AEnwgbNJEFaPX4b1 GRAEnwi7NJEFaPX4b4 LEAF

Your 5 min weekly brief on sustainability & climate news. 

Greenlyhttps://images.prismic.io/greenly/43d30a11-8d8a-4079-b197-b988548fad45_Logo+Greenly+x3.pngGreenly, la plateforme tout-en-un dédiée à toutes les entreprises désireuses de mesurer, piloter et réduire leurs émissions de CO2.
GreenlyGreenly, la plateforme tout-en-un dédiée à toutes les entreprises désireuses de mesurer, piloter et réduire leurs émissions de CO2.
Descending4
Home
1
Blog
2
Category
3
How is climate change affecting our holiday destinations?
4
Media > All articles > Tourism > How is climate change affecting our holiday destinations?

How is climate change affecting our holiday destinations?

IndustriesTourism
Level
Hero Image
Hero Image
water villas over the sea
Why is climate change changing the tourism landscape? What top holiday destinations are under threat? And what can we do to save them?
Industries
2025-07-08T00:00:00.000Z
en-us
Whether you’re envisioning the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches of the Maldives, a cultural city break through the historic canals of Venice, or a winter getaway gliding down the slopes of the Alps, one thing is certain: many of the world’s most iconic holiday destinations are facing an uncertain future.

Climate change is already reshaping our planet in ways that are impossible to ignore. From rising sea levels that threaten to submerge entire island nations to unpredictable weather patterns disrupting travel seasons, the futures of many of our beloved holiday destinations are in danger. And it's not just the natural landscapes that are at risk, the livelihoods of millions of people who depend on tourism for income are also under threat.

As global temperatures rise, the delicate balance of ecosystems, cultures, and economies in these regions is beginning to unravel. Some places may not even exist as we know them by the time future generations are ready to enjoy their beauty.

So, why is climate change dramatically altering the tourism landscape? What are the destinations that face the highest risk? And, importantly, what can we do to preserve these stunning locations for years to come?

In this article, we’ll dive into the following key points:
  • The impacts of climate change on iconic tourist destinations
  • Which regions are most at risk and why
  • What actions we can take to help protect these places
  • Real-life examples of affected destinations and the challenges they face

Why is climate change a threat to our favourite holiday destinations?

When selecting our next holiday destination, we often look for destinations that offer a break from the chaos of everyday life. From tropical islands to high-altitude mountain retreats, these locations are often in ecologically sensitive regions that depend on a delicate balance of weather, seasons, and natural resources. Climate change, however, is upending this balance, placing many of our favourite holiday spots at risk.

But why is climate change such a significant threat to these destinations? What is it about the connection between tourism and the environment that makes them particularly vulnerable? Let’s take a deeper look at the key factors that increase the exposure of holiday destinations to the impacts of a warming planet.

Tourism and the environment are often closely linked. Many of the world’s most popular destinations — whether it’s the tropical beaches of the Caribbean, Patagonia’s glaciers, or the mountains of the Alps — owe their appeal to specific natural features. These destinations rely heavily on unspoiled landscapes, rich biodiversity, and consistent seasonal patterns to draw visitors. With climate change altering weather patterns and threatening ecosystems, the very foundation that supports these destinations is beginning to erode.

What's more is that the infrastructure that supports tourism, such as hotels, resorts, and transportation systems, is often designed with the assumption that the environment will remain relatively stable. As these environmental changes become more frequent and severe, the cost to local economies — particularly those reliant on tourism — becomes higher, putting both the natural and economic landscapes in jeopardy.

While every region faces challenges from climate change, tourist destinations are often the first to feel the pressure. The rapid pace of climate change is forcing ecosystems and communities to adapt far more quickly than they ever have before. Unfortunately, for many of these destinations, this speed of change is far outpacing the ability of local communities to respond.

For example, while many tourism hubs have invested in sustainable development and environmental protection measures, such as eco-friendly accommodation and nature conservation programs, these initiatives can be easily undermined by the overwhelming force of climate-related disasters. Increasing temperatures, rising sea levels, more intense storms, and the loss of biodiversity often cannot be mitigated by human intervention alone.

