Sustainable Tourism Practices/Sustainability and Tourism

Sustainability and Tourism


Sustainability is a popular yet complex word that is often banded around freely, but what does it actually mean? Here are a few definitions:

"Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs" (Brundtland, 1987)

Reference: Brundtland, G. H. (1987). Our Common Future. Oxford: Oxford University Press

“Every human has a fundamental right to an environment of quality that permits a life of dignity and well-being” - United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, Stockholm

''Sustainability is often perceived as a complex concept to understand and it can be hard for businesses to discover the benefits it offers. In essence, sustainability is about meeting the needs of today, without adversely impacting on the needs of tomorrow. As a term it can be applied across a range of areas, such as the environment, society and the economy.'' Ministry of Environment

Toitü he whenua, whatungarongaro he tangata. Translation: Land is permanent, man disappears

In general sustainability means the capacity to endure.

What is sustainable tourism? How does it work?