Sustainable Tourism Policy: Together With Nature: Executive Summary

Sustainable
Tourism Policy:
Together with
Nature
Executive Summary
Sustainable
Tourism Policy:
T
he Ministry of Commerce, ural values are our best asset in
Industry and Tourism is developing a successful long-term
Together with committed to strength-

ening the sustainability of
tourism sector in which travelers
can continue to marvel at the
Nature the tourism sector in Colombia.

This policy is a manifestation of
different corners of Colombia,
while at the same time we protect
Executive Summary that commitment and of our be- our communities’ heritage so that
lief that Colombia’s unique natu- all Colombians can continue to
ral assets should be the drivers of benefit from a sector that truly is a
The complete technical policy document can be development in the sector. driver for development.
found on the Ministry of Commerce, Industry
and Tourism website: Project team 2019 was a historic year for tour- We are now one of the few coun-
ism in Colombia. This, together tries in the world with a Sustain-
www.mincit.gov.co with the country’s enormous po- able Tourism Policy that enables
Arturo Bravo tential for growth, is what drives us to forge a path towards a more
Jenny Paola Gallo us to keep working to reactivate responsible, inclusive, resilient
José Manuel Restrepo Abondano
Minister of Commerce, Industry Lisseth Catherine Sánchez the sector and generate sustained and collaborative future, in which
and Tourism Luis Jonathan Pardo growth. It also makes us ask our- tourism energizes the economy,
Francisco Javier Rivera selves: What type of tourism do improves social inclusion, and
Julián Guerrero Orozco we want for Colombia? preserves culture and the envi-
Vice-Minister of Tourism ronment. We ask that you protect
Design and layout The Sustainable Tourism Policy is Colombia’s natural assets, that
Nohora Constanza Olaya Cantor our response to that question. By you continue traveling responsi-
Director of Quality and Sustainable Tourism Development understanding sustainability as a bly in our country and that you
.Puntoaparte Editores key part of development, compet- join us in our commitment to
itiveness and tourism’s growth, build a sustainable tourism sector.
Coordinator and editor this policy will transform regions,
This publication has been possible
tourism businesses, communities
thanks to ProColombia.
and tourist behavior. To this end, José Manuel Restrepo Abondano
Cristina Arbeláez Restrepo the Sustainable Tourism Policy Minister of Commerce, Industry
Adviser to the Office of the Vice-Minister of Tourism ISBN: 978-958-5461-85-7 recognizes that Colombia´s nat- and Tourism
Sustainable Tourism Policy: Together with Nature 2-3
Let Us Travel and

Protect Our Planet
C
olombia is a country ment for the conservation of its ability at the heart of tourism tourism sector, and we invite
of extraordinary envi- natural environment, biodiversi- development in the country, all stakeholders in the tourism
ronmental richness; It ty, landscapes, ecosystems and positions it as a competitive fac- value chain to unite around this
has five regions, two exceptional natural resources. tor for destinations and tourism objective. We ask that National
oceans, three mountain ranges, businesses, and strengthens Co- Government agencies develop
314 ecosystems, more than 1,000 There is widespread acceptance lombia’s reputation and recogni- the tools and procedures re-
protected areas, almost 2,000 bird globally that the world is at an tion as a world-class sustainable quired to implement this policy,
species, 3,179 orchids, and count- environmental tipping point, and tourism destination. and that regional authorities
less additional features that make that people’s future wellbeing plan and manage tourism using
up a natural heritage hard to find and economic progress will only The policy consists of a strategic sustainability criteria to make
anywhere else in the world. Trav- be possible if the natural capital plan to 2030 and is comprised destinations more competitive.
elers to Colombia are surrounded is placed at the forefront of gov- of six strategies that have been We invite the private sector to
by unmatched natural treasures ernmental and productive sector designed in response to identi- implement sustainability strat-
as they immerse themselves in decision-making. The Sustainable fied barriers to sustainable tour- egies that improve the produc-
fascinating, meaningful and inspir- Tourism Policy lays the founda- ism development. The strategies tivity and competitiveness of
ing experiences. In Colombia, as tions for this goal in Colombia. include 14 programs, 32 projects its business models, and invite
John Ruskin rightly said, “Nature and 140 policy actions. The academic institutions to promote
is painting for us, day after day, ‘Together with Nature’ seeks to policy’s implementation time- research and innovation that
pictures of infinite beauty”. unite all industry stakeholders line is consistent with the global generate specialized knowledge
towards the goal of developing Agenda for Sustainable Devel- in support of sustainable tour-
It has become evident in recent sustainable tourism in Colombia. opment, the National Develop- ism initiatives. Finally, we call on
years, and more so during the This is both a tribute to and a rec- ment Plan 2018-2022 (Pact for local communities to preserve
Covid-19 pandemic, that de- ognition of the way nature brings Colombia, Pact for Equity), and their regions’ natural capital, and
veloping sustainable tourism us together and makes tourism a other domestic policies, plans ask that tourists and citizens in
is both a responsibility and an memorable experience in a coun- and programs. This roadmap general become more aware of
opportunity in Colombia. On the try rich in biodiversity, landscapes, will establish tourism as a sus- the need to adopt sustainable
one hand, the tourism industry geography and unique natural tainable productive activity that consumption habits and behav-
must contribute to preserving resources. We are all responsible improves the country’s compet- iors with regard to the country’s
the country’s natural capital for making tourism grow in a way itiveness by responsibly using natural capital.
and ecological values to the that is better for the planet and one of its main strategic assets:
same degree that it uses them that allows us, and future genera- its natural capital. Let us be part of the solution to the
to carry out its activities. On tions, to continue to enjoy Colom- challenges facing humanity, and let
the other hand, it currently has bia’s priceless natural capital. We are confident that the Sus- sustainability be the purpose that
the opportunity to become one tainable Tourism Policy will unites us around tourism.
of the main drivers of social The Sustainable Tourism Policy ensure that sustainability is the
and economic change in the is a long-term strategic vision for guiding principle for developing Julián Guerrero Orozco FLS JM Keith Ladzinski
country, as well as an instru- the sector that places sustain- and strengthening Colombia’s Vice-Minister of Tourism Dorado Reserve
Atlantic Ocean Total area:
Why Visit 2,070,408 km2

Land area:
Colombia? 1,141,748 km2

Maritime area:
928,660 km2
Colombia is a hugely diverse country with a privileged Panama
geographical location, rich landscapes, ecosystems and

natural resources, and a multitude of cultures. Venezuela
Colombia is the second most boundaries with Costa Rica,

biodiverse country in the Nicaragua, Honduras, Jamaica, Pacific Ocean
Social Indicators
world, surpassed only by Bra- Dominican Republic and Haiti.
zil. However, its smaller size
makes Colombia the most Population: 48.2 million
biodiverse country in the The Varied (DANE, 2019)
world per square meter.
Climate of a Official language: Spanish
Colombia is located on the Country with Recognized languages: 68

northwest tip of South America. no Seasons native languages
It is one of 21 countries in the
National tree: Wax Palm
world with coastlines on two
oceans (the Atlantic and the Although Colombia has no National bird: Andean Condor
Pacific). It has a stable climate seasons, its climate is not National flower: Orchid
all year round with no extreme static. Some months are
Currency: Colombian peso (COP)
seasonal temperature changes. rainy, others are warm or
Colombia has five natural re- temperate; There are regions Country code: +57
gions, 314 ecosystems, six snow- where the heat is excessive National heritage sites: 1,102 Ecuador
capped peaks, three mountain and others where the cold throughout the country
ranges and climates ranging is constant. This variety of
Natural and cultural
from freezing perpetual snow climates is due to Colombia’s Brazil
World Heritage sites: 8
to sea-level tropical heat. The five climate zones (warm,
country has land borders with temperate, cold, paramo, Intangible cultural heritage: 9
Panama, Venezuela, Ecuador, glacial) in which temperature Time zone: (UTC-5) throughout Peru
Peru and Brazil, and maritime varies with altitude. the country, all year round
Tourism in Numbers In Colombia
Tourism is the country’s second largest

In the World foreign currency generator, surpassing In 2019, non-
traditional products like coffee, flowers and resident visitors
bananas altogether. grew by
In 2019, the
3%
compared to 2018,
tourism industry
reaching a record
grew by Tourism contributes number of 4.5 million.
3.5%
2.15% to domestic
GDP, and grew by
In 2019, the tourism
while the global economy
grew by 2.5%.
industry accounted for
28.3% 48.9%
between 2015 and 2019. In 2019, the
of global trade in services and tourism indus-
4.3% of capital investment. try accounted
for 618,000
full-time jobs, or
In 2019, the approximately
In 2019, tourism
added value of
contributed
accommodation and
3%
10.3% food services grew by
4.7%
of domestic employment.
to global gross domestic product

(GDP), which amounted to compared to 2018,
USD $8.9 trillon. reaching $34.1 billion. Growth in tourism represents significant
In 2019, 1.5 billion opportunities for the country’s economy and
international tourist that of its regions, for job creation, for de-
arrivals were reported veloping productive initiatives, and for the
worldwide, an During the same social inclusion of communities. However, it
In 2019, increase of period, foreign is crucial that growth in this sector is sustain-
4%
exchange income able and that tourism positively contributes
1 in 10
jobs were generated by compared to 2018 and the tenth
from travel and air
passenger transport
grew by
to local communities’ wellbeing, to developing
better ecosystem services, and to preserving
and protecting the natural capital that makes
2.4%
the tourism industry, consecutive year of growth. it possible.
representing 330 million
jobs worldwide.
* Global data obtained from WTTC and UNWTO. Colombian data ob-
to a total of tained from the Tourism Satellite Account, national DANE accounts,
USD $6,786 million. Banco de la República and Colombian Immigration Authority.
Colombia:
Megadiverse Country
It has 3,330 km of coastline, two littoral
zones, and a 300km2 insular region with
8 sub-regions.
and Global Water

Powerhouse It is famous for its 36 páramos that provide
70% of the population’s water.
It has 22 million hectares of

Colombia is the second most biodiverse
wetlands and 299,000 hectares
country in the world.
of mangroves.
It has 314 types of ecosystem.
It is the only country in South

America with access to two oceans,
and one of 21 countries in the
world with this feature.
It is sixth on the global ranking of

countries with the most water resources.
It is in the top 15 countries with the largest The relationship between

forest cover.
tourism and Colombia’s rich
natural resources brings with
It has the greatest diversity of birds and it an enormous conservation
orchids in the world, the second highest diversity
responsibility. Since a large part of
of amphibians, butterflies and plants, the third
highest diversity of reptiles and palm trees, and global tourism is concentrated around areas with vulnerable
the sixth highest diversity of mammals. ecosystems, such as marine spaces and coastal or mountainous
areas, it is important that the industry guarantees to protect
It has a National Protected Area System with
their biodiversity. This means that tourism activities need
1,327 protected areas that cover 15.2% of to be carefully planned and executed to control and limit any
the country. potential negative impact.
Sustainable Tourism Policy: Together with Nature 10 - 11
The World Economic

However, it is ranked 52nd on the environmental sustainability pillar
Baseline water stress
1 140
Forum Travel & Tourism 21
Competitiveness Index 2019

Fish stock status
1 140
22
Particulate matter concentration

Colombia faces the challenge of designing development policies 1 140
based on its natural capital, and formulating and implementing

strategies to promote environmental sustainability as a competitive 33
advantage for tourism. This is because: Forest cover change

1 140
Colombia is ranked 19th out of 140 countries on the natural resources pillar 42
Wastewater treatment
1 140
Total known mammal, bird and amphibious species
1 140
72
Stringency of environmental regulations

2 1 140
Number of World Heritage natural sites

1 140
80
Enforcement of environmental regulations

1 140
29
Nature tourism digital demand
1 140 83
Sustainability of travel and tourism industry development

