- The ETC committed to developing its own climate action plan in May 2022 when it signed the Glasgow Declaration launched at COP 26
- The organization plans to halve its operational emissions by 2030 and support its members on the journey to Net Zero
Today, the European Travel Commission (ETC) is launching its Climate Action Plan. To address the urgency of climate action, the plan commits to halving emissions generated by ETC operations by 2030, as well as supporting engagement in climate action among its member National Tourism Organizations (NTOs) and leading the way for stakeholders interested in tourism in Europe.
As a signatory to the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism, ETC understands that the relationship between tourism and climate change is indisputable. The tourism industry has a responsibility and an opportunity to protect the resources on which it depends, including the natural environments, wildlife and cultural heritage that bring travel experiences to life.
Addressing the challenges of climate change, building a more resilient and regenerative sector, as well as restoring and revitalizing the destination’s resources should be a priority and responsibility for all tourism stakeholders. With this comprehensive plan, ETC not only strives to achieve carbon neutrality in its operations, but also to empower ETC members to take bold climate action and inspire the industry towards impactful initiatives. Speaking at the launch of the ETC Climate Action Plan, ETC President Luís Araújo
The Climate Action Plan was presented at the ETC #105 General Meeting in Tallinn, organized by Visit Estonia. This year, Tallinn holds the title of European Green Capital, thanks to its commitment to biodiversity, sustainable governance and climate and green innovation.
Navigating the Road to Net Zero
At an operational level, ETC will focus on reducing the footprint caused by its operational activities, targeting its emission hotspots: business travel, FAM events and travel and influencers. The organization’s goal is to reach Net Zero by 2050.
Through the Climate Action Plan, ETC also aims to leverage its role as an umbrella organization for NGOs in Europe. ETC will catalyze and support its national members to commit to a green transition, creating opportunities for collective action in Europe and providing technical support related to the transition to Net Zero.
Some key initiatives included in the Climate Action Plan are as follows:
- An annual 7% reduction in emissions to achieve the 2030 interim target
- Creating one Climate Action Working Group within the organization
- Developing a plan for improve the skills and knowledge of ETC members in climate action
- Creating one online platform for ETC members
to share best practice examples, case studies and tools for climate action
A leader in climate action in the tourism industry
Due to its unique position at the crossroads between public and private tourism networks, ETC has an exciting opportunity to lead the journey towards Net Zero for Europe’s tourism industry. The Climate Action Plan outlines ETC’s commitment to lead by example and raise industry awareness of climate action. The organization aims to promote the urgency of a green transition in tourism, foster cooperation between tourism actors and accelerate climate action globally.
ETC’s Climate Action Plan was developed with the support of the Travel Foundation, a leading international sustainable tourism organization.
Photo of ETC’s Climate Action Plan is available here
