Climate Change News | eTurboNews is Travel Industry News

How Tourism Will Beat Plastic Pollution on World Environment Day

Dmytro Makarov — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 18:01:19 +0000

The theme for World Environment Day in 2023 is “Beat Plastic Pollution,” against the background of some 400 million tonnes of plastic produced yearly, half designed to be used only once.

The WTN Chairman Juergen Steinmetz said: ” Speaking for many SMEs in our 132 member countries. The World Tourism Network supports the initiative headed by SUNX Malta and Professor Geoffrey Lipman, who has led our initiatives on Climate Change and sustainable tourism development.”

Professor Geoffrey Lipman said: “At SUN^x Malta, in solidarity and partnership with the World Tourism Network and ICTP, we are adopting a sub-theme to our 2030 Strategy that tracks IPCC Targets and building a responsive Plastics initiative to support our Community Members.

“Our Strategy now incorporates a call for peaking of plastic use in 2025, cutting by half in 2030 and Zero Plastics in 2050.“

IATA said: “Aviation wants to be carbon neutral by 2050.”

Lipman continued: “To support this, we are creating a CFT Plastics Reduction Initiative with our Members and Partners who specialize in this work – Common Seas, Serious Business, Travel without Plastic, and the Blue Community, who are global players in the Circular Economy, Plastic Elimination, and Waste Management.

“We will introduce the initiative through selected Chapters, supported by Climate Friendly Travel Services, later this year. It is part of our broader “Peak Emissions by 2025 Program.”

“SUN^x is reaching out to the leadership of the Travel & Tourism sector to act on the latest IPCC Report (6th Assessment 2022), which called for three clear actions to have any chance of stabilizing global temperatures at Paris 1.5 by mid-century:

2025 Peak GHG Emissions
2030 Cut by 43%
2050 Net Zero

“It is a fact that many of the leading Travel & Tourism organizations & companies have firmly committed to the 2030 / 2050 goals – epitomized by the Glasgow Declaration.

But what happened to 2025?

Prof.Geoffrey Lipman

“Who in the tourism sector has even recognized the IPCC science-based call that says any mid- and long-term goals depend on facing the harsh realities now and setting a 2025 peaking ambition? Who wants even to try to bend our trend?

“How many floods, wildfires, ice melts, and deaths will it take for tourism to act now – not in 7 years?

“It is a massive challenge for every tourism stakeholder, and aviation is a hard-to-abate sector. But during COVID, we faced up to that challenge because there was no alternative. Now we have a chance to prepare – and time to get our act together.”

SUN^x Malta is a not-for-profit, EU-based organization partnered with the government of Malta that has created a unique, low-cost system to help Travel & Tourism companies and communities transform to the New Climate Economy.

The SUN^xMalta “Green & Clean, Climate Friendly Travel System” is Action and Education focused – supporting today’s companies and communities to deliver on their proclaimed ambitions and encouraging tomorrow’s young leaders to prepare for rewarding careers across the sector.

The World Tourism Network emerged from the COVID crisis with its “rebuilding.travel” discussion and currently has members in 132 countries. At the World Tourism Network, members are associated. Associates include SMEs, larger private sector leaders, and public travel sector representatives.

Aviation: Critical Steps Needed to Fly Net Zero by 2050

Juergen T Steinmetz — Sun, 04 Jun 2023 15:57:35 +0000

eTurboNews:

These roadmaps address aircraft technology, energy infrastructure, operations, finance, and policy considerations leading to net zero.

By adopting a Long Term Aspirational Goal (LTAG) at ICAO’s 41st Assembly, governments and industry are aligned to reach the same net zero CO2 emissions goal by 2050. As policy initiatives lay the foundation for many needed innovations and actions, these roadmaps will be a critical reference point for policymakers.

“The roadmaps are the first detailed assessment of the key steps necessary to accelerate the transition to net zero by 2050. Together, they show a clear direction and will evolve as we dig deeper to set interim milestones on the way to net zero. I must emphasize that roadmaps are not just for airlines. Governments, suppliers, and financiers cannot be spectators in aviation’s decarbonization journey. They have skin in the game. The roadmaps are a call to action for all aviation’s stakeholders to deliver the tools needed to make this fundamental transformation of aviation a success with policies and products fit for a net-zero world,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

The roadmaps were not developed in isolation. A peer-to-peer review, complemented by a modeling tool provided by the Air Transportation Systems Laboratory at University College London (UCL), was conducted to calculate emission reductions for each technology.

Highlights of each roadmap include:

Aircraft Technology: the development of more efficient aircraft and engines. The steps needed to enable aircraft powered by 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), hydrogen, or batteries are particularly important. All development milestones are backed up by announced investment and demonstrator programs. Also included are new engines, aerodynamics, aircraft structures, and flight systems.
Energy and New Fuels Infrastructure: the focus is on the fuels and new energy carrier infrastructure upstream from airports needed to facilitate the use of aircraft powered by SAF or hydrogen. Renewable energy plays a vital role in meeting the aviation sector’s energy demand, and the roadmap outlines milestones to enable the necessary infrastructure developments.
Operations: the opportunities for reducing emissions and improving energy efficiency by improving how existing aircraft are operated. Automation, big data management, and the integration of new technologies are key enablers for optimizing air traffic management and enhancing the overall efficiency of the air transportation system.
Policy: the need for globally aligned strategic policies to provide incentives and support for the aviation industry’s transition to a net-zero future. As with all other successful energy transitions, collaboration between governments and industry stakeholders is crucial in creating the necessary framework to achieve the decarbonization goals.
Finance: how to finance the cumulative $5 trillion needed for aviation to achieve net zero by 2050. This includes technological advancements, infrastructure developments, and operational improvements.

The challenges to ramp up SAF production are a good illustration of the importance of these roadmaps. As a drop-in solution, SAF is expected to deliver about 62% of carbon mitigation needed to achieve net zero by 2050. But even though SAF is expected to be fully implementable with future aircraft fleets, it still has major inter-dependencies on policy, aircraft technology, energy infrastructure, financing, and operations for which these roadmaps are critical.

“The roadmaps show where all stakeholders should focus their efforts. There are two certainties. By 2050 we need to be at net zero carbon emissions. And the steps to get there that are outlined in these roadmaps will evolve as the industry’s expertise grows. The policy is particularly important early on as it largely sets the scene for private sector investors to move. With that, the private sector can decarbonize at scale and speed,” said Marie Owens Thomsen, SVP of Sustainability and Chief Economist at IATA.

“Without the right policy incentives and bold investments, many of the technologies and innovations simply won’t happen at scale. Everything is related, and that is why we have the five roadmaps to tie all the parallel elements together and give our stakeholders, including governments, a complete understanding of everything that needs to happen,” said Owens Thomsen.

“Time is of the essence, as highlighted by these roadmaps. Immediate action is required to commercialize scalable zero-carbon energy storage solutions along with the required infrastructure and to build a business case for their rapid delivery at Gigawatt scale,” said Prof. Andreas Schafer, Director of UCL’s Air Transport Systems Laboratory.

Saudi Arabia to Promote Tourism to the Bahamas

Juergen T Steinmetz — Thu, 25 May 2023 16:04:53 +0000

eTurboNews:

At the World Travel and Tourism Council summit in Riyadh in November, Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis took the first step by looking at the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for tourism cooperation and investment.

A memorandum of understanding between the Ministry of Tourism Bahamas and the Government of Saudi Arabia was signed.

A private investment conference was organized after the WTTC Summit by the Bahamas together with Jamaica, Barbados, and Grenada in an event at the Intercontinental Hotel in Riyadh.

The idea of visa-free travel between participating countries and Saudi Arabia was discussed.

Last week Prime Minister Philip Davis and senior government officials held a bilateral meeting with Saudi Government representatives to discuss the second step.

His Excellency Ahmed bin Aqil al-Khateeb, Saudi Minister of Tourism, conveyed the Saudi Government’s congratulations on The Bahamas’ 50th Independence.

The meeting emphasized the progress achieved since establishing diplomatic ties between The Bahamas and Saudi Arabia. Prime Minister Davis and Minister al-Khateeb acknowledged the positive impact of these relations and explored opportunities for further collaboration.

Bahamas Prime Minister Davis supported Saudi Arabia as they gear up to host the World Expo 2030, reflecting a spirit of mutual respect and shared aspirations for global community engagement. This support aligns with the decision of the CARICOM Heads of Government as a regional bloc.

The discussion also revolved around the Saudi Government’s newly created investment fund for the Caribbean. Prime Minister Davis welcomed this initiative as a significant step towards advancing infrastructure development in The Bahamas and the wider Caribbean region.

Both sides are nearing the final stages of discussions on funding major infrastructure projects in The Bahamas.

The Saudi Government agreed to promote The Bahamas as a tourism destination in Saudi Arabia, encouraging increased travel and cultural exchange between the two countries.

Saudi Arabia is a leading voice on climate change and a strong advocate for The Bahamas and its people.

Take a Train: Short-Haul Flights Now Banned in France

Harry Johnson — Wed, 24 May 2023 19:24:08 +0000

eTurboNews:

The government of France published a new decree banning short-haul flights on some domestic routes that are possible to travel by train in two and a half hours or less.

As a result of new regulation, dozens of daily flights between Paris and regional hubs like Nantes, Lyon, or Bordeaux, will be terminated, making short-haul travel ecologically cleaner, but longer for the passengers.

For example, a trip from Paris to Bordeaux will now take two and a half hours by train vs. one hour and fifteen minutes by air.

The ban will initially only affect Paris to Nantes, Paris to Lyon and Paris to Bordeaux routes, as trains between other domestic locations were deemed insufficiently frequent.

According to government officials, new regulation was designed help avert climate change and has been approved by the European Commission.

“[This] is a major step forward in the policy of reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” Transport Minister Clement Beaune said in a press release. “I am proud that France is a pioneer in this area.”

The ban was first introduced in France’s 2021 Climate Law, after it was proposed by a citizen’s assembly tasked with coming up with ways of reducing carbon emissions. It was bitterly contested by airlines and by the Union of French Airports, who argued that it infringes on EU freedom of movement rights.

The European Commission sided with the French government, ruling that member states may, “where there are serious environmental problems… limit or refuse the exercise of traffic rights.”

The Union of French Airports downplayed the environmental benefit of the ban, stating earlier this year that it would eliminate only 0.23% of France’s air transport emissions. Climate activists cited a similar figure to argue that the ban does not go far enough, while other critics argued that travelers will be just as likely to take their cars instead of the train, resulting in a net increase in carbon emissions.

The ban does not affect private flights, which account for dramatically more carbon per passenger than commercial routes. Beaune said last month that the government would introduce a climate surcharge for private fliers from next year, but Green politicians have called for an outright ban.