For destinations like ski resorts, beach resorts, and national parks, climate stability is key to maintaining a reliable flow of tourists throughout the year. A sudden shift in temperatures or changes in rainfall patterns can drastically alter the conditions necessary for a destination to thrive. Ski resorts in the Alps, for example, rely on cold winters for snow, but warmer temperatures have already shortened the ski season, resulting in financial loss for both the industry and the local economy. Similarly, tropical islands depend on warm, dry weather to attract visitors, but rising sea levels and storm surges now threaten to reduce their appeal.

Destinations that once had predictability in their weather now face extreme volatility. This disrupts not only travel plans but also undermines the sustainability of tourism, as travelers may begin to reconsider visiting regions that no longer offer reliable or familiar experiences.

For many of the world’s most popular holiday destinations, the tourism industry is integral to local livelihoods. As the environment changes, these communities face both environmental and economic pressures. The destruction of coral reefs, the erosion of beaches, or the damage caused by extreme weather events not only harms the environment but also disrupts the local economy.

Island nations and coastal cities, in particular, rely heavily on tourism revenues, which can make them less resilient to climate-related impacts. When natural disasters or slow-moving threats like sea-level rise affect these areas, the knock-on effects ripple through the economy. Local businesses, from restaurants and shops to hotels and tour operators, may suffer financially, creating additional hardships for people who depend on the tourist influx.

Destinations that once provided us with refuge from the ordinary are facing the extraordinary challenges of a changing climate. Understanding the unique vulnerabilities of holiday destinations is the first step toward safeguarding them. The next section will explore in greater detail how specific destinations, from island paradises to mountain retreats, are already feeling the impacts and what this means for their futures.

woman with her arms out, sitting on a boat in a beautiful tropical lagoon with lots of palm trees

Island holiday destinations

It’s the depths of winter. You get up in the dark, and by the time you get home from work, it’s already dark again - it feels like you’ve not seen the sun in months. And don’t even mention the terrible weather - rain, wind, and freezing cold on repeat. Sound familiar?

So perhaps you’ve booked yourself a little respite with a much-anticipated holiday on a beautiful tropical island. You’re already picturing the turquoise water, the sand between your toes, and the feel of the warm sun on your skin.

But thanks to climate change, these beautiful coastal and island destinations are increasingly under threat, and their futures now hang in the balance. Let’s take a closer look at the impacts of global warming on island and coastal destinations, backed by data and real-world examples.

Beaches and coastlines: Rising sea levels and erosion

Rising sea levels are one of the biggest challenges facing island and coastal destinations, and the impact on tourism is hard to ignore. As glaciers melt and ocean temperatures rise, sea levels are creeping up, threatening low-lying islands. According to the IPCC, global sea levels have risen by about 20cm between 1901 and 2018. By 2100, under a high-emissions scenario, we could see a rise of 0.61 to 1.1 meters.

Take the Maldives, for example. With an average elevation of just 1.3 meters above sea level, the risk of being submerged is very real. But it's not just the Maldives. Kiribati and the Marshall Islands in the Pacific are already feeling the effects of rising sea levels, with significant land loss forcing some of their populations to relocate.

On top of rising sea levels, stronger tropical storms are intensifying the problem. Hurricane Irma in 2017 devastated parts of the Caribbean, eroding beaches and leaving thousands of residents displaced.

For places that rely heavily on tourism, these changes are having a direct impact, making once-popular destinations less appealing to travelers.

What is being done to protect beaches and coastlines?

🌊
Seawalls and Coastal Protection
Constructing seawalls, barrier reefs, and other protective structures can help defend against rising waters. While effective, these measures are often costly and only a temporary fix.
🌱
Mangrove Restoration
Mangrove restoration acts as a natural buffer against storms and erosion.
🏖️
Beach Nourishment
Many places are turning to beach nourishment projects, where they add sand back to the beaches to combat erosion.
🌐
Sustainable Coastal Tourism
Promoting sustainable tourism practices that respect natural ecosystems and reduce environmental footprints. Many coastal destinations are adopting eco-tourism certifications and promoting responsible travel to protect their beaches and coastlines.
beautiful tropical beach with white sand and clear blue waters

Coral reefs: Bleaching

Coral reefs, which support vibrant marine life and attract millions of tourists each year, are under threat due to rising ocean temperatures.

