is actually not one big industry. It is several industries that together make the world’s largest employer,  accounting for 10% of the world’s total gross domestic product (GDP). Because tourism is so varied and enormous, all 17 goals in Agenda 2030 are in fact affected by the choices we as tourism actors make. This means that we have a particularly important responsibility on our shoulders.

When we talk about sustainability it’s easy to one-sidedly focus on climate, but sustainability is about so much more. Local communities around the world depend on tourism. It might be easy for many of us in the Western civilization to demand that everyone has to stop flying and that we only need local tourists, but at the same time tourism accounts for a very large part of all jobs in many poor countries. 45% of all trips go to developing countries. In 30 of the world’s 40 poorest countries, tourism accounts for as much as 60-90% of GDP. Many of these countries are in sub-Saharan Africa.

Is it fair to make these countries focus only on local tourists?

Removing tourists has many other effects as well. Nature conservation for example. Why should some of the most fertile areas be national parks if there are no tourists? When visitors disappear, you lose an incentive to take care of the wild animals. Lions and hyenas are considered a plague and a nuisance in many local communities, but since tourism generates income which in turn provides food on the table and clean drinking water, there is a mutual agreement that they need them.

Everything is connected to everything.

Responsible tourism can take many forms, and there are numerous ways to begin implementing it. We have certifications and frameworks, each offering a different approach.

However, certifications have not proven highly effective so far. Very few companies are certified, and awareness around these certifications remains low. The most concerning issue is that they can create a false sense of security. Yet, when used as a genuine tool for improvement, the certification process can be quite valuable. It often facilitates a positive and meaningful journey towards sustainability.

The more companies going in the right direction, the better. If you take sustainability seriously and do a little bit every day to help contribute to some of the 17 goals, then you are probably on the right track. In this article I will address each of the sustainability goals. First I want to say a few words about the general condition. I will then try to link the goal to tourism and look at what ways we can contribute.

Agenda 2030 is about transforming the way we do things.

The goals for sustainable development in Agenda 2030 is a universal agenda that calls on all governments around the world to take transformative measures so that all parts of the world economy can function sustainably. There are 17 goals, but there are also many sub-goals. When SDG 1 is about ending poverty, for example, SDG goal 1.4 is about securing rights to financial resources for the poor and vulnerable.

There are actually a total of 169 goals and in addition 230 indicators to assess whether the goals are achieved. We need to transform the way the economy works, and it’s not just about fighting poverty or improving the economies of poor countries.

It requires a profound and radical change throughout the world.

Sustainability is often described with three dimensions: the social, the environmental and the economic, more commonly referred to as the three Ps – People, Planet, Prosperity. Although there is still a long way before doing things good enough, some countries do a pretty good job with these three dimensions. The Nordic countries, and especially Sweden, are pretty much best in class. Other countries do a good job with one or two of them, but do worse with others.

At this time, no country has come particularly far in achieving sustainable development. Some countries are in a desperate situation and those are also the ones that need the most help. The world community and economic mechanisms have done a solid job of creating economic growth and wealth, but we have not done a good job of distributing wealth fairly, or fighting extreme poverty.

We have definitely not managed to take care of the environment. The world is in the middle of three huge environmental crises as we speak. The first is man-made climate change, the second is the enormous destruction of biodiversity, the degradation of nature and the weakening of ecosystems, and the third crisis is the mega-pollution of air, water and soil, for example microplastics that go into the sea, into the fish and affect the entire marine food cycle. 

Some of us working in tourism do quite well in some areas, such as generating income in poor countries. But we do very poorly in other areas, such as the environment. An important reason for this is transportation, the very basis of tourism. To solve the problems with tourism, we are dependent on other industries contributing because we, for example, need cleaner energy sources for transporting travelers

Everything is connected to everything.

How can tourism contribute to achieve the sustainability goals of Agenda 2030?

I like it best when complicated things are described easily, and “Leave no one behind” sums up the core of the sustainability goals. Everyone has to join in. We need everyone. Let’s dig a little further into how we can contribute to each of the goals.

SDG 1 – No poverty

End poverty in all its forms everywhere

How does the world community succeed in combating poverty?

The share of people living in extreme poverty has decreased significantly over the past decades. However, the COVID-19 pandemic reversed some progress, causing an increase from 8.5 percent in 2019 to 9.3 percent in 2020.

Since then, improvements have resumed. More people are vaccinated, societies have reopened, and employment has risen. By 2022, the proportion had dropped to 8.4 percent, or around 670 million people. While still far too many, this marks progress from 2015, when 10.8 percent of the world’s population lived in extreme poverty.

Yet, the goal to eradicate extreme poverty by 2030 remains a challenge. Global efforts must focus on inclusive economic growth and equitable opportunities to ensure development benefits everyone. Many regions still need substantial support to secure a sustainable future.

How can tourism help fight poverty?

Tourism cannot fight poverty alone. But as one of the largest and fastest growing economic sectors in the world, tourism is well positioned to promote economic growth and development at all levels, and to generate income through creating jobs.

A relatively unique thing about tourism is the ability to create value in remote, inhospitable areas. In 30 of the world’s 40 poorest countries, tourism accounts for between 60-90 % of the gross domestic product (GDP). That is a lot. Tourism can help spread value creation within a country as well. Some of the popular destinations in the outskirts of Norway are experiencing a large influx of travelers from home and abroad. In many areas, tourism helps to keep the ghost of eviction at bay, and it also helps more people to be proud of what they have to offer.

This is the same in most comparable parts of the world.

Tourism can also be linked to national strategies for poverty reduction and entrepreneurship, as there are often low skills requirements and employees are often recruited locally. It is very important that we make sure that the money from those who travel ends up locally and not to all kinds of intermediaries. This way we can contribute to a larger share of plots and properties ending up in local hands. Rights and access to land, ownership and microfinance can also provide opportunities for the local tourism industry to develop, and create more opportunities for self-driven income.

When tourists buy from local businesses, the income goes straight into local value chains, and in turn tourism contributes to the poorest being able to take part in value creation. We see that neglected groups, such as young people and women, are more often included because of tourism.

But, we have to make sure the money ends in the visited destination. The leakage effect describes how the money from travelers leak out of the local economies. It can be as little as 5% in typical mass tourism destinations. Resorts and cruise ships owned by foreigners. Middle men. Local ownership is important.

Although there is a risk that adaptation to affluent tourists will contribute to pushing the local population out of their areas, locals will still have much left over from the income generated by 1.5 billion tourists. Income can give people the opportunity to not only eat, but also to obtain food that is better for their health. This puts less pressure on already crowded health services, cattle conflicts with humans and animals, and the fight against poaching and exploitative volunteering.

Income from tourism can be invested in community-related projects such as helping to develop and increase health services, clean water and sanitation, family and support for other work.

Moving on to SDG 2.

SDG 2 – Zero hunger

End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture

How does the world community succeed in fighting hunger?

The world is not on track to achieve the goal of eradicating hunger by 2030. The numbers are moving in the wrong direction. In 2023, 733 million people suffered from hunger, and 2.33 billion experienced moderate to severe food insecurity. Countries like Haiti, Mali, Palestine, South Sudan, and Sudan are particularly hard hit (Source: The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2024 / WFP Document).

Children are especially vulnerable. Hunger and malnutrition can impair their physical and mental development, weaken their immune systems, and increase the risk of dying from common childhood illnesses (Source: WHO 2023).

In 2022, around 22 percent of all children under five years old were chronically malnourished, equating to approximately 148 million children. Most of these children live in Central and South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. If current trends continue, 1 in 5 children will face growth and developmental challenges by 2030 (Source: The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2024).

We must rethink how we grow, distribute, and consume our food. To reverse this trend, sustainable investments in agriculture are essential. If done right, agriculture, forestry, and fishing can not only provide nutritious food for everyone but also serve as crucial income sources. Ensuring enough high-quality food will reduce disease and mortality rates. Factors such as climate, precipitation, and prices all influence food production.

A diverse and abundant food supply can stabilize prices and make food more accessible. We must also prioritize food security and equitable distribution. Key elements include efficient production, proper transportation, and fair distribution of income from food production.

Addressing these issues will bring us closer to ending hunger.

How can tourism contribute to SDG 2 fighting hunger?

Increased revenue is key also here.

Tourism can stimulate sustainable agriculture by making food production more profitable. When local farmers get to take part in value creation through the production, use and sale of local raw materials in tourist destinations, they are integrated into the value chain of tourism. Food production can supply hotels and tour operators, and local products can be sold to tourists and locals. 

It is important that we in tourism understand the value of shopping locally, and not least that we choose responsible local suppliers. More revenue for locals, will also provide more efficient solutions and better technology which in turn can provide better production. 

This also means that we have to make demands to our subcontractors.

There is an enormous potential in the growing segment of agro-tourism that complements traditional agricultural activities. Many farmers, for example, offer accommodation and experiences. This increase in income can lead to a more varied agriculture and increase the value of the experience.

This trend has also made it possible for “ethnic” food to increase its visibility, which helps to preserve local food and culture. In many cases, it can also lead to increased exports to international markets. In a modern world, more and more people want to move away from the standardized, and seek “authenticity” through food and drink.

Economic growth alone will not be able to solve the hunger problem. On the contrary, much of the solution lies in how we use our resources. The consumer society is a big part of the problem. Like in food waste. We throw an infinite amount of food. Fully usable quality food goes straight into the trash, and the hotels with their buffets are among the biggest culprits. The potential for improvement here is enormous.

If we as tourism players manage to reduce food waste, we will also save money, resources and we have more food available to fight hunger. It is extremely important that tourism continues to increase its efforts to reduce waste.

Part of solving the waste problem lies in local food production. A lot of food is destroyed during transportation. Destroyed food goes straight into the trash. In my home area, many people work in salmon farming. And a saying there is that no one is busier than a dead salmon. Even though the food is transported to other parts of the world, I believe it illustrates the point well. Less travel time means better quality. 

And better and healthier food for everyone contributes to improved health and quality of life.

SDG 3 – Good health and well-being

Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages

How do we as a world community succeed in improving health and quality of life?

One of my heroes, Hans Rosling, founded the website Gapminder.org, which provides an excellent overview of global facts and progress. Over the years, we've seen a significant decline in the number of children dying before their fifth birthday. As of now, 134 out of 200 countries have achieved the goal of reducing child mortality to no more than 25 deaths per 1,000 live births. However, progress has slowed, and 59 countries are projected to miss this target by 2030.

