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Visit Scotland | Alba

Safeguarding Scotland's assets

Our environment, society and culture is what sets us apart as a destination and why a visit here is so special. Our sustainability policy sets out the measures we take to protect and enhance them for future generations to enjoy. It recognises that these assets are vital to Scottish tourism.

We’re incredibly proud of what our country has to offer and aim to become a world-leader in sustainable tourism development.

It’s our goal to reduce the environmental impact and maximise the economic and social benefits of our own operations. We take direct action on issues to help and influence the opinion and action of third parties. This will build a better, more sustainable future for Scotland.

You can email us with any questions about our sustainability policy or actions.

Email netzeroenquiries@visitscotland.com
Wild Swimming at Loch Morlich

Key objectives to guide our vision

Our key objectives run through our internal activities and engagement with strategic partners, businesses and visitors.

There's more information on how we’re driving sustainable tourism development in our annual reporting

Read our annual sustainability report.

  • Minimise resource use and waste production

    We encourage reduced resource use and waste production. This includes our internal operations and those of tourism businesses operating in Scotland. This contributes to reduced carbon emissions and climate change impact.

  • Reduce the impact of transport

    We promote forms of transport which are kinder to the planet, both to and within tourism destinations in Scotland. These include train, coach / bus, ferry, cycle and foot. This aims to reduce carbon emissions, air pollution and congestion.

  • Protect and enhance Scotland's natural and cultural heritage

    We promote Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage to visitors across all regions. We consider regional capacity to reduce negative impacts. We support the activities of organisations responsible for its protection and enhancement.

  • Enhance quality of life for Scottish communities

    We support Scottish communities across all regions through promoting year-round tourism activity. We consider regional capacity when promoting accommodation, events, attractions and products to visitors. We encourage community engagement in local tourism planning and management.

  • Improve the quality of tourism jobs

    We support initiatives to improve the quality of jobs. This includes within both the tourism sector and our organisation.

  • Make tourism in Scotland inclusive and available for all

    We support the development of inclusive tourism in Scotland. This aims to create products and destinations where everyone feels welcome.

  • Support climate change mitigation and adaptation in the tourism sector

    We recognise the importance and urgency of addressing climate change. We want to take action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and also adapt to the unavoidable consequences of climate change. We support tourism businesses and destinations to do the same.

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