Boeing Launches “Cascade” to Support Net ZeroGoal

Harry Johnson — Wed, 17 May 2023 19:08:22 +0000

eTurboNews:

In support of commercial aviation’s path toward net zero carbon emissions, Boeing today released the Boeing Cascade Climate Impact Model for public use.

Cascade, a data modeling tool that identifies the effects of a range of sustainability solutions to reduce aviation’s carbon emissions, is accessible on Boeing’s new Sustainable Aerospace Together hub.

Cascade examines the full life cycle of alternate energy sources for aviation – from production through distribution and use – and quantifies the ability to cut aviation’s carbon emissions. Data modeling also measures airplane fleet renewal, operational efficiency, renewable energy sources, future aircraft and market-based measures as pathways to decarbonization.

“We created Cascade to serve as an industry tool that creates a common framework among aviation, energy, finance and policy,” said Boeing Chief Sustainability Officer Chris Raymond. “By putting data first and sharing this model with the public, we are enabling collaboration, feedback and alignment across industry, government and others who work together to achieve a more sustainable aerospace future.”

Key findings from Cascade’s assessments include:

• The journey to net zero is dependent on the overall energy transition. Whether using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), hydrogen or electricity, the energy and emissions associated with the production, distribution and storage of fuels must be minimized to achieve the most sustainable outcome.

• SAF will be the biggest contributor to reducing carbon emissions because it can be used in commercial airplanes flying today – both new and old. Since many jets flying today will be in service into and even beyond the 2040s, it is imperative to abate their emissions with SAF.

• While electric- and potentially hydrogen-powered aircraft will emerge in future decades, their contribution to emissions reduction will likely be limited through 2050 due to long timeframes for development and deployment and the magnitude of related infrastructure changes for airports and pipelines.

• Renewing fleets with best-in-class, fuel-efficient airplanes will significantly reduce emissions in coming years.

“Cascade helps airline operators, industry partners and policymakers see when, where and how different fuel sources affect their sustainability goals,” said Neil Titchener, Cascade Program Leader. “Our industry has really hard questions ahead of us, we’re going to have to make difficult choices. Cascade can be the conversation starter for how each decarbonization pathway can help us reach a more sustainable future.”

Boeing announced the public release of Cascade at its first Sustainable Aerospace Together Forum, a conference convening leaders from commercial aviation, government and the energy and finance sectors. The event was streamed by FT Live and recorded sessions will be made available following the event.

Boeing also introduced the Cascade User Community, a working group that will provide feedback on new features, functionalities and application programming interfaces. The founding members of the Community are IATA, NASA, University of Cambridge’s Aviation Impact Accelerator and the MIT Laboratory for Aviation and the Environment.

“The Cascade User Community will ensure the tool and data sources continue to get feedback and evolve for informed and effective discussions towards achieving net zero emissions by 2050,” said Raymond.

In addition to hosting Cascade, the Sustainable Aerospace Together website provides resources and industry insights on aviation pathways to decarbonization.

Zeal Hotels Signs with IHG Hotels & Resorts

Harry Johnson — Tue, 16 May 2023 15:50:59 +0000

eTurboNews:

Zeal Hotels has signed an Exclusivity Agreement with IHG Hotels & Resort for their first net zero carbon hotel.

The hotel will be both companies’ first lifecycle net zero carbon hotel. Aligned with the UK Green Building Council’s framework definition of net zero carbon buildings, it is set to open next year.

The group recently obtained detailed planning permission for the 142-bedroom hotel and construction is due to begin in July. The property is aiming for a minimum BREEAM rating of Excellent, with a target of Outstanding and will feature a meeting room, restaurant, bar, gym, gardens, and numerous car charging points.

Tim Wheeldon, managing director, Zeal Hotels, said: “This is the result of Team Zeal’s passion to create a sustainable and repeatable hotel concept and IHG has been at the forefront of sustainability in the hotel sector. We are looking forward to sharing our knowledge to help move the industry forwards and achieve our net zero carbon targets together. It is our ambition to accelerate the net zero carbon process within the hospitality industry.

“IHG has a compelling global network which will help to spread the Zeal Hotels message and help guests to enjoy their hotel stays free from concerns about their carbon footprint. We want to keep people travelling, keep the sector growing and, more importantly, keep lowering our footprint.”

Karin Sheppard, SVP MD Europe, IHG Hotels & Resorts commented: “Sustainable development is core to how IHG are looking to grow. We know that guests are looking for more sustainable stays and are willing to pay more for them. So I’m really excited to be signing our first lifecycle net zero carbon hotel. It’s a big step in the right direction and I’m confident Zeal Hotels are the right partner for the job.”

The hotel will be managed by Valor Hospitality.

Brian McCarthy, managing director of Valor Hospitality, said: “We are really pleased to be appointed as the management team for this game-changing hotel. To be recognized by Zeal Hotels is a real testament to our track record for being an organization that is a great place to work, driven by our obsession with team member engagement and commercial expertise, and our mission to be the most sustainable hotel management company in the world.

“Adding Zeal’s first net zero carbon hotel to our portfolio shows how far we have come as a team, managing almost 40 hotels in the UK, with over 100 worldwide. This great project takes us into the next step in our growth journey and we’re excited for what’s to come.’’

Tim Wheeldon, managing director, Zeal Hotels, said: “We are thrilled to be working with Valor Hospitality on this exceptional project. Out of a strong field, Valor stood out as the team who could deliver our vision and who, importantly, share our ambitions for a net zero-carbon future for the sector.

“The UK hospitality industry has to reduce its carbon emissions by 66% on 2019 levels by 2030 and this represents a huge challenge for existing and new build hotels. The need for the hotel industry to take action has never been more pressing and the longer we leave it, the harder and more expensive it will be to make a difference.”

Alberta Wildfires out of Control

Juergen T Steinmetz — Sun, 07 May 2023 02:06:17 +0000

eTurboNews:

Welcome to Alberta, where the bold, the adventurous, and the free-spirited come to play. This is the message on Alberta’s Travel website.

As of this afternoon, more than 24,000 individuals have been evacuated from communities throughout north and central Alberta, Canada.

Alberta is one of the thirteen provinces and territories of Canada.

It is part of Western Canada and is one of the three prairie provinces. Alberta is bordered by British Columbia to the west, Saskatchewan to the east, the Northwest Territories (NWT) to the north, and the U.S. state of Montana to the south.

It is one of the only two landlocked provinces in Canada.

Alberta hosted the Artic Winter Games, but the current situation of out-of-control wildfires is nothing compared to the ice, snow, and artic climate.

Alberta has a vibrant tourism industry, and visitors should be aware of the emergency and follow the guidelines set by Canadian authorities.

The Forest Protection Area in Alberta comprises all the polygons that represent the administrative areas established by Forest Protection, Forestry Division of Alberta Agriculture and Forestry, concerned with the prevention and control of damage to forests from fire, insects, disease, and other harmful agents.

The current situation in Alberta

As stated on the Alberta Tourism website, there are 13 wildfires of note in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta.

EWF-031

Wildfire EWF-031 is located 14 km Southeast of Edson; Minnow Lake Provincial Recreation Area has been overrun by the wildfire. It is still classified as out of control at 77,920 hectares.
Alberta Wildfire responds with two dozer groups, two intermediate, and one medium helicopter: one ignition helicopter and air tanker support.

WCU-001 and WCU-002

These wildfires are located in the Evansburg/Entwistle/Wildwood/Hansonville area.
These wildfires are classified as out of control at 8586ha (WCU001) & 2,400 ha (WCU002).
Wildfire WCU-002 is approximately 7 km northwest of Evansburg on both sides of Highway 22, and 3 km north of Highway 16. This wildfire is classified as out of control at 2,700 hectares in size and is 65 percent contained.
There are 80 wildland firefighters, helicopters, and heavy equipment working to control this wildfire.
Airtankers are available if required.
The structural protection unit is on scene and integrating operations with Yellowhead County.
Heavy equipment worked through the night to contain the excursion on the north side of the fire. The fire also crossed established guard on the SW corner; heavy equipment contained that excursion as well.
An evacuation order is in place for residents East of the Pembina.

HWF-030 (Fox Lake)

Wildfire HWF-030 is in the community of Fox Lake. This wildfire is classified as out of control at 16,390 hectares.
There are 70 firefighters, aircraft, and structure protection crews with vehicles, heavy equipment, and helicopters working on this fire. Airtankers are also supporting this wildfire.
The community of Fox Lake has been fully evacuated to the town of High Level.
Alberta Wildfire is actively suppressing this wildfire with the current resources.

HWF-036

This wildfire is located near the Rainbow Lake Community. It is classified as out of control at 2,130 hectares.
Alberta Wildfire is responding with 44 firefighters, heavy equipment, and helicopters.
County has declared a State of Local Emergency and is on an evacuation alert to prepare residents for possible evacuation.

RCU-005

Wildfire RCU-005 is 2 km from the south edge of Drayton Valley. It is classified as out of control at 3,500 hectares.
Alberta Wildfire is responding with 26 wildfire fighters and helicopters to the wildfire. Airtankers will also be supporting the firefighting efforts today. Brazeau County has additional resources to assist with this wildfire.

RWF-034

Wildfire RWF-034 is located near the O’Chiese Reserve. It is classified as out of control at 51,000 hectares.
The Reserve has been put on evacuation alert, and several homes have been evacuated.

GWF-017

Wildfire GWF-017 is located 3 km Southeast of Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation. It is classified as out of control at 1,600 hectares.
There are currently road closures in the area.

GCU-003

This wildfire is located Southwest of Grande Prairie. It is currently classified as out of control at 1,000 hectares.
The County is leading an evacuation around the fire for a 10km radius.
Smoke has impacted the ability to have aircraft responding to this wildfire.

GWF-018

This wildfire is in Clearhills County. It is classified as out of control at 8,500 hectares.
There is heavy equipment working to build a guard around this wildfire.

WWF-023

This wildfire is located in the Fox Creek Area. It is classified as out of control at 15,000 hectares.
There are 16 firefighters, two helicopters, and heavy equipment responding to this wildfire.
An evacuation order was issued on May 6 for people in this area.

SWF-053/058/063 Merged together (Grizzly Complex)

Ministers at ATM Have 2 Agendas: Economy & Climate

Linda Hohnholz, eTN editor — Mon, 01 May 2023 22:05:52 +0000

eTurboNews:

The ATM 2023 event opened with a discussion by ministerial and economic representatives, moderated by Eleni Giokos, Anchor and Correspondent CNN. The line-up of speakers included Sujit Mohanty, Regional Division for the Arab States, United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR); Dr. Abed Al Razzaq Arabiyat, Managing Director, Jordan Tourism Board; and HE Walid Nassar, Minister of Tourism, Lebanon.