Fewer women are also dying from childbirth complications. Between 2000 and 2020, the global maternal mortality rate fell by 34.3 percent, from 339 deaths per 100,000 births to 223. Yet, this still meant nearly 800 women died every day during childbirth in 2020.

One crucial goal is to ensure everyone has access to basic healthcare at an affordable cost. In 2023, nearly one billion people had to spend over 10 percent of their household budget on healthcare expenses. Back in 2019, 381 million people were pushed into poverty due to health-related costs.

The most vulnerable in society were hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, 20.5 million children missed one or more routine vaccinations, leaving them at risk for preventable diseases. For instance, measles—a life-threatening illness and a leading cause of child mortality—remains a serious threat. In 2021, one in four children did not receive a single dose of the measles vaccine, compared to over four out of five who received their first dose in 2019.

Deaths from tuberculosis and malaria have also increased compared to pre-pandemic levels. Between 2020 and 2022, tuberculosis cases rose by 14 percent, according to the WHO. Many countries have struggled to reverse this trend, with the pandemic undoing years of progress. Even in my home country Norway, tuberculosis cases have increased slightly, from 155 in 2021 to 174 in 2022. This rise is partly due to increased cross-border travel after the lifting of COVID restrictions and an influx of refugees from high-incidence countries like Ukraine.

Sources: The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2024, Tuberculosis Annual Report for Norway 2022 (FHI), and Global Tuberculosis Report 2023 (WHO)

How can tourism contribute to improving SDG. 3 – good health and quality of life?

The biggest contribution from our industry to SDG 3 is revenue. Revenues to local actors will provide tax revenues generated from tourism, and fees and charges from visitors can be reinvested into health care, services and disease prevention. Health is in many ways a matter of political priority and it requires the will of local authorities. We in tourism can use our consumer power to push for these things to be prioritized.

If you want to attract more visitors, you need to have a medical infrastructure. Countries that invest in universal health coverage make a healthy investment in their “human capital” (WHO). Not only does this strengthen people’s health and life expectancy, but it also protects against epidemics, reduces poverty and the risk of hunger, creates jobs, causes economic growth and strengthens gender equality.

Tourism can indirectly provide more medical staff financed by the private sector in some areas. And it can provide access to emergency care for locals. An example is how medical staff at Everest Base Camp have assisted locals. We also mentioned how increased access to better and healthier food provides better health.

Quality and accessible primary health care are the basis for universal health coverage, and we must do more to improve the quality and safety of health care globally. Poor health care destroys lives and costs the world unimaginable amounts of money every single year. Primary health care is about caring for people and helping them prevent, instead of just treating a single disease or condition.

There is no doubt that most travelers experience a positive effect on their quality of life, many will also have a positive effect on their health. Those who travel are to a large extent part of the more privileged half of the earth’s population. But tourism helps open the eyes to other people’s challenges and living conditions. And by traveling we can be “eyewitnesses” to what is going on.

Tourism companies can also contribute with additional support in both health and quality of life by making donations to different charities and projects. To achieve the goals of health coverage, there is a need for more than 18 million additional health workers by 2030, especially in low-income countries. Investments are needed from the public and private sectors for health worker education, and for the creation of new positions in the health sector. 

Money from tourism is important for financing education. And education has a good effect on health.

Everything is connected to everything.

SDG 4 – Quality education

Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong opportunities for all

How do we as a world community succeed in improving education?

It is generally agreed that good education is a foundation for improving lives worldwide. Education empowers people to take control of their lives, and it is essential that both girls and boys have equal access to high-quality, free education. While more children and young people are getting an education than ever before, progress is still too slow. Without new measures, the world will not achieve the goal of providing good education for all by 2030.

There have been improvements even since 2015:

• 87 percent of children now complete primary school, up from 85 percent in 2015.

• 77 percent of young people finish lower secondary school, compared to 74 percent in 2015.

• 58 percent of young people graduate from upper secondary school, an increase from 53 percent in 2015.

In the three decades leading up to 2015—and especially before the pandemic in 2020—there was a significant increase in school attendance worldwide, particularly for girls and women. However, even before COVID-19, progress toward achieving Goal 4 was too slow to meet the 2030 target. The pandemic caused widespread school closures, resulting in learning losses in four out of five of the 104 countries studied, with many children missing out on learning to read.

Two out of three people who cannot read are women. Historically, more boys than girls received education, but while there are still barriers to higher education for women in some places, like Afghanistan, globally, more girls are now getting an education than boys.

There are also major disparities between different parts of the world. In most regions, around 90 percent of children complete primary school, but in Sub-Saharan Africa, fewer than two out of three children finish. Many children in this region start school but have to drop out early due to financial challenges. In poorer areas, the cost of books, uniforms, or the need for children to support their families can prevent them from completing their education.

Source: UN Sustainable Development Report 2023

How can tourism contribute to SDG 4 – quality education

Tourism depends on a well-trained and skilled workforce. In the nature of tourism, it is implicit that one is present almost everywhere. This also means that jobs are everywhere. What other industries can point to an equally district-friendly spread of both high-skilled and low-skilled employment?

A certain number of visiting tourists provides a tangible incentive to further one’s education. You have the possibility of getting a job without having to move away. And subcontractors are also part of tourism.

Tourism shows the importance of language and the global exchange of languages and values. An important part of this is the opportunities that tourism provides to women and young people. Tourism is inclusive and can provide jobs for many sections of the population.

Tourism can also provide incentives to invest in education and training, values from a culture of tolerance, peace and non-violence, and all aspects of global exchange and citizenship. One can simply be inspired and learn more about the world from visitors.

Another role of tourism is that it can open the eyes of those visiting the destination. In Nepal, for example, several schools have been opened by climbers and other visitors. A good example is Sir Edmund Hillary who opened his first of many schools in Nepal, a few years after the first ascent of Mount Everest.

There are countless examples of this throughout the world. People visiting a country get a connection to the place and a desire to contribute. It is probably less likely that these connections happen among cruise and charter tourists at large resorts. Not that I can document that claim.

Many tourism companies start their own funds, or donate money to other funds and schools, as part of giving back to places they have visited. We also see a number of programs where customers can donate if they want to.

A slightly “darker” side of tourism, but which still finances schooling, is visits to primary schools and orphanages in poor countries. I write darker because this is very controversial. The children are “on display” and many of these “orphanages” are also involved in trafficking. It’s important to be 100% sure before you start collaborating. More about this later in the article.

The journey is always a source of learning, from the Middle Ages and the great explorers, the 19th century’s “The grand tour”, and all kinds of educational journeys. What would Hemingway’s books have been without his travels, what had Darwin written about without visiting the Galapagos, and what would we have known about the world without people traveling?

Local authorities will often see a potential for further development of areas after tourists have discovered it, and after which educational programs may also be launched. Tourism thus contributes to infrastructure. Limited government funding for education often equals to minimal government support. Children will often have to walk many miles to schools that are enormously crowded and in disrepair, and study all day among the most uncomfortable and inadequate facilities and equipment.

Due to tourism’s enormous contribution in the form of income and foreign exchange, it also strengthens skills in English in particular. English is by far the most important language in digital communication, and if you master English, you also get access to that world and the knowledge that exists digitally.

Another factor is that people who have received training through tourism, who have learned languages and computer skills, often give a lot back to society as teachers. Because I was involved in a project aiming to build the learning platform of the future for tourism, I spent some months studying a subject about the future of education. The subject was at Harvard University and was called “Leaders of learning”. There we learned about the four main types of learning, and “the educational shift”.

Here is a brief overview of how education and learning is changing. Because right now there is a huge transformation in education that can be divided into five main groups:

1. Content is everywhere – Multiple sources, flexible access based on interest rather than defined frameworks

2. Teachers are everywhere – Expertise will be equated with formal teachers. Learning becomes more of a social activity, where more people can take on the role of teacher.

3. More personal – Everyone has a different background, motivation and basis for learning. Learning must and will be adapted to the individual.

4. Network is the new classroom – Participatory and voluntary learning based on common interest, regardless of time and place. You can learn a lot about plants if you are a member of the local garden team.

5. Learning happens everywhere – You can choose the place you prefer. At a library, in a cafe or on a trip.

Tourism can, in the future, play an even more important role when it comes to education. We will be less bound by time and place, more people can choose to travel while learning new things. They may want to seek out locations. The traditional hierarchical classroom learning is unlikely to define the future.

Factors such as tourism being seasonal, as well as part-time and abnormal working hours, have so far contributed to a fairly low level of education within tourism. This has created a boost in knowledge between large international companies and the small local players. The flexible solutions we have now and in the future have the possibility of creating a revolution, and making the power and income local.

This will in turn mean that more money can be invested in basic education locally. Capacity and skills must be strengthened to ensure that the tourism sector can flourish and provide job opportunities for young people, women and those with special needs.

SDG 5 – Gender equality

Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls

How do we as a world community succeed in improving gender equality?

Efforts to achieve gender equality are yielding results, but progress is far too slow. At the current pace, it will take 300 years to end child marriages, 286 years to eliminate discriminatory laws and ensure proper legal protection for all, 140 years to achieve gender parity in leadership positions at work, and 47 years to reach equal representation in national parliaments (Source: UN Secretary-General’s Report on the Sustainable Development Goals, 2023).

Women and girls still have less power over their own lives and in society compared to men. In many countries, new legal frameworks are needed to protect women’s human rights and eliminate discrimination.

Consider these stark realities:

• One in five girls is married before the age of 18.

• Women spend an average of 2.8 more hours per day on unpaid household chores than men.

• Only around 26 percent of parliamentarians worldwide are women.

• About 28 percent of managerial positions in the workforce are held by women.

• Just 56 percent of women in relationships have control over their sexual and reproductive health, including decisions about having children.

While more girls are getting an education than before, boys still have greater access to schooling in every region of the world. In 2023, up to 129 million girls were out of school. A striking example is Afghanistan, where leaders have decreed that no girls over 12 years old may attend school, denying 1.1 million girls the chance for an education.

Gender equality is a human right and crucial for development. It means giving all genders equal rights, opportunities to make decisions about their own lives, and abolishing discriminatory practices. Women must have access to education, healthcare, employment, and legal rights, as this is vital for a country's development.

Empowering women is essential for tackling global challenges such as poverty, resource management, and peacebuilding. Even in countries like Norway, where significant strides have been made, disparities still exist—in boardrooms, leadership, company ownership, and wage differences.

Sustainable development cannot be achieved without gender equality and the empowerment of women. This issue is embedded in every Sustainable Development Goal and requires substantial effort and changes in legal frameworks to eliminate gender-based discrimination. It is a deeply rooted problem, but social norms can change, and tourism can be part of that positive shift.

