The Ultimate A - Z Glossary of Sustainable Travel
“Saving the planet is now a communications challenge.”
- Sir David Attenborough
Using concise language and vocabulary in sustainability is crucial in making complex concepts and ideas easily understood to a wider audience. This is critical to ensure:
that key messages are conveyed accurately in today's fast-paced world where attention spans are shorter
information is accessible to individuals with varying levels of knowledge and backgrounds
Sustainability is a multifaceted and interdisciplinary field.
We hope that the AST Ultimate A-to-Z Glossary of Sustainable Travel serves as a helpful starting point for your understanding of sustainable and regenerative travel terms and concepts.
The glossary is a work in progress. Please bookmark this page and check back often.
Are there any terms that you want us to include? Email us at people@asiasustainabletravel.com
A
AIR QUALITY
From Beijing to Bangkok, from Delhi to Dhaka, people are friendly and the food is nothing short of spectacular, yet the air quality in these Asian megacities is somewhat notoriously polluted. Three of the biggest air pollution sources are fossil fuel-powered vehicles, coal-fired power plants, and increasingly wildfires.
Air pollution is the second highest risk factor for non-communicable diseases. High air quality is key to protecting public health.
Air Quality Index (AQI) measures the five major air pollutants regulated by the U.S. Clean Air Act: ground-level ozone, particle pollution (also known as particulate matter), carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide.
Want to know how healthy your local air quality is? Check here.
ANIMAL WELFARE
Tourism can be one of the main contributors to animal cruelty. Intrepid Travel outlines animal welfare should be measured against the Five Domains: Nutrition, Environment, Health, Behaviour, and Mental State.
Learn why riding elephants may not be such a great idea when you’re visiting Thailand.
Contribute your support to leading organizations on animal welfare: World Animal Protection, World Wildlife Fund (WWF), and People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).
ASIAN ECOTOURISM NETWORK
AEN is a regional initiative of the Global Ecotourism Network (GEN) and is in line with GEN's mission. Its mission is to connect AEN stakeholders for knowledge transfer, consulting, marketing, and business development to achieve sustainability. Stakeholders include communities, private and public sectors, tourism and hospitality sectors, NGOs, and academia.
Membership is open to students, NGOs & Civil organizations, individuals, private businesses, and governmental entities.
Read our interview with AEN’s Founding Chair Masaru Takayama.
ALTERNATIVE ENERGY
Also referred to as ‘Renewable energy’ - the energy comes from sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power that reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and thus produce little to no greenhouse gasses like carbon dioxide (CO2).
Due to its size and population, Asia is arguably the world's highest carbon-emitting region. China has emerged to be leading the alternative energy transition in the region.
Want to know what your electricity source is? Call your local utility provider to ask for a report.
B
BAREFOOT LUXURY
Originating in Asia, barefoot luxury is a business philosophy that encapsulates a unique and increasingly popular approach to high-end travel and lifestyle experiences. It emphasizes a harmonious blend of lavish indulgence and a back-to-nature, grounded philosophy. At its core, barefoot luxury seeks to provide upscale amenities and services while fostering a genuine connection with nature, local cultures, and sustainability.
Barefoot luxury resorts and destinations offer guests the opportunity to escape the fast-paced modern world and immerse themselves in pristine natural surroundings. These retreats often boast eco-friendly designs, utilizing renewable resources, and minimizing their ecological footprint.
Read about the origin and real-life examples of barefoot luxury travel here.
B CORP CERTIFICATION
A designation that a business is meeting high standards of verified performance, accountability, and transparency in factors from employee benefits and charitable giving to supply chain practices and input materials.
The certification program is run by B Lab - a global nonprofit network transforming the global economy to benefit all people, communities, and the planet.
The B Corp movement has been gaining traction in recent years. In 2022, Mana Earthly Paradise became SE Asia’s first B Corp-certified hotel.
Want to find out how well you would fare? Assess your business using the free B Impact Assessment.
BIODEGRADABLE
Often used to suggest a product will disintegrate into smaller pieces at the end of its life instead of clogging up landfills. Examples of biodegradable materials include bamboo, seaweed, cotton, wool, etc. Across Asia, bamboo has been for centuries a viable construction and product material owing to its durability, flexibility, and availability.
BIODIVERSITY
Biodiversity refers to the variety of living species on Earth, including plants, animals, bacteria, and fungi. Brazil and Indonesia often come up among the megadiverse countries thanks to a sizable area of these countries covered by rainforest.
Perhaps the easiest thing you can do is to check the label of your product and the companies you support to ensure that your purchasing habits are not contributing to the destruction of habitat elsewhere. In Asia, consumers can look out for labels such as Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or Rainforest Alliance Certified when buying their products.
