Climate change is a global threat. The impact of a warming planet is plain to see. Just this summer, we’ve seen the UK – along with many other places – reach record temperatures. Countries across the globe have battled wildfires and floods as a result.

World leaders have been gathering in Egypt this week for the 27th annual UN climate change conference, Cop27. This two-week event is designed to scrutinise climate challenge and agree action.

It will look at everything from supporting those countries dealing with the worst impacts of climate change to the progress made against the world’s goal to limit global warming to 1.5C of pre-industrial levels.

Some of what we’ve heard this week, though, as we did ahead of the conference, is concern the 1.5C limit will be exceeded. Urgent action to tackle global warming is required. Every government, business and individual has a part to play in tackling climate change. 

A big part of this is reducing carbon emissions. For our sector, decarbonisation isn’t easy, but progress has been made through more efficient aircraft and cruise ships, and reducing food waste.

Moreover, it has also become a business imperative, with more and more consumers looking for their travel providers to take action.

Of course, much more needs to be done, and Abta is working to support members to help them take action. Last month, we released our new Climate Action Guidebook, a joint initiative with Deloitte.

The guidebook helps business leaders gain technical knowledge and understanding of carbon reduction, and the practical steps their businesses can follow to take action. The guide is aimed at businesses of all shapes and sizes, recognising that every corner of the industry has a part to play in reducing carbon emissions across the travel supply chain.

The guidebook can be found at www.abta.com/climateactionguidebook, with aother resources available for Abta members in the Abta MemberZone.

Consumer imperative

We also need the government to provide the necessary policy support to deliver a more sustainable industry, such as incentivising the development of low-carbon fuels.

Limiting global warming is not just about reducing carbon emissions, restoring and protecting biodiversity is also an important part of this and is set to become a greater focus for the travel industry.

By helping areas of the planet recover, diverse habitats will help store more atmospheric carbon, mitigating climate change. Travel and tourism have an important role to play to advance conservation, and Abta members are developing initiatives to support this.

Climate change is among the top concerns for travellers when asked about the impact of their holiday; 61% of people agree every part of the travel industry needs to look at how they can reduce carbon emissions, not just those that actually provide the transport.

Developing a more sustainable industry goes hand in hand with confidence in travel. People want to be assured the industry is working to limit its impact on the planet, including reducing emissions.

Sustainability has also been a big focus at WTM London this week, with Abta colleagues taking part in a number of panel discussions on the topic. It is been great to have this forum to exchange ideas and experiences – working together is fundamental if the industry is to rise to the sustainability challenge.

Knowing where to start on sustainability and climate change can be difficult, but Abta is here to help; any action, no matter how small, is worthwhile – and will make a difference. 

Carol Rose is Abta’s senior sustainability manager. Earlier this year, TTG hosted its first-ever TTG Fairer Travel Sustainability Forum. You can find all the key takeaways here.