How can tourism and tourism contribute to SDG 5 – Gender equality

In most regions of the world, women make up the majority of the labor market for tourism. Women represent 55.5% of the hospitality sector globally, even up to 70% in some regions, according to the International Labor Organization.

Tourism can thus strengthen the position of women in society, especially by offering direct jobs and generating income in tourism and host-related businesses. As one of the sectors with the largest share of women as employees and entrepreneurs, tourism can be a tool for women to unleash their potential, helping them become fully engaged and give them leadership positions in tourism, and subsequently in all possible areas of society.

We must at the same time remember that women are to a large extent among the lowest paid, and women often get the positions with the lowest status. On top of this, women do a lot of unpaid work in family businesses (UNWTO).

This means that one of the most important steps we who work with tourism can take is of course to ensure that women are paid the same as men. We must also use our influence on subcontractors and remember that we have the opportunity to opt out of unscrupulous players. Tourism also helps provide insight into what is going on around the world, and thus more people will be able to report on imbalance and discrimination.

Through tourism, women can be offered equal opportunities in education, work, income, skills development and equal access to resources, technology, ownership, control and finance. Tourism can thus play a major role in empowering women to take a more active and equal role in society, together with changing attitudes, and therefore also contributing to less exploitation and discrimination.

Kofi Annan once said that there is no better tool for development than giving power to women. I think that sounds about right.

There is still a lot of work to be done though. Capacity and skills must be strengthened to ensure that the tourism sector can flourish and provide job opportunities for young people, women and those with special needs.

SDG 6 – Clean water and sanitation

Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all

How do we as a world community succeed in making more clean water and better sanitation available?

The water planet, Earth, has more than enough fresh water for everyone, but due to inadequate infrastructure and economic constraints, not all people have access to it. Meanwhile, population growth and climate change are exacerbating water shortages in many areas. As of 2020, around 74% of the global population had access to safe drinking water, meaning sources that are available where and when needed, and free from contamination. Despite this progress, two billion people still lacked access to safe drinking water in 2020.

Freshwater is a limited resource that must increasingly be shared among more people and uses. Securing access to water is essential for our survival and sustainable development. Currently, 2.3 billion people live in countries where freshwater resources are under immense pressure, with 721 million of them residing in nations experiencing high or critical water stress. This scarcity and declining water quality also threaten ecosystems, with over 80% of wetlands lost since pre-industrial times and many lakes suffering from poor water quality.

Access to Sanitation
Progress has also been made in providing access to safe toilets. In 2020, 54% of the world’s population had access to basic sanitation facilities, meaning toilets that prevent users and their immediate environment from coming into contact with human waste and are not shared with other households. Yet, 1.7 billion people still lack basic sanitation, with 494 million resorting to open defecation.

What Needs to Be Done?
Global water consumption has increased by 600% over the last hundred years and continues to grow by 1% annually. We need water for all aspects of society—from personal use to producing food, energy, goods, and services.

The world is not on track to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6. The solutions are largely political and require a holistic approach that engages all sectors.

• We need to invest in technology that allows for water conservation and efficient use, wastewater treatment, and water reuse.

• Agriculture and energy production are major consumers of water, and innovative solutions in these sectors can make a significant impact.

• Limiting climate change is crucial for safeguarding water resources, and we must protect wetlands, rivers, lakes, and aquatic ecosystems.

• Financing water and sanitation systems in low-income countries is essential to ensure safe drinking water and toilets for all.

Source: UN Water 2021

How can tourism contribute to SDG 6 – Clean water and good sanitation?

Tourism can play a critical role in achieving access to water, as well as hygiene and sanitation for all. One of the ways to do that is to limit the consumption of clean water in connection with tourism. Although tourism makes up a relatively small share of total water consumption globally by 1%, a small number compared to the massive 70% of agriculture, significant volumes are still used per tourist per day.

According to the European Environment Agency, this can be between 300 and 2000 liters per tourist every single day. This includes drinking, cooling, irrigation, pools, sanitation, cleaning, waste management. In many places, up to 5,000 liters per day are also used to support food requirements.

To put this in perspective, an 18-hole golf course requires about 50 million liters of water per year to be kept lush and green. According to Tourism Concern, this is the same as 1000 average households.

A local person will use an average of 30 liters of water per day. In poor areas this may be only a few liters.

The research is clear in that limiting water consumption is enormously important in areas where water is a scarce resource. Consumption of 1000 regular guests in a luxury hotel for 50 days can provide 1000 families in poor countries with water for three whole years. (Tourism Concern 2014). When people travel, they consume far more water than they do at home, and this water is taken from the same sources that the locals use.

In the cases where this is not done, it is often because resorts and other destinations have purchased exclusive rights or own the sources of supply so that the water is not available to locals. This is even worse and is reminiscent of the practice of large corporations, such as Nestlé, which privatizes drinking water sources around the world.

We can also contribute by using our consumer power and distancing ourselves from the practice of major international companies such as Nestlé and others. Stop buying products from these companies and state clearly what you mean.

Providing clean water is also about taking care of nature. It is important to protect and restore water-related ecosystems such as forests, mountains, wetlands and rivers to limit water scarcity. It is important to limit greenhouse gas emissions and it is important to prevent desertification.

More international cooperation is also needed to stimulate consumption efficiency and to support technology in developing countries. For example, one can have technology to purify and treat water, for example to efficiently collect rainwater. Everyone knows that industrialized meat production has an enormous negative impact on the climate, but in many poor countries this also affects hygiene. Water sources are shared with livestock and many get their water from rivers where livestock have free access.

It is important that our contribution is long-term. One way to get clean water can be to build wells. Many tourism companies have helped build many wells. This is a good thing, but at the same time such projects tend to lapse because the project is left to local authorities who do not have the resources to take care of it.

Therefore, in tourism we must make sure to give our support to long-term projects. It is not sustainable to build infrastructure if you do not also contribute to its maintenance. One thing you can do is make sure you match your guests’ consumption by facilitating access to water to locals.

Much of the solution may lie in raising awareness among travelers. That is, through training. Take them out, teach them to appreciate the nature in the area and understand the local ecosystem. Can you get guests to reduce their emissions? Tourism can contribute to conservation.

If you do this in a good way, sustainable regulation of water consumption can provide a better experience for the guest. It can protect the environment and biodiversity, reduce emissions and not least reduce costs. Most people really want to be responsible guests.

It may not look promising for the big resorts in the future, but they also have a chance to seize the opportunity and change their practices. We must make demands if we are to make use of such facilities. And we must start today.

SDG 7 – Affordable and clean energy

Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all

How do we as a world community succeed in providing clean energy for everyone?

We do not have enough clean energy sources today, but the world is moving towards cleaner energy for everyone. Access to energy is central to almost all the challenges and opportunities we face, and this goal is closely linked to other Sustainable Development Goals, especially Goal 11 (sustainable cities and communities) and Goal 13 (climate action). Clean energy is crucial for developing sustainable cities and combating climate change. Almost every human activity requires energy, whether it’s running hospitals, powering buses and ferries, operating office buildings, or cooking meals.

Those without access to electricity often rely on dangerous and inefficient energy sources for heating and cooking. In 2019, only 66 percent of the global population had access to safe energy for cooking, leaving many exposed to harmful air pollution.

Access to Electricity
One key indicator for the Sustainable Development Goals is the proportion of the population with access to electricity, which helps track progress toward universal access by 2030.

• Today, nine out of ten people worldwide have electricity.

• By 2030, an estimated 660 million people will still lack electricity, with 75 percent of them living in Sub-Saharan Africa.

• The COVID-19 pandemic threatens to reverse recent progress, and rising population growth and poverty have led to 25 million people losing access to electricity they once had.

Renewable Energy
Renewable energy accounts for approximately 17 percent of total global energy consumption, with significant growth in East Asia, particularly in solar and wind energy. To create sustainable cities and mitigate climate change, it is vital to increase the share of renewable, emission-free energy sources, such as hydropower, wind, wave, and solar power, while also improving energy efficiency. The UN also recognizes nuclear energy as an essential emission-free energy source to help tackle the climate crisis.

Currently, we cannot distinguish between sustainably and unsustainably produced renewable energy, but the UN is working on developing metrics to address this.

Clean Cooking Fuels
In many parts of the world, people lack the means to cook safely.

• 2.6 billion people do not have access to clean cooking fuels, relying instead on "dirty" fuels like kerosene, wood, animal dung, or untreated coal.

• In 2012, 4.3 million people died from indoor air pollution, primarily caused by heating and cooking.

This data highlights the urgent need to increase the use of clean cooking fuels to save lives and improve health outcomes.

Source: UN Sustainable Development Goals Report (2021)

How can tourism contribute to SDG 7 – Clean energy for all?

Tourism is one of the largest industries in the world and clearly one of the industries that consumes the most energy. It is also an area with enormous impact. Had tourism cut all its emissions, it would have been a huge step forward on behalf of the world community.

But the first, most obvious and most profitable move we can make, is to minimize and streamline the consumption we already have. By doing so, we also indirectly contribute to more clean energy becoming available to others, at the expense of polluting energy. Tourists use energy (and water) with a greater intensity than the local population, so by doing this, we’ll have a direct effect.

We can save energy by using good old energy efficiency measures such as switching off lights, using energy-saving light bulbs and so on. We can insulate and upgrade heating systems. We can look at where the food comes from and use more sustainable food. We can be aware of the products we buy and offer our guests, and encourage them to reduce their consumption.

The positive bonus is that less energy consumption is good for the wallet.

Another step we can take is to invest in sustainable energy, and implement new solutions like electricity instead of fossil fuels, solar panels etc. into the energy mix. Consequently, by promoting sound and long-term investment in sustainable energy sources, tourism can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, curb climate change and contribute to innovative and new energy solutions in urban, regional and remote areas. There lies a great responsibility on the transport sector, but others, such as hotels and restaurants, also have to do their part.

We may have to endure wind turbines gracing our sunsets. It is not the world’s most efficient energy solution today, but it’s probably part of the future. We’ll always have wind. The world community is still developing solutions for the future, and this also has to happen in the proximity of where we live. Especially if where we live is windy.

We can not just let others take the plunge while we wait for more effective solutions. The world does not have time to wait. But it is important that it is done in a balanced way, that it does not affect the biological diversity, and that non-reversible wounds in important natural areas are minimized.

This is a very delicate balancing act, but the world has to develop cleaner energy sources. And if you want to succeed, the road there will not be without turns.