BLUE ECONOMY
According to the World Bank, the blue economy is the "sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of the ocean ecosystem." The European Commission defines it as "All economic activities related to oceans, seas, and coasts.
When tourism activities in the ocean communities are managed and leveraged sustainably, they have the potential to contribute to the health of the blue economy.
Island Innovation is a leading organization that promotes the importance of the blue economy by advancing innovation and driving sustainable change across island communities around the world.
BOOKING.COM
Booking.com began rewarding listed hotels with sustainable travel badges for their commitment to sustainability in 2021. However, this has drawn heavy criticism from the sustainability community for its lack of transparency. Many have expressed that this is by and large a greenwash exercise by Booking.com.
Do you have an opinion about Booking.com's sustainable travel badge? Share your thoughts on this website. We are always on the lookout for diverse perspectives on topics related to sustainability.
Or the best way forward is to book directly with your hotel. The full amount is going to the hotel of your choice.
BRANDING
While a traditional business likely focuses on solely maximizing profit, a sustainable business emphasizes a greater purpose - most often about balancing the triple bottom line: people, planet, and prosperity.
For a travel and hospitality company, sustainable branding requires a holistic and strategic representation of a brand that highlights its values, purpose, and services.
Check out this article by Sainha that lays out 4 critical principles to elevate your brand’s sustainability narrative.
BUZZWORD
Many people may have been saying that sustainability is a buzzword and that it is going to fade into the background. We cannot disagree more. Sustainability is a matter of human survival.
BUTTERFLY DIAGRAM
The butterfly diagram depicts the continuous flow of materials in a circular economy. There are two main cycles: the technical cycle and the biological cycle.
Products and materials are kept in circulation throughout the technical cycle by processes of reuse, repair, remanufacture and recycling. In the biological cycle, the nutrients from biodegradable materials are returned to the Earth to regenerate nature.
C
CARBON FOOTPRINT
It has nothing to do with feet. This term was coined by British Petroleum or BP to pass on the responsibility and accountability of carbon emissions to everyday people. It often refers to the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions caused by an individual, event, organization, service, place or product. It is communicated as carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e).
For individuals and households, travel and commuting are likely the activity that has the highest carbon footprint.
Want to know your carbon footprint? check out this Nature Conservancy’s carbon footprint calculator here.
CARBON NEUTRAL
According to the European Union, carbon neutrality means you have reached a balance between emitting carbon and absorbing carbon from the atmosphere in carbon sinks. Removing carbon from the atmosphere and then storing it is known as carbon sequestration. In order to achieve net zero emissions, all worldwide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions will have to be counterbalanced by carbon sequestration.
CARBON NEGATIVE
Carbon negative means that you emit less than zero carbon dioxide and carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) greenhouse gasses. To be carbon negative means that you offset more carbon, through carbon capture, sequestration, or avoidance, than you emit into the air.
Himalayan nation Bhutan is the world’s first carbon negative country. This is largely because the Kingdom absorbs more carbon dioxide thanks to its extensive forests than it emits.
CARBON POSITIVE
As all things are made of carbon, it may be rhetorical to describe something carbon positive. To be carbon positive means that a business produces an amount of carbon emissions that is greater than zero.
CARBON OFFSET
Carbon offsetting is the process of reducing and removing greenhouse gas emissions.
Carbon Reduction
These are workaround tactics to reduce the amount of CO₂ released into the air. For example, you choose to travel from Beijing to Shanghai by train, instead of by plane. You achieve the same result at the same end but train travel emits significantly less CO₂ than air travel.
Carbon Removal
To get to zero carbon or carbon neutrality, it’s not enough to just avoid and reduce emissions, we must also remove the existing GHG emissions from the atmosphere. There are two paths:
“natural” solutions that sequester carbon by tree planting and reforestation. We work with OneSeed to plant a tree for every new subscriber to our newsletter.
new technologies such as those spearheaded by Climework capture CO₂ directly from the air.
CARBON INSETTING
Carbon insetting is a process of integrating carbon emissions reduction and carbon sequestration methods into an organization’s own value chain. Offsetting looks to compensate outside the core business, while insetting is about integrating the carbon reduction process within the core.
Both carbon insetting and carbon offsetting draw praise and criticism. The premise of insetting is sound. However, since insetting happens in-house, one of the main criticisms as Euronews reported is that it’s hard to scrutinize the methodologies and reporting that a company uses.
CARBON SINK
A carbon sink is a forest, ocean, or any other natural environment that can absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
CERTIFICATION
Recognitions or standards that certify businesses, accommodations, or destinations as environmentally sustainable and socially responsible.