The climate crisis was the hot topic during the opening session of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2023 today at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Together, figureheads from he economic and climate sides of the tourism industry spoke about the need to adapt in order to face climate change head on through the implementation of new sustainable policies while at the same time creating funding and support to achieve these goals in tandem with current climate regulations.

According to Sustainable Travel International, tourism creates approximately 8% of global carbon emissions from transport, food and beverage, accommodation, and related goods and services. The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) works closely with governments, the private sector, and stakeholders across the globe to reduce disaster risk, as climate change is leading to more frequent and severe climate-related hazards including floods, heatwaves, hurricanes, and cyclones.

Taking these factors into today’s economic and climate situation, Mohanty said:

“Globally, in the last 20 years, there have been $2.97 trillion in economic losses due to disasters.”

“In turn, the tourism industry loses enormous amounts of money due to these hazards. Therefore the return on investment is clear – invest now to help protect the future.”

Jordan is one of the highest-ranking countries in the region on The Euromonitor Environmental Sustainability Index, and responsible tourism is now a key focus for the nation.

“Educating both businesses and travelers on how they contribute to the carbon footprint is one of our key priorities.”

“In parallel with education, we are offering incentives to hotels, businesses, and other stakeholders to encourage sustainable practices,” said Dr. Arabiyat.

Despite political and economic challenges, Lebanon has attracted a significant number of tourists since 2022. In the summer of last year, Lebanon welcomed two million tourists, a quarter of which were international. As a result of the growth in visitor numbers, rural tourism has seen a boost, an area of tourism which is more sustainable and, therefore, more favorable to the issue of climate change.

Speaking on the growth of rural tourism, HE Nassar said, “The guesthouse sector has grown in the last two to three years in Lebanon, which has been a welcome trend. We have now established a syndicate of over 150 guesthouses, encouraging tourism in more remote areas.”

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME for Arabian Travel Market, said: “The issue of climate change has never been more topical or urgent, and the strategies discussed at today’s opening session provided the perfect launchpad for ATM 2023 as we explore the future of sustainable travel under the theme: Working towards net zero.”

Curtis added: “Over the next three days, we will be hearing from leading voices across diverse segments of the global travel and tourism sector, all aligned on a shared vision to improve the climate change situation and ensure environmental protection.”

More Sessions

Day one of ATM 2023 featured 20 sessions across the Global Stage, Travel Tech Stage, and Sustainability Hub. Other highlights from the day included sessions on Technology: The Enabler of Sustainable Travel, Sustainability in The Travel Industry: Who Pays?, and Enhancing the Customer Experience Through AI. The Sustainable Hospitality Alliance also touched on the importance of protecting the locations, livelihoods and communities in which hotels are based, in the Achieving Net Positive hospitality session.

TIME 2023 Bali is a must-attend for Tourism SMEs in 131 Countries

Juergen T Steinmetz — Mon, 01 May 2023 06:48:12 +0000

eTurboNews:

Today Haiti became the 131st country for the fast-expanding membership base for World Tourism Network. SMEs in travel and tourism matter for WTN.

World Tourism Network wants to make it easy for new members to join the network with membership fees as low as $5.00/ year.

The goal is to bring Small and Medium Size Businesses together with the larger players in travel and tourism and the public sector.

WTN founder and chairman Juergen Steinmetz, who is also the publisher of eTurboNews said:

“World Tourism Network started as Rebuilding.travel in March 2020 to launch the first discussion in the world on COVID and its influence on the global and travel and tourism industry.”

“Our team has been working on a volunteer basis for a little more than 3 years and our young organization aimed to support the Small and Medium size businesses in the world now expanded to 131 countries. We’re so proud.”

“Local chapters are emerging in various parts of the world and are independently working with our global support to make SMEs in tourism matter.

“Our first global WTN summit in Bali, Indonesia, is upcoming.”

Steinmetz added: Besides our summit in Bali, we are also co-hosting the upcoming Himalayan Travel Mart June 6-9 in Kathmandu.

“Our chapter in Bali and Jakarta has been working day and night to prepare for TIME 2023, the first Global Summit by the World Tourism Network,” said Mudi Astutu, Chairwomen of the World Tourism Network.

The WTN Think Tank, Summit, and Business Exchange will take place from September 29- October 1 with the support of The Ministry of Tourism and the Creative Economy of the Republic of Indonesia, who rang the Bell for TIME 2023 in February.

The Bali Tourism Boards and an ever-expanding network of sponsors are trying to get the microphone and participate in the networking offered during TIME 2023.

Delegates from all corners of Indonesia and dozens of countries worldwide will discuss climate change, the advantage and opportunities of operating as an SME, Health and Wellness Tourism, Climate Change, the first Asian Tourism Investment Conference, and a discussion under the leadership by the Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism from Jamaica on Resilience in Travel and Tourism.

A business exchange will bring buyers and sellers together to help destinations access a potential outbound market in Indonesia. Indonesia is the largest country in ASEAN, with 268 Million. Indonesia has the largest number of Muslims of any country in the world.

Bali, with a prominent Hindu population, will be hosting TIME 2023 in cooperation with The Bali Tourism Board, and the National Bank of Indonesia in Bali.

The largest Fam trip ever promoted in WTN will open new doors for the inbound niche markets of the Islands of the Gods and the rest of Indonesia.

Tourism boards from Maldives to Montenegro are invited to showcase their destination to WTN members and the potential Indonesia Outbound market.

More information on TIME 2023 at www.time2023.com

Membership in the World Tourism Network starts from $5 a year.

Lufthansa Airbus A350 Becomes Climate Research Aircraft

Harry Johnson — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 14:49:58 +0000

eTurboNews:

In a globally unique project, the Lufthansa Group and the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) are currently converting the Lufthansa Airbus A350-900 “Erfurt” (registration D-AIXJ) into a flying research laboratory.

Now, an essential project milestone could be reached: For the first time, experts from the Lufthansa Group have attached the measuring probe system developed especially for the project to the lower fuselage of the A350 and successfully tested it in flight.

Lufthansa pilots completed a flight program coordinated with the certification authorities in the airspace over southern Germany. The measuring system now being tested on the aircraft is the most complex of its kind and, in addition to the air inlet function, has sensors for high-frequency and -precision measurement of pressure and temperature. From 2024, the Airbus will collect comprehensive climate data during regular passenger flights for the European research infrastructure IAGOS-CARIBIC.

“We want to make flying more sustainable. That is why we have been supporting climate research for decades. The conversion of our Lufthansa Airbus A350 into a climate research aircraft is a globally unique project in which colleagues from a wide variety of areas at Lufthansa have been working together with partners in science for years. Our aim is to make a valuable contribution to climate research. The data that our aircraft will collect worldwide in the future will help to improve today’s atmospheric and climate models and thus their informative value for the future climate on earth,” says Jens Ritter, CEO Lufthansa Airlines.

Over the next few months, a measurement laboratory weighing around two tons and specially developed for the project will be set up. Some 20 measuring instruments will be installed in the laboratory, which will later be loaded into the cargo hold as a cargo container and connected to the measuring system on the outer fuselage of the aircraft. Next year, this high-tech laboratory will take off for the first time and collect climate data on selected flights in Lufthansa’s worldwide scheduled operations. The laboratory continuously records more than 100 different trace gases, aerosol, and cloud parameters from the ground to the tropopause region at an altitude of nine to thirteen kilometers. What makes it special: Climate-relevant parameters can be recorded at this altitude with significantly higher accuracy and temporal resolution on board the aircraft than would be possible with satellite- or ground-based measurement systems.

“IAGOS-CARIBC helps to close an essential gap in our understanding of the climate system. With the high-precision measurements of many parameters, we can understand which atmospheric processes are changing and how in climate change, in an altitude region where most of the atmospheric radiation budget, i.e., the greenhouse effect, is generated and changed. We can thus identify process-specific errors and their causes in climate models and subsequently improve their predictive capabilities,” says Dr Andreas Zahn of KIT and coordinator of IAGOS-CARIBIC. “We are extremely grateful for Lufthansa’s great commitment and support.”

The conversion of the A350 “Erfurt” into a research laboratory was preceded by a planning and development phase lasting several years. In addition to the Lufthansa Group and KIT, six other companies (Lufthansa Technik, Airbus, Safran, enviscope, Dynatec, and ACC COLUMBIA Jet Service) are involved in the IAGOS-CARIBIC project. The Karlsruhe Institute of Technology also acts as coordinator of a scientific consortium of currently twelve research institutions in Europe and the USA, whose complex measuring instruments will explore the atmosphere in the flying research laboratory. The abbreviation IAGOS stands for “In-service Aircraft for a Global Observing System” and CARIBIC for “Civil Aircraft for the Regular Investigation of the atmosphere Based on an Instrument Container”.

The Lufthansa Group has been committed to climate and weather research for almost 30 years now and has equipped several aircraft with measuring instruments since then. From December 2004 to 2020, a Lufthansa Airbus A340-600 (registration D-AIHE) has already completed around 500 measurement flights in the service of climate and atmospheric research as part of the CARIBIC project.

Climate Friendly Travel Youth Summit 2023

Juergen T Steinmetz — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 05:03:59 +0000

eTurboNews:

World Tourism Network Chairman Juergen Steinmetz announced he was proud to partner with WTN member SUNx Malta. SunX invites members and eTurboNews readers to register for the Third Climate Friendly Travel Youth Summit “SEYS 3”.

This virtual event is live streamed on eTurboNews, YouTube, and other partners from Malta, taking place on April 27th, 2023, from 15:00 – 17:00 CEST (Central European Time), or 9.00-11.00 EST, 21.00-23.00 Singapore/ China.

SunX is under the leadership of Professor Geoffrey Lipman. He explained

The Youth Summit will discuss, and aims..

– To strengthen the “Clean & Green” spirit that Maurice Strong showed half a century ago when he launched the UN Climate & Sustainability Framework.
– To highlight the role of young leaders in building a globally Climate Friendly Travel System
– To reaffirm our Pledge to support the World’s Poorest States in Climate Resilience and Emission Reduction.
– To launch the 2023 Strong Earth Awards to be presented at “Shiftin” Les Roches Switzerland

SEYS is an annual tribute to Maurice Strong, climate activist for over 50 years and Secretary General of the first “Earth Summit” in 1972 and the second Earth Summit in 1992.

The event, organized by SUNx Malta (Strong Universal Network), will highlight the need for a clean and green future for the tourism sector, following Maurice’s vision, Paris 1.5, and the SDGs.

Speakers include:

Leslie Vella, Mossadeck Bally, Jocelin Favre Bulle, Prof. Geoffrey Lipman, Ged Brown, Maud Kisiwaya, Hans Friederich, Bo Pellech, Felix Dodds, Alain St. Ange, Juergen Steinmetz among others.