1 140
33
Total protected areas (land and marine area in km) 89
1 140
Number of environmental treaty ratifications
1 140
49
107
Attractiveness of natural assets
1 140 Threatened species
1 140
64 129
A
sustainable future are under their control, even recent years, public policy relat- local communities’ quality of
depends on responsibly when sustainable tourism de- ed to its environmental impact life or threaten their cultural
managing non-renew- pends on protecting these assets. has not developed at the same integrity, and reduce the indus-
able and limited sup- Mitigating and fully managing rate. In addition, not enough try’s long-term profitability and
ply resources. As a key user of tourism’s environmental impact strategies have been adopted economic benefits.
these resources, tourism cannot is essential to maintaining desti- to balance the industry’s eco-
ignore its responsibility in this nations’ attractiveness, increas- nomic development goals with
regard. On the contrary, it must ing the economic opportunities the need to protect the integri-
begin reflecting on the size of its tourism offers to local community of Colombia’s natural capi-
environmental footprint and the ties, preserving the sociocultural tal. Although it is important to 1. According to The Natural Capital Coalition, natural
impact that agents in its value integrity of host communities continue celebrating and pro- capital refers to the “stock of renewable and non-re-
chain have on the country’s natu- and guaranteeing the industry’s moting growth in the sector, it newable resources (e.g. plants, animals, air, water, soils,
ral capital1. This is a fundamental overall sustainability. is equally important to include minerals) that combine to yield a flow of benefits to
challenge; At the moment, a good in the decision-making process people.” The natural capital concept encompasses eco-
number of industry stakeholders Although tourism has experi- risk factors that may negatively systems, living organisms and different natural world
do not believe that natural assets enced continuous growth in impact natural capital, affect values from which ecosystem services result. .
1.
Sustainable
Tourism: A
Development
Engine
Mavecure Hills,
El Remanso, Guainía
Karen Lever
Crab Cay, San Andrés y Providencia
This policy aims to position ability depends on the relation-

tourism as a sustainable pro- ship between stakeholders in the
ductive activity that promotes value chain and the natural cap-
inclusive economic growth and ital that makes tourism activities
is built on the joint responsibility and services possible, this policy
in its value chain with regard to focuses on the environmental
adopting responsible natural dimension of sustainability. In
capital practices, efficiently using this regard the tourism sector
natural resources and compre- faces a paradox: If it is properly
hensively managing its environ- managed, tourism contributes
mental impact. To this end, the to conserving and protecting the
policy focusses on both supply country’s natural capital, but if
and demand in the industry, and it is improperly managed it can
establishes a strategic plan to have negative impacts on the
incorporate sustainability into: i) environment. To prevent the
tourism governance, planning, latter from happening, the Sus-
management and decision-mak- tainable Tourism Policy makes
ing strategies in destinations; ii) environmental sustainability
industry stakeholder business the cornerstone of Colombia’s
decisions and practices; and iii) tourism development strategies, “Environmental
traveler behavior and consump- programs and projects. Although sustainability is central to a
tion habits. Each of these stake- the economic and sociocultural
holders must ensure that desti- dimensions of sustainability are
country’s competitiveness.
nations are managed responsibly not explicitly addressed, their ob- More efficiently using the
and that local communities’ jectives are embedded within the natural resources needed
needs are met. They must also policy. Environmentally sustain-
become strategic allies of these able tourism facilitates access to
for economic production
communities in the industry’s ecosystem benefits for regional improves productivity and
transition to sustainable tourism. stakeholders, and encourages lays the foundations for
the development of better cultur-
al services3 and processes. Sus-
2. Ecosystem services refer to direct and indirect
contributions of ecosystems to human wellbeing.

greater medium and long-
Environmental tainable tourism also results in a According to The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment term growth.”
Scope of the
better managed economy that (2005), these are “the conditions and processes (Colombian Private Council
more efficiently uses resources
Policy and increases long-term bene-
through which natural ecosystems, and the species that
make them up, sustain and fulfill human life” and are
on Competitiveness, 2019).
fits for the industry, such as: job applied in management and public policy decisions.
As sustainability is a very broad creation; improved wellbeing for

concept, it was necessary to limit local communities; better pres- 3. Cultural services are non-material values and
the policy’s scope. Given that ervation of heritage, culture, cus- benefits people obtain from ecosystems. They include Héctor Andrés Pinchao Pitacuar
An undiscovered paradise, Tumaco, Nariño
tourism is primarily an ecosys- toms and traditions; and greater lifestyles, cultural identity, recreation and aesthetic
tem service2, and that its sustain- added value for Colombia. inspiration, among others.
The most colorful river in the world,

Caño Cristales, la Macarena, Meta.
Sustainable development is “that which leads
to economic growth, to an improved quality of
life and to social wellbeing, without depleting
the renewable natural resources on which it is
based, nor damaging the environment or the
right future generations have to use it to meet
their own needs.”
(Article 3, Law 99, 1993).
Tourism Sector Plan 2018-2022 “Tourism:

1
The Purpose that Unites Us”
With the objective of improving Colombia’s compet-

itiveness as a tourism destination, one of the Plan’s
strategies is to “encourage more responsible and sus-
tainable tourism.” It also highlights the need to create
a joint responsibility scheme in which stakeholders
in the value chain guarantee to protect the country’s
natural capital.
Tourism Industry Growth and Employment

2 Generation Pact
2. In recognition of the strategic role of tourism within the do-

mestic economy, and its potential for creating added value
in the regions, this pact includes a commitment to define
Legislative sustainable tourism guidelines.
Background 3
Sustainability Pact “Producing Conservation
and Conserving Productivity”
This pact states the need to consolidate tourism as

a sustainable and inclusive productive activity that
contributes to improving the country’s competitiveness
by incorporating conservation and the efficient use of
resources into economic production, by protecting biodi-
versity, and by counteracting the degradation of Colom-
bia’s ecosystems and strategic environmental areas.
The focus of the Sustainable The Sustainable Tourism Policy will also contribute to the
commitments contained in the Convention on Biological
Tourism Policy is compatible
Diversity and the Paris Climate Agreement, and is framed
with that of the Green within the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable
Growth Policy, that states: Development and the Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs). Specifically, it contributes to meeting the following
“although the country
SDGs in Colombia:
has a robust political and
legislative framework to
confront the challenges
associated with sustainable
development, it has not
managed to efficiently
integrate the environmental
sustainability component
with sectoral policies and
economic growth strategies.”
(DNP, 2019).
Negative In general, it appears that the rate at

Externalities which tourism extracts resources from
ecosystems is greater than the rate at
which ecosystems can replenish them.
In addition, the rate at which the
industry generates waste, wastewater
and pollution is greater than the rate
at which ecosystems can process them,
The global growth of tourism
regenerate themselves and maintain
has increased its environmental their integrity.
impact. In general, an inadequate-
ly planned and managed tourism
industry, driven by a short-term
market outlook, can generate a
series of negative environmental
externalities that are not proper-
ly incorporated into value chain
stakeholder decision-making, and
Molly Trerotola affect the sector’s sustainability
The highest palm tree in the world, Valle del Cocora, Quindío
and the many communities that
inhabit the regions. These include:
Increasing carbon A high volume of solid

emissions. waste pollution.
Intensive energy use and Discharges of

low use of renewable and untreated wastewater.
non-conventional energy.
High levels of water Actions that threaten

consumption and biodiversity and ecosystems.
baseline water stress.
• Colombia is among the 40 • It is estimated that by 2050, ener- • It is forecasted that by 2050,
countries generating the gy consumption in the sector will food consumption and waste in
most greenhouse gases (GHG) be 2.64 times higher than it was the tourism industry will have
worldwide and is fifth among the in 2010, an increase of 164%. increased by 108% compared
32 countries of Latin America to 2010.
and the Caribbean.
• It is forecasted that by
2040, Colombia’s average
annual temperature will have
increased by close to 0.9oC.
This represents a risk to tourism
infrastructure (particularly in
coastal destinations), biodiversity,
ecosystems and the availability of
essential natural resources. Solid Waste Protecting Biodiversity
Management and Ecosystems
Climate Change
• Globally, it is estimated that • Of the 48,000 species of plants

• On a global scale, tourism tourists produce 35 million and animals included in the
contributes between 5% and Water Management tons of solid waste each year. global Red List of Threatened
8% to climate change. Within This is equal to felling 595 Wastewater Species, 1,761 are at risk due
this figure, 40% of emissions million trees. Treatment to tourism developments.
come from air transport, 32% • Tourism accounts for around
from ground transport and 21% 5% of the world’s total water • Coastal areas host 80% of • Only 5% of the world’s • Colombia’s Marine and Coastal
from accommodation services. consumption. global tourism, and around wastewater is treated. Research Institute (INVEMAR)
The remaining 7% is attributed 8 million tons of single-use has determined that water
to other tourism activities and • Tourists consume up to four times plastics are generated per • In Colombia, 42.2% of pollution by industry is one
other forms of transport, such more water than residents. year that, due to poor waste wastewater is treated, with of the country’s five main
as cruises and trains. management, cause the death the remainder being discharged causes of biodiversity and
• In San Andres, a tourist’s daily of over 1 million marine species. untreated into the environment. ecosystem service losses.
• Although tourism’s contribution water consumption is twice
to climate change is lower than than that of a resident, and • The volume of plastic waste
other sectors, such as electric- only 29% of tourists are aware that ends up in marine eco-
ity (25%), agriculture (24%) or Energy Efficiency that this is one of the country’s systems increases by 40%
industry (21%), it is estimated most vulnerable destinations; during high season.
that by 2035, tourism’s car- • Tourists consume 25% more It is an island with limited fresh
bon footprint will more than energy, on average, than water sources. • It is estimated that by 2050 If the sustainability dynamic of tourism does not
double, and that if we do not residents. oceans will contain more plas-
change in coming years, the growth in the sector
move towards decarboniza- • It is forecast that by 2050, the tic than fish.
tion and energy efficiency, by • Worldwide, hotels are ranked use of drinking water in the will result in greater negative externalities and
2030, 21% of global carbon fifth in energy consumption tourism industry will have • Between 12% and 30% of its environmental impact will triple by 2050.
emissions will be caused by within the commercial buildings increased by 92% compared food is wasted by hotels
tourist transport. and services sector. to 2010. globally.
Eduardo Angarita Muñoz

Mountain paths, Laguna del Otún, PNN Nevados, Risaralda
3. Sustainable
New
communities, travelers, and the industry’s response to a with local communities and
Tourism: A Shared other stakeholders in the value market that is becoming more industry stakeholders, as well
Responsibility chain, to develop and imple- sensitive towards local commu- as a greater level of conscious-
Paradigms for Building a sustainable tourism

ment transformative solutions
that effectively contribute to
the sustainable growth of tour-
nities and biodiversity.
Opportunities
ness with regard to the values
of the businesses they give
their money to, and the poten-
Sustainable sector is a challenge that is

too large for one stakeholder
or one organization to tackle
ism. The Sustainable Tourism
Policy aims to start this conver-
sation in Colombia. By promot-
for Sustainable
Tourism
tial environmental impact of
the activities they participate
in during their travels. As a
Tourism on their own. To address this

challenge, changes (sometimes
ing sustainable tourism prod-
ucts and services it will ensure
Development result, a significant number of
travelers now understand that
structural) need to be made joint responsibility for sustain- their decisions have the poten-
across the entire industry value ably developing and managing Recent changes in consumer tial to transform the industry
chain. Above all, there needs tourism destinations; mitigat- preferences represent incred- and they are willing to choose
to be a joint commitment from ing, controlling and offsetting ible opportunities for sus- more sustainable tourism
national government, regional the negative externalities tainable tourism. Tourists are products and options, even if
authorities, businesses, local linked to tourism; and adapting manifesting increased solidarity these come at a higher cost.
Sustainable and argues that protecting nat- achieves a greater brand value.
Tourism: An ural capital is essential not only
to ensuring Colombia’s environ-
From a destination perspective,
this policy argues that it is funda-
Industry-wide mental and ecological integrity, mental for local governments to
Principle but also to guaranteeing tourists align tourism planning and man-
a high-quality experience and agement with sustainability crite-
This policy aims to break away increasing the competitiveness ria in order to ensure the long-
from the paradigm that sustain- of tourism businesses and des- term preservation of resources in
able tourism is only eco-tourism tinations. From a business per- their regions, strengthen supply
or community-based tourism – spective, this policy incentivizes chains, improve working condi-
which are just two of many forms businesses to view sustainability tions and ensure tourism’s lon-
of tourism –, and that it is limited as a competitive advantage that gevity. If businesses and govern-
to nature destinations, coastal ar- contributes to achieving a more ments do not start investing in
eas, protected areas and natural comprehensive business vision, the environmental assets that add
parks, or to certain types of prod- improves operational efficiency, value to tourism products and Sustainability as
ucts or activities. Rather, it states reduces the cost of basic ser- activities, they will start to see a Factor of Local
that sustainability is a much vices, increases local job creation, a reduction in profit per tourist,
broader concept that is applicable attracts foreign investment, even if they see an increase in the
Social and Cultural
to all types of tourism, all types enhances customer loyalty and total number of visitors. Development
of destinations (rural, urban, land
and sea), and all stakeholders in The Sustainable Tourism Policy
the value chain. Sustainability is views improved sustainability and
a principle that must be applied competitiveness as a positive
Morgan Heim
to all industry segments, and all Andean birds, Pharomachrus Auricep factor in optimizing working con-
activities, products and services ditions in the regions, strength-
must encompass a vision of ening supply chains, dynamizing
environmental responsibility that the economy and guaranteeing
underpins its value and guaran- local community wellbeing. From
tees its long-term development. this perspective, it also regards
sustainable tourism as a key fac-
tor for regional and local commu-
Sustainability nity social development in areas
where tourism takes place; It
as a Factor of strengthens social fabric, reduc-
Competitiveness es social inequality and ensures
the fair distribution of benefits
The implementation of sustain- derived from tourism. Given that
able tourism practices results in many regions of the country,
both in environmental benefits ecosystems and communities not
– such as reduced natural re- only coexist, but are also closely
source use and extraction, and interdependent, the benefits of
decreased pollution – and in a sustainable tourism transcend
greater contribution to economic the environment and can also be Charly Boillot
growth. The Sustainable Tourism seen in people, their culture and Lost City, Santa Marta, Magdalena
Policy is based on this principle, productive projects.

