The EarthCheck Research Institute’s latest paper, Tourism and the Road to Net Zero: Why Destinations Must Act Now, authored by Professor Susanne Becken and Dr Johanna Loehr, provides a practical, research-backed guide to help destinations turn ambition into measurable progress. Drawing on the latest global science and real-world examples, it outlines how destinations can act decisively to reduce emissions, strengthen resilience and secure their long-term competitiveness.
A leading voice in sustainable tourism, lead author Professor Becken was the founding Director of the Griffith Institute for Tourism, a contributing author to two IPCC Assessment Reports and recipient of the UNWTO Ulysses Prize. She has advised governments, global tourism bodies and industry leaders on the science and policy of climate action in tourism.
Why destinations matter in the race to net zero
The paper explains that limiting global warming to 1.5°C requires global emissions to fall by 43 per cent by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050 – goals that will only be met if every sector, including tourism, plays its part.
For destinations, this means turning broad climate targets into place-based strategies that address local emission sources such as accommodation, transport and visitor activities, while protecting the natural systems that support them.
Destinations are described as pivotal to climate action in tourism because they sit between global frameworks and local actors, enabling coordinated, practical solutions. As Professor Becken notes, destinations are “uniquely positioned to leverage networks, foster peer learning and mobilise communities,” helping to translate scientific goals into measurable, on-the-ground outcomes.
The business case for action
Stewart Moore, CEO of EarthCheck, says the paper highlights the growing need for destinations to act decisively on climate risks.
“For destinations, climate leadership is no longer just an environmental imperative, it’s also a strategic advantage,” he says. “Our latest paper makes it clear that decisive action today can help to protect destinations from carbon costs, tightening regulatory demands and increasing physical climate risks. At the same time, it opens the door to greater operational efficiency, reduced costs and stronger brand credibility.”
The paper underscores that climate action strengthens competitiveness in a market where travellers and investors alike are demanding visible, credible sustainability performance. Proactive adaptation and decarbonisation deliver a strong return on investment, and position destinations to thrive in a changing climate.
From commitments to measurable progress
The paper outlines clear steps for destinations to move from pledges to practical outcomes – starting with internal alignment, stakeholder engagement and the development of Net Zero Roadmaps.
It also includes examples from destinations worldwide that are already taking meaningful action, demonstrating that progress is both possible and beneficial.
Ultimately, the paper makes a compelling case that the journey to net zero is not only a technical challenge but a leadership opportunity. By acting now, destinations can safeguard their future, strengthen community resilience and contribute to a global effort that benefits people and planet alike.
Download the paper to explore the science, strategy and pathways that will help your destination lead the way to net zero.