Registration wtn.travel/seys3/

Seychelles to Be Part of Local2030 Islands Network Solutions

Linda Hohnholz, eTN editor — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 21:27:39 +0000

eTurboNews:

Local2030 Islands Network is the world’s first global island-led peer-to-peer network devoted to advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through locally driven solutions. The Network provides a peer-to-peer platform for engagement among and between islands to share experiences, spread knowledge, raise ambition, promote solidarity, and identify and implement best practice solutions.

The Network brings together a diverse set of island nations, states, and communities from all regions of the world — islands connected through shared island experiences, cultures, and vision. It provides island leaders and experts from across jurisdictions to meet as peers, working to develop and share innovative homegrown solutions that can change the world.

Seychelles is honored to have been asked to be part of this important initiative.

This Network is devoted to addressing the climate crisis by advancing the Sustainable Development Goals through culturally informed solutions. Through this initiative, islands are uniquely positioned to lead in the global effort in achieving a more resilient future for island Earth.

Local2030 is a network and platform that supports the on-the-ground delivery of the SDGs, with a focus on those furthest behind. It is a convergence point between local and regional governments and their associations, national governments, businesses, community-based organizations and other local actors, and the United Nations system.

About Seychelles

Seychelles lies northeast of Madagascar, an archipelago of 115 islands with roughly 98,000 citizens. Seychelles is a melting pot of many cultures which have commingled and coexisted since the first settlement of the islands in 1770. The three main inhabited islands are Mahé, Praslin and La Digue and the official languages are English, French, and Seychellois Creole.

The islands reflect Seychelles’ grand diversity, like a great family, both large and small, each one with its own distinct character and personality. There are 115 islands scattered across 1,400,000 sq km of ocean with the islands falling into 2 categories: 41 “inner” granitic islands that form the backbone of Seychelles’ tourism offerings with their wide suite of services and amenities, most of which are readily accessible through a selection of day trips and excursions, and the remoter “outer” coral islands where at least an overnight stay is essential.

More news about Seychelles

Hotels Offer Eco-Friendly Experiences

Harry Johnson — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 18:53:09 +0000

eTurboNews:

In this world of climate change and threatened environments, regenerative travel has become a necessity. From the Indian Ocean to the river Seine, these hotels are destinations for those seeking luxurious surroundings with the environment in mind.

Sun Siyam Resorts-Maldives

Reflecting the values at the heart of the company, the Sun Siyam Cares program was developed to care for the earth, but also for the community and the people within and around the organization. They are committed to the preservation of local heritage and sustainability, and the group works together with the local islands to protect various species and engage in activities such as coral planting and bio-farming. Guests can actively “make a difference” and leave the stunning Maldives knowing that they had the experience of a lifetime, but also made a difference.

For example, guests can actively join the resort’s biodiversity conservation program with in-house marine biologists, to assist in the creation and restoration of new coral reefs in the lagoon. Led by Thuhu, lead Marine Biologist at Siyam World, guests work together to collect damaged coral and replant it on metal frames.

Visitors enjoy learning from her and watching her work, leaving further inspired to know that their work made an impact in protecting marine life for future generations. The Farm Island at Iru Veli property, called Llohi, is a place where guests can meet the farmers and learn about the produce grown that consists of over 38 varieties of fruits and vegetables that are supplied to the resorts.

With five resorts dotted across the Maldives, and one soon to reopen in Sri Lanka, Sun Siyam Resorts offers unforgettable experiences and affordable luxury for couples, families, watersport enthusiasts and travelers who are looking to make an impact. From the biggest floating water park to the first horse ranch in the Maldives, to stunning overwater villas with slides into the ocean, a floating platform, romantic dining experience, the world’s first underwater jet pack in collaboration with Cudajet, and premium, all-inclusive dining and beverage packages, Sun Siyam Resorts is truly distinct and in a category all their own.

B. Signature Hotels-Paris & St. Barth

The B. Signature Paris portfolio includes boutique hotels Hôtel Montalembert and Hôtel Bel Ami, both located on the Left Bank and on the Right Bank the Hôtel Vernet, Hôtel de Sers and Hôtel Edouard 7. Each has its own personality and all are known for their exceptional service and international clientele. B. Signature Hotels also has two luxury resort properties, Domaine de la Bretesche in Brittany and Hôtel Manapany in St. Barth.

In 2016, owner Anne Jousse was joined by her daughter, Agathe, as Director of Sales and Marketing. Together, mother and daughter continue the family legacy which includes an eco-responsible approach to goods and services in all of their hotels.

B. Signature Hotels have taken an authentic and eco-responsible approach to managing and controlling environmental issues while maintaining the expectations of their clientele.

At B. Signature, respect for the planet has always been at the heart of their concerns and priorities. They care as much about the well-being of their customers as about their impact on the environment.

Their commitment starts with their teams and management. B. Signature Hotels are always striving to improve practices and looking for new solutions. This means sorting and managing waste, water and energy. They no longer utilize paper documents, bottles, cups or plastic cutlery in their establishments. They only print the strictly necessary documents and use recycled paper. and ink cartridges.

The new Net Zero Luxury Travel Mega Project Saudi Arabia Style

Juergen T Steinmetz — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 05:35:11 +0000

eTurboNews:

Especially in Saudi Arabia, one Mega Tourism Project after the other makes the Saudi Kingdom a tourism country of unlimited possibilities.

Travel and Tourism response to climate change, net zero, and a luxury travel trend are getting added to the unlimited possibilities.

61% of Saudi Arabia, the Gulf Region, and the Middle East residents say they are willing to pay a premium for more responsible, eco-friendly, sustainable tourism experiences.

In luxury travel post-pandemic, one in 10 consumers has stayed in luxury eco-friendly accommodation during the past three years.

This is especially prevalent among high-income travelers, whose sustainable luxury hotel stays have increased by 50% during the same period, according to a study by ATM.

In the Middle East, Gulf, and Saudi region, travel has become more important since the Covid-19 pandemic.

Regarding luxury travel priorities, a quarter of those living in the region are looking for great entertainment, whereas 19% place the most significant emphasis on premium-quality accommodation when booking trips.

The Middle East has developed an unparalleled international reputation for luxury tourism, with consumers across the region placing a high value on bespoke, memorable, and environmentally responsible experiences.

Quietly in Saudi Arabia, HE Ahmed Al-Khateeb, the Minister of Tourism for the Kingdom, headed by his top special advisor HE Gloria Guevara has been working tirelessly towards net zero in tourism with a new initiative in the making.

This initiative was started last year and is currently known as the Sustainable Tourism Global Center (STGC).

A dream team has been working behind the scenes in the Ministry of Tourism in Riyadh to bring forward a new mega project that will change the world’s future of travel and tourism.

It’s designed to make net zero for the sector a reality and tremendously contribute to small and medium-sized businesses and the sector’s future leaders, the youth.

It includes personalities such as Qusai Al-Fakhri, the CEO of the Saudi Tourism Development Fund, Fahd Hamidaddin, the CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority, and Princess Haifa Al Saud, the Kingdom’s deputy minister of tourism.

Parallel HE Gloria Guevara convinced an international group of global expert consultants in tourism, financing, and marketing to become the extended arm of this dream team.

Experts include two former former prime ministers, former ministers of tourism, a former CEO of WTTC and leading personalities in today’s global travel and tourism world.

Saudi Arabia will be ready soon to introduce the concept run by the strongest team this sector has to show.

The upcoming Arabian Travel Market in Dubai next month will demonstrate that in addition to sustainable luxury travel, consumers’ appetite for authentic excursions is also rising within this segment.

Over half (51%) of affluent tourists have sought more meaningful travel experiences since the pandemic, and more than a quarter (27%) are willing to pay extra for secluded villas and chalets.

These figures coincide with growth across the Middle East, Gulf, and Saudi Arabia travel industry.

By 2028, the value of Saudi Arabia’s outbound travel industry is on course to hit $27 billion and will lead the region soon.

Kuwait is expected to grow to $17 billion, Qatar is likely to exceed $13 billion, and the UAE citizens spend $30.5 billion.

Having officially initiated its journey to net zero, innovative sustainable travel trends will likely evolve, allowing it to identify growth strategies within vital vertical sectors.

Experts are exploring a sustainable future ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference, known as COP28, which will take place in November 2023 at Expo City Dubai.

Net Zero in Tourism is Young, Dynamic, and Has a Dream Team

Juergen T Steinmetz — Sun, 09 Apr 2023 22:28:15 +0000

eTurboNews:

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has acknowledged that youth activists are “at the forefront of efforts to secure a more inclusive, peaceful, and prosperous future for all.”

This was recently echoed when a group of experts met in Jeddah to discuss the Sustainable Tourism Global Center (STGC), a new and soon-to be finalized global initiative based in Riyadh.

STGC was first announced in 2022 and is a movement in the making under HE Ahmed Al-Khateeb, the Minister of Tourism for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, headed by his top special advisor HE Gloria Guevara. Guevara was the former CEO of WTTC and Minister of Tourism in Mexico. She brought together an international dream team of experts to make this dynamic project a reality for a better world.

In India, climate Crusader Ridhima Pandey is paving the way towards a sustainable future in her country. She says she has “learned a lot about the negligence of climate change in India.”

In a new interview with Ved Sanyal from Net Zero, 15-year-old Ridhima Pandey discusses her journey as an environmental activist and her pioneering work in litigation for inaction on climate change.

Pandey made global headlines when she sued the Indian government for not upholding its commitments under the Paris Agreement.

She is also one of 16 climate activists to file a complaint against several governments at the UN.

As one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and most biodiverse nations, India has a crucial role in conservation and protecting the environment.

“When you see the work, actions, and decisions the government is taking, it’s the opposite. The Indian government has to step forward and start working towards conservation,” says Pandey, who acknowledges that change is difficult.

“This is a process that will take time because we need more and more people to do it,” she adds.

The Planet Classroom Network, organized by CMRubinWorld, brings together musicians, dancers, video game creators, filmmakers, activists, learning innovators, and emerging technologists worldwide to entertain, educate and engage youth and to provide a rich cultural experience for all.

The content showcased for youth and by youth on the Planet Classroom Network is provided by 30 cultural organizations worldwide.

Young people globally played a significant role in conceptualizing, creating, and producing the network’s vision and programming.

In association with Planet Classroom, the Protect Our Planet Movement has launched the acclaimed Net Zero video and podcast series.

In this series, 24 young climate activists from the Protect Our Planet (POP) Movement in association with Planet Classroom ask international thought leaders working on the environment the big questions as to how their nations are progressing towards their 2050 Net Zero pledges.

The Protect Our Planet (POP) Movement is an initiative designed to address the urgent need to share information and knowledge with the youth on solutions to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the UN, mitigate climate change, and adapt to its growing impacts.

Intended to ultimately reach the size, scale, and momentum to become a global movement, POP mobilizes the youth worldwide to take collective action to mitigate climate change and protect threatened ecosystems.