According to the UN Environment Programme, over 80% of the world’s coral reefs have experienced some level of bleaching. The Great Barrier Reef has lost more than 50% of its coral since 1995, with 2016 being a particularly devastating year, where two-thirds of the reef bleached due to warmer waters.

But it's not just warmer temperatures. Ocean acidification, caused by CO2 emissions, is weakening coral skeletons, making them even more vulnerable. The Caribbean, heavily reliant on its coral reefs for tourism, has lost half of its reefs over the past 40 years, affecting both the environment and the local economy.

What can be done to preserve coral reefs?

🌱
Coral Restoration
Coral farming and outplanting help combat reef degredation. In Australia for example, scientists are growing coral in controlled environments and reintroducing them to damaged reefs as part of restoration efforts.
🏝️
Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)
Establishing Marine Protected Areas restricts human activities, allowing coral reefs to recover naturally.
🌿
Eco-Friendly Tourism
Promoting eco-tourism practices that avoid harming coral reefs. In Bonaire for example, tourists are encouraged to participate in coral conservation efforts, and certain areas are off-limits to protect marine ecosystems.
🌎
Climate Mitigation Efforts
Limiting carbon emissions globally, through measures like carbon offsetting, and supporting sustainable energy initiatives can help reduce the carbon footprint impacting coral reefs.
man diving with turtle next to bleached coral

Water supply: Increasing shortages

Water scarcity is becoming a major issue for many island nations, especially small island developing states (SIDS), which are vulnerable to water shortages. Islands like Barbados, Malta, and the Bahamas rely on rainwater harvesting and groundwater reserves, but these are increasingly unreliable due to changing rainfall patterns and rising temperatures. In Barbados, droughts have become more frequent, leading to water rationing during peak tourist seasons.

For many island nations, tourism is the backbone of the economy, and water shortages can disrupt local businesses, hotels, and recreational services, especially during the busy travel season

How can we bolster water supplies?

💧
Desalination Technology
Investing in desalination plants helps provide fresh water by converting seawater. Countries like Saudi Arabia and Israel are pioneers in desalination, and many islands are now adopting this technology.
💦
Water Conservation and Efficiency
Implementing water-saving technologies in both households and tourism infrastructure (eg. hotels, golf courses).
🌧️
Rainwater Harvesting
Expanding rainwater harvesting systems helps islands collect and store rainwater for daily use.
♻️
Wastewater Recycling
Recycling wastewater for non-potable use (eg. irrigation, toilet flushing) helps reduce the demand on potable water systems. Singapore has pioneered wastewater recycling with its NEWater initiative.
cracked dry earth

Mountain destinations: The shortening ski season

If you’re someone who loves the crisp mountain air and the thrill of skiing down fresh powder, then you may have already noticed something worrying: the winter wonderland you’ve come to cherish is shrinking.

Global warming is impacting even the most iconic winter destinations. As temperatures rise, ski seasons are getting shorter, and resorts that rely on consistent snowfall are finding themselves in a difficult position.

The Swiss Alps have seen their snow season shorten by over a month in the past 50 years, with glaciers losing approximately 40% of their volume since 2000! Ski resorts, long accustomed to welcoming skiers and snowboarders throughout winter, are now grappling with the reality of less snow and warmer temperatures.

This isn’t just an issue for the high-altitude areas. In the Rocky Mountains - especially in Colorado - shorter snow seasons and reduced snowfall are impacting local businesses that thrive on winter tourism. The decreased snowfall and milder temperatures are leading to fewer visitors, and ski resorts are feeling the financial pinch.

In the Southern Hemisphere, too, destinations like Patagonia in Argentina are experiencing a similar shift. Snow-capped mountains and glaciers that once drew visitors from all around the world are gradually disappearing, with icebergs breaking off and disappearing into the ocean.

