Services for Tourism signs Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism

Services for Tourism is proud to announce that it has become a signatory of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism that was launched at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) last week.  

The Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism unites travel and tourism behind a common set of pathways for climate action, aligning the sector with global commitments and catalysing collaborative solutions to the many challenges facing businesses and destinations globally. The Glasgow Declaration encourages the acceleration of climate action in tourism by securing commitments to reduce emissions in tourism by at least 50% over the next decade and achieve Net Zero as soon as possible before 2050.

As a signatory of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism Services for Tourism has committed to aligning its actions with the latest scientific recommendations, so as to ensure its approach remains consistent with a rise of no more than 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels by 2100. It also has agreed to deliver climate action plans within 12 months, aligning with the five pathways of the Declaration (Measure, Decarbonise, Regenerate, Collaborate, Finance), report publicly on an annual basis, work in a collaborative spirit sharing good practices and solutions and disseminating information.

Robin Barker, Services for Tourism Director, says: “Tourism brings many benefits to the world through education, jobs, leisure and wellbeing, but can also cause damage to communities and the environment.  We are committed to encouraging ‘good tourism’ – hence our support for this commitment.”

Deborah Heather, CEO of Quality in Tourism and sponsors of many tourism awards schemes, says: “It’s fabulous to see Services for Tourism leading the way through committing to the Glasgow Declaration. I am really hoping many in tourism follow suit. Sustainability is the new Quality and should be in the DNA of every good Tourism and Hospitality business; we look forward to working with partners to translate such commitments into reality.”