Resumen ejecutivo Política de Turismo Sostenible 28 - 29
“Sustainable tourism development Ecoplanet Fundation

Whale watching, Bahia Solano, Chocó
guidelines and management
practices are applicable to all
forms of tourism in all types of
destinations, including mass
tourism and the various niche
tourism segments.” (UNWTO).
Sustainable Tourism ber could increase significantly significantly contribute to climate

Added Value in the long-term if the sector’s change. These alternative liveli-
growth is accompanied by the hoods may also benefit tourism’s
adoption of responsible practices wider supply chain, including
The Sustainable Tourism Policy that encourage more sustainable small and medium sized handi-
states that implementing sustain- land use, promote the conser- craft entrepreneurs, local trans-
able tourism criteria will not only vation of the country’s strategic port operators, fishing commu-
contribute to mitigate, correct ecosystems, avoid over-extract- nities and farmers in the regions.
and offset the sector’s negative ing resources and prevent en- Since the benefits of tourism
externalities –highlighting the net vironmental degradation. This tend to spread across regions, the
economic benefit of tourism – but is reinforced by the fact that, industry may ultimately contrib-
will also positively impact des- especially in vulnerable destina- ute to increasing levels of envi-
tinations by allowing income to tions, tourism has the capacity to ronmental awareness, addressing
permeate into local communities. offer communities an alternative the planet’s life system crisis, and
Although tourism is already a source of revenue to mining, transitioning the country towards
source of income for more than logging and cattle-farming, all of more collaborative, resilient and
600,000 Colombians, this num- which are polluting activities that sustainable economies.
General Objective
Target Audiences
To strengthen sustainability in Colombia’s
tourism value chain, in order to improve its Considering that one of the key principles of this policy is the shared responsibility for sustainable tourism devel-
competitiveness, guarantee the preserva- opment in Colombia, it proposes the following specific objectives for each stakeholder:
tion and responsible use of natural capital
and generate greater added value and
differentiation for the country. Local government and institutions. Increase information availability and governance regarding
1 land use, planning, regulation and interinstitutional coordination for the sustainable development and
management of tourism destinations.
Specific Objectives Entrepreneurs and businesses. Incentivize businesses and suppliers to adopt best practice
2 in responsible planning, operation, production and consumption regarding their tourism services,
Increase the amount and
activities and products, and ensure that they contribute to comprehensive and sustainable tour-
relevance of information that
ism management.
contributes to sustainable
tourism decision-making.
Travelers and consumers. Promote responsible behavior and the sustainable consumption of
3 tourism products, services and activities by travelers, and contribute to positioning Colombia as a
Strengthen the incorporation
of environmental sustainability world-class sustainable tourism destination.
criteria into tourism planning
Local communities and residents. Stimulate communities to take ownership of their natural
and management, and the
4 capital so that they become strategic allies and guarantors of the industry’s transition towards greater
coordination between the
sustainability, and enjoy the socioeconomic benefits of tourism.
sector and environmental
authorities.
Strengthen the conditions

and incentives for
4.
innovation and the use of
natural capital in tourism’s
added value proposition.
Sustainable Incentivize businesses and

other stakeholders in the value
Tourism
chain to mitigate, control
and offset their negative
environmental impact.
Development Promote responsible

behavior and consumption
Objectives among travelers.
Strengthen Colombia’s
position in sustainable
tourism strategic markets.
John Jair Londoño Garzón
Corocoras watching, Arauca
Sustainable
Tourism Roadmap
Based on the issues identified and the specific

objectives presented in relation to the sustainability
of the Colombian tourism industry, the Sustain-
able Tourism Policy proposes six strategies, from
which a ‘Sustainable Tourism Roadmap’ is devel-
oped. These strategies will be implemented via 14
programs, 32 projects and 140 policy actions, all
of which have execution timelines. The timelines
are highlighted in color in the tables below: Green
indicates a 2-year timeline, yellow between 2 and
6 years, and red from 6 to 10 years. The policy has
a time horizon of 2030, which is consistent with
the Agenda for Sustainable Development that was
signed and ratified by the country.
What is the Problem?
The main problem identified by this policy is the
5.
low level of sustainability in Colombian tourism
activities and services. This affects natural capital
integrity, local community living conditions, new
Strategic Plan: and existing tourism business productivity, destina-

tions competitiveness and sophistication of de-
mand in the industry. It also generates low levels of
A Vision for joint responsibility for sustainability in the industry

and results in tourism not being sufficiently used to
gain regional competitive advantages.
Sustainably
Transforming
Tourism
* In the Sustainable Tourism Policy strategic plan document readers can find all aspects
Ecoplanet Fundation related to the roadmap, including potential public and private stakeholders for each of
Howler Monkey , Río Manso, Caldas the actions and compliance indicators, with their respective goals.
Why is this Important? 4. The indicators often result in sectoral

goals that favor mass tourism, rather than
The capacity of governments to develop sus- goals that favor quality tourism that attracts
tainable tourism depends on the type of data higher foreign investment and is of greater
and information they collect on tourism as benefit to local communities.
an economic activity, and natural capital as a
strategic asset of destinations. 5. The industry’s different agencies and
economic sectors manage highly heteroge-
1. There is a significant lack of information for neous and isolated data.
sustainable tourism policy, investment and
decision-making in Colombia. Aside from the 6. There are too few intersectoral and inter-
protected area system, there are no indicators disciplinary spaces for dialogue, interac-
nor baselines to measure the impact of tour- tion, forecasting and information analysis
What Problem
ism growth on natural capital, nor to inform to tackle sustainable tourism problems.
does it Solve? environmental impact mitigation, control and
offsetting processes. 7. Fourth industrial revolution technologies are
The lack of reliable information to inform not being properly utilized by the tourism in-
sustainable tourism decision-making. 2. The country does not have an estimate dustry to process complex data related to the
of the industry’s environmental footprint, sustainability of destinations and stakeholders
nor tools for its continuous monitoring, nor in the value chain, implement supply manage-
What are its Causes? specific sectoral studies on tourism’s environment strategies, pinpoint demand preferences,
mental performance. identify ecosystem service models, and better
Strategy 1. Weak indicators and information 3. The main indicators used to measure
understand the relationship between the coun-
try’s natural capital and tourism.
Strengthening systems measuring national and

regional environmental performance
growth in the industry are based on the
number of visitors, and neglect vital aspects 8. To date, no official efforts have been
Information for in tourism. such as the quality of visits, the net socio-
economic benefits of tourism, its impact in
made to measure residents’ perception of
the quality of environmental and tour-
Sustainable Tourism Limited interaction between existing terms of job creation, and its contribution to ism resources, nor to identify their atti-
sources of tourism and environmental social development and the conservation of tudes towards tourism. These metrics are
information. the natural assets that form the basis of the vital components of the industry’s deci-
This strategy will promote the continuous industry’s competitiveness. sion-making process.
generation of information, improve its Poor implementation of fourth indus-
availability for governments, destinations trial revolution technologies to evaluate
and manage the environmental perfor-
and tourism businesses, and guarantee
mance of tourism.
its reliability for evidence-based decision-
making and public-private partnerships for A lack of institutional tools that mea-
sustainable tourism development. sure resident and tourist satisfaction.
36 - 37
Roadmap for 1. Sustainable tourism mental performance, and gen- 1. Sustainable Tourism Think-Tank. vation and to comprehensively for monitoring and evaluating
Strengthening indicators. This project has erate information on people’s This project will create a Sustain- and sustainably manage tour- tourism’s environmental per-
three main objectives. The first satisfaction with tourism devel- able Tourism Think-Tank where ism’s environmental impact. The formance. The project will use
Information for
is to adjust the performance opment and its environmental the public and private sectors, Sustainable Tourism Think-Tank artificial intelligence to identi-
Sustainable Tourism indicators and goals used to impact in their regions, as well academic institutions, civil soci- will also be a space for univer- fy ecosystem service models
measure the tourism sector’s as on tourists’ perception of ety organizations, local entrepre- sity students to carry out their that illustrate the relationship
development and growth, take sustainability within the Colom- neurs and innovators and local research degree projects, and in between tourism and the envi-
them beyond just the num- bian tourism industry. communities with an interest which public interest documents ronment, and help national and
ber of visitors to the country, and stake in the sector can come and scientific publications will be local government to strategically
and focus on aspects favoring together for interdisciplinary created to contribute to Colom- develop destinations, implement
quality tourism. This will bring and intersectoral debate. New bia’s recognition as a world-class supply and demand manage-
in more foreign investment technologies will be used for data sustainable tourism destination. ment strategies, and prioritize
and provide greater benefits to analysis, and information will be actions related to the greening of
local communities. The second shared and generated collabora- 2. Smart Sustainable Tourism. the industry.
objective of this project is to tively. Its key objective is to take This project will leverage fourth
design and implement new sus- a long-term view towards devel- industrial revolution technologies
Program 1. tainable tourism indicators that oping innovative proposals to to process complex data, and
Information System for measure the impact of tourism use tourism as a tool for conser- optimize the resources available
Measuring Tourism´s on the natural environment and
Environmental Performance. generate reliable, standardized
and pertinent information on
This program consists of developing environmental performance
and implementing an information in the industry, at a national Program 2.
system to measure the environ- and regional level. Lastly, this Sustainable InfoTur 4.0.
mental impact of stakeholders and project will publish the informa-
activities in the tourism value chain tion in a ‘Tourism Viewfinder’ In line with the growing digitaliza-
at a national and regional level, (Visor de Turismo) — developed tion of productive sectors, this pro-
with a view to managing impact and in conjunction with the Na- gram will leverage fourth industrial
sustainably developing activities. tional Statistics Office (DANE) revolution technologies to under-
— and make it available to all take complex information analy-
The system must comply with in- stakeholders in the Colombian ses and facilitate the creation of
ternational standards and must be tourism value chain. sustainable development strategies
linked with the DANE accounts, the for attractions and destinations.
Colombian Environmental Informa- 2. Research and Institutional It will also generate specialized
tion System (SIAC) and the Biodi- Studies on Sustainable knowledge on sustainable tourism
versity Information System (SiB). It Tourism. This project will fill the by creating collaboration spaces for
must also include measuring tools, gaps in current research and public agencies, academic institu-
indicators, statistical methodologies, sectoral studies on the environ- tions, the private sector and social
research and formal studies that mental impact of stakeholders organizations. This will produce
serve as the basis for defining strat- in the Colombian tourism in- innovative proposals to transform José Yeiner Giraldo Loaiza
egies to improve environmental per- dustry value chain.It will define the Colombian tourism industry. Back to town,
formance in tourism. The following a baseline for strategies to The program will be implemented Aguadas, Caldas
projects are part of this program: improve stakeholders’ environ- through two projects:
Program Project Indicative Actions Deadline Program Project Indicative Actions Deadline
Review, adjust and complement the indicators used to measure tour-

