Spotlight on sustainable products and services in tourism

Editorial of October 17, 2023

Sustainable development is a current topic and is at the heart of TouriScope's values. On September 27, we celebrated World Tourism Day. This year, the World Tourism Organization highlighted the importance of sustainable investments, education and the discovery of new destinations in the world of tourism. Creating sustainable tourism products and services not only has a beneficial impact on the environment, but also on the other two aspects of sustainable development, namely economic and social. By working with local communities and valuing their culture, by offering unique and authentic experiences, by acquiring products and services from local, responsible or socially oriented businesses for example, these are all good actions in favor of sustainability. The offer of sustainable services and products can transform the tourist experience and contribute positively to society at large. In this new newsletter, explore tips on creating sustainable tourism products and services, discover the basics of storytelling for sustainability, and understand how the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals relate to tourism offerings. Happy reading!

Réanne

Original TourScope article

Designing sustainable tourism products well

When boots follow their chops... Even though many consumers and tourists are increasingly looking for sustainable experiences, products and services, there is still a gap between intention and action. What can you do to properly meet the needs of your tourists? In this article, Touriscope provides a summary of the highlights of a World Economic Forum report on this subject. Consult the article to learn more!

Elsewhere on the web

Creating value from sustainable products

Transparency and authenticity. These are two important aspects of promoting sustainable products and services. Consumers are seeing more and more green or responsible certifications. Sometimes a lack of understanding, rigor, and credibility can cause problems. In the Deloitte report, Creating value from sustainable products (2023), it is said that 75% of consumers are more likely to buy products or services that are green or sustainable. According to the report, 80% of businesses say that designing sustainable products or services is more expensive. However, it is also said that “the fact of communicating facts illustrating why a product is considered more sustainable appeals to 54% of consumers”. Therefore, it is important to use clear, transparent, and honest communication to build consumer trust.

The ABCD of storytelling for sustainability

Tourism businesses and operators who want to use storytelling as a communication tool for sustainable products and services can be inspired by the ABCD of storytelling for sustainability. Promoting these products and services is now important, but an organization should also pay attention to the concept of “greenwashing” or “greenwashing.” The Conversation article entitled”When brand storytelling is at the service of sustainability” offers you various tools, strategies and ways to support you in your efforts to communicate sustainable products or services!

The 17 United Nations SDGs and the provision of sustainable products and services

Offering sustainable services or products in tourism can take various forms. The promotion of organic products, support for local and responsible purchasing, and the offer of authentic experiences are examples. According to UNWTO, sustainable tourism is in line with several of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations, in particular goals 8, 12 and 14. However, due to the interconnectedness of the SDGs, sustainable tourism can also contribute to the other 14 goals in a variety of ways. An interesting example that is presented in the article is that of SDG #2, the fight against hunger. Under this objective, a restaurant or tourist operator could promote “the production, use and sale of local products in tourist destinations and their full integration into the tourism value chain.” The article thus proposes lines of thought in the development of sustainable products and services and sustainable tourism for each of the 17 SDGs. Happy reading!

Our projects

Planning for the future for a more inclusive and eco-responsible destination

Outaouais Tourism has revised its strategic plan for 2023-2027 after a complex pandemic period. Touriscope was mandated to support them in the development of this plan. The process consisted of three steps: analysis of the issues, collective thinking, and organizational transformation. By organizing interactive workshops, interviews and a member survey, a complete picture was available to develop their plan. The strategic plan, unveiled in June 2023, defines priority actions in line with current challenges. It places inclusiveness, innovation and eco-responsibility at the forefront. Tourism players in the Outaouais region are committed to making the region an essential destination, supporting these values. Thanks to Julie Kinnear, Director General, and to the Board of Directors for their confidence in this approach towards more sustainable and inclusive tourism.

Our services

Use our services for your opportunity studies

Maximize your success with our expertise. We can help you carry out an in-depth analysis that will assess your development opportunities and identify the most promising ones for your organization or destination. Learn more about our services here