With the changing landscape, we’re faced with the reality that prospect that the ski seasons we once enjoyed may no longer be the same in the near future.

What is being done to protect ski resorts and mountain locations?

❄️
Artificial snowmaking
To combat shorter seasons, many resorts now use artificial snowmaking. While it extends the ski season, it requires significant water and energy, which raises questions about its long-term sustainability.
🚴‍♂️
Year-round tourism
Many ski resorts are diversifying their offerings to attract visitors year-round. Activities like mountain biking, hiking, and wellness retreats help reduce reliance on snow and keep tourist flows stable.
🏔️
Glacier protection
Some resorts are using protective ice blankets to slow glacier melting, as seen in Zermatt. These efforts aim to preserve key features for both the environment and tourism.
🏗️
Green infrastructure
Resorts are investing in sustainable infrastructure, such as solar-powered lifts, eco-lodges, and low-energy snow production systems to reduce their environmental footprint.
Close
youtube screenshot

Nature holiday destinations: The threat of wildfires and ecosystem loss

Increasing temperatures and prolonged drought conditions are making wildfires more frequent and intense, threatening nature-based destinations around the world. Regions that rely on natural beauty, like California, Australia, and Canada, are facing significant environmental and economic risks.

Wildfires have devastated millions of acres of forest, causing immense damage to ecosystems and wildlife. In Australia, the 2020 bushfires killed nearly 3 billion animals, while California has battled increasingly severe wildfires over the past decade. And in Europe, countries like Spain and Portugal now experience wildfires as an annual occurrence, ravaging forests that are vital to the country’s nature-based tourism industry.

And they're not alone; many other countries are also feeling the effects. The increasing frequency of these fires is driving up costs for local economies that depend on eco-tourism, putting the survival of these ecosystems and the livelihoods tied to them in jeopardy.

How can we protect these ecosystems from climate change?

🔥
Controlled Burns
One of the key strategies to manage wildfires is controlled or prescribed burning, which reduces fuel load in forests and minimizes the risk of uncontrolled fires. Many regions, including California and Australia, use this technique to reduce the intensity of wildfires.
🚧
Firebreaks
Firebreaks are strips of land cleared of vegetation that act as barriers to prevent the spread of wildfires. These are strategically placed in fire-prone areas, such as near national parks and natural reserves, to protect ecosystems.
🌳
Reforestation and Conservation
Reforestation efforts, alongside conservation initiatives, play a vital role in restoring ecosystems damaged by wildfires. In places like California, native plant restoration helps reestablish biodiversity and reduce the long-term risk of future fires.
🤝
Community Fire Management
Many communities are adopting local fire management practices, including early detection and coordinated evacuation plans. Collaborative efforts with indigenous groups are also being utilized, using traditional knowledge to manage fire risk in fire-prone landscapes.
monkeys playing in the rainforest tree canopy

Cultural destinations: Damage to cities and heritage sites

While much of the focus on climate change has been on natural landscapes, cultural destinations, including historical cities, world heritage sites, and iconic landmarks, are facing their own set of threats. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and sea-level rise are taking a significant toll on the architectural integrity and cultural heritage of cities and landmarks across the world.

New Orleans, a city already vulnerable to tropical cyclones and hurricanes, is facing rising sea levels and land subsidence, putting its historic French Quarter and other landmarks at risk. Parts of the city are sinking by up to 2 inches per year, making it harder to protect against future storms.

Meanwhile, Bangkok is sinking rapidly due to groundwater extraction. According to the World Bank, up to 40% of the city could be flooded by 2030 due to rising sea levels and monsoon flooding.

In addition to these cities, numerous archaeological sites and ancient monuments around the world are also being damaged. Extreme weather events, like floods, droughts, and desertification, are accelerating the decay of these irreplaceable structures. This not only harms tourism but also threatens to erase the cultural heritage of many regions.

