Tourism’s carbon emissions grow at more than twice that of global economy

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🗞️ Driving the news: A new study published in Nature Communications finds that carbon emissions from tourism grew by 3.5% between 2009 and 2020, more than double the global economy's 1.5% growth
Key sources include aviation, utilities, and private vehicles

🔭 The context: The tourism sector now accounts for 9% of global emissions, with India, the US, and China driving 60% of the increase
• Population growth, rising incomes, and increased travel demand, particularly in emerging economies, are significant factors

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Without intervention, tourism-related emissions are projected to double every 20 years
• Decarbonizing tourism is critical to align with global climate targets and mitigate the sector's environmental impact

⏭️ What's next: The study calls for urgent measures to reduce tourism emissions, such as policy interventions and sustainable industry practices
• Even curbing tourism growth by 1% annually in high-emission destinations could significantly cut emissions

💬 One quote: “Without action, emissions are projected to double every 20 years,” the study led by Ya-Yen Sun warns

📈 One stat: Tourism now contributes 9% of global emissions, with aviation and private vehicles among the leading contributors

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