Create a repository for the results of carrying capacity and limits of
ism growth in Colombia, and the national government goals for the
acceptable change studies for attractions and tourist destinations,
sector, and combine them with environmental performance indica-
and differentiate between those that have special environmental
tors that support the country’s objective of becoming a sustainable
and cultural values and ecological vulnerabilities. These studies
tourism destination.
will be made available to interested parties and administrators of
Design and implement new indicators that measure tourism’s impact tourist attractions that want to replicate them.
on the environment and provide reliable and pertinent information Information
related to environmental performance in the industry at a national, System for
Research and Include in the evaluation section of the Vice-Ministry’s tourism qual-
regional, urban and rural level. Measuring
Institutional Studies on ity certification compliance indicators related to minimum quality
Tourism’s standards for destinations and tourism service providers.
Strengthen the DANE Environmental Survey of Hotels , update its Sustainable Tourism
Environmental
indicators, resume its application and broaden its scope to include Performance
other tourism sub-sectors. Conduct periodic visitor satisfaction surveys in prioritized municipal-
ities via Tourist Information Centers, digital platforms, apps or smart
Create a sustainability module for the DANE Tourism Viewfinder (Visor tourism tools.
de Turismo) in which indicators can be viewed within Colombian tour-
ism statistics and accessed interactively.
Implement periodic research and monitoring of local communities’
Sustainable
Integrate the environmental satellite account research and survey perception with tourism and its environmental impact on their regions.
Tourism Indicators
results into the tourism satellite account in order to identify tourism’s
environmental performance through state, pressure and response
indicators that currently measure environmental conservation and Develop research areas to generate knowledge and specialized
protection objectives. information to inform sustainable tourism development, based on
interdisciplinary and intersectoral tools and analyses, and on the im-
Information
plementation of new technologies.
System for Align the industry’s environmental performance indicators with the Sustainable Tourism
Measuring UNWTO Statistical Framework for Measuring the Sustainability of Think-Tank
Tourism’s Tourism, to ensure that the information is comparable, pertinent
Support the development of sustainable tourism research projects in
Environmental and homogenous with globally produced information. Use this sta-
Colombia, to be carried out by industry stakeholders and interested
Performance tistical framework to establish competences for national organiza-
parties, within science, technology and innovation frameworks.
tions that measure sustainable tourism indicators.
Develop and implement interrelation and interoperation procedures Implement tools and platforms that are based on natural capital
between the statistical sources of tourism information, the Colom- accounting analyses to determine, quantify and value tourism goods
bian Environmental Information System (SIAC) and the Biodiversity Sustainable and services in the country, and inform investment decisions in tour-
Information System (SiB), in order to effectively measure the con- InfoTur 4.0 ism projects with the greatest environmental, social and economic
servation and sustainable use of biodiversity and ecosystem services benefits (e.g. the IDB Integrated Economic-Environmental Modeling
by the tourism industry. Platform (IEEM)).
Develop a diagnostic study of the Colombian tourism industry’s envi- Use big data and artificial intelligence to analyze and interpret com-
Smart Sustainable
ronmental footprint that establishes a baseline for: i) GHG emissions; plex data, and make informed investment and public policy decisions
Tourism
ii) water consumption; iii) energy consumption; iv) solid waste gener- on sustainable tourism.
ation; v) wastewater treatment; and vi) deterioration of biodiversity
and ecosystem services. The data must be analyzed by subsector or
type of tourism service provider, and will serve to set goals for miti-
Research and gating, controlling and offsetting the sector’s environmental impact, Develop pilot projects in destinations (e.g. smart destinations) using
Institutional Studies on and strategies to achieve them. 4.0 technologies to capture, process, manage and present sustainable
Sustainable Tourism tourism information and contribute to tourism management and
stakeholder decision-making.
Include self-assessment indicators for business sustainability prac-

tices in the National Tourism Register (RNT) renewal survey that all
tourism service suppliers must complete.
Long Medium Short
What Problem Why is it Important? 5. Local tourism development plans do not sufficient-
ly incorporate environmental criteria, do not take
does it Solve? Sustainable tourism development requires coordi- public service coverage into consideration, or are
nated government action to ensure that tourism based on the region’s supply of environmental goods
Poor incorporation of environmental criteria in and services4. A consequence of this is that at some
planning and management processes at the re-
tourism planning and management, and low levels tourist destinations, water, sewage, electricity and
gional level incorporate the availability of natural
of coordination between the tourism sector and solid waste collection services end up covering the
resources, compatible land uses, public service
environmental authorities. tourism sector rather than the local community.
coverage, and infrastructure investment needs so
that destinations and communities can sustainably 6. There is a lack of coordination between tourism in-
manage growth. stitutions and environmental authorities that creates
What are its Causes? a barrier to governance and effectively developing a
1. Results from a March 2020 survey conducted by sustainable tourism agenda. Collaboration between
the Vice-Ministry of Tourism show that 22.2% of the these two parties is limited to specific projects – mainly
Poor incorporation of tourism in land- 1,597 surveyed tourism service providers believe related to nature and nautical tourism – or to projects
use planning. their local government gives little importance to with a limited scope to certain attractions, such as
sustainability, and that 50.7% consider it gives it protected areas or beaches. A broader coordination is
medium importance. required to sustainably plan and manage all types of
Failure to incorporate natural capital
rural and urban tourism.
issues, the supply of environmental
2. The 2019 Colombian Regional Tourism Competi-
goods and services and the availability tiveness Index (ICTRC) gives environmental criteria 7. Although the importance of establishing and applying
of public services into regional tourism an average score of 4.8/10 in the 30 departments models of carrying capacity and limits of acceptable
development plans. surveyed, thus suggesting that environmental change to preserve destinations’ natural capital has been
criteria do not significantly contribute to tourism widely recognized, there are still significant barriers to
Absence and/or deficient application of competitiveness in any department in the country. their effective implementation in the country. To date,
Compared to the 2018 ICTRC survey, environmental few studies of this type have been conducted ver-
carrying capacity and limits of accept-
Strategy 2. able change methodologies in attrac-
criteria results decreased in 20 departments (64.5%
of those surveyed) and only increased in 5.
sus the number tourist attractions in the country.
tions and destinations.

Building a Strong 3. Only 168 Colombian municipalities have a tourism de-
8. Although a number of Colombian destinations are
seasonally dependent due to climate or environmental
Lack of clarity on competences and
Governance
velopment plan. This equates to 15% of the country issues, not enough innovative mechanisms have
weak implementation of environmen- and represents 59% of the municipalities included been implemented to sustainably manage regional
in the Tourism Destination Management strategy. seasonal demand.
Framework for tal legislation regarding sustainable
tourism planning and management at
In other words, 40% of municipalities with tourism
potential have yet to implement structured planning 9. In general, industry stakeholders have not de-
Sustainable Tourism attractions and destinations.
processes that guarantee community wellbeing,
dynamize the regional economy and protect the
veloped enough environmental risk management
strategies and the supply of products and services
Lack of sustainable tourism management natural environment. has not been adapted to the consequences of climate
models for destinations and attractions. change. This is in spite of the fact that these conse-
This strategy will strengthen the 4. The poor incorporation of tourism into land-use quences are particularly serious for ecotourism, ad-
incorporation of sustainability criteria Poor consideration of environmental plans has resulted in declining competitiveness at venture tourism and sun & beach tourism, all of which
into destinations’ land-use, planning and risks and the effects of climate change attractions such as tourist beaches, and disorganized, strongly depend on climate conditions, landscape and
informal and unsustainable tourism development at ecosystem integrity, as well as on the state of regional
management processes, and generate in tourism planning and management.
emerging destinations. ecosystem services.
partnerships that favor coordination
Insufficient attention given to sustain-
between tourism institutions and the able tourism by existing national coor-
environmental authorities that manage dination committees and within other
4. Environmental services refer to the flow of materials, energy and information that people obtain from natural capital. They also refer to the supply of
environmental resources and sanitation, which includes water and sewage systems and waste management.
sustainable tourism development. national sustainability strategies.
42 - 43
Ancestral history,
Colombia, a Blue Destination.
Roadmap for 2. Technical Tools for Sustainable
San José del Guaviare, Guaviare
This project will increase tourism’s
Building a Strong Tourism Planning and Manage- contribution to protecting marine
Governance ment. This project will provide and land biodiversity in coastal
Framework for local authorities with technical and insular areas, in line with
tools that strengthen their spe- conservation and sustainability
Sustainable Tourism
cialized knowledge of sustainable objectives for oceans, seas and
tourism, and allow them to im- marine resources. The project will
prove regional land-use, planning, strengthen sustainable tourism
management, and public-private in strategic marine and coastal
coordination processes. ecosystems by raising awareness
among travelers, certifying tourist
3. Technical Assistance for Des- beaches and developing blue
tinations Sustainability. This tourism5 pilot projects, among
project adapts and strengthens other initiatives.
technical assistance for regional
Program 3. sustainable tourism management.
Sustainable Destination It focuses on supporting the defi-
Management. nition, execution and monitoring
of regional sustainability agen-
This program will improve knowl- das. The project will also support
edge, resources and competences regional organizations in imple-
related to destination manage- menting, evaluating and validat- Program 4.
ment by regional organizations, ing carrying capacity and limits of Resilient and Adaptable
and reinforce national coordina- acceptable change studies. Tourism Destinations
tion and intervention mechanisms.
It is made up of five projects: 4. Deseasonalizing Tourism for This program incorporates en-
Sustainability. This project will vironmental risk considerations
1. Legal Tools for Sustainable mitigate strong seasonal variations and the consequences of climate into the tourism Risk Manage-
Tourism Development. This in Colombian tourism by driving change into destination planning ment System. It will also devel-
project will strengthen the sustain- changes in supply, demand behav- and management. The intention is op climate change adaptation
able tourism legal framework, and ior and preferences, and stimulat- to improve the tourism industry’s strategies that are specific to the
develop and manage legal tools ing new flows of tourism. At a local ability to resist and adapt to the industry. It is important to under-
that allow the competent author- level, this project will support desti- inevitable changes in ecosystems, stand adaptation needs in terms
ities to apply the methodologies nations where seasonal demand is or to restrictions imposed by nat- of the products that are specific
they deem relevant to determine highly dependent on environmental ural phenomena or issues such as to different types of tourism, and
tourism capacity at attractions and factors, and natural attractions with COVID-19. This program will be exe- the tourism activities that take
destinations and develop improved the highest levels of vulnerability. It cuted through the following project: place in Colombia’s vulnerable
visitor management processes. will encourage them to diversify the 5. Blue tourism is linked to nature tourism. It focus- ecosystems. This will mitigate
It will also define criteria, require- products on offer, and implement es on activities, products, services and experiences in 1. Sustainable Tourism Risk potential damage, create tools to
ments and special conditions for demand management models biodiverse marine spaces. It is considered a vital part Management. This project manage consequences, and turn
sustainable regional development, to reduce the tourism variability of the blue economy, which recognizes the impor- consists of designing and imple- risk into opportunity.
that focus on comprehensive tour- dynamic and help them preserve tance of seas and oceans as drivers of the economy menting technical tools that in-
ism impact management. regional ecological values. with great potential for innovation and growth. corporate environmental criteria
Program Project Indicative Actions Deadline

cross-sectional or provider-spe- to encourage less energy inten- Present a proposal to amend the tourism industry’s legislative
cific agendas will be created to sive means of transport, etc. framework and incorporate sustainable development criteria
address the unique sustainabil- and conditions.
ity challenges facing tourism 3. International Cooperation Present a regulatory reform proposal allowing competent
businesses, and identify prog- and Partnerships for Sus- authorities to apply carrying capacity and limits of accept-
Program 5. able change models, and determine the tourism limits of
ress, contribution and achieve- tainable Tourism. This project
2030 Pact for attractions. This will ensure that tourism develops within
ment. These agendas must be- will dynamize cooperation and
Sustainable Tourism Legal Tools for Sustainable conservation criteria.
come action plans that ensure strengthen Colombia’s participa-
Tourism Development
In line with SDG 17, on establish- business involvement in policy tion in international committees, Develop an administrative proposal to adopt basic technical
ing partnerships to achieve goals, execution and collaboration agencies or organizations, and criteria for: i) limits of acceptable change studies, ii) visitor
the Sustainable Tourism Policy to tackle barriers on the road encourage subscription to part- planning and management processes, and iii) monitoring,
evaluating and validating the indicators defined by competent
will create national partnerships to sustainable tourism. This nerships, initiatives or coalitions local authorities. These guidelines may be applied by tourist
to define commitments for in- may include voluntary environ- that support the development of attraction administrators and authorities choosing to imple-
tegration, public-private inter- mental impact offset schemes, sustainable tourism. ment the limits of acceptable change model to determine the
institutional coordination, and carbon calculators, investing in capacity of tourist attractions.
stakeholder and interested party alternative sources of energy,