Here is what's been done to protect these cities and cultural sites:

🔨
Climate-proof retrofitting
Strengthening cultural sites against future risks
Architects and engineers are reinforcing historic buildings with modern materials and drainage systems — helping protect temples, churches, and old towns from flooding, heat, and erosion without altering their appearance.
🏛️
Heritage restoration
Preserving damaged monuments and sites
Many governments and NGOs are investing in restoring heritage sites affected by climate impacts, using climate-resilient materials and traditional knowledge to safeguard cultural identity.
🏗️
Resilient planning
Protecting cultural hubs with climate-smart planning
Cities are integrating climate resilience into urban planning by relocating vulnerable infrastructure, retrofitting historic buildings, and using zoning laws to minimise risk.
🔔
Monitoring & alerts
Protecting heritage with early warning systems
Satellite tracking, ground sensors, and AI-driven tools are now used to monitor erosion, subsidence, and flood risk in vulnerable heritage zones, allowing for timely interventions.

The 5 most at-risk holiday destinations

Maldives

The Maldives are a dream holiday destination for many people. These paradise islands are tucked away in the middle of the Indian Ocean and offer an escape from all the worries and stresses of everyday life. However, this paradise is under threat from climate change. 

Made up of a series of atolls (ring-shaped islands that are made from coral), the islands of the Maldives are some of the lowest-lying islands in the world. With an average of only 1.3 metres above sea level, these beautiful islands are at risk of being completely submerged by rising waters. 

In fact, in many of the luxury resorts dotted around the islands, it's already possible to see the effects, with sections of otherwise picture-perfect beaches eroding into the sea. Guests might notice the sandbags and concrete protectors installed to try and prevent their decline.

Here are some of the key ways climate change is already affecting the Maldives:

🌊
Rising Sea Levels
The Maldives is one of the most vulnerable places to rising sea levels, with an average elevation of just 1.3 meters above sea level. The islands are at risk of being submerged as sea levels continue to rise.
🐠
Coral Bleaching
The Maldives is home to one of the world's most biodiverse marine ecosystems, but rising ocean temperatures are causing severe coral bleaching. This threatens not only marine life but also the country's tourism industry.
🏝️
Coastal Erosion
In addition to rising sea levels, coastal erosion is eroding beaches and threatening infrastructure. Some resorts are using artificial barriers and sandbags to protect their beaches from disappearing.
💵
Economic Impact
With tourism being the primary economic driver of the Maldives, climate-related risks such as flooding, coral reef loss, and erosion pose a major threat to the nation's economy and livelihoods.
arial shot of Maldives island resort with lots of water bungalows

Venice

Venice’s timeless canals and historic architecture have long attracted tourists, but rising sea levels are putting the city at risk. As a low-lying city, Venice is increasingly vulnerable to flooding, particularly in the winter months.

Over the past century, Venice’s average sea level has risen by more than 30cm, worsening the frequency and severity of tidal flooding. The iconic Piazza San Marco, once a symbol of Venice’s charm, has been repeatedly submerged.

While projects like MOSE, a floodgate system, are in place to help mitigate the impact, Venice continues to face growing threats. The city is fighting to preserve its cultural heritage, but urgent adaptation measures are needed to safeguard it for future generations.

These are some of the key climate-related challenges Venice is currently facing:

🌊
Rising sea levels
Venice faces frequent flooding due to rising sea levels, with Piazza San Marco often submerged during high tides. The city is sinking at a rate of 1-2mm per year, exacerbating the problem.
🏙️
Sinking city
Venice is sinking, with sea levels now over 30cm higher than at the end of the 19th century. This is causing increased strain on the city’s infrastructure and its tourism industry.
🌧️
Flooding impact
As flooding increases, it threatens Venice’s cultural heritage, historic sites, and tourism infrastructure. With more frequent and severe floods, the city's future is at risk.
💧
Saltwater intrusion
Rising sea levels are leading to saltwater intrusion, which corrodes building foundations and damages underground infrastructure. This poses long-term risks to Venice’s structural stability.
Venice lagoon with historic buildings and boat

Australia

Australia’s natural beauty, from its beaches to the Great Barrier Reef, faces growing climate challenges. The reef, which draws millions of visitors, is experiencing more frequent bleaching events, with recent research showing that over 90% of coral was affected during the 2022 bleaching. The country’s bushfire seasons have also become more intense, with devastating wildfires that threaten both nature and infrastructure.

