Learn About Sustainable Tourism with the Co-Founder Annie Combs
How can travel become more sustainable?
It is no secret that tourism significantly affects both the environment and local communities. In recent years, many people around the world have raised concerns about the negative consequences of over-tourism, including housing shortages, increased pressure on local infrastructure, depletion of natural resources, and environmental degradation.
However, there has also been a rising interest in sustainable tourism. According to Booking.com’s 2023 travel report, 80 percent of respondents indicated that sustainable travel is important to them1.
This week's newsletter features insights from Annie Combs, co-founder of ECPC Travel. This organization is dedicated to promoting and facilitating sustainable travel practices. Annie will discuss the importance of choosing environmentally and socially responsible travel options and the positive impact this can have on both travelers and the communities they visit.
What inspired the creation of ECPC Travel’s Mission?
ECPC Travel was inspired by a graduate school research project conducted by its founders at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where they pursued master's degrees in environmental science. Their research focused on the impact of tourism on local communities and the environment, leading them to develop a framework that integrates local social and economic well-being with other sustainability practices.
“ Tourism had this massive potential to do so much good in so many areas where there are really bad impacts, and people are aware of these impacts like over-tourism, lots of waste, money diverted away. What we found when we talked to a lot of local tourism businesses that were doing the right things is that the issue was not that the options were not there, it was that people couldn't find them. And so that started this whole journey. ” — Annie Combs
Their journey included immersive experiences in Ecuador, where they engaged directly with local businesses, further solidifying their commitment to promoting responsible travel. Now, as a full-fledged company, ECPC Travel strives to foster a healthier environment through tourism.
ECPC Travel’s Core Mission, and Their Approach to Sustainable Travel
The core mission of ECPC Travel is to simplify the process for travelers to discover and book eco-friendly and socially responsible travel options. Recognizing that many sustainable options are often overlooked in the broader travel market, ECPC Travel aims to uplift small local businesses that positively contribute to their communities and the environment. The ultimate goal is to normalize sustainable and local travel as a mainstream choice within the tourism industry.
“ We define sustainable tourism a little bit differently than other businesses, and once again it's because of that socio-economic piece. We define sustainable tourism in two parts. The first is that your experience or your accommodation, the way that you travel, has a lighter footprint than conventional tourism. And then the second part of sustainability is that your tour or your accommodation has some benefit that makes the local community better off. ” — Annie Combs
Challenges with Sustainable Tourism
Sustainable tourism faces several challenges, notably the misconception that it is limited to camping or outdoor activities. This stereotype can obscure the vast array of responsible travel options available, including luxury experiences and wellness retreats. Educating travelers about the many forms sustainable tourism can take is crucial for shifting perceptions and encouraging informed choices.
Additionally, many smaller, locally-owned tourism providers struggle to compete with larger conglomerates, resulting in reduced foot traffic and financial instability. This can hinder their ability to implement sustainable practices and improve their services. These smaller businesses may also lack the funding for sustainability certifications, which can be quite costly and time-consuming to obtain.
“ What happens a lot of times is local communities end up hurting for money to be able to continually improve sustainability, to continually run their business. And so what we're trying to put together is some strategic partnerships with NGOs so that we can help get them the funding they need to continually improve, to continually run their businesses, and get them business development skills that they need to upgrade and continue moving forward and enhance there as well. And so I think, you know, in supporting those businesses you can actively contribute to reducing that problem and that's pretty cool. ” — Annie Combs
The Future of Sustainable Tourism
On a more optimistic note, exciting innovations are emerging in the realm of sustainable tourism. A growing trend among travelers is the desire to explore lesser-known destinations, allowing for a more immersive experience that benefits local economies. This shift towards slower travel encourages visitors to engage with local culture and support community businesses rather than simply ticking off major attractions.
“ We see a trend called destination dupes happening, so places with similar climates, similar things to do, where there are more resources and there's an opportunity for you to maybe travel at a slower pace rather than hopping from place to place to place, really staying, enjoying, connecting with locals, getting the essence of the place too as well. ” — Annie Combs
Furthermore, the increasing emphasis on wellness and nature therapy is reshaping vacation expectations. Many travelers are now seeking adventurous experiences as a way to unwind and reconnect with nature. This evolving mindset not only promotes personal well-being but also underscores the significance of sustainable practices in tourism, paving the way for a more thoughtful and enriching travel experience.
Advice for People Looking to Travel Sustainably
For anyone looking to dive into sustainable tourism, the key advice is to do your homework. This means more than just spotting eco-friendly symbols; it’s about understanding the local vibe and checking to see if the community welcomes tourists. With some destinations feeling overwhelmed, it’s a great idea to explore lesser-known spots that are excited to share their culture.
“ I think my biggest piece of advice, and people hear this all day every day, is do your homework, and that goes beyond, ‘Oh I see a leaf on it, it's sustainable,’ it's about going in, taking a look at where you're going, what you can do there. I think the first question you should ask yourself when you're planning a trip is, ‘Do the locals feel okay with us being here?’ ” — Annie Combs
Also, consider booking with local guides and businesses. They often provide a more authentic experience and insight into the area. By connecting with locals and taking your time in each place, you can enjoy a richer travel experience while also supporting the community.
Conclusion
While traveling sustainably can take a little extra effort, in the long run, it can help preserve unique cultures and places. By prioritizing eco-friendly options and engaging with local communities, travelers not only embrace unique experiences but also contribute to the well-being of those they visit. As interest in sustainable tourism continues to grow, travelers can ensure that their adventures foster sustainability by making informed choices.
If you are interested in booking through ECPC Travel, or have a location you think they should check out, you can find their website here.
This Week in Sustainability is a weekly email from Brightest (and friends) about sustainability and climate strategy. If you’ve enjoyed this piece, please consider forwarding it to a friend or teammate. If you’re reading it for the first time, we hope you enjoyed it enough to consider subscribing. If we can be helpful to you or your organization’s sustainability journey, please be in touch.