A personal reflection on driving, sustainability, and all the small choices that matter. I don’t know what it’s like where you live. Maybe you’re in a city where buses come every ten minutes, where bike lanes are everywhere, and owning a car isn’t really needed. But in many parts of the world, […]
All about SPECIAL SUSTAINABILITY 2024
12 posts
Skal Europe: Bertrand, cruising has often been seen as a major polluter. How is the industry addressing sustainability? Bertrand Petyt: It’s true, cruising does impact the environment. However, the industry is leading in innovative sustainable practices. Although we represent a small fraction of the global fleet, around 80% of maritime sustainable innovations […]
As the corporate travel market in Europe increasingly prioritizes Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) compliance, small, often family-run hotels face the challenge of aligning with these new standards. This shift towards ESG compliance is not merely a trend but a regulatory and market-driven necessity. For small hotels, embracing ESG principles offers a […]
A Comprehensive Cost Analysis of Water Scarcity and Its Impacts on Tourism and Agriculture Alarm in Various European Regions: Scarcity of Rain and Depleting Reservoirs The European Drought Observatory (EDO) and the European Environment Agency (EEA) highlight several countries that are particularly vulnerable to drought conditions. Spain, Portugal, France, Germany, Greece, and […]
Renewable energy has become a cornerstone of sustainable development in Europe, as countries and businesses strive to reduce their carbon footprints and combat climate change. Among the various renewable energy sources, geothermal energy stands out due to its consistent availability and minimal environmental impact. This article explores the use of geothermal energy […]
Improving energy efficiency in the buildings of the European tourism industry is crucial for reducing environmental impact and operating costs. This article examines the required investments, relevant EU regulations and financing options, the specific challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in holiday destinations, strategies for SMEs to overcome these challenges, […]
The European tourism industry, heavily reliant on air, ground, and sea transport, significantly contributes to climate change. This article delves into the environmental impact of these transportation modes, highlights the initiatives by companies to mitigate their emissions, and presents both the challenges and advancements in making tourism more sustainable. It also addresses […]
When a Global Network helps in times of crisis. A mother’s desperate cry for help in Sweden through social media led to an incredible chain reaction. Her son, who was in my daughter’s parallel class in high school, was in a terrible traffic accident in Thailand and urgently needed blood. His blood […]
Introduction Climate change is a pressing reality with profound impacts on various sectors, including tourism. As Europe grapples with increasing temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns, and rising sea levels, the tourism industry faces substantial economic challenges. Among these, the escalating cost of insurance for tourism-related businesses is significant. This article delves into the […]
We received and published this economic research by Vicepresident Paolo Bartolozzi about the challenges for the European tourism industry, knowing that the Paris Treaty temperature limits are already overcome. The discourse on sustainable tourism practices within the Skal Europe Area Committee reflects a multifaceted approach to addressing the challenges posed by climate […]
In the heart of the tourism industry lies a paradox: while our travels connect us with the world and its diverse cultures, they also contribute to the environmental challenges we face today. For us at Skål, the world’s largest organization for tourism professionals, this dilemma is particularly pronounced. Many of us spend […]
Rethinking Portion Sizes for Sustainability It was a sunny afternoon when we decided to have lunch at a newly opened restaurant in town, known for its innovative cuisine and charming decor. With a light hunger and a strong desire not to contribute to unnecessary food waste, I thought it would be the […]