Discover the benefits of gaining a certification and our 6-step framework to determine which certification is right for you when you’re ready to apply.
CIRCULAR ECONOMY
An economic model that aims to minimize waste by promoting recycling, upcycling, and reusing materials and resources.
The Ellen MacArthur Foundation is regarded widely as a leading organization responsible for spearheading the global discussion and transition on circular economy. The foundation has an extensive library of resources on this subject, and it is a great place to start dipping your toes into the sea of circular economy.
CLIMATE ACTION
It is all about understanding measurements, practices and actions to mitigate the effect of minimizing the climate crisis. Actions must be about striving towards a low-carbon and resource-conserving economy.
CLIMATE CHANGE
Changes in the Earth’s temperature and weather patterns due to human carbon emissions.
COMMUNITY-BASED TOURISM (CBT)
Community-based tourism often involves local residents often in rural and economically disadvantaged areas, inviting tourists for overnight stays. Residents earn income as land managers, entrepreneurs, service providers, and employees, with a portion reinvested in community projects. Travelers explore local habitats, wildlife, cultural practices, and knowledge, respecting and preserving them.
This approach ensures community ownership and economic benefits. Engaging in community-based tourism offers genuine insights into local life, culture, and overall community welfare. Experiences vary based on countries and community needs, all driven by community initiatives, benefiting the entire community.
Discover the impacts of CBT in communities in Bangladesh and Thailand.
COMPOSTABLE
While all compostable product are biodegradable, not all biodegradable products are compostable. Compostable materials break down into their fundamental components, such as water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. They break down without emitting harmful residues or toxins. Compostable products decompose into nutrient-rich compost.
D
DECARBONIZATION
There are two aspects to decarbonization. The first entails carbon reduction and the second requires absorbing or removing carbon from the atmosphere by capturing emissions and enhancing carbon storage in agricultural lands and forests.
Check out this World Tourism & Travel Council’s decarbonization roadmap to get a head start.
DEGROWTH
The term “degrowth” has been circulating recently in the travel industry. This economic philosophy originated in the 1970s to produce and consume less to cope with the finite resources on our planet.
Many regard Patagonia as the poster child for this business philosophy. The apparel company provides repairs for its products.
DE-INFLUENCE
People are increasingly using their platforms to tell their followers what not to buy. This is to counteract the growing pressure to spend money to hop on viral trends. In the travel context, 'de-influencing' would imply that consumers banded together to encourage people not to visit Instagram-famous attractions such as Paul Smith's pink wall or Bali Swing, for example.
Read our analysis on whether ‘de-influencing’ can be an answer to prevent over-tourism in Asia.
DESTINATION MARKETING ORGANIZATIONS (DMO’S)
Destination marketing organizations (i.e. tourism boards & visitor bureaus) are organizations that promote and market tourist attractions, accommodations, and events.
But some fear that too much destination marketing may lead to over-tourism like in the case of Hawaii. As of March 2023, the state legislature approved a bill that would repeal the Hawaii Tourism Authority and create a government office dedicated solely to destination management, leaving the island without a tourism marketing agency.
DESTINATION STEWARDSHIP
A term emerging from the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, the World Tourism & Travel Council (WTTC) outlines that “destination stewardship is an approach that balances and meets the needs of a destination and its communities and operates with legitimacy and consent under a participatory governance model. It requires a clear mandate, good knowledge and data, and the identification of mutual interests and priorities, particularly between the public and private sectors.”
Curious to learn more about Destination Stewardship, check out these reports by Destination Stewardship Center, Center for Responsible Travel, and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.
E
ECOLODGE
An ecolodge is an accommodation facility designed to have minimal impact on the environment, often located in or near ecologically sensitive areas and supporting conservation efforts.
ECOTOURISM
According to UNWTO, ecotourism is a type of travel that promotes the appreciation of nature and supports conservation efforts that are often in protected or fragile environments.
Ecotourism activities often include wildlife safaris, birdwatching, trekking, and nature photography, all designed to minimize negative impacts on the environment and local communities while maximizing the educational and experiential value for visitors.
The essence of ecotourism lies in its transformative power: the ability to inspire travelers not only to witness the beauty of nature but also to become ambassadors of conservation.
Read our interview with Asian Ecotourism Network’s Founding Chair, Masaru Takayama to understand the ecotourism movement in the region. Or you can go deeper into this Vox article unpacking the broader application of ecotourism in today’s world.
ETHICAL ACCOMMODATION
Ethical accommodation refers to eco-lodges, hotels, resorts, and other lodging establishments that prioritize sustainability, social responsibility, and cultural sensitivity in their operations and services. These accommodations go beyond traditional hospitality offerings and strive to minimize their impact on the environment while positively contributing to the local community.