Coastal erosion and rising sea levels further jeopardize Australia’s beaches, which are a major tourist draw. In response, Australia is focusing on reef restoration projects and improving bushfire management. But the ongoing impact of climate change requires continued action and resilience-building to protect its landscapes.

These are some of the most pressing climate impacts currently affecting Australia:

🐠
Coral Bleaching
The Great Barrier Reef has experienced its 4th mass bleaching event since 2016. 91% of the coral was affected in March 2022, highlighting the extreme threat that climate change poses to this natural wonder.
🔥
Forest Fires
Climate change has made forest fires 30% more likely in Australia. The increasing frequency and intensity of these fires threaten homes, wildlife, and the tourism industry, especially in regions like New South Wales and Victoria.
💧
Drought and Water Scarcity
Australia is facing more frequent droughts, which reduce water availability for agriculture and urban areas. This has led to water restrictions in places like Sydney and Melbourne, impacting both residents and tourists.
🌊
Coastal Erosion and Sea-Level Rise
Australia’s coastal regions, including Sydney's iconic beaches, are vulnerable to sea-level rise and erosion. Coastal infrastructure and tourism hotspots are at risk as rising seas threaten the landscape.
Close
youtube screenshot

Brazil

Brazil is home to the Amazon Rainforest, a biodiversity hotspot that attracts nature lovers. But rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and deforestation are threatening this vital ecosystem. The forest is more vulnerable to wildfires, which have been increasingly frequent, exacerbated by climate change.

In coastal cities like Rio de Janeiro, rising sea levels are encroaching on beaches and infrastructure. The country is working on sustainable agriculture and reforestation efforts to protect the Amazon, but urgent action is needed to ensure the survival of its unique natural resources and tourism industry.

Here are some of the critical ways climate change is affecting Brazil and the Amazon rainforest:

🌊
Rising Sea Levels
Rio de Janeiro, famous for its beaches and vibrant culture, is increasingly vulnerable to rising sea levels, which threaten its coastal areas and infrastructure.
🌧️
Landslides
Heavy rainfall and unstable soil conditions have made landslides a recurring issue, particularly in the mountainous regions around Rio de Janeiro.
💧
Water Scarcity
Increased droughts are making water scarcity a significant challenge, especially in regions like Southeast Brazil, where water shortages are becoming more frequent.
🌳
Deforestation of the Amazon
The Amazon Rainforest is under severe threat from deforestation, forest fires, and the increasing impact of changing rainfall patterns, disrupting local ecosystems.
Sugar Loaf mountain in Rio

Caribbean Islands

The Caribbean, known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches, is facing the growing threat of climate change. Rising sea levels are encroaching on islands' coastlines, while stronger hurricanes are causing more frequent damage to infrastructure, homes, and natural landscapes.

Many of the region’s most popular tourist destinations are at risk, with beaches eroding and local ecosystems, like coral reefs, under stress. As a region heavily reliant on tourism, the impacts of climate change pose a significant threat not only to the environment but also to the livelihoods of local communities.

Here are some of the major ways climate change is already threatening the Caribbean isands:

🌊
Rising Sea Levels
Many low-lying islands like Barbados and the Bahamas are already seeing beach erosion due to rising waters, which threatens local communities and tourism.
🌀
Stronger Hurricanes
More intense hurricanes like Hurricane Irma (2017) are hitting the Caribbean, causing widespread damage and displacement of residents and tourists alike.
🐠
Coral Reef Bleaching
Rising ocean temperatures and acidification are harming coral reefs, which are vital for biodiversity and the eco-tourism industry.
🌿
Loss of Biodiversity
Increasing heat and changing rainfall patterns are threatening ecosystems, making it harder for species to survive, impacting both wildlife and tourism.

Climate change and tourism in the US

🌊

Coastal destinations at risk

Rising sea levels and storm surges threaten US coastal hotspots like Florida, Louisiana, and parts of California, leading to beach erosion, flooding, and infrastructure damage.

