Tackling climate change is the biggest challenge facing Scottish tourism. We want to inspire future generations to say that Scottish tourism led the way and made a difference.
Scotland is already considered as a leader in the field of responsible tourism. Now is the time to take it to the next level:
In this section:
1. Climate change and tourism
Tourism is a clear contributor to the global climate crisis, but also stands to suffer its consequences. So it is now more important than ever for tourism to step up and show how the sector can be part of the solution.
Climate change and extreme weather events have already harmed many aspects of our natural environment. And these adverse effects trickle down to our communities and businesses as well.
Start your journey to net zero
Net zero is when we take in as many greenhouse gasses as we emit.
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Where am I now?
Firstly, it is important to understand your current emissions and where they are coming from:
- Assess your current energy use by reviewing your bills and reading your meters
- Do a site walk round to see where energy is being used and identify quick savings
- Assess and prioritise your opportunities for saving
Secondly, we recommend that you get a clear sense of your indirect emissions associated with your business activity. This includes your supply chain, as well as staff travel and waste disposal.
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Where am I going?
It's important to set targets for when you aim to reach net zero emissions and milestones along the way. We recommend aligning your targets with Scotland’s net zero by 2045 ambitions and a milestone of 75% reduction by 2030.
You can always review your targets as you go along and see if you can be more ambitious.
Make sure to track your progress and share your plans with your staff, customers, and suppliers.
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How am I going to get there?
Reaching net zero emissions by 2045 will involve making changes to how we use energy, how we travel, what we buy and reducing waste. Many are practical actions that are low cost or no cost but others will need investment. There is a wide range of advice and support available for your business.
Identify the priority actions for your business. Use our factsheets for more information.
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Share your story with your customers
Consumers want to travel more sustainably. They want to manage their interactions with a destination and its residents in a thoughtful manner. Let people know what you’re doing and help them to reduce their carbon emissions when visiting.
Why not consider joining a Green Certification programme? You'll get a credible and independently verified badge to promote your commitment and actions to your customers.
Use your own channels to let visitors know what steps you’re taking, and what the outcomes are.
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Share your story with your fellow tourism businesses
Share your story on becoming a more responsible, low carbon business with others.
This will foster collaboration and learning, so we can go faster and further in Scotland's journey to net zero.
3. Further resources
Find ways that you can make changes in your life. There’s a host of advice and support out there to help your business.
Home Energy Scotland
www.homeenergyscotland.orgEngage your employees, attend free interactive workshops, get guidance on funding.
Zero Waste Scotland
www.zerowastescotland.org.ukFree business advice on topics such as energy efficiency, the circular economy, food waste, and funding.
Energy Saving Trust
https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/businessSupport for communities, local authorities, supply chain and businesses. Play your part in building a sustainable, energy efficient future.
Scottish Enterprise
www.scottish-enterprise.comDevelop sustainable business practices with top tips, webinars and resources.
Highlands and Islands Enterprise
www.hie.co.ukInformation for businesses and communities on the net zero journey. Browse steps on how to make a positive change and identify new opportunities.
South of Scotland Enterprise
www.southofscotlandenterprise.com/netzeroCan help support you wherever you are on your net zero journey.
Net Zero Nation
www.netzeronation.scotRead about what net zero is, where Scotland is in its net zero journey and how businesses can be part of it.
Greener business
www.netzeronation.scot/greener-businessToolkit to draw up plans for targeting emissions. Learn how to establish baselines, set targets and milestones, and share and celebrate progress.
Sustainable & responsible tourism in Scotland
www.visitscotland.com/responsible-tourismFind out what responsible travel means to Scotland and how visitors can plan and enjoy a responsible trip.
Thread Lightly
www.visitscotland.com/campaign/tread-lightlyRead all about our responsible tourism campaign.
Digital Media Library
www.assets.visitscotland.comFree images and video to help you promote Scotland as a tourism destination.
The Edinburgh Climate Change Institute
www.edinburghcentre.orgLearn how to minimise your business' climate impact and drive down emissions across your value chain.