With that being said, this is a bit difficult for me to write, since I personally am opposed to most of the developments along our coasts. The head sees opportunities, while the heart bleeds when nature has to suffer wounds. Every road and windmill creates wounds that cannot be reversed. It opens up a wide range of philosophical questions, but I have no room for that here.

 We can also offer experiences that use less energy, and think more about how they travel to our destination. Bicycling is better, healthier and more fun than sightseeing by bus. We can encourage guests to use public transportation and offer trains instead of planes. Kayaks and sails are also good and fun experiences.

Fortunately, there is a movement going on here.

SDG 8 – Decent work and economic growth

Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all.

How do we as a world community succeed in providing decent work and economic growth?

Providing good quality jobs for all by 2030 is a significant challenge for nearly every country. The pandemic led to the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression of the 1930s.

Global unemployment reached 6.2 percent in 2021, meaning at least 28 million more people were jobless compared to 2019. The world lost a staggering number of working hours in 2021, equivalent to 125 million full-time jobs. In fact, four times as many jobs were lost during the pandemic compared to the global financial crisis of 2007-2009.

Women, young workers, and people with disabilities were hit hardest by the pandemic, facing fewer opportunities in the labor market. Many women had to leave their jobs to care for children during lockdowns and have struggled the most to re-enter the workforce.

Before the pandemic, 60.2 percent of the world's workers were employed in the informal economy, without social safety nets or welfare systems to support them if they lost their jobs or fell ill. UN estimates indicate that around 75 percent of these informal workers were severely affected by lockdowns (Sources: SDG Report 2022 and SDG Report 2021).

Creating enough jobs for everyone is the most crucial step in eradicating poverty and fighting inequality. To achieve this, we need to foster fair economic growth under current economic models and support entrepreneurs who can generate new employment opportunities.

This also means increasing women's participation in the workforce and ensuring workplace safety. We must promote more permanent employment, reduce irregular and illicit work, and create pathways for youth employment.

As the world continues to evolve, it is essential to acknowledge that today’s working life is different from the industrial era. In our global and flexible job market, work can often be done from anywhere, at any time. This shift requires a renewed focus on training and equipping workers with the knowledge and skills needed for the modern economy.

How can tourism and tourism contribute to SDG 8 – Decent work and economic growth.

This sustainability goal is perhaps where the tourism sector contributes the most to the world community. Our sector very much contributes to the increase in jobs and economic growth, and is especially responsible for employing women and young people. Tourism is one of the driving forces behind global economic growth and accounts for almost 1 in 10 jobs worldwide. Directly and indirectly.

Tourism reaches all corners of the world, bottoms, peaks and all kinds of rural areas. This means that people all over the world can benefit from the value increase. The value chain for tourism is extensive, jobs are created in a number of sectors such as construction, food production and communication. I have previously written a bit about this in this article

 UNWTO, the United Nations Tourism Organization, and the World Travel and Tourism Council regularly publish international tourism data showing the development of tourism towards becoming one of the largest and fastest growing economic sectors in the world. That is particularly noticeable now when the world has stopped due to the Corona-virus, and the figures for 2020 will of course deviate from the curve. Particularly with this goal, it’s useful to look at some of the statistics.

 Here are some figures from WTTC, published in 2023:

• Every fifth of all new jobs created comes from tourism.

  • As of the most recent data, tourism accounts for a significant portion of global job creation, with a growing impact on employment.

• Tourism Employment (Direct Contribution):

  • In 2023, tourism directly supported millions of jobs globally. Although the exact figure may differ, the trend shows a strong recovery and significant direct employment contribution.

• Total Tourism Employment (Direct and Indirect):

  • Including indirect employment, the tourism sector is responsible for employing over 430 million people, which represents a large percentage of global employment, approaching pre-pandemic levels.

• Forecast for Tourism Employment by 2029:

  • Projections suggest continued growth, with tourism expected to support even more jobs as global travel recovers and expands, making up a substantial share of global employment.

• Direct Contribution to Global GDP:

  • Tourism’s direct contribution to global GDP in 2023 reached approximately 9.1%, with ongoing growth anticipated in the coming years.

• Total Economic Contribution (Including Value Chain):

  • When considering the entire tourism value chain, the sector's contribution remains a significant part of the global GDP, with steady growth expected.

• Investment in Tourism:

  • Investment in tourism infrastructure and development continues to increase, with future projections indicating robust investment flows.

• Growth Rate of Tourism:

  • The sector has experienced higher growth rates compared to many other industries, showcasing its resilience and economic importance.

• Tourism as a Leading Growth Sector:

  • Tourism is one of the world’s fastest-growing sectors, often ranking ahead of construction, retail, and healthcare in growth rate.

• Tourism’s Contribution to Global Exports:

  • Tourism continues to account for a substantial percentage of global exports, with a notable share of global services exports.

• Tourism in Developing Countries:

  • Tourism remains a critical export sector in many developing nations, contributing significantly to their economies.

• Job Creation Throughout Countries:

  • Unlike extractive industries that are geographically limited, tourism helps create widespread employment opportunities, benefiting both urban and rural areas.

The tourism industry consists of 85% small businesses. That means less than 30 employees. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a key role in job creation, accounting for two thirds of jobs in developing countries and up to 80% in low-income countries, in addition to being an important source of innovation and creativity. Access to financial services and microfinance is the key, and tourism contributes important capital to it.

We who operate in the industry have a responsibility to develop it in a sustainable direction so that we can create and take care of jobs in the future as well. We cannot rely on short-term solutions, but must adapt so that our children and grandchildren can also be proud to work with tourism. It will probably require more professionalization and education than we have had so far.

SDG 9 – Industry, innovation og infrastructure

Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation

How do we as a world community succeed in building industry, innovation and infrastructure?

Underlying infrastructure must be in place for a society to function effectively. Investing heavily in infrastructure such as irrigation systems, information technology, and transport is crucial to achieving sustainable development. While some parts of the world have well-established infrastructure, others are still struggling to keep up.

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted industries more severely than the financial crisis of 2007-2009. The pandemic led to declines in air traffic, disruptions in supply chains, and job losses across the globe, slowing the growth of sustainable industry.

Key figures from 2020:

• Global manufacturing output dropped by 6.8 percent compared to the previous year.

• Airlines experienced a 60 percent decrease in passengers from the year before.

• Approximately 52 percent of workers in the aviation and related tourism sectors were furloughed or lost their jobs.

Industrialization and manufacturing in the least developed countries (a term used by the UN for the world's 46 poorest nations) have increased in recent years. However, progress remains too slow to meet the target by 2030.

To achieve innovation for a sustainable future, more investment is needed in small-scale industries worldwide. Funding for research, development, and infrastructure must also increase.

Infrastructure Investments: Roads, for instance, are vital for connecting rural populations to markets, jobs, healthcare, and education. In 2019, 300 million people in rural areas lacked access to roads, underscoring the need for better transportation networks to reduce poverty.

Internet Access: Access to the internet is essential for information, education, employment, and communication. However, there is still work to be done to get more people online.

• The number of internet users grew by about 10 percent in 2020, the largest increase in a decade, driven by the pandemic.

• By 2021, 63 percent of the global population used the internet.

• There remains a significant gap between rich and poor countries: only 27 percent of people in the 46 poorest nations used the internet, compared to 90 percent in more developed countries. The main barriers are the high cost of internet access and a lack of digital literacy.

Source: UN Sustainable Development Goals Report (2021) and ITU 2021

How can tourism contribute to SDG 9 – Industry, innovation and infrastructure?

I’ve mentioned this before, but the values created from tourism can be invested in infrastructure and innovation.

The value creation that tourism contributes is important for any destination, but at the same time tourism will also open the doors to other investments. If a destination suddenly gets a lot of tourists then there will also be a need for better roads, public transport and other infrastructure. You may need a fast internet speed and a better developed power grid.

Development of a destination depends on the provision of good public and private infrastructure. It is not only about good public and private infrastructure and an innovative environment for the provision of services, but it can also stimulate the authorities to upgrade the infrastructure as a means of attracting tourism and other sources of foreign and domestic investment.

This in turn affects other developments and the local population can have water and sewerage networks upgraded, waste disposal etc. Tourism is in a paradigm shift where those who are not sustainable will disappear. It requires innovation and good solutions. Innovation and upgrading of infrastructure such as transport, energy and water can also influence other industries to be more sustainable, with increasingly efficient use of resources and environmentally friendly technologies and processes.

A lot of technology is being developed for tourism. This technology can again be used in other industries. It can be anything from transportation to healthcare. Focus on sustainability in tourism will also make demands on the destinations that receive tourists. The world is becoming more transparent. We who work in the industry must understand the benefits of, and also use, the technology. We are not digitized even though we have had a few Zoom or Skype meetings.

Tourism also has the ability to reach all small settlements and outposts in a way that other industries cannot. It helps to support these areas and the people who live there despite differences, small population etc. Disadvantaged countries are among those mostly affected by tourism. We also contribute to building infrastructure for other industries.

But we must also take into account how over-tourism, and excessive dominance from tourism in the local economy, affects other industries at the destination. We might need to look for ways to move away from mass tourism to more sustainable forms of tourism.

Adventure tourism, as example, which provides a higher income per guest.

SDG 10 – Reduced inequalities

Reduce inequality within and among countries

How do we as a world community succeed in reducing inequality?

We have seen significant progress, but inequalities within and between countries remain a serious concern. Many nations have experienced economic growth, which has made them wealthier, yet this has not always translated into reduced poverty. Although incomes for the poorest 40% of the global population have improved compared to the past, income disparities continue to widen.

While income inequality worldwide has decreased since the financial crisis of 2007-2009, with incomes for the poorest growing faster than the average in most countries, the COVID-19 pandemic has reversed this positive trend. Wealthier nations, like Norway, had the economic resources to mitigate the pandemic’s effects, but poorer countries struggled due to low incomes and insufficient reserves. As a result, the pandemic has caused the largest increase in inequality between countries in three decades.

By the end of 2022, 108.4 million people were displaced due to persecution, conflict, violence, climate crises, and human rights violations. This marked an increase of more than 19.1 million from the previous year and a doubling since 2015. That year was also deadly for migrants, with nearly 7,000 deaths recorded worldwide.

Low- and middle-income countries host three-quarters of the world’s refugees, with the poorest nations hosting 20 percent. Approximately 41 percent of the world's refugees are children.

Discrimination remains a significant issue. One in six people has experienced discrimination, with racism being one of the most common causes. Women are twice as likely as men to face discrimination due to gender or marital status, and one in three people with disabilities reports experiencing twice as much discrimination as those without disabilities.