Update the Technical Assistance Guide for Tourism Plan-
involvement in the tourism indus- modernizing fleets or tourism
ning and the Tourism Industry Toolbox to offer technical
try. This will facilitate governance infrastructure to reduce envi- Sustainable guidance to local authorities on incorporating the following
of sustainable tourism develop- ronmental impact, and the need Destination components into their tourism development plans: i) the
ment in Colombia. The program Management supply of environmental goods and services, availability of
public services (water & sewage systems and electricity), ba-
will also develop sector-based
sic sanitation guidelines and other key aspects for meeting
agendas that raise awareness tourist demand without negatively impacting the environ-
of the sustainability challenges ment or local communities; and ii) the need to manage
facing tourism at a national level, demand at established natural destinations (e.g. encourage
lower tourist flows throughout the year, distribute demand
and develop fruitful international
across attractions and sites of interest, regulate supply, and
partnerships that increase the Technical Tools for
limit access and activities).
Sustainable Tourism
scope of initiatives and contribute
Planning and Management
to successfully implementing this Design environmental liability management6 processes
policy. This program will be exe- for tourism in accordance with each destination’s strategic
cuted through three projects: ecosystems and natural characteristics. These will be incor-
porated into existing regional management coordination
frameworks (Colombian Ocean Commission, Ecotourism
1. Cross-ministerial Sustainable Table, Cormagdalena, etc.)
Tourism Agendas. This project
will coordinate the activities of Develop and publish step-by-step guides for regional sus-
national organizations with an in- tainable tourism development, environmental regulatory
terest in sustainable tourism that frameworks, and legislation applicable to developing tourism
activities in protected areas.
execute actions within this policy.
It will recognize tourism as a vital
industry for achieving national
sustainability goals and fulfilling
Colombia’s SDGs. Long
Carlos Mario Parra Ríos Medium

2. Sub-sector Sustainable San Pedro de las Lajas, Leticia, Amazonas 6. Environmental liability management consists of implementing coordinated actions with regional authorities to strengthen,
Short
Tourism Agendas. Specific recover or regenerate ecosystems, landscapes, biodiversity components or natural resources impacted by tourism activities.
Publish a manual on local and national authorities’ tourism man- Develop and implement tourism demand actions to man-
agement competences in different tourist areas (e.g. protected age seasonality at attractions and destinations, and avoid
Deseasonalizing Tourism
areas, coastal areas, urban areas, etc.). Working groups will be set saturation, mass tourism and pressure that represents
for Sustainability
up with environmental authorities to establish institutional com- risk for the environment, natural resources and tourism
petences and facilitate coordination for tourism planning. infrastructure.
Develop and implement technical support for coastal munici-

Develop and publish technical guidelines for tourist attraction
palities to obtain sustainable beach management certifications,
Technical Tools for administrators on voluntary carbon footprint offset schemes
such as Blue Flag.
Sustainable Tourism for visitors and tourism service providers.
Planning and Management Sustainable Develop and structure circular economy pilot projects in coastal
Develop public awareness actions for local communities and Destination tourism destinations, in line with the National Circular Economy
residents on the importance of sustainable tourism to preserv- Management Strategy and the Regional Coalition on Circular Economy for Latin
ing natural capital and improving their quality of life.
Colombia, a America and the Caribbean.
Blue Destination
Generate spaces for dialogue with ethnic communities and Raise awareness on the responsible use of water resources by
indigenous groups, that result in strategies to improve sustain- visitors and communities through blue tourism activities (e.g.
ability in the regions under their jurisdiction. nautical tourism, aqua tourism, adventure tourism and sun &
beach tourism).
Develop technical assistance services for regional organiza-
tions and other stakeholders to determine the capacity of the Develop blue tourism pilot schemes at tourist attractions associat-
tourist attractions by applying carrying capacity and/or limits ed with underwater ecosystems in prioritized coastal destinations.
of acceptable change methodologies, and implement visitor
management processes based on these methodologies.
Incorporate environmental and natural capital damage
prevention criteria into the tourism Risk Management
Sustainable
Establish and monitor local sustainable tourism agendas for System, in order to develop capacities to resolve potential
Destination
environmentally vulnerable and prioritized destinations. environmental situations that could negatively impact the
Management Technical Assistance
development of tourism attractions and destinations, ser-
Destinations Sustainability
vice provision and businesses economic sustainability.
Design and execute methodologies that improve regional or-
ganizations’ ability to interpret and use data in decision-making
Incorporate climate change mitigation and adaptation into
processes related to tourism planning and management.
Vice-Ministry of Tourism technical assistance processes for
planning, tourism security and product design.
Offer technical assistance for designing, formulating and
implementing tourism excellence plans in accordance with Resilient and Develop and publish guidelines for mitigating and adapting
Sustainable Tourism
Act 2785, 2006. Adaptable Tourism to climate change in: i) tourism planning; ii) the design and
Risk Management
Destinations diversification of tourism products; iii) tourism security
processes; and iv) services and operations in different
Develop and implement mechanisms to sustainably promote types of tourism, particularly those most vulnerable to
destinations, and modify the focus of campaigns to diversify climate change.
demand, attract low-season visitors, promote less busy attrac-
tions, encourage long stays and stimulate new tourism routes Carry out a diagnostic study on the consequences of climate
in partnership with the private sector. change for tourism supply management, with particular
emphasis on strategic ecosystems (high mountain, beach and
Deseasonalizing Tourism flood plain) and types of tourism that are highly dependent
Develop ‘rest’ guidelines for tourist destinations and attrac-
for Sustainability on climate conditions and ecosystem integrity (e.g. adventure
tions with special environmental value or that are part of
strategic ecosystems. tourism, sun & beach tourism, agritourism, scientific tourism
and aqua tourism).
Develop and publish technical guidelines for diversifying tourism

products and experiences in destinations with high seasonality
dependent on environmental factors.
Long Medium Short
Develop guidelines to incorporate risk management strategies Develop and implement a cross-ministerial agenda for the
into general municipal risk management plans, in line with the Cross-ministerial Vice-Ministry of Tourism and the Ministries of Science and
risk management component of land-use regulations. Sustainable Tourism Technology to include technology and digital transformation
Agendas tools in sustainable tourism objectives, and develop technolo-
Resilient and
Sustainable Tourism gy nodes along tourism corridors and routes.
Adaptable Tourism
Risk Management Implement climate change adaptation pilot projects, with
Destinations
special emphasis on tourist attractions and destinations lo- Incorporate indicators into the Colombian Regional Tour-
cated in the following ecosystems: high mountain, paramo, ism Competitiveness Report (ICTRC) that measure how
wetland, beach, insular and coral reef. well the country’s departments have adopted sustainable
tourism guidelines.
Establish working relationships with organizations responsible Sub-sector Sustainable Develop cross-sectional or subsector public-private sustainabil-
for national sustainability initiatives and strategies and present Tourism Agendas
2030 Pact ity initiatives that are aligned with the Tourism Advisory Coun-
a proposal to integrate tourism into their lines of action.
for Sustainable cil’s agenda. These should be led by trade associations, and
Tourism include microentrepreneurs, community tourism associations
Present a work agenda proposal to the Superior Tourism and other non-unionized parties. They should include a work
Council and the Tourism Advisory Council for analyzing plan geared towards comprehensively managing environmen-
sustainable tourism needs and developing and implementing tal impact in all subsectors.
strategies to improve the environmental performance of the
industry value chain.
Subscribe to coalitions and actively participate in global public
and private organization activities (UNWTO, OECD, UNEP, etc.)
Develop and implement a cross-ministerial agenda that that share the mission of implementing transformative solu-
allows the Vice-Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of International Cooperation tions for sustainable tourism growth.
Environment to agree and coordinate actions that develop and Partnerships for
sustainable tourism. Sustainable Tourism
Establish partnerships with international councils to increase
Develop and implement a cross-ministerial agenda for the
recognition of Colombia’s efforts in sustainable tourism.
Vice-Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Energy to devel-
op joint activities that improve energy efficiency in the tour-
2030 Pact Cross-ministerial ism industry, encourage a move towards renewable energy
for Sustainable Sustainable Tourism and decrease long-term dependence on fossil fuels.
Long Medium Short
Tourism Agendas
Propose actions to improve Colombia’s sustainability
position on the World Economic Forum Travel & Tourism
Competitiveness Report, and similar indexes that measure
environmental sustainability policies in the tourism industry.
Formulate and execute a national strategy to strengthen sus-

tainable tourism in regions with emblematic natural, landscape
and cultural attractions, protected areas, archeological areas
and other tourism-worthy spaces, in line with the Tourism
Sector Plan 2018-2022.
Establish national guidelines and/or recommendations on how

tourism should be incorporated into land-use plans to identify
areas where tourism will benefit local communities and the
environment, and establish conditions under which tourism and
infrastructure projects can be developed to favor sustainable
regional development.
5. Although there are a growing number of tourism clus-

Why is it Important? ters in Colombia, the supply chains they create are
Governments must create a competitive environment not coalescing enough to create tourism business
initiatives based on regional natural capital, that
that is aligned with other domestic strategies, and
contribute to increasing the financial benefit of tourism
a framework of incentives that support the private
for local communities and generate appropriation of
sector in creating differentiated products, constructing their natural value.
supply chains and developing sustainable tourism proj-
ects that contribute to local economic growth. 6. There are insufficient business partnerships between
tourism service providers and supply chains in other
1. In remote areas of the country, such as the Am- trade sectors that also rely on regional natural capital.
azon forest and the eastern plains, tourism is These links are especially relevant in rural areas, where they
concentrated in the Departments of Amazonas, have the potential to reduce the number of intermediaries,
What Problem Guaviare and Vaupes, and contributes 12.3% to contribute to formalization, build social capital and gener-
does it Solve? regional GDP but only 0.1% to national GDP. These ate economic growth.
departments have enormous potential for devel-
oping tourism products and services based around 7. Although tourism is recognized as the principal sus-
Insufficient conditions and incentives related knowledge and use of biodiversity, but to date this tainable economic activity in the face of deforestation
to the use of natural capital in tourism’s added has not happened. and the degradation of ecosystems by other extractive
value proposition. activities, there are currently no incentives for con-
2. Tourism businesses represent just 16.6% of the verting these activities into tourism and preserving
country’s green businesses. This suggests that more strategic environmental areas.
green businesses could be developed in the tourism
What are its Causes? industry to diversify regional economies and create 8. Both a lack of public communication and legislative lim-
jobs by increasing comparative and competitive re- itations restricting tax benefits mean that investment
gional advantages. incentives are being underused by tourism stakeholders
A lack of specialized tourism prod-
Strategy 3. ucts based on regional biodiversity. 3. Although Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES)7
for environmental control and enhancement, non-con-
ventional and renewable energy, and research, techno-
Promoting have benefits in conserving and protecting natural logical development and innovation.
A lack of high-value tourism supply chains capital, currently just 65,000 hectares use this
Investment and supported by regional natural values. mechanism. This figure is low when compared to 9. There are not enough incentives for incorporating
other similar initiatives in Latin America, such as Socio sustainability criteria into tourism promotion, infra-
Bosque in Ecuador (1,271,299 hectares), the PES pro- structure and competitiveness projects submitted to
Innovation in Insufficient mechanisms for integrat-
ing local communities into the tour-
gram in Costa Rica (1,052,867 hectares) and the PES
program in Mexico (3,232,000 hectares).
the Tourism Development Fund (Fontur).
Sustainable Tourism ism value chain in regions of special

environmental and ecological value. 4. Use of Bancoldex sustainability credit lines and energy
10. Colombia is yet to develop strategies that in-
tegrate sustainability guidelines into tourism
efficiency schemes by tourism businesses is in its infrastructure life-cycles. Nor has it implemented
This strategy will promote tourism with Limited diffusion, application and infancy. Between 2018 and 2019, only 24 loans were incentives that encourage investment in sustainable
the greatest added value by generating development of incentives promoting given to tourism businesses. tourism infrastructure.
conditions, incentives and financing tourism as a conservation factor for

