Each year, Earth Day serves as a reminder of the urgent need to protect the environment our social and economic systems rely on.

Biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution all threaten our way of life. Conflicts between natural resource availability and economic interests often prevent meaningful change.

On the other hand, environmental initiatives paired with economic incentives may yield more long-term advantages for the economy and the environment.

In nature-dependent industries like tourism, this is especially true. While many industries are responding to pressing environmental challenges, the tourism sector is particularly well positioned for a sustainable transformation.

Tourism and Sustainable Development

Unlike extractive industries like forestry and fishing, which see sustainability in terms of maintaining a stock, tourism’s relationship with nature depends on healthy ecosystems.

Studies by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) found reducing pollution in marine ecosystems increases tourism numbers, spending, and jobs.

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