Key measures to reduce inequality include providing essential services like healthcare, ensuring fair and equal access to education, and establishing just tax systems. To decrease disparities both within and between countries, a fair distribution of resources and benefits is crucial.

Source: UN Sustainable Development Goals Report (2023)

How can tourism contribute to SDG 10 – Reduced inequalities?

If we succeed in engaging the local population and other key stakeholders in the value chain, then tourism is one of the most powerful tools available for community development. With development and renewal, we also contribute to reducing inequalities. We know how tourism contributes to developing countries taking part in the global economy. In 30 of the poorest countries in the world, tourism accounts for 60-90% of gross domestic product, making the industry the most important contributor.

Tourism can contribute to urban renewal and the development of districts, and thus to reduce regional imbalances by giving local communities the opportunity to flourish. It may also lead to less emigration, as well as contribute positivity. When foreign currency is used to develop tourism infrastructure in one country, money is also invested from one country to another. And with this comes other investments.

One must develop both the supply and demand side. For tourists to arrive, there must be some infrastructure at the destination. This can be so costly that local authorities do not have the opportunity to keep up. In order to attract tourists and be competitive, one must also market and facilitate a number of other processes. All of this needs to be funded.

Unfortunately, it is not the case that growth in tourism automatically leads to the development and reduction of inequalities. In fact, the differences can get bigger. It turns out time and time again that typical all-inclusive resorts leave very little in the local community, but contribute greatly to emissions and use of resources.

I hardly need to mention the worst of them all, the cruise industry. International actors make money at the expense of local communities. Research on popular destinations, such as Thailand and Brazil, shows that the relative income of the poor does not come closer to the rich at all, even though there is a 10% growth in tourism. This is how it goes pretty much everywhere.

We can generalize a bit here and say that when rich people from rich countries travel to low-cost countries to soak up the sun on a beach by the sea, it does not contribute significantly to the local destination. The economic leakage is often as high as 40-50% in developing countries, but the UN also has several examples of as little as 5% being left locally from mass tourism. This is not only reprehensible, but they also help to undermine the reputation of the entire tourism industry, and it undermines the positive effects of tourism.

One way to ensure increased local income is through taxes and fees, which in turn can be invested locally and have a positive effect. This works well in some countries, and not so well in other countries.

The trickle-down theory refers to the economic assumption that taxes on companies and the wealthy in society, can be reduced as a means of stimulating business investment in the short term and benefiting society in the long term. In other words, a classic capitalist way of thinking. This is largely how it’s done in many destinations.

They try to facilitate and give benefits to large developers with a hope that it will pay off in the long run. Many developers will also demand benefits, otherwise they will not come. For many destinations, it is simply too difficult to say no to the developers’ beautiful words and visions for the future.

In fact, much of the problem with tourism lies in exactly this. International and national developers either do not get the growth they have been predicted, or they find loopholes to take the money out of the area. There is always a way. Another problem with tourist taxes is that they are often not invested in local infrastructure or in tourism. And many destinations also struggle with corruption. 

I also want to include a concept that often has negative effects and helps to increase differences. Orphanage tourism, i.e. the concept of visiting a local orphanage, has long been controversial as it contributes to human trafficking, with children.

The desire from western tourists to help orphans abroad has created a demand in the market, where middlemen get contracts to offer poor parents a better future for their children. These children are instead often exploited and have to live in shocking conditions, while the “loving” owners receive support for their orphanage operations.

Children are not attractions.

We also have huge differences within tourism companies. There can be differences between hires of different genders, qualifications and skills. We often see that top management, with language and business experience, have high salaries while those who work with catering or in the kitchen get paid very poorly. Cases like this, where you do not give equal pay for equal work, go under what we call social dumping.

Privately owned companies with the law in hand can do as they please, whether it is unethical or not. There is no shortage of horror examples in both the cruise and hotel industry.

But in the form of being tourism actors, customers and citizens, we can demand that the authorities take action and regulate by means of laws and regulations. A fair pay system can assess the top-to-bottom ratio between the highest paid managers and the lowest paid employees.

Tourism has a long way to go before they have regulations and structures in place that dampen inequalities globally. But this is a job that has to be done.

And we can make it.

SDG 11 – Sustainable cities and communities

Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable

How do we as a global community succeed in creating more sustainable cities and communities?

For years, people around the world have been moving from rural areas into cities, and urbanization is now accelerating faster than ever. Currently, more than half of the world's population lives in cities and urban areas, and this figure is expected to rise to 70% by 2050. The strongest growth will occur in Southeast Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. People are drawn to cities because they offer opportunities not available in rural areas, including jobs, access to education, trade, and social services.

Urbanization brings many advantages but also significant challenges. Inequality and poverty remain among the biggest obstacles facing cities today. Many residents live in urban slums, characterized by overcrowding, poor sanitation, and high crime rates. Cities are often expanding faster than infrastructure can keep up, leading to unmet needs for housing, jobs, and essential social services. This rapid and often uncontrolled urban sprawl can have negative environmental consequences, such as increased air pollution and the loss of wildlife and agricultural land.

Only half of urban residents have access to public transportation near where they live. As cities continue to grow, urban populations in low-income countries are expected to increase nearly two and a half times by 2070. Today’s cities are also expanding outward rather than making better use of already developed areas, further contributing to environmental challenges.

Moreover, the demographic composition of future cities will change, with a greater proportion of elderly people and fewer children. It is crucial to plan for age-friendly cities and communities that provide a high quality of life for residents of all generations.

Cities account for 60-80% of global energy consumption, and they generate 75% of all greenhouse gas emissions, even though they occupy less than 3% of the Earth’s land area. There is tremendous potential to reduce emissions and create more sustainable urban environments as we build the cities of the future.

A well-functioning city promotes social and economic development, reduces inequality, and minimizes crime and poverty. We need to ensure that cities provide all residents with access to basic services like housing, transport, energy, clean air, and sanitation. Urban planning must focus on safety, sustainability, and meeting the fundamental needs of all inhabitants.

Source: World Cities Report 2022

How can travel and tourism contribute to SDG 11 – Sustainable cities and communities?

The first thing we must do as tourism actors is to show respect for the local population and the local community. A city or community that is not good for those who live there is also not good for tourists. Therefore, the interests of the locals must always come before the tourists. If the locals are complaining about over-tourism and people invading their privacy, then we have to take it seriously and we have to make changes.

If not, we’ll just shoot ourselves in the foot. And I’ve heard it hurts.

In many places, locals are driven away from their neighborhoods because they can no longer afford to live there. This is a clear sign that this all has gone too far, and it may also be the start of the downswing for the city as a tourist destination. This, of course, didn’t happen overnight. It took most popular destinations years to get to this point, with the exceptions of Instagram phenomena such as Trolltunga in Norway and Seljalandsfoss in Iceland.

Instagram almost earned itself a separate article, as the app alone has managed to multiply the number of visitors in many places, and by that also contributed to a deterioration of the environment. The behavior of many visitors has also changed. Tragically some have even lost their lives by trying daring selfie poses, or by ignoring safety or warning signs in search of the perfect image.

When we bring guests to a destination, we must make it easier for them to be responsible, and we must also remind them to be. It is part of our responsibility as hosts. Training our guides or staff to show guests how to be responsible is actually very simple, it has a great effect and we can do it on just about any type of trip or tour. Safety and accountability.  

Venice is a place that runs campaigns for responsible behavior, and asks tourists to live by the golden rule with the campaign #EnjoyRespectVenezia. It’s about treating your city the way you want visitors to treat your city or destination.

By the way, Venice is a place that has been subjected to what is called “Disneyfication”. It is a sociological term that describes a small community that is gradually adapted to a familiar reality for the visitors. When a city becomes popular, and McDonalds and the other chains occupy the area, they are streamlined. You often won’t notice it until it is too late.

 Anyway.

When the focus over time has been one-sided on economic growth and job creation, it can also create an imbalance in relation to the “triple bottom line”. This affects the environment, it strains the infrastructure and the local population.

Iceland was under heavy pressure after the financial crisis and saw tourism as an opportunity to recover. They made several moves such as marketing themselves as a transatlantic gateway between the United States and Europe, and with the help of the TV series Game of Thrones, tourism grew rapidly. In fact, the number of visitors skyrocketed from 500,000 in 2010 to 2.3 million in 2018. The population in Iceland is a mere 340,000. It is still a small island state. The growth has gone too fast. The demand exceeds supply, while both local infrastructure and the environment has been brought to their knees. This perception is shared by Icelanders, and as many as 79% of them believe they have too much pressure on their nature.

In some particularly vulnerable cities, the pressure is so strong that the positive effects are hardly noticed by the locals. Prices are skyrocketing and the resistance is growing. There are many examples of places where large sections of the locals no longer want tourists to visit. They’ve had enough. You see it in Dubrovnik, Barcelona, Palma, Valencia, Florence, Genoa, the Cinque Terre cities, Venice, Rome, Budapest, Paris, Prague, Reykjavik, Bergen, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Lisbon, New York, Queenstown, London, Berlin and infinitely many other smaller places. And not only cities, this has also happened in Lofoten, the Isle of Skye, Montenegro, Bali and the Great Barrier Reef.

Many of the places, where there is a lot of resistance from the locals, get even more pressure from large cruise ships or several long-haul flights during the season, and not least by the renting out available homes to tourists rather than to the locals. Many places are also considering trying to extend the season in order to spread out the visitors. We are trying this in Norway, Catalonia is doing the same, and so are many other destinations.

There are different ways of attacking this, some use a whip, others use a carrot. Ultimately, it’s about what the tourists want. They are the ones who will make the choice to travel to other places in other ways. We need to make more  seasons and other destinations more attractive and accessible.

Although many positive effects may not be very noticeable when the pressure is too high, what is noticeable is the total absence of tourists during Corona. It helps to make people aware of the importance of tourism, which can make the dialogue easier when planning future tourism. A tourism that is good for everyone and that makes the destination better.

The old model of mass tourism as a kind of sacred cow has gone out of date, even though it was never really durable. Conveyor belt tourism provides no benefits to either visitors nor hosts. Nevertheless, there are many places that both need and want growth and visitors who contribute to sustainable development.

The question is: how do we balance it? The answer is not constant, and whoever finds it has something many are looking for.

Demonstrations and violence have made tourism headlines and put responsible tourism on the political agenda. Although local authorities have been spokespeople for increasing growth, they have to pay attention to citizens and consumers. This means planning better and setting guidelines for tourism and for foreign ownership of property.