natural capital.
mechanisms for innovation and the
greening of the industry, through the Limited allocation and use of finan- 7. Article 4, Act 870: 2017 states that Payments for Ecosystem Services are the economic incentives, expressed in money or kind, used by the ben-
responsible use of natural capital as a cial resources for developing sustain- eficiaries of environmental services to reward the owners, holders or occupants of lands, for their preservation and restauration efforts in strategic
areas and ecosystems.
competitive advantage. able projects, products and activities.
52 - 53
Urip Dunker,
Roadmap for El Cocuy National Park, Colombia
Promoting
way Colombia presents itself sists of allocating more funds to the tourism value chain. It will
Investment to potential visitors. Innovation developing sustainable tourism create incentives to ensure
and Innovation in tourism products must be projects, products and activities. that projects submitted to the
in Sustainable unique to the opportunities of To this end, three large projects Tourism Fund (Fontur) incorpo-
Tourism each region, its communities, will be carried out: rate sustainability criteria, and
biodiversity, culture and ances- develop financial instruments
tral customs. 1. Easier Access to Sustainabil- for investments in comprehen-
ity Incentives. This project sively managing the industry’s
2. Natural Capital Routes of will create the legal conditions environmental footprint.
Colombia. This project will necessary to offer tourism in-
join destinations to form dustry tax incentives for invest-
routes that highlight quality, ing in tourism activities and
sustainability, biodiversity and products that meet conser-
natural resources, and gener- vation criteria and implement
Program 6. ate high-value tourism supply technologies that preserve and
Colombia, a Biodiverse chains based around regions’ restore biodiversity and renew-
Tourism Powerhouse. natural assets. This region- able natural resources. Fur-
Colombia’s mega-biodiversity rep- al portfolio will position the thermore, mechanisms will be
Program 8.
resents a world-class potential for country internationally and developed to inform tourism
Stimulating Innovation in
tourism, and this program will high- generate a more solid business service providers and business-
Sustainable Tourism
light, manage and consolidate the network for tourism. es about the incentives.
role of its natural and environmen- This program will increase inno-
tal assets in the industry’s value 2. Conserving and Restoring vation in the tourism industry by
proposition. This will be achieved by Biodiversity Through Tour- developing activities that promote
developing innovative, competitive ism. This project will facilitate creativity and competitiveness in 2. Sustainable Infrastructure.
and differentiated tourism products tourism with a positive effect businesses and destinations. Two This project will implement stra-
that involve communities as service on natural capital protection, projects will be implemented: tegic guidelines for green8 and
providers and create opportunities restoring ecosystem services, blue9 tourism infrastructure that
in tourism markets. These products conserving valuable natural 1. Innovative Destinations and significantly reduce tourism’s
will be linked to emblematic region- Program 7. resources, and mitigating Businesses. This project will environmental footprint and
al tourist routes of great environ- Incentives for Sustainable climate change. Compensation stimulate innovation, renovation contribute to climate change
mental value that create competi- Tourism Development schemes and environmental and creativity in businesses and adaptation. Various types, tech-
tive chains and increase Colombia’s service payments will be devel- companies that have an impact nologies, means of construction
recognition within South American This program has two objectives oped so that tourism becomes on sustainable tourism, encour- and operation will be devel-
natural capital routes. This program related to financing and invest- a driver of conservation and age the development of initia- oped for sustainable tourism 8. According to the European Commission, “green
will be executed via two projects: ment schemes for sustainability. regional added value. tives promoting sustainability infrastructure, that are multi- infrastructure aims to enhance nature’s ability to de-
The first consists of informing, within the tourism industry and functional, generate a variety liver multiple valuable ecosystem goods and services,
1. Innovative and Sustainable developing and facilitating industry 3. Promoting Investment in its supply chain, and implement of ecosystem services and can such as clean air or water.”
Tourism Products. This project value chain stakeholder access to Sustainable Tourism. This social innovation processes that adapt to different regional and
sees biodiversity as a strategic incentives that promote tourism project will develop and pub- help overcome the main sustain- socio-environmental dynamics. 9. Blue infrastructures considers water supply, effi-
asset that generates innovation as a way of preserving Colombia’s licize sustainable investment ability challenges faced by desti- ciency and management in its operation, and seeks
in tourism and transforms the natural capital. The second con- opportunities on behalf of nations and local communities. to counteract the effects of climate change.
Diversify and develop tourism products based on regional bio-

Develop an environmental services offsetting and payment
diversity by identifying bioregions and defining biogeographic
scheme that promotes, manages and incentivizes climate
and ecosystem aspects of sites with great tourism potential.
change mitigation, water conservation and protecting
natural capital.
Develop unique tourism products that are linked to endemic
components of biodiversity, geography and landscape, and
Innovative and Sustainable focus on their conservation. Create and share with environmental authorities a reg-
Tourism Products
ister of nature tourism areas available for compensation
Formulate and implement a program to create productive schemes for any loss of biodiversity (forestry use permits
chains for high-value tourism based on regional biodiversity. and environmental licenses).
This program may also create connections between tourism
Conserving and
businesses and other non-industry green businesses that
Restoring Biodiversity
reduce commercial mediation between businesspeople and
Through Tourism Design and implement a communications strategy for tour-
small rural producers and suppliers.
ism service provider initiatives related to conserving, restor-
ing and preserving threatened species and ecosystems.
Design tourism narratives that explain each region’s unique
Colombia, a environmental value and natural richness, and develop technical
Biodiverse Tourism assistance strategies to integrate them into tourism marketing. Develop a support mechanism for environmental compensa-
Powerhouse tion for loss of biodiversity caused by tourism, using regional
Create, diversify and improve tourism routes designed around and local portfolios.
Colombia’s natural capital that contribute to conserving re-
gional ecological value. Incentives for
Sustainable Develop pilot projects for environmental and landscape restoration
Tourism of emblematic tourist attractions.
Create a community ecosystem monitoring network for desti-
Development
Natural Capital Routes of nations that identifies potential changes and decides mitigat-
Colombia ing actions.
Develop and implement incentives for incorporating environ-
Create opportunities for communities and citizens to partic- mental sustainability criteria (e.g. “bonus points” scheme, mod-
ipate in productive chains, product diversification and route ified evaluation criteria with greater weighting on sustainability
development processes based on regional natural capital. in the analysis of project relevance) into promotion, infrastruc-
ture and competitiveness projects submitted to Fontur.
Design and implement tourist routes in regions with Denom-

ination of Origin certifications, recognizable certified brands,
Create a special line of green credit in the Bancoldex produc-
etc., that emphasize understanding, appropriation, promotion
tivity portfolio for tourism businesses that want to implement
and the sustainable use of natural capital.
technology, renovate or repair facilities, purchase specific
Promoting Investment in
equipment and/or modernize their infrastructure to improve
Sustainable Tourism
Present a proposal to modify the tourism industry’s regulato- sustainability or environmental efficiency (e.g. installing
ry framework and adjust existing tax benefits for investing in low-flow showerheads, water filtering systems, solar panels,
preserving and efficiently using natural resources, and in envi- efficient lighting systems, etc.).
ronmental improvements that meet the needs of the tourism
sector and its stakeholders.
Incentives for
Sustainable Easier Access to Develop a strategy to disseminate the options available to
Tourism Sustainability Incentives Design a plan to promote access to the tax benefits available tourism companies for investing in cost-effective renewable
Development to businesses and stakeholders for investments in: i) renew- energy sources and close gaps between stakeholders in rela-
able and non-conventional energy sources; ii) environmental tion to energy efficiency (e.g. Power Purchase Agreements).
control and improvement (e.g. better disposal strategies,
efficient use of energy and water); and iii) science, technolo-
gy and innovation.
Long Medium Short

Identify and disseminate information on compensation

schemes, green bonds and project portfolios for tourism service
This project will stimulate,
Incentives for providers and investors. innovation, renovation
Sustainable Promoting Investment in
Tourism Sustainable Tourism Develop and implement mechanisms so that green businesses and creativity in businesses
Development applying for the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism’s
programs get priority access and/or have additional points
and organisations working
added to their evaluation. in the sustainable tourism
Launch a challenge competition to finance innovation supply chain.
projects in solid waste management through circular econ-
omy models in the tourism value chain and/or eco-design
projects associated with products and supplies used by
tourism businesses.
Implement intellectual property tools in the tourism industry

with the purpose of improving innovation and sustainability in
attractions, companies, destinations and organizations linked
Innovative Destinations to the industry value chain.
and Businesses
Develop social innovation processes that emphasize solu-

tions to destination sustainability problems and mitigate the
impact of tourism on local communities.
Stimulating Incorporate social innovation strategies and environmental

Innovation in sustainability principles into community tourism, rural tourism
Sustainable and nature tourism programs.
Tourism
Develop a manual for integrating tourism infrastructure into

surrounding natural systems during tourism planning and
management that respects regional and traditional uses. The
manual must include information on how tourism infrastruc-
ture can contribute to natural disaster prevention and mitiga-
tion, and adaptation to climate change.
Sustainable Infrastructure Develop and disseminate sustainable infrastructure guidelines

for implementing existing legislation (e.g. National Economic
and Social Policy Council (CONPES) document 3919 and Resolu-
tion 0549, 2015) to different subsectors of tourism and incorpo-
rate best practice in: i) reducing construction waste, sustainably
purchasing supplies and materials and minimizing carbon foot-
prints; ii) adequately treating wastewater; iii) saving water and
energy; and iv) protecting nearby strategic ecosystems (oceans,
paramos, forests, etc.).
Long Medium Short

What Problem
Why is it Important? Hotel investment in solid waste management fell
does it Solve? by 28.7% compared to 2014, but expenditure grew
To guarantee tourism’s competitiveness in the long by 22.4% in the same period and the volume
run, tourism businesses must incorporate sustain- of solid waste reused, donated, recycled or sold
A lack of mitigation, control and offsetting decreased by 7.9%.
ability criteria into their business models. These
measures for negative environmental impact
criteria must improve their environmental perfor-
by the private sector. 3. Involvement of tourism businesses in institu-
mance and preserve the natural capital on which
tional programs designed to improve productive
their products and services depend.
What are its Causes? sector sustainability is low. Just 39 tourism com-
panies have applied to join the ‘Factories of Produc-
1. A March 2020 Vice-Ministry of Tourism survey
tivity’ program (only one chose the energy efficiency
found that:
line and none chose sustainability).
High generation of solid waste that is
inadequately managed and disposed 86.5% of respondents (tourism service providers)
4. Of 160 companies that have become a ‘Collec-
of by businesses and value chain state that they lack knowledge related to implement-
tive Benefit and Interest Company’, (promoting
ing sustainable practices in their businesses.
stakeholders. a better relationship with the environment), only 5
are tourism companies (3%)..
Although 92.9% of respondents state that they
Inefficient and irresponsible water have implemented a strategy to reduce their
Strategy 4. use by businesses and value chain
stakeholders.
energy consumption, only 16.7% have seen a
significant reduction over the past year. In ad-
5. According to a technical verification report on the
implementation of Sectoral Technical Standards for
Advancing the Business Intensive energy use and lack of clean,

dition, only 20% of respondents use renewable or
non-conventional energy.
Sustainable Tourism (NTS-TS in Spanish), only 7%
of verified tourism service providers meet all
Sector’s Sustainable and

requirements of the standards.
renewable and non-conventional en-
88.4% of respondents state that they have imple-
ergies by businesses and value chain
Responsible Management mented a strategy to reduce water consumption. 6. A Vice-Ministry of Tourism analysis of the NTS-TS found
stakeholders. However, only 23.2% have actually significantly that 73% of tourism service providers gave medi-
um, to low-medium priority to the environmental
of Natural Capital
reduced consumption over the past year. In addi-
Rising greenhouse gas emissions pro- tion, 41.1% reported experiencing water problems or impact of their activities. This indicates that they
shortages, either constantly or seasonally. do not believe they need to execute short-term actions
duced by the tourism industry.
that reduce their environmental footprint.
This strategy will develop and implement tools that High volume of wastewater generat-
74.7% of respondents do not record their GHG
emissions. Less than half (43.8%) have set emis- 7. Environmental penalties imposed on tourism service
build awareness of the need for tourism businesses ed by the tourism industry that is not sions reduction goals for their businesses, and of providers are evidence that many of them do not
and service providers to mitigate, control and treated properly and/or is discharged this number just 29.3% report that their emissions comply with the regulations.
offset their negative environmental impact. Actions to the ground or bodies of water. have decreased over the past year.
to address environmental impact are specifically 8. Some tourism businesses continue to pose a
related to: Inadequate application of quality and 2. The most recent DANE Environmental Survey of threat to biodiversity by following practices such
sustainability standards and policies. Hotels (2015) determined that: as selling banned or protected meat or fish, sell-
ing handicrafts and souvenirs made with animal
• Water conservation.
Only 49.3% of accommodation establishments parts and using animals as tourist attractions,
• Energy efficiency and investment in renewable energy. Lack of ownership and knowledge of treated their wastewater in some way. among others.
• Solid waste management. natural capital by businesses and value
chain stakeholders.
• Sewage and wastewater treatment.
• Reduction of carbon emissions. Business and stakeholder practices that
• Protection of critical ecosystems and biodiversity. threaten biodiversity and ecosystems.
60 - 61
Roadmap for externalities in tourism and im- developing and implementing

