8 ways Responsible Tourism benefits local communities

Day of the Dead, Mexico

A better community for residents.

The money that tourists spend can be reinvested in local economies, from public services to education.

Did you know that for every $1 generated in direct Travel & Tourism GDP, more than $2 are generated on an indirect and/or induced basis

Lots of jobs.

Tourism is a sector that is all about people - and as such is an incredible driver of job creation from big cities to small local communities.

Did you know that in 2019 the sector employed 1 in 10 people on the planet and it created 1 in 4 of all new jobs globally in the last 5 years

More creative and entrepreneurial.

Tourism’s positive ripple effect not only helps support local businesses but fosters entrepreneurship and new business ventures.

Did you know that 80% of the sector is composed of SMEs

Opportunities for all.

Tourism offers opportunities to people from all walks of life, supporting vulnerable groups, including minorities, youth and women among others.

Did you know that the tourism sector has almost twice as many women employers as other sectors and employs a higher share of youth than the overall economy

More peaceful and more tolerant.

Tourism is a driver for peace. It helps promote tolerance between people as they learn and better understand each other’s cultures.

Did you know that countries that have more open and sustainable tourism sectors will likely enjoy higher levels of positive peace in the future

Preserving heritage.

Tourism can help protect and finance the preservation of historic and cultural sites, and even prompt the creation of new community initiatives.

Did you know that 40% of travellers identify as cultural tourists?

Preserving the wildlife we love.

Tourism can help protect and revitalise wildlife through preservation programmes against illegal poaching and creates conservation jobs

Did you know that the total economic contribution of wildlife tourism amounted to $344 billion in 2018, equivalent to the entire GDP of South Africa or Hong Kong

Fuelling the adoption of sustainable tech.

Tourism helps accelerate the integration of innovative technologies, which can facilitate your everyday activities while enhancing sustainability and creating more touchless experiences.

Did you know that 66% of consumers are using less cash and moving toward more contactless solutions in the wake of COVID-19

Written by Tiffany Misrahi, VP Policy and Ioanna Pampoulova, Membership & Commercial Assistant, World Travel & Tourism Council