Global Tourism Sector Sees Significant Emission Reductions

Global greenhouse gas emissions from the travel and tourism sector fell to 3.5 billion tons of CO2 in 2023, representing 6.7% of total emissions, down from 7.8% in 2019, Anadolu Agency reported yesterday.

WTTC President Julia Simpson announced these findings at the 24th Global Summit in Perth, highlighting a 12% decrease in emissions compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Despite positive trends, Simpson stressed the need for absolute reductions in fossil fuel reliance, noting that oil still accounts for 54% of the sector’s energy use. However, coal usage decreased from 18% in 2019 to 15% in 2023, while low-carbon energy sources rose from 5.1% to 5.9%.

Simpson urged governments to support the integration of renewable energy and incentivize sustainable aviation fuel production. The tourism sector contributed $9.9 trillion to global GDP in 2023, with tax revenues totaling $3.32 trillion, emphasizing the importance of reinvesting in decarbonizing infrastructure and renewable energy initiatives.