In Asia, ethical accommodation is gaining popularity as travelers become more aware of the impact their travel choices have on local communities and the environment.
A few examples include Shinta Mani Wild in Cambodia and Nay Palad in the Philippines.
EARTH CHECK
EarthCheck is the world’s leading scientific benchmarking certification and advisory group for sustainable travel and tourism. The organization has been a leading voice of sustainable tourism in the APAC region.
ESG (ENVIRONMENTAL SOCIAL & GOVERNANCE)
ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance. It is a set of criteria used to evaluate a company's performance and impact in areas related to sustainability and ethical practices. ESG standards are often set by investors, businesses, and other stakeholders to assess how a company manages its environmental and social impacts and its overall corporate governance practices.
The rise of consumer and investor interest in ESG has prompted some companies to misuse it as a marketing tactic. Additionally, it is worth noting that ESG reporting is mostly a self-governed policy.
This leads many critics to point out that ESG attracts less conscientious actors aiming to profit from the trend and dilute the metrics and principles that help keep the underlying investments and business activities aligned with the goals of sustainability.
F
FAIRTRADE
A movement that promotes and ensures equitable trade practices, fair wages, and better working conditions for local artisans and producers across industries and countries.
Fairtrade Network of Asia and Pacific Producers (NAPP) is one of the leading organizations that supports businesses and governments and connects farmers and workers with the people who buy their products.
Tourism businesses can play an important role in promoting fair trade by procuring locally produced goods and firmly integrating them into their supply and value chain. In doing so, they contribute to sustainable and responsible tourism by sharing economic dividends with local communities.
FARM-TO-TABLE DINING
A dining experience that is made with locally sourced, organic ingredients that support sustainable farming practices and reduce the carbon footprint associated with food transportation.
Discover how the restaurant industry across Asia is keeping the fire of the sustainable gastronomy movement going.
FOOD MILES
The distance food travels from its source to the consumer, with a focus on reducing carbon emissions associated with food transportation.
Ever curious about how far your food has traveled to arrive at your local grocery store, and thus the approximate carbon emissions produced? You can calculate your food miles here.
G
GEOTOURISM
It is a type of tourism that emphasizes the unique geological features, landscapes, and geology-based cultural heritage of a destination
GLOBAL SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL COUNCIL
GSTC manages global standards for sustainable travel and tourism, and acts as the international accreditation body for sustainable tourism certifications.
The GSTC annual global conference gathers sustainable travel experts and practitioners from around the world.
If you feel like polishing up your knowledge, sign up for the many training programs that GSTC provides.
GREENWASHING
When a company commits greenwashing, it makes misleading or unsubstantiated claims of its sustainability practices and achievements that do not exist to appear environmentally friendly and socially responsible.
The best thing a business can do to avoid greenwashing or to be perceived as a company that commits greenwashing is to walk the talk. This means it shares truthfully what it does related to becoming a sustainable and responsible company.
Additionally, the company’s leaders are recommended to be transparent and communicative about their efforts and impacts - whether successful or unsuccessful.
H
HABITAT PROTECTION
This is a critical aspect of environmental conservation, focusing on the preservation and restoration of natural environments to support wildlife. It involves implementing measures to prevent habitat degradation and loss, which are major causes of biodiversity decline.
To learn more about habitat protection and how you can contribute, visit the websites of these organizations and initiatives:
World Wildlife Fund – they work globally to protect the world's most vulnerable habitats)
Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation – they are protecting the Bornean orangutans and their habitats.
Coral Triangle Initiative – a multilateral partnership of six countries working to safeguard the world's most diverse marine habitat, covering the waters of Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Solomon Islands, and Timor-Leste.
HERITAGE SITES
The UNESCO World Heritage designation is given to places on Earth that are of outstanding universal value to humanity and as such, have been inscribed on the World Heritage List to be protected for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.
Places as diverse and unique as the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador, the Taj Mahal in India, the Grand Canyon in the USA, and the Acropolis in Greece are examples of the 1007 natural and cultural places inscribed on the World Heritage List to date.
HOMESTAYS
Accommodation options where travelers stay with local families, fostering cultural exchange and providing direct economic benefits to the host community.
In Southeast Asia, many tour companies organize homestays often in rural areas. Travelers can get an experience of a certain level of intimacy and immersion to see a different side of the destination. It’s something that they cannot easily get from staying at a hotel or resort.
I
INDIGENOUS TOURISM
A type of tourism that encourages respectful interactions with indigenous communities, supporting their cultural preservation and economic empowerment.