WHAT

Net Zero is a video and podcast series in which youth leaders from the POP (Protect Our Planet) Movement, in association with the Planet Classroom, track the progress being made by international thought leaders to achieve Net Zero by 2050.

HOW

United Invests $5 Million in Carbon Capture Company

Harry Johnson — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 16:44:08 +0000

eTurboNews:

United today announced its $5 million investment in carbon capture technology company Svante, who provides materials and technology as part of the value chain that has the potential to convert CO2 removed from the atmosphere and from industrial emission sources into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This is the latest announced investment from the new UAV Sustainable Flight FundSM, a first-of-its-kind investment vehicle that is designed to leverage support from cross-industry businesses in order to support start-ups focused on decarbonizing air travel through SAF research, technology and production.

The airline aims to be 100% green by reducing its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions 100% by 2050, without relying on traditional carbon offsets. To date, United has invested in the future production of over three billion gallons of SAF – the most of any airline in the world.

“Carbon capture technology has the potential to be a critical solution in the fight to stop climate change and has the added benefit of helping us scale the production of SAF,” said United CEO Scott Kirby. “And at United we’re building on that approach by investing in both companies that can capture CO2 and others that can turn it into fuel. There’s no question that this carbon utilization is in its infancy today, but as a leader in sustainable flying we must help build the foundation to deploy this technology of the future as expediently as possible. This is truly a global imperative, and United’s investment in Svante reflects our dedication to making sustainable travel a reality.”

This investment was made as part of Svante’s Series E financing round and will fund and support Svante’s commercial-scale filter manufacturing facility in Vancouver, BC, Canada. Svante is working with world-leading organizations around the world, including Dimensional Energy, a carbon utilization – CO2 to jet fuel – company that United Airlines Ventures invested in last year.

“We are pleased to have the support of United Airlines as one of our world-class investors,” said Claude Letourneau, Svante’s President & CEO. “The airline industry has a huge opportunity to make a big impact on global decarbonization – battling climate change through the transition to sustainable aviation fuels and other innovative technologies that will help the world achieve net zero. Their investment in companies like ours will aid in accelerating the commercialization of carbon capture and removal technology.”

Svante is a leader in second generation solid sorbent-based carbon capture and removal. The company’s scalable, eco-friendly, and commercially available carbon capture and removal technology employs structured absorbent beds, known as filters. These filters can capture 95% of CO2 emissions from industrial sites as well as CO2 that’s already in the air. Once the CO2 is captured, it is concentrated and can be used in the creation of SAF or other products. It can also be safely transported and stored underground.

Svante’s manufacturing facility is anticipated to produce enough filter modules to capture millions of tons of carbon dioxide per year across hundreds of large-scale carbon capture facilities.
“It’s great to see United’s commitment to building an ecosystem for carbon dioxide (CO2) to Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) manifest through this significant investment in Svante,” said Jason Salfi, Dimensional Energy’s CEO. “The teams at Svante and Dimensional Energy are working together to design integrated systems for captured CO2 to SAF today. There is enough CO2 in the atmosphere and in industrial process emissions to provide all of the carbon necessary for the fuels and products people use every day now and into the future. Svante provides the first step toward a circular carbon economy.”

SAF is an alternative to conventional jet fuel that, on a lifecycle basis, reduces GHG emissions associated with air travel compared to conventional jet fuel alone. SAF is made from used cooking oil and agricultural waste, and, in the future, could be made from other feedstocks, including household trash, forest waste, or compressed CO2, the end product of Svante’s carbon capture process.

The Federal Government Recognizes the Value of SAF

The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act includes the largest governmental climate change investments in U.S. history — a new blended tax credit specifically for SAF along with other critical incentives for clean energy and carbon capture – that will help spur an increase in SAF infrastructure and supply while lowering costs for SAF consumers.

The U.S. military currently uses nearly five billion gallons of jet fuel annually and the Department of Defense will use a jet fuel blend containing at least 10% SAF by 2028 because of the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act.

And according to the U.S. Department of Energy, the country’s vast feedstock resources are enough to meet the projected SAF demand of the entire U.S. aviation industry.

United’s Commitment to Net-Zero Emissions by 2050

United was the first airline to commit to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, without relying on traditional carbon offsets. In addition to the UAV Sustainable Flight FundSM, United has launched a SAF purchasing program called the Eco-Skies Alliance and established a venture fund – United Airlines Ventures – to identify and invest in companies and technologies that can decarbonize air travel. These strategic investments include carbon capture, hydrogen-electric engines, electric regional aircraft and air taxis.

US Travel Industry: Choosing Sustainable Options

Harry Johnson — Tue, 28 Mar 2023 20:10:37 +0000

eTurboNews:

The U.S. Travel Association today launched a first-of-its-kind initiative, JourneyToClean.com, to share the collective story of the U.S. travel industry’s bold vision for achieving greater sustainability. The initiative consists of more than 100 examples of sustainable travel practices from a diverse cross-section of more than 50 travel businesses.

“The travel industry embraces sustainability initiatives and business practices because it is good for the planet AND it’s good for business,” said U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman.

“Travelers and businesses alike are demanding more sustainable options, and our industry is evolving to meet the needs of travelers now and for the future. By utilizing ‘Journey to Clean,’ travelers can have a better understanding of the many sustainable options across the travel ecosystem and make decisions that best align with their values.”

Ninety percent of travelers say they want sustainable travel options while 76 percent of executives want to increase sustainable corporate travel choices, even if such options are costlier. Studies also found that climate change and environmental sustainability are particularly important to younger Americans—a strong indicator that the need for sustainable travel options will only grow over time.

Activities the industry is advancing towards end-to-end sustainable travel include:

• Helping travelers make informed decisions;
• Reducing carbon emissions;
• Conserving resources & reducing waste;
• Protecting natural attractions & promoting regeneration; and
• Sourcing responsibly.

‘Journey To Clean,’ developed with engagement and input from U.S. Travel Association’s Sustainable Travel Coalition, also highlights federal policy priorities to strengthen sustainable travel and includes focus areas for advocacy, such as grant programs, tax incentives, free trade agreements and public-private partnerships.

Featured organizations include American Airlines, American Express, Delta Air Lines, Expedia Group, Google Travel, Hilton, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, Disney Parks & Resorts, United Airlines, Universal Destinations & Experiences, MGM Resorts International, National Park Service, San Francisco Giants, and others.

The site will be regularly refreshed with new case studies and efforts reflecting industry sustainability actions.

“At every stage of the traveler’s journey—from booking to takeoff to lodging, and all of the exciting activities and attractions in between—our industry has made significant improvements to minimize environmental impacts,” said Freeman.

“U.S. Travel Association is proud to represent so many innovative, future-focused organizations that are committed to moving our industry forward toward greater sustainability.”

Saudi supported Tourism Solution on Climate Change: “We are laser focused”

Juergen T Steinmetz — Thu, 23 Mar 2023 11:40:01 +0000

eTurboNews:

Saudi Arabia and tourism are known to think big. With 16 Megaprojects from The Line, Diri yah to the Red Sea Project in progress, climate change is next. The establishment of a global sustainable tourism center is shaping up. It will be MEGA and a gift to the world by the people of Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia built a reputation for delivering and walking the walk, according to HE Gloria Guevara, overlooking the project. “We are laser focussed.,” she told eTurboNews

A highly active and successful Minister of Tourism, His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, together with his new top advisor known as the most powerful woman in tourism, former Mexican Minister of Tourism HE Gloria Guevara are leading a dream team behind shaping not only tourism in the Kingdom but providing a solution to the problem of net zero and climate change for the world.

The biggest challenge the world is facing is climate change, and tourism is a direct part of it.

It appears Saudi Arabia has already launched the mother of all mega projects to provide the resources and unite the world in finding a solution to the threat of climate change.

The mystery around this project remains for the time being.

All of this is in line with Crown Prince Vision 2030. Saudi Vision 2030 is a strategic framework to reduce Saudi Arabia’s dependence on oil, diversify its economy, and develop public service sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, recreation, and tourism.

The first indication that the Kingdom has its eyes on coming out with a solution to unite the world and put up the resources for experts to respond to this challenge with action was made known to the world in 2021 during the COVID pandemic.

It happened when the tourism world was looking to Saudi Arabia for help, and the Kingdom stood up and delivered.

The world saw Saudi Arabia can react immediately when help is needed, putting talk into action. Saudi Arabia just opened for western tourists when the pandemic emerged in 2020.

Helping the tourism world to master the COVID-19 crisis positioned a new and relatively unknown travel and tourism destination for western tourists into a new global center for the world tourism industry.

A country closed to the western world until 2020 is converting into one of the most open societies in a controlled way but with lightning speed.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is transforming the beauty of the past into the glories of tomorrow, using innovation within its Vision 2030 for a more peaceful and livable world.

Saudi Arabia understood the threat to tourism was not only COVID, but global warming and climate change. Again KSA is stepping up in the world – and for the world.

It started in 2021 when Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman attended the COP26 climate change summit in Glasgow.

The COP26 summit brought parties together to accelerate action toward the goals of the Paris Agreement and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.

This resulted was in the issuance of a special declaration on the environment to ensure a sustainable future that limits environmental degradation, preserving biodiversity, sustainable use of natural resources, and preserving the environment and oceans while promoting clean air and water, dealing with natural disasters and extreme weather events, and tackling climate change.

Announced by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the Saudi Green Initiative and the UN Climate Change Conference, or COP26, in Glasgow last year was the establishment of The Sustainable Tourism Global Center (STGC)

The Sustainable Tourism Global Center (STGC)

STGC is the world’s first multi-country, a multi-stakeholder global coalition that will lead, accelerate, and track the tourism industry’s transition to net-zero emissions and drive action to protect nature and support communities. It will enable the transition while delivering knowledge, tools, financing mechanisms, and innovation stimulation into the tourism sector.

STGC brings together governments, international organizations, academic bodies, financing institutions, and industry associations.

The STGC aims to reduce the tourism sector’s estimated 8 percent contribution to global greenhouse gases and move toward net-zero emissions.

World Tourism Network and SUN X Malta at ITB on World’s Least Developed Countries

Juergen T Steinmetz — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 15:34:04 +0000

eTurboNews:

ITB Berlin was seen as a relaunch for our global travel and tourism industry, and this applied also to a new partnership announced, such as an agreement between the World Tourism Network, SUNx Malta, and the Climate Friendly Travel Club.

Time 2023 Bali is coming up from September 29-October 1, and climate change, the Worlds poorest countries, and tourism will have a big role to play.

Hosted on the Malta stand at ITB Berlin, an MOU between the three parties was signed. Also, Barbados Tourism CEO Dr. Jens Thraenhart attended the signing of the MOU and pledged his support for this important launch.