Sustainable tourism has the potential to renew cities and communities that could otherwise fall into disrepair. Rural tourism not only helps to disperse income, it also creates employment and other local services, which can help slow down relocation and correspondingly limit the growth of megacities and slums. It is of great importance in poor countries, but it’s important everywhere.

Take Canada for example. Last year I was introduced to the story of Zita Cobb who is behind the inspiring Fogo Island Inn, a place many of you have heard of. Their history is one of the best examples I know of how tourism can develop a destination.

There are tens of thousands of other good examples just as there, unfortunately, are many bad ones.

Dilapidated urban areas are often renewed due to increased tourism and it contributes to preserving cultural and natural heritage. Many future-oriented cities also make sure car traffic is removed and air pollution is reduced, while at the same time promoting bicycle accessibility and providing open areas.

I have lived in Oslo for exactly five years, and the city is much better now  than when I moved here. Air quality, in particular, has improved. The city council has made Oslo a much better city for locals in recent years. We see the same development in cities such as Copenhagen, Milan and Madrid. It helps to create a good reputation, and tourism is one of several motivating factors for such measures.

Finally.

We need to cut the middlemen and make sure that more of the money from the travelers ends up locally. This is one of the most important things that the tourism industry must focus on in the future. We don’t want this money to end up in the pockets of international, wealthy tourism companies.

The money has to go into the local communities. That is the only sustainable way.

SDG 12 – Responsible consumption and production

Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.

How do we as a global community succeed in ensuring more sustainable consumption and production?

Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. 
We are consuming far more than is sustainable today, draining the world of its resources. Around 14 percent of all food produced globally is lost in the production chain before it even reaches the expiration date. Every minute, a million plastic bottles are purchased, most of which are not recycled, and five trillion plastic bags are thrown away each year, often ending up polluting the environment.

Our global material footprint increased by 70 percent from 2000 to 2017. The overconsumption of natural resources is far from sustainable and has devastating effects on the planet’s climate, environment, and biodiversity. These destructive impacts have only been amplified by industrialization and population growth.

Consumption is, and has historically been, highest in the wealthiest countries, placing a special responsibility on these nations to lead the way in implementing the necessary global changes. Sustainable consumption and production are essential to tackling global crises, such as climate change and biodiversity loss.

To address these challenges, it is crucial to implement policies that encourage consumption and production practices that do not harm nature. For climate considerations, production must be based on renewable energy sources instead of oil and coal. Political measures can also promote recycling and make repairing items more affordable than buying new ones, contributing to more responsible consumption.

Our economic models and society are built on the need for continuous growth to avoid economic collapse. However, we cannot continue this way. We need to shift towards a circular economy, doing more with fewer resources and embracing a lifestyle that prioritizes sustainability.

Everyone has a responsibility to minimize resource use, environmental destruction, and climate emissions. Some may see this as a sacrifice of living standards, but it’s more about re-evaluating what we value in life. Are material possessions truly more important than experiences and a healthy planet for future generations?

Source: UN Sustainable Development Goals Report (2021)

How can tourism contribute to SDG 12 – Sustainable consumption and production?

Tourism is specifically mentioned in SDG 12, as a key to the goal achievement:

“A tourism sector that adopts sustainable consumption and production (SCP) practices can play a significant role accelerating the global shift towards sustainability”, including by how it can “develop and implement tools to monitor sustainable development impacts for sustainable tourism which creates jobs, promotes local culture and products ”.

The UN’s 10-Year Framework for Sustainable Consumption and Production Patterns (# 10YFP) has a Sustainable Tourism Program (STP) led by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). The collaboration platform aims to develop better practices and brings together existing initiatives and partnerships, while facilitating new activities that lead us towards more sustainable consumption and production.

The tourism industry has an enormous consumption of food, energy and things, like clothes and equipment, paper, shampoo or soap. Being a large consumer also means that we are an important customer for many manufacturers, and they are reluctant to lose the tourism players as customers.

It is important that we use our power as consumers to make demands on those who produce the goods we consume. How are they produced? What are the ethical guidelines? Is the product harmful to the environment. Choosing a sustainable producer is a statement.

If more people buy sustainably, it may lead to other producers switching to more sustainable production. Every tourism company has an economic interest in identifying the points in the supply chain where small measures can have the greatest possible impact, provide more efficient solutions and increase the life cycle of the products.

We must also make sure we limit our consumption. An important step is to reduce food waste. There are a number of steps that food producers can make, but also us when we receive guests. We can influence those who produce, and we can demand that they e.g. minimizes packaging.

Good food systems provide better security, better nutrition and reduce poverty globally. Less waste also reduces food prices since the manufacturer does not have to calculate the loss.

The easiest way to get started is to reduce waste where we are. One course of action is the well-known smaller plates in hotel buffets. We actually have the possibility of cutting out buffets now, because of the Covid-restrictions. “Free” food has a shorter way to the trash. Good systems can help us save money, and we can get better quality with more nutrition.

We can also influence which menus and ingredients we use/offer. Local food means less transport. Transport emits greenhouse gases, but a lot of food is also ruined on the road. 

If you need a quick rule of thumb, think of the three R’s:

Reduce, Recycle, Reuse.

SDG 13 – Climate action

Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts

How do we as a world community succeed in stopping climate change?

The truth is, we are not succeeding. The world is not on track to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to no more than 1.5°C and achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere are increasing rapidly, and climate change is happening much faster than previously anticipated. Each of the last three decades has been warmer than the previous one, and in the coming years, temperatures will continue to rise even more rapidly, especially in northern regions.

The Arctic is feeling the greatest impact, with melting snow and ice accelerating the warming process. The ice in Greenland, Arctic sea ice, snow cover in the northern hemisphere, and Antarctic ice are all shrinking. Permafrost temperatures are also rising globally, contributing to further environmental challenges.

Melting glaciers and warming oceans cause sea levels to rise faster than before. The ocean absorbs around 20% of CO2 emissions, helping to prevent even more significant temperature increases. However, this absorption leads to ocean acidification, with the ocean becoming 26% more acidic. The consequences include a reduced ability to capture CO2 and weakened marine biodiversity.

Climate change also disrupts weather patterns, leading to more extreme weather events. Some areas will experience droughts, while others will face increased rainfall and snowfall. The Nordic region, for example, can expect more extreme precipitation. On a global scale, natural disasters and severe weather will become more frequent.

The underlying cause of climate change is the emission of greenhouse gases, primarily from burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas. These fuels release carbon, which becomes CO2 when burned. The carbon cycle, a natural global system where CO2 is emitted and absorbed by oceans, forests, and tundra, has been thrown out of balance. Human-induced emissions have amplified the greenhouse effect, trapping more heat in the atmosphere and causing the planet to warm.

For every degree of warming, there is 7% more moisture in the atmosphere, leading to 7% more extreme weather events. This imbalance results in storms, floods, droughts, wildfires, and heatwaves, causing significant loss of wildlife and crops.

The effects of climate change are already visible worldwide, and they often hit the poorest communities hardest. While many countries have submitted their national plans to combat climate change, they are far from sufficient. We must urgently increase our efforts and keep the temperature rise within 1.5°C to avoid catastrophic consequences.

Climate change does not respect national borders, so global cooperation is essential. In addition to cutting emissions and developing carbon capture and storage, we need substantial investments in renewable energy, new industrial systems, and infrastructure changes. We must also invest in protection measures, adapt to the changes we can’t avoid, and minimize the extent of the damage.

Despite some significant actions being taken to address the crisis, emissions are expected to continue rising unless decisive and transformative measures are implemented to shift economies away from oil, coal, and gas.

Source: UN Sustainable Development Goals Report (2021)

How can tourism contribute to SDG 13 – Stop climate change?

Up to 8% (!) of global greenhouse gas emissions are attributed to tourism, and unfortunately, tourism can never be fully justified from a climate perspective. Despite the growing awareness of climate issues, emissions from tourism are expected to keep increasing unless we make substantial changes. Since the 1950s, tourism has grown exponentially, becoming more affordable and accessible, particularly as large markets in Asia have become more active travelers.

Half of tourism’s emissions come from transport, primarily air travel, with the rest stemming from accommodation, food, and activities. For example, a round-trip flight from Beijing to Oslo in first class can emit up to 8 tonnes of CO2—four times more than the annual emissions of an average person in many countries.

Air travel is the largest emissions culprit, but it’s not the only concern. The environmental impact extends to everything from food production and waste to energy use in accommodations. Food waste, in particular, remains a massive but underestimated issue, wasting resources used in food production and exacerbating climate impacts.

While lowering energy consumption and transitioning to renewable energy are essential, the most impactful step is to travel less and prioritize shorter distances. The carbon footprint of long-haul flights cannot be offset simply by eco-friendly initiatives at the destination. No matter how sustainable your offerings are, they cannot counterbalance the emissions produced by guests flying across the world.

Carbon offsetting is not a real solution. It doesn’t effectively address climate change and often gives people a false sense of accomplishment. We need real reductions, not band-aid measures like compensation.

How Do We Make a Difference?

1. Travel less and travel smarter. Focus on reducing the overall volume of travel and choosing shorter, necessary trips. Avoid unnecessary flights, especially for business, by utilizing virtual meetings. When travel is unavoidable, prioritize trains or direct flights.

2. Support low-carbon, local experiences. Promote activities like hiking, cycling, and canoeing and collaborate with eco-conscious partners for accommodations and services. The era of mass tourism needs to end, replaced by models that leave more money in local communities and have a reduced environmental impact.

3. Invest in clean technology. Push for advancements in sustainable transport and energy-efficient accommodations. We already have the technology to make many hotels nearly climate-neutral; it’s time to implement these solutions and develop even better options.

Rethinking Tourism

The era of endless tourism growth is over. We cannot continue with travel patterns as they were in the past. Instead, we must shift towards more responsible and conscious travel habits. While today’s consumers are increasingly prioritizing sustainability, it’s crucial to avoid greenwashing. Genuine efforts to reduce emissions and adopt sustainable practices will build long-term trust and strengthen your brand.

The Way Forward

• Engage everyone: Employees, partners, local communities, and even guests should be part of your sustainability journey. Be transparent about your impact and the actions you’re taking to improve.

• Optimize energy use: Encourage remote work, reduce energy consumption in offices, and source local, vegetarian ingredients where possible.

• Advocate for systemic change: Push for policies that support responsible consumption and sustainable production practices. Collaboration between governments and businesses is essential for building a fair and balanced global tourism industry.

We must find a balance between supporting communities that rely on tourism and drastically cutting emissions. Communities in developing countries, which contribute the least to global emissions, should not suffer because of our climate impact. Tourism is often a lifeline for these regions. Cutting off tourism without providing alternatives would be devastating, so we must work towards a more equitable and sustainable future for travel.