Indigenous tourism has gained more attention in recent years as evidenced by the rise of related services and experiences provided by leading travel agencies such as Intrepid and G Adventure.
The upcoming World Indigenous Tourism Summit is scheduled for March 2024 in Taiwan, to showcase the island’s aboriginal culture and its role in the tourism sector.
INCLUSIVE TOURISM
Inclusive tourism, also known as accessible tourism, is a form of tourism that aims to make travel experiences enjoyable and accessible to everyone, regardless of their physical abilities or other needs.
It involves removing barriers, both physical and social, to ensure that everyone can participate in tourism activities comfortably and without discrimination.
To get involved in promoting inclusive tourism, you can support initiatives like the Global Sustainable Tourism Council and the UNWTO’s Accessibility and Inclusive Tourism Development programs.
J
JET BIOFUEL
Jet biofuel is a sustainable alternative to traditional aviation fuel. Derived from organic matter such as plant, algae material, or animal waste, it has the potential to reduce gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels in the aviation industry.
Many airlines are increasingly exploring the use of jet biofuels, with some already offering biofuel-powered flights on select routes.
Learn more about the potential and challenges as well as economic and environmental considerations of jet biofuels from resources like the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Britannica.
JUNKING RESPONSIBLY
Junking refers to the responsible disposal of waste, particularly while traveling. This includes practices such as carrying your own reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste, disposing of litter in designated bins, and participating in clean-up activities at your travel destination.
Responsible junking is essential for maintaining the cleanliness and sustainability of our favorite travel destinations.
In Asia, organizations like RRS Asia and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP) provide resources and initiatives for responsible waste management. RRS Asia works with organizations to advance recovery models and enhance business sustainability. UN ESCAP supports communities, cities, and countries in transforming waste into resources.
JUSTICE TOURISM
Justice tourism, also known as solidarity tourism, is an ethical approach to travel that prioritizes the creation of economic opportunities for local communities. It's a response against cultural domination often reflected in the globalization of tourism. This form of tourism is both ethical and equitable, building solidarity between visitors and hosts.
Justice Tourism Foundation is one organization working in this field, providing transformative, immersive slow travel experiences for culturally, socially, and environmentally conscious travelers.
For more understanding of justice tourism, read the article Justice Tourism: What is It and Why Does It Matter?
K
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPIs)
Many destinations and hotels regard ‘growth indicators’ such as arrival number and occupancy rate as primary success measurements. However, sustainability success should be measured across all three pillars - people, planet, and prosperity. Metrics used to track the performance and impact of sustainable tourism initiatives and practices could include:
carbon footprint
consumption of energy
supply chain miles
waste reduction and recycling rates
social impact
For example, in its sustainability impact report 2022, Six Senses publishes its achievements across the mentioned-above categories.
KYOTO PROTOCOL
The Kyoto Protocol is an international treaty endorsed in 1997 in Kyoto, Japan, with the primary objective of curtailing global climate change. This protocol was the inaugural significant global initiative to mitigate climate change by setting quantified targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
It was designed under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
The agreement has gained support from 192 countries since its inception, each pledging to decrease their carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions. Asian countries that are signatories to the Kyoto Protocol include Japan, China, India, South Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and many others.
The Kyoto Protocol set the foundation for nearly two decades of climate diplomacy and action.
L
LAND STEWARDSHIP
Responsible and sustainable management of land and natural resources to ensure their long-term preservation and regenerative use.
LEAVE NO TRACE
The principle of minimizing the impact of human activities on natural environments, encouraging responsible behavior, and preservation of pristine areas.
Organizations like Greenpeace East Asia have embraced this principle, organizing cleanup activities such as the one at Tai Mo Shan, Hong Kong's highest peak. Participants hiked the trail while picking up litter along the way, embodying the "Leave No Trace" philosophy.
National Geographic has also highlighted the importance of this principle through their series, Leave No Trace, in which host Richard Crawford explores unique experiences that prioritize environmental protection.
LOCAL SOURCING
Prioritizing the use of locally produced goods and services to support the local economy and reduce carbon emissions from transportation.
However, just because something is made locally, it doesn’t always mean it is sustainable. Some parts of locally produced furniture or cloth may have been shipped from all over the globe. Here are some of the questions you can ask if you truly have sustainability in mind.
Where did materials for products come from?
Were the tools used to create products locally made?
Were there any harmful chemicals used to create the product? How far products have traveled to be in the store?
THE LONG RUN
The Long Run is a membership community of nature-based tourism businesses committed to driving holistic sustainability. The Long Run developed its approach and strategy — protecting wilderness in perpetuity via the 4Cs, a holistic balance of Conservation, Community, Culture, and Commerce.