Chairman of WTN Juergen Steinmetz joined SUNx Malta Chair Leslie Vella and President Prof. Geoffrey Lipman, as well as Climate Friendly Travel Club’s new CEO Ged Brown, to formally confirm their partnership in the CFT Pledge for the World’s Least Developed Countries.

This will be highlighted at the upcoming first global summit for the World Tourism Network TIME 2023 in Bali, Indonesia, on September 29 to October 1, 2023

SUNx Malta and World Tourism Network (WTN) will work with national WTN Chapters that reach out to local stakeholders to create a Climate Friendly Travel mindset with Paris 1.5 as a central goal.

Leslie Vella said, ” We are delighted that Malta could catalyze this action to help the Less Developed Countries (LDCs) develop their tourism in a climate-responsive and responsible way.

“It’s an integral part of our 2030 Tourism Strategy, and we are pleased to share that thinking to help bring prosperity through responsible tourism to those on the planet who need it so desperately.”

Juergen Steinmetz, chairman and founder of the World Tourism Network, added:

“At WTN, we are all about cooperation. We bring our global network in 130 countries to this partnership and our longstanding commitment to tourism sustainability.”

Professor Geoffrey Lipman said, “Our vision is for youth and technology to lead the charge to a cleaner and greener tourism future. Our mission is to drive this from the LDCs and Small Island States where the need is evident and the opportunity greatest.”

The Paris Agreement:

Climate change is a global emergency that goes beyond national borders. It is an issue that requires international cooperation and coordinated solutions at all levels.

To tackle climate change and its negative impacts, world leaders at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP21) in Paris reached a breakthrough on 12 December 2015: the historic Paris Agreement.

The Agreement sets long-term goals to guide all nations:

substantially reduce global greenhouse gas emissions to limit the global temperature increase in this century to 2 degrees Celsius while pursuing efforts to limit the increase even further to 1.5 degrees;
review countries’ commitments every five years;
provide financing to developing countries to mitigate climate change, strengthen resilience, and enhance their abilities to adapt to climate impacts.

The Agreement is a legally binding international treaty. It entered into force on 4 November 2016. Today, 194 Parties (193 States plus the European Union) have joined the Paris Agreement.

The Agreement includes commitments from all countries to reduce their emissions and work together to adapt to the impacts of climate change and calls on countries to strengthen their commitments over time. The Agreement provides a pathway for developed nations to assist developing nations in their climate mitigation and adaptation efforts while creating a framework for the transparent monitoring and reporting of countries’ climate goals.

The Paris Agreement provides a durable framework guiding the global effort for decades. It marks the beginning of a shift towards a net-zero emissions world. Implementation of the Agreement is also essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

World Tourism Network

World Tourism Network is the long-overdue voice of small and medium-size travel and tourism businesses around the world. By uniting efforts, WTN brings to the forefront the needs and aspirations of small and medium-sized businesses and their Stakeholders.

SunX Malta

SUNx Malta is a legacy for the late Maurice Strong, father of sustainable development. Its goal is to advance Climate Friendly Travel (CFT) ~ low carbon: SDG linked: Paris 1.5.

SUN^x has a core partnership with Malta’s Ministry of Tourism & Consumer Protection and Malta Tourism Authority to advance CFT, to create a UNFCCC-linked CFT Registry, and to promote CFT Education. It plans to put in place 100,000 Strong Climate Champions by 2030 across all UN states.

Time 2023 Bali

Climate change, together with culture, investment, medical tourism, and a giant fam trip, are all important discussions at the upcoming TIME 2023 summit for the World Tourism Network in Bali.

Registration and information for TIME 2023 www.time2023.com

Strong Climate Chapters for World’s 46 Least Developed Countries

Linda Hohnholz, eTN editor — Wed, 08 Mar 2023 23:19:11 +0000

eTurboNews:

Chapters will work locally to advance SUNx’ ambitious and actionable Climate Friendly Travel (CFT) agenda, which is focused on a Paris 1.5°C target. Will partner with World Tourism Network.

SUN^x co-founder and president Geoffrey Lipman announced this today at the Fifth United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries (LDC5) in Doha, Qatar, during a private sector forum on sustainable tourism.

Climate Friendly Travel via travel-friendly climate action

“We have a clear view of the way forward for travel & tourism to respond to the ‘code red’ climate crisis identified by the UN and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change,” Professor Lipman said.

“It is both ambitious and actionable and will help those countries grow tourism, while containing related greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), mainly through securing adequate supplies of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

“LDCs have done the least to create the climate crisis, are among the most vulnerable, and need tourism to lift them out of poverty.”

“It is imperative for LDCS to secure decent standards of living for their citizens.

“‘Clean and green’ Climate Friendly Travel can provide that.”

Local leadership, local impact

SUN^x is working towards having Strong Climate Chapters operating in all 46 LDCs and select small island states by September 2023, with each headed by a Strong Climate Champion Leader.

Their main goal will be to advance a CFT culture, encompassing communities, companies, and consumers.

Chapters will also advance the idea of a “Plan B” to grow Climate Friendly Travel while peaking GHG emissions by 2025, as called for by the IPCC, if we are to achieve the Paris 1.5°C target by 2050.

Champions are enrolled in theDiploma in CFT delivered by the Institute of Tourism Studies Malta in partnership with SUNx.

More than 50 full scholarships have been awardedto young people from LDCs since the Diploma was first launched in 2020.

Prof. Geoffrey Lipman

From micro actions to macro advocacy

Strong Climate Chapters will use SUNx’ Plan B template, adapting it to their destinations’ specific circumstances.

SUN^x’ Plan B for CFT includes a spectrum of tangible goals from micro actions to macro advocacy and much in between.

Micro actions include relatively easy, inexpensive, and/or cost-saving initiatives, such as changing light bulbs, reducing plastic use, and sourcing local products; sharing good practice from across SUNx’ steadily growing global network.

Macro advocacy will include lobbying for adequate supplies of SAF, investments in next-generation transportation infrastructure, and climate justice.

Strong Climate Friendly Travel Chapters will be further supported by SUNx’ CFT Registry and CFT Portal of tools and resources so that they can offer tangible value to their local travel & tourism stakeholders, showing how to grow and prosper in a sustainable, climate-friendly way.

The plan also calls for the building of a coalition of like-minded partners and we are delighted to announce that the World Tourism Network (WTN) is a launch partner and will highlight this program at its Time Summit in Indonesia in September 2023. Juergen Steinmetz, chairman of the World Tourism Network said:

“We’re very excited to work with Geoffrey to integrate this program within our network.”

About SUNx Malta — Strong Universal Network

SUNx Malta is a legacy for the late Maurice Strong, father of sustainable development. Its goal is to advance Climate Friendly Travel (CFT) ~ low carbon: SDG linked: Paris 1.5.

More news about SUNx

UNWTO: Priority For Climate Protection In Tourism

Harry Johnson — Wed, 08 Mar 2023 20:12:49 +0000

eTurboNews:

Sustainability concepts often focus on ecological sustainability, with one of the important aspects being the need to reduce greenhouse gases. “But for every concept there is one thing in particular that we need: data obtained from readings“, explained Dirk Gläser, UNWTO sustainability expert, speaking at ITB Berlin 2023. Greenhouse gas emissions from passenger traffic account for a large proportion of the global CO2 footprint. The UNWTO has therefore been investigating the current measurement methods and instruments that are being applied in tourism.

According to the UNTWO study, the tourism sector is responsible for around eight per cent of worldwide greenhouse gas emissions. In an effort to support active players in the tourism sector to increase the pace of climate protection measures, a global survey was conducted in 2021 to provide a better understanding of current climate protection measures in the tourism sector. More than 1,000 representatives of travel destinations, companies and supporting organisations from 131 countries responded to the questionnaire.

For accommodation, for example, the Hotel Carbon Measurement Initiative (HCMI) was made available, a methodology and a free instrument that enables hotels to calculate the CO2 footprint of hotel residence in their premises. There are also customised measurement systems in multinational companies as well as supporting services for members such as those belonging to Greenkey etc. The advantage for hotels is that the HCMI is widely available. In addition many companies are developing their own solutions and there are numerous new instruments offering a simplified approach.

Among the tools and methods available to tour operators there are a number of different approaches: Much Better Adventures uses an open-source method: ”We collaborate 100 per cent with local, independent companies, thereby avoiding intermediaries, inefficiency and surcharges. This offers our clients a better ratio of price to performance, and for every 100 dollars that they spend, 78 dollars goes into the local economy“, according to those responsible. For tour operators there are also such instruments as atmosfair, ICAO calculators and Sustainable Travel International calculators. The outcome for this group: different operating models make it more difficult to obtain measurements, there is no consensus regarding the inclusion of international air transport, and larger companies seek the use of external consultants.

There are a number of possibilities for destinations, including: the initiative for measuring sustainable tourism (MST), which is applied at a national level, the input-output model used by the University of Queensland, customized calculators supervised by DMOs, the Ademe open source calculator or the Co2rism calculator. In such cases it is found that the most complex challenge facing destinations is that of gaining an understanding of roles, limitations etc. Moreover, they are the least well supplied in terms of resources.

Fraport Tightens 2030 Carbon Target

Harry Johnson — Wed, 08 Mar 2023 15:21:44 +0000

eTurboNews:

Fraport is setting an even more ambitious climate protection target at its home base of Frankfurt Airport (FRA). By 2030, the aim is for a maximum of just 50,000 tons of CO2 to be emitted in areas that fall under Fraport’s direct control at Germany’s largest aviation hub. Previously, Fraport had its sights on an interim target that would have reduced carbon emissions at FRA to 75,000 tons by 2030.

Fraport’s CEO, Dr. Stefan Schulte, said: “Aviation needs to make a significant contribution towards protecting our planet’s climate. And we need to act faster than in years gone by. That’s our responsibility. For this reason, we’ve once again revised our masterplan for climate action, intensifying our measures wherever possible.”

Green electricity the most important lever for cutting CO2

The centerpiece of the decarbonization efforts will be the future electricity mix used at Frankfurt Airport, which will largely consist of renewable sources from 2026. By that year, a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with German energy company EnBW will see around 85 per cent of electricity needs being met by wind energy from the North Sea. Moreover, large photovoltaic systems (PV) at the airport will provide another significant proportion of required energy needs.

“In every sector, green electricity is the key to a sustainable, climate-friendly approach. We’ve set the pace in Frankfurt by opting for a high-quality PPA and modern photovoltaic systems at an early stage and by consistently pursuing these two approaches”, explained CEO Schulte.

Along with changes to the electricity mix and the expansion of alternative propulsion methods, Fraport is also pursuing numerous measures to make Frankfurt Airport’s infrastructure more climate-friendly. These include the installation of smart, needs-driven building technology for air conditioning and lighting, in addition to continuing the switchover to LEDs.