The fight for climate-friendly tourism is one we can wage while continuing to travel, but we must do so differently and more mindfully. This is the battle we must fight to protect our planet.

SDG 14 – Life below water

Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development

How do we as a world community succeed in preserving life at sea?

Well, we are not very successful here either, even though the ocean is one of the most crucial elements of our planet. Life on Earth is 100% dependent on the ocean. The ocean regulates global systems that make life possible, controlling water, temperature, chemistry, currents, and biodiversity. Over half of the oxygen we breathe comes from the ocean. It covers 71% of the Earth's surface, contains 97% of the planet’s water, and provides 99% of the living space for Earth's creatures.

Yet, we continue to damage the ocean in ways that threaten its ability to sustain us. Increasing CO2 emissions make the ocean warmer, more acidic, and oxygen-depleted, putting marine ecosystems at risk and jeopardizing the ocean as a vital food source. Overfishing, plastic pollution, sewage, and agricultural runoff further degrade the health of our seas.

Consider these alarming facts:

• More than three billion people rely on the ocean for their livelihoods.

• One-third of all fish stocks are overfished.

• Oxygen-deprived areas, known as "dead zones," where marine life cannot survive, increased from 400 to 700 between 2008 and 2019.

However, there is some positive progress. The protection of vulnerable marine areas has increased significantly, with certain zones now safeguarded from fishing and other harmful activities.

We must do better—and urgently. Billions of people and countless marine species depend on us taking sustainable actions to preserve the ocean. This means reducing litter and pollution, cutting greenhouse gas emissions to prevent acidification, stopping overfishing, and protecting wildlife and coral reefs. Additionally, it is essential to raise awareness and educate people about the importance of the ocean and how to care for it.

Source: UN Sustainable Development Goals Report (2021)

How can tourism contribute to SDG 14 – Life below water?

First I would like to highlight our unique opportunity to help people become more aware of the importance of the sea. Everyone who lives in little Norway with the world’s third longest coastline, has a relationship with the ocean. We can give visitors good experiences on and in the ocean. We can provide our guests bits and pieces of experiences and information, that in the long run can make them more aware. Many people do not have the same relationship to the sea as us.

There are many ways to communicate. But you understand what you see.

What has a good effect is visual plastic and rubbish. In recent years, people have started to get really involved in the ocean. There is so much pollution now that it has entered our food chain. We literally get microplastics and environmental toxins in our bodies through our food.

We see it with our own eyes every time we go for a stroll along the beach. And more and more of us realize that this is not how we want it to be.  

So let us not hide the problem. When we all see what is happening, it will trigger commitment. We also need to be aware of our own emissions. Tourism has a direct negative impact on the ocean. Through littering, noise, destruction and fishing, and emissions of greenhouse gases that acidify the water.

It’s actually easy to stop littering. But everyone has to take responsibility. We do not need plastic spoons, cups, straws and other disposable plastic, and we must all take our own rubbish with us and recycle it. We need to help travelers limit their waste. And we must make demands on the industry that delivers goods to us.

Feel free to check out empower.eco, they help clean plastic from the ocean in a measurable and efficient way, and have solutions for companies.

A dedicated marine biologist talks about ocean life in the Oslo Fjord on board the electric boat Brim Explorer.

Fishing and harvesting marine resources is also problematic, so it’s important to follow guidelines. Ideally, we should stay well within limits and avoid fishing. The best tourism does not drain the marine ecosystem of resources. It is also important to follow closely how fish and seafood are obtained. There are many bad practices around, and the last thing we want is for our services to contribute to ruining sea life.

From time to time, we build large facilities by the sea that are at the expense of the ecosystem. But be aware and make demands on your subcontractors. We must stay away from the vulnerable areas and not invade natural habitats. For example, the way some whale watching businesses go about, is problematic. Noisy boats drive up right next to these majestic mammals so that tourists can get the best photo opportunities.

I doubt it’s the best thing for the whales.

Sustainable tourism as a source of funding, on the other hand, plays an important role in the conservation of marine ecosystems, and sustainability goal 14 specifically addresses tourism.

SDG # 14 “Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development”

“By 2030 increase the economic benefits of Small Island Developing States and Least Developed Countries from the sustainable use of marine resources, including through management of fisheries, aquaculture and tourism”.

Tourism is connected to the sea in all possible ways. Whether it is fishing as an activity, or the sea food we eat, boating, snorkeling, diving, traveling across the ocean,vacationing by the coast, the environment in the sea is of utmost importance to all of us. And for those who travel on cruises, and when we emit greenhouse gases. The sea is rising with global warming, marine life is dying, and greenhouse gases are acidifying the water.

SDG 15 – Life on land

Life on Land: Protect, restore & promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desert-ification & halt & reverse land degradation & halt biodiversity loss

How do we as a world community succeed in preserving life on land?

We, the humans of the world, are rapidly destroying ecosystems both in the ocean and on land. Forests cover 30% of the earth’s surface and are home to 80% of all terrestrial animal and insect species. They provide us with essential resources: air, water, food, and crucial medicines. Additionally, 1.6 billion people depend directly on forests for their livelihood and residence, including 70 million from indigenous communities.

Today, human activity is driving biodiversity loss faster than at any other time in human history. Forests are being cut down, ecosystems are being destroyed, and wildlife is disappearing at an alarming rate. Each year, we deforest 10 million hectares of land—the equivalent of 1.14 football fields every minute. While this is an improvement from the 16 million hectares lost annually in the 1990s, the damage remains severe. There is some progress: countries like Colombia, Brazil, and Indonesia have significantly reduced deforestation. In Colombia, deforestation decreased by 29% last year, while Brazil saw a 33.6% reduction in the early months of its new presidency. Indonesia has achieved a 90% decrease in deforestation since 2015 (Source: State of the World’s Forests 2020).

Our increased trade and interaction with wild animals have heightened the risk of virus outbreaks, exemplified by Covid-19. The pandemic serves as a stark reminder that human health is directly tied to a healthy, biodiverse natural environment.

One of the ongoing threats is the spread of invasive species. When animals or plants are transported to new areas where they don’t belong, they can pose significant risks to local ecosystems, displacing native species and altering habitats.

Biodiversity conservation is crucial. Sustainable Development Goal 15 urges nations to protect and restore natural habitats in line with their commitments under international agreements, including the Convention on Biological Diversity. In December 2022, the Global Biodiversity Framework, also known as the Nature Agreement, was adopted. This international treaty aims to save and preserve the world's biodiversity and includes four overarching goals and 23 specific targets, which all participating countries at COP15 have pledged to achieve by 2030. As of July 21, 2023, 196 countries have signed the agreement, with the United States remaining the only UN member state not part of it (Source: UN Sustainable Development Goals Report 2023).

Immediate action is necessary if we hope to preserve the planet’s diversity and ecosystems. The destruction of biodiversity is not just an environmental crisis—it’s a direct threat to human survival. As our young people wisely say, “We don’t have a planet B.”

How can tourism contribute to SDG 15 – Life on land?

With tourism comes the chance to experience nature. People want to see natural landscapes, pristine forests and exotic wildlife. Clean air and clean water. So it’s in the interest of the tourism industry to take care of this nature. One of the most important things we can do is leave nature alone.

We must be very careful about degrading nature. Although industry and agriculture are the biggest culprits when it comes to destroying nature, tourism also has its skeletons in the closet. Forest areas, mountain peaks, shorelines and islets are being developed by investors with dollar signs in their eyes. The question is whether they shoot themselves in the foot. Because the heyday of mass tourism is fortunately over, and we should find a way to pay nature back.

There are many projects that want to minimize their impact. Sustainable tourism can help preserve biological diversity, and generate income as an alternative livelihood for local communities. The tourism industry is therefore often a major driver for nature conservation.

Around the world, forests and nature are being destroyed at an alarming rate. This is especially true of tropical forest areas, rainforests where thousands of endemic plants and animals are marginalized and habitats are destroyed. The animals disappear. Maybe for forever.

Tourism helps to save nature and save animals. If you can make money on tourism related to wild animals and untouched nature, that can mean someone won’t build in that area, or that you preserve larger parts of the area. For example in national parks. What value do lions have for locals if tourists won’t come look at them? Why should parents of young children in Sumatra want tigers lurking around the neighborhood? Shouldn’t we be able to build a road because an owl nests in the area?

Many people see the animals as a plague and a nuisance. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) assesses the status of species in a red list. The species on the Red List are grouped and ranked in different categories. Each category says something about how high the risk of the species is to become extinct, if the prevailing conditions persist (critically endangered, endangered and vulnerable). Only 98,500 species have been assessed and cataloged by the IUCN Red List, and 27,000 of these are at risk of extinction.

Tourism helps to preserve animals, but conservation efforts are also hampered by poaching and trade in wildlife, elephants being shot for ivory and similar crimes against animals happening all over the world. Since 1999, illegal trade in at least 7,000 animal and plant species has been reported in more than 120 countries.

Poachers are often local people in desperation, who put themselves in danger (both from the animals and from ranger patrols) to get a small share of the sales. An alternative and good income from tourism can help. It is also a larger and more sustainable long-term source of income than one-time poaching.

As long as wild animals provide fertile ground for tourism, you also have an extra incentive to preserve them. Conservation also means that local people not only see wildlife as an economic resource today, but as a long-term investment.

But it is a delicate balance. How much should humans invade the animals’ habitats before it is too much? Is it really okay for gorillas to have a crowd of people watching them eat? Is it okay for big boats to go up to the Arctic to watch polar bears, walruses and whales? What is the price nature has to pay?

Tourism provides income that contributes to conservation, but we must always keep this in mind. Many of you remember the polar bear in Svalbard who had to pay with her life because some cruise passenger came too close.

Some things are never okay. Trophy hunting is one of those things. People happily pay to kill bears in Canada or to shoot elephants, lions and water buffalos in Africa. Some argue that the meat ends up as food for the locals and that they only shoot sick animals. This is bullshit, at best constructed and adapted truths. It provides income, but animals should not be shot for someone to hang their head on a wall or get a great picture with the carcass.

Hunting as tourism is very controversial in general, and if you ask about my subjective opinion, I mean that you do not help nature by killing wild animals. Nature regulates itself best. By the way, many of these trophies are farm animals in enclosures. Go on a photo hunt instead. It is much more sympathetic and at least better for the animal.

