Today marked the commencement of the Responsible Tourism Conference at WTM Africa 2024. A wide array of topics was discussed such as the essence of positive impact tourism and the effects of certification – subjects I plan to explore more thoroughly in the coming weeks.
However, one particular aspect of these discussions resonated with me profoundly: the distinction between sustainable and responsible tourism. These concepts, often used interchangeably, indeed lead to confusion. Yet, they hold distinct meanings and focuses within the broader ambit of tourism, aiming to be environmentally friendly, socially equitable, and economically viable.
Here’s a breakdown of the differences:
- Sustainable Tourism is mainly concerned with the environmental, economic, and socio-cultural aspects of tourism development. Its goal is to ensure the longevity of a destination or activity without exhausting the resources it relies on. It aims to balance the needs of tourists, the environment, and local communities, so minimising negative impacts while maximising contributions to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage. Ultimately, sustainable tourism seeks to ensure that development benefits local people, tourism companies, and tourists alike.
- Responsible Tourism takes a more direct approach to achieving sustainable tourism. It emphasises the accountability of tourists and the tourism industry in fostering sustainability. This includes mindfulness towards the environment, local cultures, and economies, as well as a commitment to prevent exploitation or harm. Responsible tourism urges individuals, organisations, and businesses to take accountability for their actions and their impact, striving to effect positive change.
The main differences:
- Scope of focus: Sustainable tourism is broader, dealing with general principles that strive for environmental, economic, and socio-cultural balance. Responsible tourism zeroes in on the actions and behaviours of tourists, businesses, and local communities to achieve sustainability.
- Action vs concept: Sustainable tourism represents the overarching goal, while responsible tourism involves specific actions and decisions by individuals and organisations to reach that goal.
- Stakeholder involvement: Although both concepts involve stakeholders at all levels, responsible tourism specifically highlights the importance of individual and direct stakeholder responsibility in promoting more sustainable practices.
Do people get these terms confused?
Yes, the terms are often used interchangeably owing to their closely related goals and principles. However, understanding the distinction between sustainable tourism’s broad, goal-oriented approach and responsible tourism’s action-focused perspective can help clarify their roles in fostering a more ethical and sustainable tourism future. Both are crucial in steering the tourism industry towards more sustainable practices, albeit from slightly different vantage points.
The second day of WTM Africa 2024 not only broadened our understanding but also underscored the critical paths we must tread towards a more sustainable and responsible future in tourism. The discussions probed into the core of positive impact tourism and certification, revealing the nuanced interplay between sustainable and responsible tourism and their unique yet intertwined roles in the industry’s evolution.
As we proceed, the distinction and synergy between these concepts remind us of our collective and individual duties. They challenge us to ponder our roles within the industry and motivate us to act with intention and foresight towards a sustainable future.