Climate protection will only be successful with a global approach

By 2045, Fraport will be CO2-free not just at its FRA home-base, but at all fully-consolidated Group airports around the world. Dr. Stefan Schulte is clear: “Zero carbon means we will achieve this target without offsetting our emissions. We’re not going to rely on compensatory measures and their impact in the distant future. We’re taking the direct route.”

Along with the Group’s home-base Frankfurt Airport, Fraport’s climate protection target for 2045 will also apply to its companies and subsidiaries in Lima (Peru), Burgas and Varna (Bulgaria), Ljubljana (Slovenia), Fortaleza and Porto Alegre (Brazil), as well as to the Group’s 14 airports in Greece. By 2030, Fraport will cut CO2 emissions at its global subsidiaries to 95,000 tons.

Dr. Stefan Schulte explained: “We see climate change as a central challenge for our international business. We need ideas and approaches that are tailored to each location, while taking their natural environment into account.” For example, Fraport’s South American airports are already well positioned in terms of their electricity mix, with much of their energy coming from renewables – especially hydroelectric generation.

In Greece, Fraport’s initial priority when taking over the management of the 14 regional airports was largely to secure their operational capabilities.

CEO Schulte: “We’ve only just started rolling out our climate protection measures in Greece, but we’re going to be taking an even more focused approach in the years to come.”

Commenting on Fraport’s climate achievements so far, Dr. Schulte said: “The pandemic took a considerable economic toll on Fraport and presented us with substantial new challenges that continue even today. The fact that we’ve still been able to maintain our climate commitment almost without modification and have continued to take steps in a timely manner is thanks to the solid preliminary work that our specialist units undertook over the preceding years. We’ve been able to build on these strong foundations. With numerous projects focused on lowering our carbon footprint, we’ve managed to lower our CO2 emissions at Frankfurt Airport by 50 per cent since 1990, the base year under international climate agreements.”

Sector-wide efforts to protect the planet’s climate

Fraport has direct responsibility for around ten per cent of CO2 emissions that are made at its home-base airport in Frankfurt. The current decarbonization masterplan is focused on emissions that fall under Fraport’s immediate control, i.e. emissions from Scope 1 and 2. Above and beyond this, Fraport is working within the aviation industry and the airlines, as well as the Deutsche Bahn railroad company, and other industry partners and local companies to implement joint climate measures under Scope 3.
In this vein, Dr. Stefan Schulte has a plea for policymakers: “As a general rule, we welcome any political initiative to protect the planet’s climate. However, we cannot allow unfair competition to be the end result, which will ultimately cause climate protection measures to miss their mark. That’s because if flying becomes more expensive only within Europe, passengers will simply switch to other routings. A safe journey – our promise to our passengers at all our airports – should also involve a sustainable future. We want to make sure this happens with our versatile climate protection strategy. And we will continue to seek an integral approach to greener aviation across our industry.”

Hotel Sustainability Basics Verification Launched by WTTC

Harry Johnson — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 15:14:04 +0000

eTurboNews:

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has today launched the Hotel Sustainability Basics (Basics).

Announced at ITB Berlin, Basics will enable tourist accommodation providers from around the world, regardless of their size, to begin their sustainability journey.

Basics, an industry-backed scheme, is a globally recognised set of criteria that all hotels should implement as a minimum to drive responsible and sustainable Travel & Tourism.

Basics emerged as a result of a clear demand from a group of influential global hotel brands and whilst there a great number of sustainability initiatives, Basics focuses on an achievable starting point.

It will encourage all accommodation providers to begin their sustainability journeys and meet the fundamental standards required of our sector.

Made up of 12 key criteria, the Basics is accessible to all hotels to implement. It serves as a stepping-stone to more complex sustainability schemes and achieve greater sustainability across the industry.

Basics has also been recognized by the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance as the starting point for a net positive industry, who announced the latest version of the Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality.

Verification Scheme

In order to ensure the validity of the program, WTTC partnered with Green Key and SGS to develop a simple online verification system to allow hotels to provide evidence and ensure they are following the Basics.

The verification scheme enables hotels and other tourist accommodation to be officially verified for meeting eight of the 12 criteria in the first year and demonstrate their commitment to working toward all 12 of the criteria by year three.

Together, the criteria ensure the sector is eco resilient and adaptive to the changing needs of the planet.

Hotel Partners

Six major international hotel groups, collectively representing tens of thousands of sites from around the world have now joined Basics as inaugural partners. The first hotel groups include well-known brands such as Accor, Jin Jiang International, Louvre Hotels Group, Meliá Hotels International, Meininger, and Radisson Hotel Group.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said “We are incredibly proud to launch our Hotel Sustainability Basics and its verification scheme. The initiative is a response to the sector’s need for a baseline for hotels and other tourist lodgings to introduce the exacting sustainability standards.

“Our research shows that most business owners are aware of their responsibility to the environment but need a step-by-step guide that is scientifically verifiable.

“It is testament to the need for such a scheme that already thousands of hotel properties from around the world have committed to implement Basics, and from today can begin the verification process.”

Inge Huijbrechts, Global Senior Vice President of Sustainability, Security & Corporate Communications at Radisson Hotel Group said “Hotel Sustainability Basics is filling a new and unanswered demand in the hotel industry: to provide a solid, trusted, and clear label for essential hotel sustainability. It’s important we define responsible travel to preserve the planet and protect communities. With Hotel Sustainability Basics we offer the traveler a clear sustainable stay option for all types of hotels around the world.

“Radisson Hotel Group commits to implement Hotel Sustainability Basics in all its 1,100 hotels by 2025. We do this together with our shareholder Jin Jiang International, their affiliate Louvre Hotel Group and other major hotel groups and destinations around the world.”

Green Lodgings Trend Report

WTTC carried out an extensive international benchmarking exercise through the Green Lodgings Trends Report, learning from 27,000 accommodation providers on how they are currently fairing against the 12 criteria.

Crucially, this benchmark will allow WTTC to track the progress of Basics over time.

Almost 100% of accommodation providers implement at least one initiative to reduce inequality and 96% have adopted linen reuse programs.

The report also showed many hoteliers are establishing sustainable practices but there is still a way to go for these to become common across the sector.

Two-thirds of those surveyed have already begun to eliminate the use of certain single-use plastics such as straws and implementing other waste reduction initiatives.

Emerging practices were also highlighted in the report.
Almost half of respondents have replaced small plastic toiletry bottles with bulk dispensers and a third now provide vegetarian options for every course in their food and beverage provision.

Sector Partners

In addition to the Alliance, WTTC collaborated with other key leading sector figures including representatives from Greenview, WTTC’s hotel members, Expedia, the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), Sustainable Hospitality Alliance and Trip.com Group, as well as the certification bodies SGS and Green Key.

Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance said “We are incredibly proud to work alongside the World Travel & Tourism Council to launch the Hotel Sustainability Basics. Basics is a key part of the Alliance’s Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality which sets ambitious targets to create a prosperous and responsible global hospitality sector that gives back to the destination more than it takes.

“Net Positive Hospitality is a tremendous objective for us to achieve. Going beyond net zero and actually being contributory to the world’s future is a bold ambition but one I believe that the sector can achieve.”

Randy Durband, CEO of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) said “Hotels throughout the world need to march towards sustainability quickly but the first step can be the hardest.

“The WTTC Hotel Sustainability Basics provide an excellent way to understand and take the first steps. With twelve clear actions that map to the eight of the GTSC Industry Criteria, the Basics are indeed an essential part of the journey.”

Jane Sun, Group CEO of Trip.com Group said “Sustainability is a collective goal. As demand for sustainable options increases, Trip.com Group will deepen cooperation with our partners, including WTTC, and empower hotels globally to adopt the best sustainability practices.”

Destination Partners

A number of global tourism destinations have already recognised the strength of Hotel Sustainability Basics and demonstrated their commitment to ensure their hotels implement the Basics.

Azerbaijan was the first Destination Partner to support the Basics, followed by other supporters such as Belize, Colombia, and Mauritius.

Florian Sengstschmid, CEO of the Azerbaijan Tourism Board said “The Basics are an important add-on to Azerbaijan’s sustainable tourism development strategy. We are committed to prioritize sustainability throughout the entire value chain and customer journey.

“We take pride in being a country partner of this initiative and pledge to continue our efforts in promoting responsible tourism practices. Our mission is to care for the country’s intangible and tangible resources for future generations to enjoy, and a tourism industry, that benefits both visitors and hosts alike.”

eTurboNews is a media partner for WTTC.

Oscar the Grouch named Chief Trash Officer of United Airlines

Harry Johnson — Thu, 02 Mar 2023 16:30:28 +0000

eTurboNews:

United Airlines today named Sesame Street’s Oscar the Grouch as its first Chief Trash Officer as he and the airline celebrate his love of rubbish. United Airlines’ new, consumer education campaign is designed to promote the expected benefit of using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) more broadly.

The new campaign – which features Oscar in more than 30 pieces of original video, digital, social and out-of-home content – follows the iconic character’s journey from job listing to c-suite office starring alongside real United employees.

SAF is an alternative to conventional jet fuel that, on a lifecycle basis, reduces greenhouse gas emissions associated with air travel compared to conventional jet fuel alone. SAF is being made from used cooking oil and agricultural waste, and, in the future, could be made from other feedstocks including household trash or forest waste. To date, United Airlines has invested in the future production of over three billion gallons of SAF – the most of any airline in the world.

Consumers can take action too – in a first among U.S. airlines, United now shows an estimate of each flight’s carbon footprint on a per economy seat passenger basis on its app and website, and travelers have the option to contribute to supplement United’s investment in the UAV Sustainable Flight Fund, a first-of-its-kind investment vehicle designed to support start-ups focused on decarbonizing air travel by accelerating the research, production and technologies associated with SAF.

“United has invested in more sustainable aviation fuel production than any airline in the world, by far,” said United Chief Communications Officer Josh Earnest. “Every airline burns jet fuel to run their business, but no airline will solve climate change on its own. So United has enlisted Oscar to help us educate the traveling public of all ages about SAF and rally them to the cause of fighting climate change. From banana peels to fryer grease, Oscar is uniquely qualified to help us explain why trash could be the treasure that fuels the jets of the future.”

Starting today, people can follow Oscar’s journey as he stars in videos alongside real United employees. The integrated campaign includes interactive social-first elements, colorful spreads in Hemispheres® magazine and a unique film series, all of which were created to simplify a complicated topic in an approachable and entertaining way. Creative highlights include:

• Film Series: Across multiple videos, United highlights Oscar’s work in his new role, such as a “BINtro” film showcasing his first day on the job. The film is part of a series that focuses on the importance of SAF. In an additional 90-second film, United Captain Tomica Adams breaks down how things like waste can help fuel air travel.

• Out of Home: United’s out-of-home content introduces the airline’s new hire in a larger-than-life format. The playful imagery features Oscar in aviation settings – from tarmac to onboard. The photos will pique people’s interest about how trash could one day help us fly toward a lower carbon future.