🌤️

Altered visitor patterns

Extreme heat and wildfires are shifting tourism trends. Visitors are avoiding destinations during peak summer months and opting for cooler or less fire-prone areas.

💰

Economic implications

Climate-related disasters like hurricanes and wildfires are damaging tourism infrastructure, increasing recovery costs, and threatening the long-term economic viability of travel-dependent communities.

rolling country with fields

How are we responding to protect our favorite destinations?

As climate change increasingly threatens the world’s most beloved holiday destinations, it’s clear that international efforts alone aren’t enough. The challenge is big, but tangible solutions are already being implemented, from local adaptation measures at vulnerable sites to sustainable tourism practices that reduce our travel footprint.

A crucial step in tackling climate change is our collective commitment to reducing global emissions. The Paris Agreement remains central to this effort, with countries aiming to limit global temperature increases to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. This requires significant cuts in greenhouse gas emissions and a shift toward low-carbon economies.

At the same time, initiatives like the Green Climate Fund (GCF) are providing financial support to vulnerable nations, particularly island nations and coastal cities, to help them adapt to rising sea levels and extreme weather.

However, adaptation efforts alone won’t be enough to save the world’s iconic destinations. Effective climate action must include both mitigation and adaptation measures, which brings us to the role of sustainable tourism.

Tourism is one of the largest industries globally, accounting for approximately 6.5% of global emissions in 2023. As climate-conscious travelers, it's our responsibility to support eco-tourism and adopt responsible travel practices. This includes minimising our carbon footprint by choosing low-impact transportation options and staying at eco-friendly accommodations.

Many travel organizations and governments are prioritizing sustainability in their tourism sectors. For example, Intrepid Travel has pledged to cut its emissions in half by 2030, encouraging travelers to use trains instead of flights and stay at eco-conscious hotels.

Real-life measures

While global frameworks and shifts in travel behaviors are essential, local, on-the-ground solutions are just as critical in protecting the most vulnerable destinations. Below are examples of adaptation measures already being implemented:

🏝️ The Maldives
🌊 Threatened by rising sea levels and coastal erosion
🏝️ Government working on artificial islands and mangrove restoration
🌱 Coral restoration projects underway to protect coastal areas
🏛️ Venice
🌊 Rising sea levels leading to frequent flooding
🛠️ The MOSE Project is being implemented for flood protection
🚧 Movable barriers successfully preventing flooding during high tides
🇦🇺 Australia
🐠 Protecting the Great Barrier Reef through coral restoration
🌍 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) implemented to safeguard ecosystems
🔥 Improving bushfire management to tackle rising temperatures
🇧🇷 Brazil
🌳 Threatened by deforestation and climate change impacts
🌱 Reforestation and sustainable agriculture initiatives underway
🏞️ Strengthening infrastructure to reduce landslide risks in Rio
🌴 Caribbean Islands
🌪️ Stronger hurricanes causing widespread damage
🌱 Mangrove restoration to protect coastal areas from storm surges
🏨 Promoting sustainable tourism with eco-friendly resorts
Close
youtube screenshot

What about Greenly? 

Greenly helps businesses take action on sustainability with our suite of services designed to track, reduce, and offset carbon emissions.

Our Sustainability Services How We Help
Carbon Footprint Tracking
We provide accurate tools to measure emissions across Scope 1, 2, and 3, giving you clear insights to identify areas for improvement and enabling effective action to reduce your carbon footprint.
Sustainability Strategy
Greenly partners with businesses to develop tailored sustainability roadmaps, setting achievable carbon reduction targets aligned with your goals and ensuring long-term impact.
Carbon Offsetting
We connect businesses with verified carbon offset projects, including reforestation and renewable energy, helping mitigate your emissions and contribute to global climate goals.
Reporting and Compliance
Greenly streamlines the reporting process, ensuring your business stays compliant with sustainability regulations like CSRD and SECR.
Ongoing Improvement
Our platform provides data-driven insights, supporting continuous sustainability improvement through real-time tracking and actionable recommendations.