Advancing the plementing sustainable planning, transformative solutions for sus-
Paola Sánchez Gómez
consumption, production and tainability. These strategies seek to
Business Sector’s Owl Frailejon, Nevados
operational business practices. generate structural change to en- Park, Risaralda
Sustainable and sure tourism business and supply
Responsible 2. Raising Awareness of Sustain- chain sustainability, and to consoli-
Management of able Tourism. This project focus- date low carbon tourism that takes
Natural Capital es on raising awareness of the responsibility for its environmental
need for businesses to improve footprint with circular produc-
environmental performance to tion cycles and a commitment to
preserve the integrity of tourism mitigating and offsetting negative
destinations and attractions, and impact. The following projects will
ensure the wellbeing of local be implemented:
communities, the competitive-
ness of their businesses and the 1. Mitigating Tourism’s Environ-
long-term growth of tourism. To mental Footprint. This project
Program 9. achieve this a number of aware- seeks to consolidate the transi-
Foundations for ness efforts will be carried out, tion towards sustainable busi-
Sustainable Tourism such as support strategies and ness operations, contribute to
communications campaigns. the responsible use of natural
This program will lay the foundations resources, conserve biodiversi-
for a sustainable tourism business 3. Training in Sustainable Tourism. ty and the environment where
culture that incorporates sustainabil- This project will improve the sus- tourism takes place, and re-
ity criteria into its business models. tainability component of current sponsibly manage solid waste
It consists of raising awareness, industry training programs for tour- and wastewater. The project
providing training and encouraging ism entrepreneurs and business- includes actions designed to
the adoption of sustainability criteria people, tour guides, and the School generate structural change in
and content by entrepreneurs and Friends of Tourism program, all of tourism subsector operations
businesspeople. It will also develop which play a crucial role in closing according to their environmen-
technical tools to establish guidelines the gap between academia and tal performance needs, capaci-
and conditions that improve busi- professional tourism experience. ties and goals.
nesses environmental performance.
To fulfill this goal, three projects will 2. Colombia, a Plastic-Free
be implemented: Destination. This project will at destinations and by tourism tion brings to Colombia’s water series of innovative initiatives
ensure that Colombia joins the businesses. It will implement richness. that involve the business sector
1. Technical Tools for Sustain- Global Tourism Plastics Initia- innovative actions to reuse or personnel in transforming tour-
able Tourism Businesses. This tive, led by the UNWTO and the recycle any unavoidable plas- 3. Caring and Regenerative ism businesses into agents of
project consists of designing, Program 10. United Nations Environment tics, and circulate solid waste Tourism. This project responds change and promote environ-
implementing and disseminat- Roadmap for a Green Program (UNEP), in collabora- so that it remains in the econ- to new trends that use tourism mental reparation in the areas
ing technical tools and support Tourism Industry tion with the Ellen MacArthur omy and is not returned to the as a medium to actively restore, they operate.
instruments that establish Foundation. The objective is to environment. This responds to rehabilitate or recover ecosys-
concrete guidelines for compre- This program builds on the above inspire change and eliminate an understanding of the chal- tems and the regions where
hensively managing negative and will go one step further in the unnecessary use of plastics lenges that plastic contamina- they are located. It proposes a
1. New Regulations and Stan- tourism service providers to take Program Project Indicative Actions Deadline
dardization for Sustainable ownership of quality and sus-
Tourism Quality Standards. tainability processes, promote Design and disseminate a best practice handbook, practical guide
This project will improve sustainability certifications as or checklist that tourism businesses (accommodation facilities,
food establishments, air transport, land transport, travel agencies,
standardization and technical a differentiating factor among tour operators, cruises, etc.) can adopt to reduce their environ-
Program 11. regulations for sustainable tourism businesses and encour- mental footprint by: i) reducing the volume of solid waste they
Sustainable Tourism tourism. Additionally, and in line age recognition of certified ser- produce and disposing of it properly; ii) conserving and using
water efficiently; iii) managing energy and investing in renewable
Quality Standards with the Tourism Sector Plan, it vice providers by domestic and
energy sources; iv) reducing greenhouse gas emissions; v) treat-
will integrate Colombian Envi- international tourists. Specialized ing wastewater; and vi) protecting biodiversity and ecosystems.
This program will overcome barriers ronmental Seal initiatives and promotion, dissemination and
resulting from inadequately imple- tourism quality and sustainabili- communications actions will be
menting sustainability standards and ty certifications for businesses. carried out to achieve this. Update and disseminate best practice guides for nature tourism
norms, and promote certification that incorporate specific guidelines for protecting biodiversity
to improve environmental perfor- 2. Promotion of Sustainable and strategic ecosystems. Include a chapter for tour guides on
the advice they should give visitors on how to avoid negatively
mance. The program will be execut- Tourism Quality Standards. impacting natural capital.
ed via two projects. This project will encourage
Launch a call for proposals from tourism businesses that

want to implement systems to measure their environmental
footprint or adopt standards such as the Global Reporting
Initiative – GRI.
Foundations Technical Tools for
for Sustainable Sustainable Tourism
Develop and publish a handbook on wildlife protection in the
Tourism Businesses
tourism industry that includes: i) guidelines for viewing and
interacting with wildlife (e.g. birds, whales, pink river dolphins);
ii) recommendations for purchasing souvenirs and avoiding
products made from parts of threatened animals (e.g. skin,
bone, shell); iii) gastronomic advice to avoid dishes made with
protected fauna or threatened species (e.g. iguana, turtle); and
v) sanctions and restrictions on selling handicrafts and foods
made using wildlife and/or threatened species.
Design a sustainable gastronomy guide for tourism businesses

(e.g. restaurants, hotels and cruises) that promotes sustainabili-
ty in food purchasing and production, the continuous monitor-
ing of food waste, proper waste disposal, and supporting local
food production.
Produce and disseminate case studies highlighting tourism

businesses that have implemented initiatives related to water
conservation, energy management, solid waste management,
wastewater treatment, reducing GHG emission, and protecting
biodiversity and ecosystems. The studies must explain how these
practices are reflected on the company balance sheet.
Ecoplanet Fundation
Zona Cuzco, Desierto de la Tatacoa, Huila
Long Medium Short
Identify best practice in corporate social responsibility for sus-

tainable tourism, promote the inclusion of other stakeholders Include content or units on sustainable tourism in the syllabus
and interested parties and highlight and incentivize success of the SENA technical tour guide program and other training
stories, with the purpose of comprehensively managing the courses for tour guides.
industry’s environmental footprint.
Design and execute specialized training actions for national
Publish a guidebook on protecting natural capital based on
and local tourism authorities, trade unions, businesspeople
Technical Tools for the local knowledge of community tourism, rural tourism
and tourist attraction administrators around basic concepts
Sustainable Tourism and ecotourism service providers in different regions of
related to environmental regulations in tourism, the Frame-
Businesses the country.
work Convention on Tourism Ethics and the 2030 Develop-
Foundations
Training for ment Agenda.
Publish a handbook for sustainably developing emblematic for Sustainable
Sustainable Tourism
natural attractions and landscapes included in UNESCO’s Tourism
Representative List of the Material and Intangible Cultural Improve the sustainability content of the Tourism Export
Heritage of Humanity, National Archeological Parks and Training Program and include units on sustainability practices
National Nature Parks, with an emphasis on cultural practices that can be employed in different tourism segments.
and expressions related to Colombia’s natural capital.
Present a proposal to adjust the sanctions that can be imposed Develop, together with SENA and academia, guidelines for
on tourism service providers and related value chain stake- the basic legal and environmental management content that
holders for environmental violations. must be included in higher education tourism training pro-
grams, the SENA technical degree program for tour guides,
Increase the scope of the ‘Clean Colombia’ campaign to and employee training programs.
ensure greater impact in the regions by encouraging tourism
value chain stakeholders to implement comprehensive solid
Adapt and implement the UNEP Roadmap for Low Carbon
waste management strategies and keep attractions and
Foundations and Resource-Efficient Tourism10 to the Colombian tourism
destinations clean.
for Sustainable value chain.
Tourism Develop a campaign linked to the ‘Buy Local’ platform that
encourages the purchase and acquisition of local products and Work with the Civil Aviation Authority to develop guidelines
supplies (zero-kilometer products) by the tourism sector, with that help airlines reduce their carbon footprint in air and
a view to reducing product supply chain emissions (Buy Local, land operations. This includes the measures contained in the
Buy Zero Km). CORSIA agreement, optimized air routes that avoid unneces-
Raising Awareness of sary stops, the need to focus promotional efforts on nearby
Develop an awareness campaign for environmental impact,
Sustainable Tourism markets, offsetting schemes for travelers, etc.
differentiated by type of business, principal source of pollu- Roadmap for a Green Mitigating Tourism’s
tion or use of resources (e.g. for hotels: Did you know that for Tourism Industry Environmental Footprint
every water bottle you do not use you get 3 hours of energy
from a 60-Watt light bulb?). Design and launch a circular economy connections program
for the tourism value chain and its suppliers, in which the par-
Schedule and carry out verification and control visits to
ticipation of local small and medium businesses is encouraged.
check compliance with carrying capacity and limits of
acceptable change studies at tourism destinations and
attractions. The visits must be conducted jointly with the
responsible authorities and the local community. Implement dissemination actions for tourism businesses to
apply for the sustainability and circular economy lines of the
Schedule and carry out awareness and control activities at ‘Factories of Productivity’ program.
tourist attractions to identify illegal possession of wildlife, the
sale of handicrafts made with animal products and the sale of
foods made from wild animals.
Long
Training for Include content on environmental sustainability in the School
Sustainable Tourism Friends of Tourism program’s institutional education projects. 10. The objective of this roadmap is the development of low-carbon and resource-efficient tourism. It has been Medium
applied and developed jointly with the tourism industry in the Philippines, Dominican Republic, Saint Lucia and the
Short
Republic of Mauritius, mainly for accommodation services.
Develop plans that promote water conservation by tour- Review and update the minimum requirements for tourism
ism value chain stakeholders in destinations where water is destinations to receive NTS-TS sustainability certification to
scarce (in high season or across the entire year). These plans align them with the guidelines of this Policy.
New Regulations and
must encourage responsible water use practices and include
Standardization for
specific goals that ensure tourism does not interfere with the
Sustainable Tourism
supply or availability of water to residents. Integrate the requirements for receiving the Ministry of
Quality Standards
Environment’s Colombian Environmental Seal for accommo-
dation and lodging into the NTS-TS for accommodation service
Implement a carbon calculator that allows tourism business- providers so that there is just one national certificate.
es to regularly monitor progress (individually and by subsec-
Mitigating Tourism’s
tor) in relation to mitigating the contribution of tourism to
Environmental Footprint
climate change. Implement communications actions that position NTS-TS certi-
fication as a differentiating factor in the market and recognize
Sustainable
the efforts made by certified tourism service providers to
Tourism Quality
Develop an eco-labels program for tourism products and achieve compliance with environmental requirements.
Standards
supplies that introduces environmental responsibility criteria
into the industry supply chain.
Develop an awareness campaign for travelers explaining
Colombia’s sustainability seals and their differentiating values,
Promoting Sustainable
Support the design of a specialized micro-mobility framework with a view to creating a preference for using certified compa-
Tourism Quality Standards
for tourism in capital cities. nies and destinations.
Roadmap for
a Green Tourism
Industry Subscribe to the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative, and devel-
Partner with organizations in the National Quality Subsystem
op a support system for tourism service providers that also
and encourage companies in the tourism value chain to certify
want to subscribe to the initiative and eliminate, innovate and
products, processes and services in sustainable tourism techni-
circulate the solid waste produced by their businesses.
cal standards, and in private sustainability certifications.
Colombia, a Plastic-Free
Destination
Open discussion forums between environmental authorities
and regional organizations to design regulatory restrictions
for single-use plastics at tourist beaches and in other strate- Long Medium Short
gic ecosystems (e.g. paramos).
Implement a ‘Sustainable Brigades’ program for industry staff

in which they can volunteer to look after strategic ecosystems
(e.g. cleaning nearby beaches, planting trees in surrounding
forests, etc.).
Caring and
Regenerative Tourism
Launch regenerative tourism campaigns (e.g. tree-planting

marathons) that restore, rehabilitate or recover affected
regional ecosystems.
Review and update the NTS-TS (Sectoral Technical Standards

