Responsible Tourism is going mainstream

Responsible Tourism Is Going Mainstream

At the ICRT’s global annual conference, Matt Callaghan, Chief Operating Officer at easyJet Holidays, reminded participants that tourism must be mindful of communities who live in travel destinations.

“The places we call destinations, other people call home.”

Often, businesses, marketers, politicians, and local government representatives overlook this simple reality. The 2002 Cape Town Declaration on Responsible Tourism in Destinations established a clear mission:

“To make better places for people to live in, and better places for people to visit.”

This principle guides those who take responsibility for improving tourism by prioritizing the well-being of resident communities, along with their history, culture, and natural environments.

The world’s diversity — the foundation of travel and tourism — has evolved from interactions between people and nature across millennia, creating the cultural heritage that attracts visitors today.

The Scope of Responsible Tourism

The 2022 Responsible Tourism Charter expands on this agenda. It addresses global challenges such as:

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions
Combating plastic pollution
Promoting local employment and sourcing
Ensuring inclusivity for all visitors
Creating respectful and meaningful travel experiences

Author’s Summary

Responsible tourism emphasizes respect for local communities and environments, promoting inclusive and sustainable travel that benefits both residents and visitors.

Travel Tomorrow — 2025-11-07