Ready to take the next step toward sustainability? Reach out to Greenly and discover how we can help your business manage and reduce its carbon footprint, stay compliant, and drive positive environmental change.

greenly platform
Sources:
  • Greenly, Climate change in 2022 – where do we stand?
    https://greenly.earth/en-gb/blog/ecology-news/climate-change-in-2022-where-do-we-stand
  • Greenly, Sea level rise: what is happening
    https://greenly.earth/en-gb/blog/ecology-news/sea-level-rise-what-is-happening
  • Greenly, Why should we worry about melting ice
    https://greenly.earth/en-gb/blog/ecology-news/why-should-we-worry-about-melting-ice
  • IPCC, Special Report on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate (SROCC)
    https://www.ipcc.ch/srocc/
  • Geopolitical Monitor, Vanishing island nations: The case for the Maldives
    https://www.geopoliticalmonitor.com/vanishing-island-nations-the-case-for-the-maldives/
  • Internet Geography, Hurricane Irma case study
    https://www.internetgeography.net/topics/hurricane-irma-case-study/
  • Greenly, Everything you need to know about coral reefs
    https://greenly.earth/en-gb/blog/ecology-news/everything-you-need-to-know-about-coral-reefs
  • UNEP, Coral reefs: A crucial resource for coastal communities
    https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/speech/coral-reefs-crucial-resource-coastal-communities
  • BBC, Australian bushfires: The climate crisis that caused them
    https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-54533971
  • AIMS, Coral bleaching events in the Great Barrier Reef
    https://www.aims.gov.au/research-topics/environmental-issues/coral-bleaching/coral-bleaching-events#:~:text=heat%20stress%20footprint.-,2016,impact%20the%20Great%20Barrier%20Reef.
  • Greenly, Ocean acidification: causes, issues, and solutions
    https://greenly.earth/en-gb/blog/ecology-news/ocean-acidification-causes-issues-and-solutions
  • Joint SDG Fund, Why Caribbean coral reefs are dying and why it matters
    https://jointsdgfund.org/article/why-caribbean-coral-reefs-are-dying-and-why-it-matters
  • Carbon Brief, Recent Alps snow cover decline unprecedented in the past 600 years
    https://www.carbonbrief.org/recent-alps-snow-cover-decline-unprecedented-in-past-600-years/
  • WSL, Switzerland’s glaciers could vanish completely by 2100
    https://www.wsl.ch/en/news/switzerlands-glaciers-could-vanish-completely-by-2100/#:~:text=Since%20the%20year%202000%2C%20glaciers,to%20record%2Dhigh%20summer%20temperatures.
  • Greenly, Canada wildfires: causes, consequences, and lessons
    https://greenly.earth/en-gb/blog/ecology-news/canada-wildfires-causes-consequences-and-lessons
  • WWF, 3 billion animals impacted by Australia bushfire crisis
    https://wwf.org.au/news/2020/3-billion-animals-impacted-by-australia-bushfire-crisis/
  • Daily Climate, New satellite data shows parts of New Orleans sinking rapidly
    https://www.dailyclimate.org/new-satellite-data-shows-parts-of-new-orleans-sinking-rapidly-threatening-flood-defenses-2673026782.html
  • World Bank, New climate report emphasizes urgency
    https://blogs.worldbank.org/en/climatechange/new-climate-report-emphasizes-urgency
  • Condé Nast Traveler, 10 places to visit before they’re lost to climate change
    https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/10-places-to-visit-before-theyre-lost-to-climate-change
  • Royal Museums Greenwich, Venice flooding and climate change
    https://www.rmg.co.uk/stories/ocean/venice-flooding-climate-change-coastal-cities#:~:text=As%20Venice%20sinks%2C%20it%20becomes,official%20records%20began%20in%201872.
  • WHOI, Is the Great Barrier Reef making a comeback?
    https://www.whoi.edu/ocean-learning-hub/ocean-facts/is-the-great-barrier-reef-making-a-comeback/#:~:text=In%202022%2C%20the%20Australian%20Institute,this%20news%20as%20a%20victory.
  • Greenly, The complex role of the Amazon rainforest
    https://greenly.earth/en-gb/blog/ecology-news/the-complex-role-of-the-amazon-rainforest