New Regulations and for Sustainable Tourism) to simplify their application, adapt
Sustainable
Standardization for environmental requirements to the characteristics of destina-
Tourism Quality
Sustainable Tourism tions and tourism service providers, define minimum require-
Standards
Quality Standards ments, align the rules with international standards and elevate
them within the national standardization process.
Why is it important? production, alteration of ecosystems,

illegal trade in wildlife, loss of biodiversity,
Encouraging sustainable tourism includes alteration to natural attractions and inad-
raising tourists’ awareness of their role in equate or excessive use of infrastructure,
preserving the environmental and ecologi- among others.
cal value of the destinations they visit.
What problem 3. A significant number of travelers are un-
does it solve? 1. Tourism’s growth has proportionally aware of their environmental footprint, and
Strategy 5. raised travelers environmental footprint an even greater number do not know how
Irresponsible behavior and consumption by travelers both directly, through anthropic actions to offset it. Those who do possess this knowl-
Creating a Sustainable (especially domestic tourism). affecting the natural environment, and indi- edge may resist voluntarily offsetting their
rectly, through the consumption of resourc- footprint because they see it as an extra cost.
Travel Culture es like water and energy.
What are its causes?
in Colombia 2. In general, negative impact on natural cap-
4. Colombia must make a sustained effort to
raise awareness of sustainability in travel
ital caused by traveler behavior and con- culture, and implement strategies that raise
This strategy will promote responsible Insufficient environmental awareness pro- sumption habits is linked to inadequate awareness of the consequences of irrespon-
grams for travelers. use of resources and pubic services, sible travel practices and the role tourists
behavior and sustainable consumption
increased solid waste and wastewater play in sustainable tourism.
practices among travelers and provide Negative impact on natural capital caused
them with transforming experiences based by tourist behavior and consumption habits.
on Colombia’s environmental assets.
70 - 71
It will help change traveler behavior on the places they visit. Travel- Program Project Indicative Actions Deadline
and consumption habits related to ers will stop seeing themselves
Roadmap to the use of natural resources and pub- as being detached from desti- Include a new ‘Responsible Traveler’ category in the Tour-
Creating a lic services, production of solid waste nations and better understand
ism Awards for bloggers, Instagramers and YouTubers that
encourage sustainable tourism in Colombia on their social
Sustainable and wastewater, alteration of ecosys- the role they play in conserving media accounts.
Travel Culture in tems and natural attractions, use of ecological value.
infrastructure and interaction with
Colombia Improve the tourism ethics, sustainable appropriation of bio-
biodiversity. Tools will be designed 2. Colombia, a Sustainable and
diversity and responsible behavior and consumption contents
that allow tourists to take ownership Transformative Tourism Experi-
of the School Friends of Tourism program.
of sustainability and positively impact ence. This project will make tourist
the places they visit. Two projects will activity a visible agent of environ-
be used to implement this program: mental protection and restoration. Establish an online academy with short tutorials on travel
Creating Awareness of culture and responsible tourist behavior that are delivered
Travelers will be offered tourism
Responsible Travel on social media by Instagram and YouTube influencers.
1. Creating Awareness of Re- products that allow them to be-
sponsible Tourism. This come agents of change and give
Program 12.
project will oversee initiatives something back to the destina- Adopt the Responsible Traveler Manifesto and design a
Sustainable mass communications strategy to disseminate its principles
that encourage awareness of tions and local communities they
Tourism Culture to help tourists travel responsibly and sustainably around
sustainable travel culture by visit while enjoying authentic, local
the country.
This program will generate a sense of sensitizing travelers to the en- and transformative experiences.
joint responsibility for preserving nat- vironmental impact of their be- Sustainable
ural assets at tourism destinations. havior and consumption habits Tourism Culture Get local authority support for asking visitors to sign a sym-
bolic ecological declaration on entry to Colombia’s emblem-
atic tourism sites that incentivizes them to be environmental-
ly responsible.
Coffee culture
Design a tourism volunteer program for Civil Society Nature
Reserves – private lands open to the public – located in ar-
eas of high touristic importance, where travelers can carry
out environmental sustainability work that contributes to
developing tourism. The program will establish the criteria,
requirements and benefits for participating reserves.
Colombia, a Sustainable
and Transformative Design innovative tourism products and experiences that
Tourism Experience allow travelers to contribute to preserving environmental
value and act as agents of change in the places and com-
munities they visit.
Create incentives and special campaigns for reducing travel-

ers’ carbon footprints and implement ‘Leave No Trace’ practic-
es and offsetting schemes.
Long Medium Short

Why is it important? an interest in sustainability and strategically orien-

tate promotion.
One of the country’s main competitive advantages is its
natural capital, and greater emphasis must be placed on 5. Attracting specialized demand segments is
promoting Colombia in strategic markets for sustainable relevant because it raises awareness by way of ex-
tourism and strengthening its reputation as a destina- ample, and contributes to sensitizing tourists with
tion offering transformative experiences that create less awareness of their environmental footprint by
added value for the environment and local communities. showing them how their travel choices impact biodi-
versity and communities. It also has the capacity to
1. Surveys by Booking show that globally, 87% of elevate tourism business sustainability standards and
tourists want to travel more responsibly and 72% tip the market balance towards preferring environ-
consider that it is necessary to act now by choosing mentally responsible products and practices and
more sustainable travel options that contribute to demanding high standards in service provision.
protecting natural capital. However, this trend has
not yet established itself as a clear preference in 6. According to the World Economic Forum Country
Colombia and has not been properly analyzed. Brand Ranking 2019-2020, sustainability is a deter-
mining factor for consumers when it comes to travel
What problem 2. The Tourism Fund’s (Fontur) research (2012) into options. Costa Rica, for example, has managed to
does it solve? source markets in the Americas found that inter- establish itself as the leader in sustainable travel in
national wholesalers think of Colombia as offering the Americas, while Colombia is still unknown in
Colombia’s low recognition in sustainable tourism mainly budget sun & beach products. This suggests this segment.
strategic markets. a lack of specialized and viable supply to meet
Strategy 6. new demand trends, and poor leverage of distri-

bution channels to promote the alternatives on offer.
7. In many instances, traditional tools used to market
and promote tourism in the public and private
Positioning Colombia What are its causes?

3. According to Fontur (2011), only 36% of domestic
sectors do not take into account their own environ-
mental impact. An example of this is the excessive
as a Sustainable A lack of market intelligence studies that

travelers can identify natural heritage destina-
tions, and only 19.2% of domestic tourism demand
use of paper and brochures, and even promotional
plastics, which are highly polluting.
Tourism Destination guide the development of specialized tour-
ism products for specific segments with an
is for nature (8.8%), rural (7.4%) and adventure
(3.0%) tourism activities that cause minimal impact 8. A study carried out by SIPPO in 2019 recommend-
interest in sustainability. to the local natural and sociocultural environment. ed that Colombia improve its sustainability
This strategy will develop specialized ranking by creating partnerships with internation-
marketing and promotional strategies A lack of strategic focus to market and 4. The country does not have updated market intel- ally renowned travel agencies and certifying bodies
promote Colombia as a value generating ligence studies to identify demand segments with with the highest global reputation.
that highlight Colombia’s commitment
destination for biodiversity.
to natural capital protection, and
strengthen its standing and reputation Insufficient focus on sustainability in mar-
in sustainable tourism strategic markets. keting and promotion activities.
74 - 75
Integrate sustainability into domestic and international promotional

1. Sustainability: The Differen- 1. Tools for Sustainability Fo-
campaigns that position Colombia as a sustainable tourism destination
tiating Factor of Tourism in cused Tourism Marketing and that takes responsibility for its communities and biodiversity.
Colombia. The sustainability of Promotion. This project will
Roadmap for destinations is a key competitive- adapt regional, national and Nominate sustainable Colombian attractions, destinations, activities
ness factor within their reference international tourism marketing and experiences for international awards that recognize responsible
Positioning and sustainable destinations and tourism practices, and highlight
markets. This project will ensure and promotion strategies to Colombia, a New Sustainability:
Colombia as that sustainability criteria are meet the needs of new sustain- Sustainable The Differentiating
success stories.
a Sustainable included in Colombia’s added value ability objectives and require- Destination in Factor of Tourism in
South America Colombia
Tourism Destination communications strategy for tour- ments in the industry. It will Develop specialized marketing, promotion and communications activities
that improve Colombia’s brand position, association and recall as a biodi-
ism. Sustainability criteria will also incentivize the design, execu- verse destination that can be enjoyed responsibly and with a high degree
be included in promotional and tion and evaluation of market- of sustainability.
positioning campaigns to improve ing and promotion strategies
Colombia’s image among potential that place sustainability at the
Design a tool to monitor brand recall and position in strategic mar-
visitors and its own residents as a center of market intelligence kets and principal source countries.
sustainable travel destination that and segmentation activities;
takes responsibility for its commu- generating supply information;
Develop marketing and promotion activities (e.g. press and familiar-
nities and biodiversity. traveler communications; the ization trips, participation in fairs, sponsorship) that focus on Colom-
distribution and sale of prod- bia’s sustainable urban and rural destinations, and better position
ucts, services and experiences; Colombia in strategic source markets.
and brand reputation and value,
among others. Design and execute a marketing plan for sustainable tourism in
Colombia that focuses on high-value tourism products, and client
Program 13. Colombia, segments that take responsibility for the environment.
a New Sustainable
Destination in Program 14.
Include sustainability criteria in domestic and international marketing
South America Sustainability Focused and promotion tools and materials for attractions, services, activities,
Tourism Marketing experiences and destinations (e.g. paperless practices).
and Promotion Sustainability Tools for
Focused Tourism Sustainability Focused
This program will implement market- Improve sustainable tourism data and contents in the existing
Marketing and Tourism Marketing and
ing, communications and promotional This program will ensure that the Promotion Promotion tourism apps and official web pages for the country´s marketing
activities to position Colombia as a transition towards sustainable tour- and promotion.
destination with unique natural capital ism is reflected in tourism market-
assets that sustainably manages its ing, promotion, communications, Conduct and disseminate market intelligence studies that guide the
diverse and valuable attractions, prod- sales and distribution techniques development of specialized tourism products for specific segments
with a special interest in enjoying and preserving natural capital (e.g.
ucts, services and experiences, and used by businesses and destina-
sustainable tourists).
where local communities are the prin- tions. This will mean rethinking how
cipal exponents of their own customs these techniques are used in the
Establish partnerships and agreements with domestic and international
and cultures. These positioning actions marketplace, and with clients and market channels to access information on trends, potential markets,
will ensure that on the main traveler employees, and incorporating addi- strategic segments and sustainable tourism preferences. This includes
marketplaces Colombia is associated tional variables related to environ- national trade associations, networks and organizations specializing in
sustainable tourism, certifying bodies and selected trade fairs.
with sustainability and new dynamic mental impact and value creation
and authentic tourism opportunities. for communities and others. The
This program will be executed via the program will be executed via one
Long Medium Short
following project: specific project:

Sustainable Tourism Policy: Together With Nature: Executive Summary

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Sustainable Tourism Policy: Together With Nature: Executive Summary

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Sustainable

Together with committed to strength-

Nature the tourism sector in Colombia.

Let Us Travel and

Atlantic Ocean Total area:

Why Visit 2,070,408 km2

Colombia? 1,141,748 km2

geographical location, rich landscapes, ecosystems and

Colombia is the second most boundaries with Costa Rica,

Colombia is located on the Country with Recognized languages: 68

Tourism in Numbers In Colombia

Tourism is the country’s second largest

to global gross domestic product

and Global Water

It has 22 million hectares of

It has 314 types of ecosystem.

It is the only country in South

It is sixth on the global ranking of

It is in the top 15 countries with the largest The relationship between

The World Economic

Forum Travel & Tourism 21

Competitiveness Index 2019

Particulate matter concentration

based on its natural capital, and formulating and implementing

advantage for tourism. This is because: Forest cover change

Stringency of environmental regulations

Number of World Heritage natural sites

Enforcement of environmental regulations

Sustainability of travel and tourism industry development

This policy aims to position ability depends on the relation-

contributions of ecosystems to human wellbeing.

As sustainability is a very broad creation; improved wellbeing for

The most colorful river in the world,

Tourism Sector Plan 2018-2022 “Tourism:

With the objective of improving Colombia’s compet-

Tourism Industry Growth and Employment

2. In recognition of the strategic role of tourism within the do-

Legislative sustainable tourism guidelines.

This pact states the need to consolidate tourism as

Negative In general, it appears that the rate at

Increasing carbon A high volume of solid

Intensive energy use and Discharges of

High levels of water Actions that threaten

• Globally, it is estimated that • Of the 48,000 species of plants

Eduardo Angarita Muñoz

Paradigms for Building a sustainable tourism

Sustainable sector is a challenge that is

Tourism on their own. To address this

Policy is based on this principle, productive projects.

“Sustainable tourism development Ecoplanet Fundation

Sustainable Tourism ber could increase significantly significantly contribute to climate

Strengthen the conditions

Sustainable Incentivize businesses and

Development Promote responsible

Objectives among travelers.

Based on the issues identified and the specific

What is the Problem?

The main problem identified by this policy is the

Strategic Plan: and existing tourism business productivity, destina-

A Vision for joint responsibility for sustainability in the industry

Why is this Important? 4. The indicators often result in sectoral

Strengthening systems measuring national and

Review, adjust and complement the indicators used to measure tour-