Sustainable houses

New research reveals an increased desire to travel more sustainably

 | Save
In celebration of Earth Day, we explore the findings from recent Booking.com research*, which reveals traveller intentions to travel more sustainability in 2021 and beyond 

Sustainability remains one of the biggest topics for the industry, with the pandemic shining an even brighter spotlight on responsible travel. This has opened people’s eyes to their impact on the environment and on local communities, inspiring many travellers to be more considerate when making decisions about future travel. 

Recent Booking.com research reveals that travellers have an increased desire to experience the world with a more sustainable mindset. Over half of global travellers (53%) acknowledged that they want to travel more sustainably as a result of Coronavirus, with travellers in Colombia (74%), Brazil (71%) and India (70%) expressing especially strong intentions to be more eco-conscious. 

At the beginning of the pandemic, videos of wildlife exploring empty streets in popular cities where crowds once flocked went viral. For many, this juxtaposition highlighted the need to combat overtourism, prompting travellers to reevaluate the steps they need to take to help protect the planet. Over half (63%) of travellers intend to stay away from crowded tourist attractions, 51% will avoid travelling during peak season, and a further 48% will visit alternative destinations to prevent overcrowding. 

Sustainability
'The pause on travel has inspired 83% of travellers to make sustainable travel a priority in the future.'

 

Localised travel has also been brought to the forefront, with many travellers indicating they intend to help local communities get back on their feet. According to additional Booking.com research** conducted in March this year, over two-thirds (68%) of travellers want the money they spend when travelling to go back to the local community, while a further 43% intend to support local communities and economies through more thoughtful choices. Hosts can satisfy this guest interest by providing authentic recommendations for local attractions, eateries and providers. 

Travellers’ focus on sustainability extends to accommodation, with 81% of global travellers planning to stay in an eco-accommodation at least once. This number increases to 100% for travellers from Vietnam, 98% for travellers from Colombia and 98% for Indian travellers. Additionally, 84% of travellers plan to reduce their waste and recycle plastic when visiting a destination, a percentage that increases for travellers from Thailand (94%), Croatia (91% and Argentina (90%). Reflecting your efforts to reduce plastic and waste consumption in guest communication can help tap into this demand. 

The pause on travel has inspired 83% of travellers to make sustainable travel a priority in the future, and 70% are more likely to choose an accommodation if it has implemented sustainable practices. Revealing traveller motivations post-pandemic and beyond, these stats emphasise the importance of continuing to take steps, no matter how small, to address sustainability at your property. 

*Research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of 20,934 respondents across 28 countries and territories. Respondents completed an online survey in July 2020. **Research commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of 29,349 respondents across 30 countries and territories. The survey was taken online and took place in March 2021.

 

working with laptop on lap
Display your sustainability practices to guests

Tap into the demand for sustainable travel by communicating your sustainability measures to consumers. 

Update Practices

What do you think of this page?

Takeaway
  • Recent Booking.com research reveals travellers’ heightened desire to travel responsibly in 2021 and beyond
  • The pause on travel has inspired 83% of travellers to make sustainable travel a priority in the future
  • Interest in green accommodation continues to grow, with 81% of travellers planning to stay in an eco-friendly property at least once
  • Properties can tap into this demand by communicating their sustainability practices to customers via the extranet