The impact of climate change can be felt in virtually every industry, including tourism. All around the globe, the effects of global warming have led to declines and changes in tourism arrivals. For instance, according to the European Travel Commission, the Mediterranean had seen a 10 percent drop in arrivals during the months of June to November. It appears that travellers are preferring countries with milder temperatures over the baking heat of the Mediterranean. Even then, cold countries are seeing a decline in winter tourism as well. With an 8.4 percent reduction in seasonal snow cover, the Alps may not have enough snowfall to sustain interest and maintain its annual arrivals of 120 million visitors.
While climate change significantly impacts tourism, the industry itself is not blameless when it comes to its contribution to the problem. According to Sustainable Travel, the industry accounts for 8 percent of the world’s carbon emissions. Roughly 49 percent of this comes from transportation that includes planes, cars, buses, trains, and ferries.
Fortunately, electric vehicles (EVs) are coming to the rescue. Powered by electricity, these vehicles reduce emissions to virtually zero. Moreover, they redefine the travel experience, fitting quite nicely into a more eco-friendly type of tourism.
How Are Electric Vehicles Being Used in Tourism?
The first versions of electric vehicles were invented as early as the 1800’s. They were pretty common during that time but were eventually overtaken in popularity by internal combustion engines. Nowadays, modern EVs are experiencing a resurgence. Aside from their use as private vehicles, EVs are also currently being used to promote and support a more sustainable kind of tourism. Here’s how:
Public Transportation Services
The integration of EVs into public transportation like buses, shuttles, and taxismarks a significant step towards sustainable tourism, offering tourists an eco-friendly alternative for moving around destinations. Many car rental companies are also joining the green movement by incorporating electric vehicles into their fleets. In doing so, these companies provide tourists with the option to make environmentally conscious choices during their travels.
In Portugal, a tourism-heavy country, the city of Lisbon has implemented electric buses for public transportation. This move helps reduce air pollution and promotes sustainable mobility in popular tourist areas. What’s more, the adoption of electric vehicles aligns with Portugal’s commitment to eco-friendly practices and enhances the overall environmental quality of its tourist destinations.
City Tours and Sightseeing
In major cities, electric tour buses are set to redefine tourism. These silent, electric vehicles not only provide a unique and eco-friendly way to explore urban landscapes, but also highlight the importance of sustainability during explorations.
New Zealand has been at the forefront of ecotourism for decades, encouraging its visitors to witness its stunning landscapes via electric tour buses. With cities like Queenstown and Auckland providing visitors with a sustainable and quieter mode of transportation, tourism is only set to increase in the coming years.
Hotel and Resort Transportation Initiatives
Luxury hotels and resorts are enhancing the guest experience by incorporating electric shuttles and golf carts into their transportation services. Beyond the comfort and efficiency they provide, these sustainable travel options also align with the ethos of discerning travellers who appreciate eco-friendly alternatives.
Aside from providing EVs for guests, hotel chains such as Hilton, Holiday Inn, Best Western, and Marriott, included workplace EV charger installation in their priorities. With an increasing number of guests and employees driving EVs, it was imperative that hotels provide charging stations for convenience and continued patronage of eco-friendly transport.
What Are the Benefits of EVs for Eco-Friendly Tourism?
EVs play multiple key roles in sustainable tourism, including the following:
Reduces Air Pollution
Traditional vehicles contribute significantly to air pollution in tourist destinations, affecting both the environment and the health of local communities. The adoption of EVs helps mitigate such issues by producing zero tailpipe emissions. With enough EV adoption, tourist destinations can eventually restore their cleaner and healthier environments.
Provides Quieter Journeys
Beyond environmental benefits, EVs offer quieter operation, thus reducing noise pollution during travel. This not only enhances the tranquillity of natural and cultural sites, but also provides tourists a more serene and enjoyable experience.
Reduces Carbon Footprint
One of the most compelling advantages of EVs in tourism is the significant reduction in carbon footprint. Traditional vehicles powered by fossil fuels are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, while EVs offer a cleaner alternative. Moreover, they align with the sustainability goals of eco-conscious travellers and businesses.
Supports Renewable Energy Initiatives
The adoption of EVs supports the broader transition to renewable energy. As more EVs hit the roads, the demand for clean energy sources increases, thereby promoting the development of a sustainable and resilient energy infrastructure.
Enhances Brand Image
Tourism businesses embracing EVs not only contribute to environmental conservation, but also enhance their brand image. In an era where consumers are increasingly making choices based on sustainability, businesses that integrate eco-friendly practices, including the use of EVs, stand out as responsible and forward-thinking.
As the tourism industry continues its journey towards sustainability, the role of electric vehicles becomes increasingly important. Adopting this eco-friendly mode of transportation not only aligns with the global shift towards more eco-friendly solutions, but also positions businesses as leaders in responsible tourism. As we look to the future, the integration of EVs stands as a tangible and impactful step towards a greener, more sustainable travel experience.
