We are working with VisitScotland and global tour operator and leader in sustainable travel, The Travel Corporation (TTC) to inspire and support climate action within Scotland’s tourism industry. The innovative, new partnership will focus on the challenge of how to reduce carbon emissions in the tourism supply chain and represents a huge opportunity to influence and drive change with businesses, visitors and destinations.
It is the first time that VisitScotland and any global tour operator have committed to work together to share learnings, insights and support each other in accelerating change and being part of the climate change solution. The overall goal of the project in the long term is to accelerate the de-carbonisation of the tourism supply chain in Scotland and it is anticipated that the learnings from the project will be of international relevance.
The focus will be on developing and delivering responsible tourism experiences and itineraries which aim to have a positive social or environmental impact on communities and those who experience them.
The partnership will look at every touchpoint in the supply chain that a visitor experiences. For consumers looking for positive impact experiences in Scotland, the project aims to make selecting a travel provider that prioritises sustainability easier, giving them the opportunity to discover local stories, enjoy authentic experiences and see how their visit contributes to local communities.
Scotland’s tourism industry recognises the need for change with 75% of businesses aware of the Scottish Government’s net zero target for 2045.* For its part, The Travel Corporation is the first global tour operator to achieve validated near term, long term and net zero targets.
Together they will support businesses seeking to take steps to reduce their carbon emissions and offer sustainable options. This project will encourage tourism businesses in Scotland to see the business case for responsible, low-carbon development, and it will enable consumers to choose responsible products and tours.
Businesses from around Scotland recently took part in a webinar to find out more about the partnership and opportunities presented by the growing market of environmentally conscious consumers. They also heard from Scottish businesses who shared their experience of the benefits and opportunities of investing in a responsible future.
VisitScotland provides dedicated support and resources to help businesses reduce their carbon emissions, including a Climate Action Planning guide. Supporting Scotland’s transition to a low carbon economy is a key part of VisitScotland’s work to support the national tourism strategy Scotland Outlook 2030 Responsible Tourism for a Sustainable Future, and this new partnership is a significant part of planned activity for the year.