Understanding climate risks to tourism

Unsustainable practices in coastal resorts are speeding up ocean pollution, harming marine life and local businesses. Many destinations in Asia still rely on septic tanks, which leak waste into underground water sources and the sea. This pollution threatens coral reefs and mangroves, which are major attractions for visitors.

Rising sea levels and stronger storms are also causing serious problems for infrastructure. The ADBI resilience framework shows how flooded roads and damaged ports make it harder for tourists to reach destinations. In the Bahamas, local communities are leading hazard mapping projects to spot danger zones before disasters hit.

Plastic waste is making the situation worse. Tourism economies lose around US$8 billion each year because of marine pollution. COVID-19 made things harder too — efforts to cut plastic use stalled, and in 2020 alone, 25,000 metric tonnes of extra waste ended up in the oceans.

One example is from the Philippines, where beach resorts saw a 30% drop in visitor numbers after septic leaks polluted diving sites. Protected areas also faced budget cuts after the pandemic, putting reef restoration projects on hold.

These problems show that urgent action is needed. Without it, climate change could destroy the natural places that bring travellers from all over the world.

Key strategies for climate-resilient destination planning

Building stronger travel destinations needs smart strategies that support both tourism and the environment. The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is leading the way with workshops in Vietnam and Indonesia, training local people in governance and sustainable product development.

Financial diversification is also key. Moving some income streams to rural areas helps reduce pressure on crowded coastal spots. In California, water conservation plans show that getting communities involved makes success more likely.

Infrastructure must also change to cope with climate risks. The OECD recommends using lifecycle cost analysis to help cut long-term spending. Upgrading roads, drainage, and energy systems now can help avoid bigger disasters later on.

On waste, circular economy models offer a solution by recycling plastics into new products and reducing pollution.

Local tourism also plays a role. Promoting domestic travel can keep economies stable during global downturns.

Stronger policies are needed too. Aligning tourism development with national climate goals makes sure efforts are consistent.

Taking action now is essential to protect natural resources and people’s livelihoods. Building resilience is not optional — it is the foundation for a travel industry that can last into the future.

Engaging communities in resilient tourism development

Local communities play a crucial role in building resilient tourism. Their involvement helps maintain sustainability while protecting both natural and cultural assets. From the Bahamas to Southeast Asia, grassroots efforts show that resident-led initiatives can deliver lasting results.

In the Bahamas, local sourcing is a priority, creating jobs and reducing reliance on imports. Fishermen and farmers supply goods directly to resorts, keeping revenue within the community. This approach strengthens both the local economy and environmental conservation.

California’s water resilience plans highlight the value of participatory planning. Residents work together on conservation projects, making sure solutions meet real community needs. Such engagement builds trust and supports long-term success.

Cultural preservation also strengthens resilience. In Bali, traditional water temples guide sustainable irrigation systems. These practices protect ecosystems and attract visitors looking for authentic experiences.

Fair access to opportunities is essential. In Vietnam, training programmes help women take leading roles in running nature-based tours.

Sharing knowledge is equally important. PATA’s Tourism Destination Resilience (TDR) programme trains tourism staff in disaster preparedness, combining local experience with international best practice.

When communities lead the way, tourism becomes a true driver of resilience. Their knowledge ensures that solutions are practical, inclusive, and built to last.

Case studies: successful climate-resilient destinations

Global success stories show that resilience can transform vulnerable areas into thriving destinations. In the Philippines, ocean plastic leakage was reduced by 15% after improvements to wastewater systems. Workshops also trained local communities in sustainable product development, helping to meet the tourism sector’s long-term needs.

Indonesia’s marine protected areas saw a 20% increase in visitor numbers in 2023. Coral reef restoration projects played a major role in speeding up recovery after the pandemic. Healthy ecosystems now draw divers and support local fisheries.

Puerto Rico and Vietnam offer different but equally effective approaches. In Puerto Rico, hazard mapping helps identify risks early, while in Vietnam, mangrove reforestation provides natural protection against storms. Both strategies help to strengthen local economies.

In Cambodia, community-led tourism projects successfully combine cultural preservation with income generation. Villagers lead tours, helping to protect heritage while creating new livelihoods. This proves that resilience is not only about the environment — it is economic too.

Investment brings clear returns. Every US$1 spent on mangrove conservation generates an estimated US$3 in tourism revenue. These examples show that tackling challenges today secures destinations for future travellers.