To get a preview of the benefits of becoming a member, visit their resources page.
M
MARINE CONSERVATION
Preservation and protection of marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangroves, and endangered marine species, is key to absorbing carbon emissions in our atmosphere and mitigating climate change.
Sustainable Ocean Alliance (SOA) is one of the world’s largest networks of young ocean leaders. It supports innovative startups, nonprofits, and grassroots campaigns dedicated to solving the greatest threats facing our planet.
MEKONG RIVER & DELTA
Running through 6 countries, The Mekong River is a lifeblood for millions of people in China, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. The river and its tributaries offer some of Southeast Asia’s quintessential riverside sceneries and attract millions of travelers annually.
Overtourism and negligent tourism development has fueled the many underlying problems in the region. Responsible tourism practices should not only emphasize the wellness of wildfire and the environment but also combat child sex tourism.
Destination Mekong is a membership-based destination management and marketing organization championing the Mekong region.
MICROPLASTICS
Pesky grains of plastic less than 5 mm in length can be found in everything from water and soil to the air we breathe. Some, such as exfoliating beads, were made small while others broke off larger bits of waste that had become brittle in the sun.
The best solution is to remove single-use plastics from your business and work closely with local communities to minimize further plastic waste in the surrounding seas.
Wondering how to get started? Plastic Free Southeast Asia provides training and consultation on this very topic.
N
NATURE-BASED TOURISM
It is a type of tourism that focuses on exploring and appreciating natural environments, including national parks, wildlife reserves, and ecotourism sites. Birdwatching, photography, stargazing, camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, and park touring are some great examples of nature-based tourism.
As of late, nature-based tourism players have firmly placed themselves as an important actor to carry out nature-based solutions, which are “actions to protect, sustainably manage, and restore natural and modified ecosystems that address societal challenges effectively and adaptively, simultaneously benefiting people and nature,” according to International Union for Conservation of Nature.
NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Practices that aim to sustainably manage and protect natural resources, such as water, forests, and biodiversity, in tourism destinations.
NET ZERO
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change IPCC says, “Net Zero is achieved when anthropogenic (human-created) emissions of greenhouse gasses to the atmosphere are balanced by anthropogenic removals over a specified period.”
According to the Science Based Targets initiative, "We report on all our GHG emissions, try to reduce them as much as possible, and then—we invest in projects that either prevent emissions elsewhere or pull carbon out of the air to reach a “net-zero” balance on paper."
O
ORGANIC FARMING
Agricultural methods that prioritize natural and sustainable practices, avoiding the use of synthetic chemicals and genetically modified organisms.
For tourism businesses and travelers, choosing organically-grown products can be an important action to help incentivize more food growers and farmers to prioritize chemical-free farming practices.
A number of farms in Southeast Asia such as Phutawen Farm in Laos provide visitors with outdoor activity options in addition to farm tours and sales of organic produce.
At the same time, hotels and resorts like Chumphon Cabana in Thailand and Fusion Cam Ranh in Vietnam add an organic farm to their properties to create meaningful experiences for families and children, and provide food supplies for their kitchens.
OVERTOURISM
It is a phenomenon of excessive tourism that negatively impacts the environment, local communities, and the overall travel experience.
To combat overtourism, destinations and governments impose visitor quotas, tourist taxes, and required daily spending. In Asia, Bhutan's daily spending requirement is around USD 200 as of July 2023, which is high in comparison to other countries, it has been lauded for curbing overtourism and attracting high-value travelers.
We discussed whether ‘de-influencing’ could be helpful to prevent overtourism in Asia.
P
PERMACULTURE
Permaculture (permanent agriculture) is a design approach that integrates sustainable agriculture, ecological principles, and community building to create self-sustaining and regenerative systems. It was originally coined by David Holmgren and Bill Mollison.
Bill Mollison defines it as “a philosophy of working with, rather than against nature; of protracted and thoughtful observation rather than protracted and thoughtless labor; and of looking at plants and animals in all their functions, rather than treating any area as a single-product system.”
In Asia, Sumba Hospitality Foundation in Indonesia provides permaculture training to students.
PLASTIC-FREE TRAVEL
It’s annoying how a material like plastic has polluted every corner and every part of our planet since the 1960s. National Geographic highlights that “plastic pollution is most visible in developing Asian and African nations, where garbage collection systems are often inefficient or nonexistent.”
But the travel industry is combating this pollution. Jaya House River Park in Cambodia has been single-use plastic-free since 2016.
Bangkok-headquartered Six Senses launched Plastic Free 2022 strategy to remove and avoid all virgin plastic materials from its hotel and spa operations.
