Description

A future where tourism benefits local economies and respects the environment is not only possible, it makes good business sense. So what does a sustainable tourism resort look like? Our report Paradise Found gives the answer.

Paradise Found demonstrates how investment in five key areas - the environment, people, community, infrastructure and finance - can enhance profitability, and it highlights best practice. It serves as a guide for tour operators, developers, hoteliers and other tourism providers involved in building new resorts or refurbishing existing buildings. Investing in energy efficiency, implementing staff retention programmes and re-thinking waste are all ways in which resorts can become more profitable while benefitting local communities and the environment.

It also demonstrates how leading businesses in the tourist industry are taking action on climate change, cutting greenhouse gas emissions in expectation of tough regulations and making plans to adapt to the consequences of changing weather systems.

“The collapse of several airlines and tour operators shows that the industry needs to take long-term sustainability factors into account in its strategic planning,” says Stephanie Draper, author of the report and Acting Director of the Forum’s Business Programme.

"The industry has been blindsided by roller coaster fuel prices and the economic downturn. Issues like climate change and water scarcity are already affecting tourism. To be sustainable financially as well as environmentally and socially, the industry needs a new approach."

The report challenges the industry to see sustainability in tourism destinations as an opportunity, a chance to differentiate, innovate and save money. Paradise Found embodies our vision of a future where profitable tourist resorts benefit local people and exist in harmony with their environment.