Prohibiting certain activities often seems like the only course of action when we discuss sustainability. However, banning things can often do harm in a different way, alienating many travelers. Therefore, we must focus on innovation and sustainable technology to create a sustainable future for all.
Transportation and carbon footprint Transportation is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gases. Whether it’s flying, taking the bus or train, or using your car, you are emitting poisonous carbon dioxide. Thankfully, there has been a great deal of innovation in the transportation industry. For example, United Airlines announced plans to use biofuel, while the world’s first battery powered plane recently flew from London to Zurich.
We are also seeing growth in demand for electric transportation, whether it’s Tesla’s electric cars or the introduction of electric buses and trains. Startups like Eccocar are trying to “reinvent” mobility, making it easier for tourists to get around in a sustainable manner. Zeleros is creating a sustainable train called the “Hyperloop,” which it claims is “five to 10 times more energy efficient than an airplane.” These startups are making it easier for tourists to use different modes of transportation that are sensitive to carbon emissions. Another important aspect is how to encourage tourists to actually use public transportation when they are in a foreign country. Taxis and Uber-style companies are often convenient for many. However, a Finnish startup has just created Whim, an app that allows you to get to know a country’s entire transportation system on the platform. Tourists do not need to purchase different tickets or struggle to get around.
Hotels
Another interesting innovation is the “Flying Nest” created by AccorHotels. This is a traveling hotel that goes with the tourist: small rooms that have been created to be completely sustainable, from the materials down to the actual structure. The Flying Nest is as comfortable as a regular hotel room, with the advantages of mobility and complete sustainability.
We are also seeing growth in demand for electric transportation, whether it’s Tesla’s electric cars or the introduction of electric buses and trains. Startups like Eccocar are trying to “reinvent” mobility, making it easier for tourists to get around in a sustainable manner. Zeleros is creating a sustainable train called the “Hyperloop,” which it claims is “five to 10 times more energy efficient than an airplane.” These startups are making it easier for tourists to use different modes of transportation that are sensitive to carbon emissions. Another important aspect is how to encourage tourists to actually use public transportation when they are in a foreign country. Taxis and Uber-style companies are often convenient for many. However, a Finnish startup has just created Whim, an app that allows you to get to know a country’s entire transportation system on the platform. Tourists do not need to purchase different tickets or struggle to get around.
Experiences
There are several interesting examples of how startups are creating sustainable experiences for tourists. These include setting up virtual tours and launching initiatives to encourage staycations nearby. A great example is Road.Travel, a company that lets clients customize short road trips to destinations close by. Looked after by locals to help encourage sustainable living, Greenways Poland provides tourist-friendly trails within the Slavic country.
DUNCAN FRASER-SMITH
Founder
The Cutting Edge Agency