POSITIVE LUXURY
Positive Luxury is home to the Butterfly Mark, given to luxury businesses that meet its rigorous assessment on innovation, governance, environment, and society.
Read our interview with Diane Verde Nieto, Co-founder of Positive Luxury, to learn why 200+ brands have trusted Positive Luxury for its knowledge and expertise in sustainability.
PREFERRED BY NATURE
It is a non-profit organization that works to support better land management and business practices that benefit people, nature, and the climate in 100+ countries.
It is the home to many widely-adopted recognizable eco certifications globally and in Asia such as FSC, Rainforest Alliance Sustainable Agriculture.
It also hosts The Long Run and its very own Sustainable Travel Programme.
Q
QUALITY STANDARDS
Criteria and guidelines are set to ensure the delivery of high-quality, sustainable, and regenerative travel experiences.
QUALITY TOURISM
Quality tourism focuses on the value and meaningful experiences that travel can bring, rather than simply the quantity of visitors.
This approach encourages sustainable practices, such as respecting local cultures and minimizing environmental impact.
For example, Bhutan measures its success through Gross National Happiness rather than GDP, prioritizing quality tourism over mass tourism.
R
REGENERATIVE TRAVEL
A holistic approach to tourism that aims to restore and enhance natural and cultural resources, leaving a positive impact on the destination. “Regenerative tourism aims to create experiences and conditions in destinations that promote rejuvenation and renewal, rather than simply supporting what already exists.”
Learn how regenerative travel is revolutionizing the hotel industry in Southeast Asia.
Regenerative Travel is an association of travel companies that regenerate people and communities.
REMOTE YEAR
Remote Year is one of the world’s leading remote work communities that offers experiences across Asia, and around the world.
The Covid-19 pandemic propelled the remote work movement, which also led more people to appreciate slow travel.
ROOFTOP FARM
In densely Asian cities, hotels and restaurants resort to rooftop farming to make the most of their high-priced real estate. Financial benefits aside, rooftop farming reduces food miles and hence carbon emissions. Rooftop Republic in Hong Kong is one of the organizations that is leading this movement to grow our food closer to home.
5R FRAMEWORK
Refuse what you do not need such as single-use items and single-plastic.
Reduce the amount of waste generated by implementing waste sorting and monitoring to identify opportunities for reduction, and using products with minimal packaging.
Reuse items as much as possible before discarding them as waste.
Repurpose items that cannot be reused. This means you restore and maintain items for other purposes.
Recycle what you cannot refuse, reduce and reuse. Be mindful that not all materials are recyclable.
S
SLOW TRAVEL
An approach to travel that emphasizes taking the time to fully experience and appreciate a destination, minimizing the environmental impact, and supporting local communities.
SCOPE 1, 2, 3 EMISSIONS
Scope 1 - Direct emissions
These are carbon emissions from all the fuel that the company pays for. Think of the petroleum in your car, the diesel generator at your hotel.
Scope 2 - Indirect emissions - owned
These are the carbon emissions from the electricity you purchase to power up your buildings, your hotels, or your offices.
Scope 3 - Indirect emissions - not owned
These are often the emissions such as website emissions, business travel, and the whole supply chain you cannot control but can influence. They usually form the lion’s share of a company’s carbon footprint.
Check out this Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions graph by Plan A.
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
Sustainable tourism does not refer to a specific type of tourism. It is rather an aspiration for all forms of tourism to be sustainable by reducing and ideally offsetting negative impacts.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDGS):
A set of global goals established by the United Nations to address social, economic, and environmental challenges, including those related to sustainable tourism. The current 17 goals serve as a comprehensive framework for tourism and travel companies.
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TRANSFORMATIVE TRAVEL
Transformative travel is a growing trend in sustainable tourism.
It refers to travel experiences designed to enable personal growth and have a positive impact on the world.
A notable example in Asia is the Shikoku Pilgrimage in Japan, a multi-day trek between 88 Buddhist temples that often leads to personal transformation for travelers.
TURTLE CONSERVATION
Turtle conservation is a crucial aspect of sustainable travel in Asia, where many turtle species face threats such as habitat destruction and poaching. By supporting turtle conservation efforts, travelers can contribute to the preservation of these magnificent creatures.
One example of a turtle conservation project in Asia is the Marine Research Foundation. They work towards protecting sea turtles by conducting research, implementing community-based conservation programs, and raising awareness about the importance of turtle conservation.
To learn more about turtle conservation in Asia and how you can get involved, you can visit WWF's Asia Pacific Marine Turtle Programme, Malaysian Wildlife, and Katala Foundation Inc.