Speaking of photos, we humans must abolish the offer of selfies with cubs or drugged adult animals such as tigers or bears. This is one of the most cruel things we do. Ever since tourists began to want unique souvenirs from their trips abroad, profit hunters have seen an opportunity to cash in on some dineros by letting tourists take pictures where they are holding wild animals. Elephant riding falls under the same bad category.  

The same goes for offering turtles, dolphins, dancing monkeys, crocodiles and snakes as entertainment. There’s a reason we no longer have animals in circuses. Admiring animals from a good distance is one thing, bothering them is not okay.

The famous covid-19 virus has spread to humans because the boundaries between wild animals and humans have been stretched too far. And some of you may have noticed that this ends up having consequences.  

It might be tempting for anyone who has read Around the world in 80 days by Jules Verne, but the elephants are not doing well. Make sure your company does not contribute to this.

We must remember that untouched nature is perhaps the best raw material a tourism company has, and we are dependent on nature to be able to live at all. We must be careful not to tamper with it too much. We have to look at our own routines, and our subcontractors.

Forests and mires are being removed to create food producing soil. (se norsk) Can we find other options? Humans have taken over the earth at the expense of wild animals, 96 percent of mammals are either humans (36 percent), or domestic animals (60 percent, mostly cattle and pigs). Wild animals make up a mere 4 percent of mammals.

That is why it is important that we preserve the ones we have left. And that is why we must remember to tread carefully.

SDG 16 – Peace, justice and strong institutions

Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels

How do we as a world community succeed in peace, justice and well-functioning institutions?

International peace and security remain fundamental missions of the United Nations. It is no coincidence that one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 16) is dedicated to fostering peaceful, just, and inclusive societies. Sustainable development simply cannot occur without peace. However, the global progress towards this goal is distressingly off track, with millions affected by conflict and instability.

The Current Reality As of the end of 2022, the world saw a record-breaking 108.4 million people forcibly displaced due to persecution, conflict, violence, climate crises, and human rights violations—an increase of 19 million from the previous year. The situation is even more alarming with an unprecedented 120 million forcibly displaced individuals as of mid-2024. Civilian casualties surged by 72% between 2022 and 2023, largely driven by escalating conflicts, including the war in Ukraine and in the Middle East. Women and children continue to be disproportionately affected by this violence.

The Ripple Effects of Conflict Armed conflicts lead to the collapse of essential services and government institutions, leaving citizens without protection or access to justice. These breakdowns not only disrupt daily life but also erode long-term societal structures, making recovery difficult. The economic impact is similarly devastating, as developing nations struggle with slower per-capita GDP growth compared to wealthier countries, exacerbating income inequality and stalling poverty alleviation efforts.

Steps Forward The UN's 2024 report emphasizes that achieving sustainable development requires bold and coordinated global action. Priorities include conflict resolution, peacebuilding, reforming international financial systems to give developing nations a more significant voice, and investing in climate resilience. The stakes are high, but strategic efforts can still bring us closer to realizing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Sources: United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Report 2024​

How can tourism contribute to SDG 16 – Peace, justice and well-functioning institutions?

The basis, or core, of tourism is billions of encounters between people with different cultural backgrounds. This means that the sector can promote multicultural tolerance and understanding across religions, and thus lay the foundation for more peaceful societies and the strengthening of local cultural identities.

Entrepreneurship and concepts based on tourism involve a large amount of cooperation across borders and regardless of physical distances. But for this to be sustainable, a stable balance in the world is required, without violence and conflicts. We need a harmonious world.

Sustainable tourism is transparent and honest. You can see where the money goes and not least how the situation in a destination is. One of the qualities of tourism is that locals get impulses from the outside world, and the world gets an insight into the local everyday lives.

Sustainable tourism “takes into account current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, and meets the needs of visitors, industry, the environment and host communities” (UNWTO). Responsible tourism, according to the Cape Town Declaration (Fabricius and Goodwin, 2002), means “creating better places for people to live and better places for people to visit”.

This means that we must have solid and dependable destinations. Responsible tourism that leaves money locally and includes the local community we visit economically, environmentally and socially through jobs, preservation of nature and cultural identity, helps to stabilize a destination. It creates value and pride locally.

A stable region has a much lower level of conflict and is safer for those who live there and those who visit. Mass tourism, on the other hand, can help increase the level of conflict. We have many examples of tourism going on in closed resorts in politically unstable areas. Many tourists travel in secluded “safe” areas in Myanmar, and people travel to countries that have been in constant war for years, such as areas in Turkey and Thailand.

When locals are not involved in decisions nor involved in the development and planning of a destination, then you are already on the wrong path. AND it often has major consequences for the local population who may lose their rights. There may be developments that take away their access to beaches, it may be the construction of large cruise ports that denies them access to the harbor, or obstruct views. There may also be lack of access to water and forests, or increase in prices. Properties become so expensive that locals are forced out of their own areas. And we have over-tourism, as described earlier.

All too often, power and decisions are taken away from the local destination. It may be the authorities and companies that prioritize profits at the expense of the local population and their surroundings. We have many cases of corruption in the planning and development of infrastructure and environmental standards, often without responsible monitoring.

We need more power to the locals and we need some umbrella organizations that take responsibility.

For example, The International Institute for Peace Through Tourism (IIPT), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and facilitating initiatives that contribute to international understanding and cooperation, a better environment and the preservation of cultural heritage. Through these kinds of initiatives, they want to contribute to a peaceful and sustainable world.

The IIPT is based on a vision that travel and tourism, the world’s largest industry, could become the world’s first global peace industry, based on the belief that every tourist is potentially an “ambassador for peace”.

We must remember that contact between locals and tourists is the core of what we do, and we must facilitate that.

SDG 17 – Partnerships for the goals

Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development

How do we as a world community succeed in working together to achieve our goals?

Well, actually, we’re not doing that bad. But to truly succeed with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we need stronger and more innovative partnerships. No one can tackle these global challenges alone; it requires everyone—governments, businesses, and civil society—working collaboratively in the same direction. The SDGs are a shared global roadmap, but making meaningful progress over the next few years will demand prioritized and coordinated efforts.

The experience from the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) has shown that focused, collective actions can yield results, but it hinges on effective and sufficient funding. At the Financing for Development conference in Addis Ababa in 2015, UN member states laid the groundwork for financing the SDGs. However, economic setbacks from crises such as the Covid-19 pandemic have left many countries struggling, burdened with debt, and facing diminished capacities for rebuilding and investment.

Challenges and Shifts in Aid and Investment While global aid levels have reached record highs, much of this assistance is now directed toward Ukraine and support for refugees in wealthier countries. This redirection has left many low- and middle-income countries without the help they critically need. Additionally, the world’s economic landscape requires more engagement from the private sector. ESG (environmental, social, and governance) investing remains one of the most promising avenues for long-term profitability, but investment rates still need to accelerate to meet global goals.

The Importance of Connectivity and Cooperation One bright spot is digital connectivity. As of 2022, two-thirds of the world’s population had access to the internet, which has the potential to facilitate better collaboration and partnerships across borders. Strengthening international cooperation has never been more crucial, especially as we face interconnected crises in health, poverty, and climate.

Concerning Trends in Global Unity Despite these advancements, there is a worrying trend of countries threatening to or actually withdrawing from international agreements. This undermines collective efforts and poses a significant challenge to achieving the SDGs. As global crises intensify, the need for unity and commitment to international cooperation is more vital than ever.

Sources: UN Sustainable Development Goals Report (2023)

How can tourism and tourism contribute to SDG 17 – Cooperation to achieve the goals?

I wrote earlier that tourism is not really an industry. It is a combination of many industries that together enable what we call tourism. Because tourism combines industries, sectors, physical and intellectual boundaries, and requires cooperation to exist, tourism also has the ability to strengthen cooperation between the public and private sectors.

When private individuals invest in hotels and boats, the public sector has to get on board and invest in infrastructure and surrounding facilities. Both local, national and international authorities and organizations are founded on cooperation. Public/private partnership is in fact a necessary and fundamental foundation for the development of tourism, and there is an increased awareness of the role of tourism in relation to Agenda 2030.

Sustainable tourism in particular involves a collaboration that puts the host community first and where several actors work together for social benefits, environmental protection and good experiences for the guest. Creating sustainable development with a positive social, environmental and economic bottom line cannot be done alone.

The 17 sustainable goals cannot be solved in isolation – they are all connected.

A current example of such cooperation is how the EU is trying to align its borders with Covid-19. At a political level such as the EU and the EEA, international cooperation between national authorities, public institutions and regulatory agents creates principles that in turn support local decisions, implementations and evaluations.

The SDGs are ambitious goals that are implemented all over the world. All stakeholders from the private and public sector must contribute with their expertise and their specialties, which can be how the economy flows, how knowledge and skills are increased and link this with policy so that everyone has some rules and standards.

Tourism organizations that focus on marketing local destinations are often also responsible for managing the financing and delivery of sustainability measures together with local and national authorities.

State-sponsored DMOs (Destination Marketing Organization) and private tourism companies have a common goal of marketing destinations, and both want them to be better places to live and visit. Then it makes sense to work closely with each other in partnership.

Additionally, many destinations set long-term master plans that will implement guidelines and monitor progress. These must be integrated into a country’s other plans, interconnected as they are with security, infrastructure, investment, transportation, cultural monuments, conservation, communities and so on. For example, tourism will be integrated into conservation plans to help conserve fragile ecosystems.

Quite often, different partnerships agree to manage different parts of a plan, such as transport providers, accommodation, incoming operators or guide companies, etc. In sustainable tourism, strict management plans are also required. In that case, an objective third party is often brought in, for example for certification with a set framework and independent assessment for sustainability.

Tourism is a driving force for cooperation, and perhaps one of the sectors that is most built on cooperation. What happens next is up to you. Do you want to pick up the ball and make demands on those you work with? Do you want to encourage collaboration? Do you want to learn as much as possible yourself and contribute to those you meet also becoming better?

It is you and I who define our common future. We have to find a way to steer the ship in the right direction, together, to make that future worthy of passing on.

Reading tips for sustainability geeks.

Finally, here’s a good reading tip for those who want to learn more:

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has published a two-volume report entitled “Tourism for Development”, which illustrates the global reach and the positive effect of tourism on other sectors. The publication describes tourism as a driving force for sustainable development, and explains that tourism provides economic growth, quality of life, environmental protection, diverse cultural heritage and world peace.

The publication aims to raise awareness of the role of tourism in 2030, and it provides recommendations on how tourism can contribute to sustainable development and the SDG goals through sustainable development, and on the need to integrate sustainability into tourism policy, business practices and tourism behavior.

The end. Actually, it is not the end, it is the start.