According to the latest travelhorizons survey of U.S. adults conducted by MMGY Global, it is clear many travelers acknowledge their travel may negatively impact the environment. And, nearly four in ten of these travelers (37 percent) believe that tourism overcrowding is now a serious issue.
The good news, however, is that to help reduce their ecological impact, travelers are willing to change their behaviors when they travel. For example, nearly two-thirds (32 percent) are willing to pay 10 percent higher rates or fares to use suppliers who demonstrate environmental responsibility. In addition, more than half of travelers (54 percent) are willing to use less single-use plastics; 41 percent will consciously choose to visit destinations in the offseason to reduce overcrowding; 27 percent will intentionally book trips with environmentally friendly hotels and tour companies; and more than one-quarter (27 percent) will either rent bicycles or walk more instead of taking automobile transportation.
Despite their concerns, only 12 percent of those who believe travel negatively impacts the environment have regretted taking a trip afterwards because of the adverse effects it may have had on the planet. This is likely due in part to their perception that traveling has numerous positive impacts, as well. One in three (34 percent) of travelers believe that travel plays an important role in their understanding of the impact of climate change on the world. And, a similar number (32 percent) say travel increases their desire to help people in other parts of the country or the world. Thus, according to travelhorizons, travel can be seen as both a problem and a solution in the fight against climate change and global warming.
This survey questioned 2,302 U.S. adults, 1,649 who have taken at least one vacation during the last 12 months.
Related Articles
Exodus Travels: 13 Tips for Flipping the Script on Travel
Travel Leaders: Advisors Are Optimistic About Business for 2020
Natural Habitat Adventures to Offset Travelers’ Carbon Output