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UPCYCLING
The process of transforming waste materials into new products of better quality or environmental value, reducing waste, and promoting creative reuse. In Bali, Indonesia, the Bali Creative Reuse Center encourages upcycling by providing workshops and resources.
UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE
Asia currently has 278 properties inscribed on the World Heritage List. When a site is inscribed as a world heritage site, it often attracts more tourist interest.
However, there are always two sides of the coin. “At its best, UNESCO World Heritage designation can bring much-needed money, support, and global recognition to a deserving destination. At its worst, it could be the first step toward overtourism.”
UPLIFTING COMMUNITIES
Sustainable travel isn't just about the environment, but also about the people living in the destinations we visit. Uplifting communities refers to the practice of supporting local economies through responsible tourism.
This could mean choosing a family-owned guesthouse over a multinational hotel chain, buying local handicrafts, or dining at eateries that source ingredients locally.
For instance, in Bali, Indonesia, you can stay at Desa Visesa, a resort focused on preserving Balinese culture and uplifting local communities.
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VEGETARIAN TRAVEL/VEGAN TRAVEL
Involves choosing plant-based food options and supporting establishments that prioritize veganism, which is a more sustainable choice as plant-based diets have a lower environmental impact compared to meat-based ones.
Asia offers a wide range of vegan-friendly destinations and cuisines, making it an ideal region for vegan travelers.
Check out HappyCow to find vegetarian and vegan restaurants worldwide.
VOLUNTOURISM
Voluntourism combines travel with volunteering opportunities, enabling tourists to contribute positively to local communities and conservation efforts. It can involve activities such as assisting in wildlife conservation, participating in community development projects, or supporting local schools and healthcare facilities.
While it can be a powerful force for good, it's important to ensure that your efforts genuinely help the community and don't inadvertently cause harm.
In Cambodia, organizations like ConCERT connect tourists with responsible volunteering opportunities.
Reminder: Research thoroughly before participating and ensure that it does not have negative impacts on the communities and organizations it is meant to help.
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WATER CONSERVATION
Efforts to minimize water usage, promote efficient water management systems, and raise awareness about the importance of preserving this vital resource in tourism destinations.
Let’s face it. Islands across Asia are facing freshwater scarcity. As opposed to benefiting from the post-pandemic travel recovery, businesses on island destinations like Koh Samui in Thailand are relocating their revenue to buy water to keep their taps running.
WEEVA
A sustainability platform for holistic data management, measurement, analysis, and reporting, enabling users to take control of their own sustainability journey, map their own progress, and continually improve at a pace that works for them.
Curious to know more? Read our interview with Julie Cheetham, Managing Director at Weeva, or check out these podcasts that talk about sustainability and Weeva.
WILDLIFE TOURISM
Encouraging ethical and sustainable interactions with wildlife, ensuring their welfare and protection.
Asia is a popular destination for wildlife tourism. From the majestic Asian elephant to the mighty Indonesian Komodo dragon, from the iconic Bornean orangutan to the regal Philippine eagle, the continent is full of breathtaking wildlife encounters that draw tourists from around the world.
Wildlife sanctuaries and reserves in Asia are important for protecting and supporting diverse animal species. These areas preserve natural ecosystems and help maintain the overall balance and stability of the region's biodiversity, which is crucial for the survival of endangered and vulnerable species while also benefiting both humans and the environment.
Go deeper into why maintaining balanced biodiversity is of utmost importance to humanity in this article.
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XERISCAPING
Xeriscaping is a form of landscaping using plants that require minimal water, making it an excellent strategy for conserving water resources. In arid regions of Asia such as Rajasthan in India, xeriscaping techniques are being used to create sustainable gardens.
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YIELD MANAGEMENT
The practice of optimizing revenue and resource allocation while minimizing waste in the travel industry, ensuring efficiency and sustainability.
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ZERO WASTE
Refers to a set of practices to reduce waste generation and divert waste from landfills through recycling, composting, and other waste reduction strategies. The first step of zero waste management begins with responsible consumption practices that avoid waste generation at the get-go. Companies and people can adopt the 5R framework (see above) to tackle the design-make-waste model and keep materials in a continuous loop.
ZEN RETREATS
Zen retreats, often found in Japan and other Asian countries, offer sustainable tourism experiences that focus on mindfulness, meditation, and connection with nature.
For example, Shunkoin in Myoshinji Temple offers Zen meditation classes and traditional Japanese cultural experiences.
ZERO CARBON FOOTPRINT
Refers to achieving net zero carbon emissions by balancing the amount of carbon released with an equivalent amount sequestered or offset.
According to The Guardian and other media outlets, Bhutan is the world's only carbon-negative country, absorbing more CO2 than it emits.
