In a world where you can be anything be the change.

In the last decades, the global effort toward a sustainable future has been intensified, but the escalation of climate crisis-related events suggests the need of doing more.

This is a crucial time to determine the future of our planet. The actions undertaken today will define whether the goal of keeping global warming to a 1.5-degree scenario above the pre-industrial levels by the end of this century will be successfully achieved, or if the overpassing of the 1.5°C threshold will unleash far more severe climate change impacts, making our planet an unhospitable place for hundreds of species, including ours. In order to reverse the negative environmental trends, the development of a holistic approach through the intensive effort of all economic sectors is required. In this framework, the role of corporate social responsibility and responsible entrepreneurship stands out in the path toward the achievement of common goals for reaching climate neutrality by 2050. The adoption of relevant mitigation and adaptation measures, the conversion of key performance metrics, business models, and strategies from a sustainable perspective, and the design of a circular value chain are fundamental steps to undertake in view of a green transition in our global economy.

Tourism may not be considered an essential activity responsive to a basic necessity, but it represents the primary means of livelihood for many populations around the world and it can play a crucial role in the climate change mitigation if well managed.

WHY SUSTAINABLE TOURISM?

  • The strict interaction that the nature of tourism as a service industry based on delivering an experience of new places generates between visitors, local communities, and their local environments, makes tourism very vulnerable to climate change impact risks. It creates a dependency between tourism demand and the resilience capacity of a place, measured based on the preservation of an undamaged and clean natural environment, as well as of the historical and cultural heritage. The linkage between, anthropogenic-induced climate change, sustainable tourism development and integrated quality management in tourism is clear.
  • The tourist attractiveness of every destination is endangered by climate change. It's in the interest of both travelers and hosting communities to preserve natural resources and biodiversity. We believe that traveling can be the most efficient way to educate and inspire change. It has the potential to create positive synergies, raise the level of awareness about environmental-related issues and facilitate the dissemination of best practices among people from different backgrounds and nationalities. People need to be educated to care. We tend to love what we know, so we need to travel to learn how to love our beautiful planet, to realize it is our home
  • Tourism can be very harmful, but if well managed can also be an effective vehicle for change. Embracing sustainability can represent an added value and provide important advantages in terms of mitigation of mass tourism's negative impact, which represents a stressor for the local hosting population's growth. Alternative forms of tourism have the potential to extend the tourism season, reducing its pronounced seasonality, as well as to intervene in a geographical diversification of the tourism product in favor of those locations that are still unexploited, through a process of citizens-driven destination building. Sustainable tourism allows to attract new tourists target groups and enforces measures to reduce the industry's environmental footprint, reinvesting the financial resources in the implementation of a just green transition.

THE ROLE OF SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS PRACTICES

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The role of sustainable business practices is to create a balance between economic, environmental, and social considerations to ensure long-term viability and success for businesses while minimizing negative impacts on the planet and society. These practices recognize that businesses operate within a larger ecosystem and have responsibilities beyond just generating profits.

Here are some key roles of sustainable business practices: 

  1. Environmental Stewardship: Sustainable business practices aim to reduce the negative environmental impacts of business operations. This involves adopting eco-friendly processes, reducing waste and pollution, conserving resources, and minimizing the carbon footprint. By doing so, businesses contribute to the preservation of natural resources and ecosystems for current and future generations.

  2. Economic Resilience: Integrating sustainability into business strategies can enhance long-term economic resilience. By efficiently managing resources, reducing operational costs, and embracing innovations that align with sustainable principles, businesses can better withstand economic fluctuations and changes in market conditions. 

  3. Risk Mitigation: Sustainability practices can help businesses anticipate and manage risks associated with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues. Proactively addressing these issues can reduce legal, reputational, and financial risks while maintaining stakeholder trust.

  4. Innovation and Competitiveness: Embracing sustainable practices often drives innovation. Businesses that invest in developing environmentally friendly products, services, and technologies can gain a competitive edge by capturing market opportunities related to changing consumer preferences and regulatory requirements.

  5. Stakeholder Engagement: Sustainable practices promote positive relationships with stakeholders, including customers, employees, investors, regulators, and local communities. Demonstrating a commitment to social and environmental responsibility can enhance brand reputation and attract a loyal customer base.

  6. Long-Term Value Creation: By considering the broader impacts of their actions, businesses can create value not only for shareholders but also for society at large. This approach aligns with the concept of shared value, where business success is intertwined with social progress.

  7. Employee Engagement and Well-being: Employees are often more engaged and motivated to work for companies that prioritize sustainability and social responsibility. Demonstrating a commitment to ethical business practices can improve employee morale and well-being.

  8. Regulatory Compliance: Many governments are enacting stricter regulations related to environmental and social issues. Implementing sustainable practices ensures compliance with these regulations, reducing the risk of legal penalties and fines.

  9. Investor Attraction: In recent years, there has been a growing trend of investors considering ESG factors when making investment decisions. Businesses with strong sustainable practices are more likely to attract responsible investors who value long-term stability and ethical considerations.

  10. Contributing to Global Goals: Sustainable business practices contribute to achieving global sustainability goals, such as the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By aligning business strategies with these goals, companies can play a role in addressing global challenges, including poverty, inequality, climate change, and more.                                                                                                                                                                          Overall, sustainable business practices are about creating a positive impact on the environment, society, and the economy while ensuring the continued success and growth of businesses.