• Digital/Social: Providing surround sound to the campaign, storytelling continues on social channels with bite-size edutainment videos, engaging Instagram Story features, emoji-filled Twitter threads and more to raise awareness of the SAF nitty-gritty. The social campaign will live on owned and paid social and digital channels.

As a part of the collaboration, United Airlines is supporting Sesame Workshop through a donation to the nonprofit educational organization’s Welcome Sesame initiative. Sesame Workshop will also be included in United Airlines’ Miles on a Mission, where travelers will be able to donate miles to help support its global mission to help children grow smarter stronger and kinder.

“This campaign provided a special opportunity to showcase an iconic Sesame Street character, Oscar the Grouch, celebrating what he loves best – trash,” said Jennifer Ahearn, VP, Global Strategic Partnerships & Themed Entertainment, Sesame Workshop. “The amazing collaboration helps United Airlines explain in simpler terms the technology of turning trash into fuel in a fun and engaging manner.”

Erdogan: 912 people killed and 5385 injured in Monday earthquake

Harry Johnson — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 12:11:56 +0000

eTurboNews:

Speaking in the aftermath of the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Turkey on Monday morning, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said that at least 912 people were killed and 5,385 injured in the disaster.

“2,470 people were rescued from the rubble, and 2,818 buildings were destroyed,” Erdogan said.

Devastating Monday quake was “the biggest disaster since the 1939 Erzincan earthquake” in eastern Türkiye which killed an estimated 32,000 people and injured 100,000, Erdogan added.

According to the country’s president, local authorities “had mobilized all their means,” and the response efforts involve not only the ten provinces hit by the disaster, but also ten other regional governors.

The priority had been given to search and rescue efforts aimed at freeing those who are still stuck under the rubble. In total, 9,000 personnel are involved, with this number constantly increasing, President Erdogan added.

The disastrous earthquake has also rocked neighboring Syria, where the death toll has risen to 326 people, according to the statement from Deputy Health Minister Ahmad Dumeira on Monday. He said that at least 1,042 people were injured, and the provinces of Aleppo, Hama, Latakia, and Tartus were affected the most.

Dr. Raed Ahmed, the director general of the Syrian National Seismology Center, was quoted as saying that the earthquake was the strongest since recording began in 1995.

Dumeira said all hospitals were mobilized to treat the victims, and additional ambulances and rescue teams were dispatched to areas hit by the disaster.

Meanwhile, government officials in Italy issued a warning that the country’s coast could face incoming tsunami waves triggered by a powerful earthquake, announcing that “it is recommended to move away from the coastal areas, to reach the higher nearby area and to follow the indications of the local authorities.”

Few hours later, however, the alert was retracted “on the basis of data processed by the Tsunami Alert Center of the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology.”

Indonesia Tourism Minister invites World Travel Industry SMEs to Bali

Juergen T Steinmetz — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 10:14:00 +0000

eTurboNews:

Travel & Tourism Professionals in small and medium size companies are in 129 member countries of the World Tourism Network. They are invited to meet in Bali for TIME 2023 in September.

The Hon Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy for Indonesia Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno invites World Tourism Network members from 129 countries to Bali to participate in WTNs first global Think Tank, Summit, and FAM hosted by the Bali Tourism Board, Marriott, The Bali International Hospital, and Minister UNO. It’s the network’s first summit and Think Tank known as TIME 2023.

It’s Time for the Global Tourism Industry World to meet in Bali

World Tourism Network is the long-overdue voice of small and medium-sized travel and tourism businesses around the world. President Dr. Peter Tarlow explains: “By uniting our efforts, we bring to the forefront the needs and aspirations of small and medium-sized businesses and their Stakeholders.”

TIME 2023 is World Tourism Network first Global Summit, and it will be at the 5-Star Rennaissance Uluwatu Resort & Spa in Bali. The dates are September 28 – October 1, 2023.

TIME 2023 is a combination of five think tanks and discussions on Medical Tourism, Green & Clean (Climate Change), Small Cultural Regions of the World, and of course Inbound and Outbound travel opportunities to and from Indonesia.

TIME 2023 will also host a giant FAM trip for travel agents from key source markets.

World Tourism Network facilitated the first global discussion on rebuilding.travel in Berlin, Germany on the sideline of a canceled ITB trade show in March 2020. In December 2020, Rebuilding Travel was converted into a global network named World Tourism Network. The focus is on Medium and Small Size Businesses and Public Private Partnerships.

Today WTN has more than 1200 members in 129 countries.

The most social media ready Minister of Tourism in the world is from Indonesia

Indonesia’s Tourism Minister was a guest on a WTN Zoom discussion in March 2021. WTN Chairman Juergen Steinmetz named him as the most social media-ready Tourism Minister in the world.

March 9, 2021

Today the Hon Minister Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno officially invited the global tourism world to come to the Islands of the Gods, what Bali is known for, and participate in the upcoming TIME 2023 Summit.

The Official Invitation for TIME 2023 by the Hon. Minister Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno

Distinguished Participants,

Extending a cordial and respectful greeting from Wonderful Indonesia on behalf of The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy of the Republic of Indonesia, I would like to acknowledge and express our full support for The World Tourism Network (WTN) Think Tank and Summit – TIME2023 that will take place at Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort and Spa, from 29 September – 1 October 2023.

The successful organization of the G20 Presidency which delivered us the G20 Bali Leaders’ Declaration, has positioned Indonesia to take a more leading role in envisioning and safeguarding the revival of the global tourism industry. We have proven that a well-measured pandemic recovery can boost tourism recovery as well both in terms of performance and deliverables. Most notably, we have moved up 12 ranks in the 2021 Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) Global Tourism Rank, not to mention Forbes’s Most Beautiful Countries and Club Med’s Happiest Holiday Destination (Bali) as well.

Tourism is one of the largest industries in the world, and SMEs play one of the most important roles. This event will demonstrate how smaller players in the travel and tourism industry can interact and partner with big players. Through this event, they will be able to build business networks and share experiences. This event will also accentuate the importance of retaining the workforce during tourism recovery. Considering the workforce retention issues that occur in some countries, taking all the necessary means to support SMEs has once again found its relevance.

We are hoping this event could provide a good impact on the tourism and creative economy sectors. Therefore, as the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy of the Republic of Indonesia, I would like to invite you to attend and participate in The World Tourism Network Think Tank and Summit – TIME2023.

We wish you well and we look forward to welcoming you to Bali, Indonesia.

Best Regards,

Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno

Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy
The Republic of Indonesia/ Head of Tourism and Creative
Economy Agency

Juergen Steinmetz, Chairman of the World Tourism Network says:

“Our publication eTurboNews started in Bali and Jakarta in 2001. I am so pleased to come back “home” to Indonesia for our first World Tourism Network Global Summit, Think Tanks, and FAM. “

Mudi Astuti, the Chairwoman of the World Tourism Network Indonesia Chapter says:

The World Tourism Network Indonesia Chapter is proud to play this part as the host of the WTN Think Tank, Summit, and Fam.

WTN is showing tourism resilience and is eager to come up with new trends setting the way to do productive travel & tourism events for the world. Our support goes to the many devoted SMEs in Global Tourism. Our think tanks will help everyone attending to continue learning and networking will be a rewarding experience for a lifetime.

Agung Partha Adnyana – Chairman of Bali Tourism Board says:

The First WTN Summit 2023 in Bali will set a mark for the Global Tourism Industry to wake up at a time when all Tourism Industries from all over the World should join.

In joining in Bali, we can learn and collaborate in building a sustainable Tourism platform for future generations to come.”

How to register for TIME 2023?

Go to www.time2023.com

SAUDIA: A New Trendy Airline for Sports, Tourism, Sustainability

Juergen T Steinmetz — Sun, 29 Jan 2023 22:50:51 +0000

eTurboNews:

Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) is not so new, but global tourism in in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is.

The national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Established in 1945, the company is one of the Middle East’s largest airlines. In recent years the airline has invested significantly in its fleet of 142 narrow and widebody aircraft and operates one of the youngest fleets in the skies, with an average aircraft age of 5 years.

SAUDIA offers a fleet size of 142 with the main operational base located at the King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.

King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and King Fahd International Airport in Dammam are the secondary hubs for the airline.

SAUDIA operates one of the youngest fleets in the skies with an average age of 5 years featuring new aircraft that emit less carbon. The airline recently purchased 149 CFM Leap-A1 engines and spare parts that include technologies that have significantly improved fuel efficiency, lowered CO2 and NOx emissions, and reduced noise.

The airline’s plan is to have 250 planes in the SAUDIA fleet by 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s national flag carrier was named the Middle East’s Fastest Growing Airline Brand in 2022 by Brand Finance and the World’s Most Improved Airline in 2021 by SKYTRAX. SAUDIA also received the prestigious accolade in 2017.

Customers can fly directly with SAUDIA to over 100 destinations across Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and North America. SAUDIA was named World Class Airline at The APEX Official Airline Ratings in 2021 and 2022, and been renewed as Five Star Airline by APEX.

Saudi Arabia’s travel and tourism industry is growing fast, ranking first among Arab countries.

SAUDIA and its partnership with Formula E

As the world’s first all-electric FIA World Championship and the only sport certified net zero carbon since inception, the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship brings dramatic racing to the heart of some of the world’s most iconic cities providing an elite motorsport platform for the world’s leading automotive manufacturers to accelerate electric vehicle innovation.

Formula E cars are all-electric, paving the way and promoting the adoption of sustainable mobility in city centers in a bid to combat air pollution and lessen the effects of climate change.

The Formula E network of teams, manufacturers, partners, broadcasters, and host cities is united by a passion for the sport and belief in its potential to accelerate sustainable human progress and create a better future for people and the planet.

As the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the airline is an official partner of the all-electric series: a partnership founded in 2018 on a shared approach to progress, sustainability, and innovation.

How is SAUDIA contributing to developing sports tourism?

Sports Tourism is one of the biggest growing sectors in the industry – it brings international fans from across the world together for events that are rooted in multiculturism, unity, and celebration.

With this in mind, SAUDIA has created key partnerships and sponsorships with internationally popular and acclaimed sporting events to bring the world together in Saudi Arabia.

This process and approach aim to amplify Saudia Arabia as a leading destination for sports tourism and a hub for a host of incredible games and matches.

Our ambassadors reflect these values as well. Lately, we have officially announced that Formula E champion Stoffel Vandoorne will be our ambassador for Season 9 of the Championship – this partnership builds on shared values of progress, sustainability, and innovation as well as bringing the world together for exhilarating motorsports.

Is SAUDIA ready to welcome the influx of tourists to the kingdom?

Absolutely! Saudi Arabia is a relatively undiscovered destination in the international tourism industry, and that’s what is so exciting about the future. SAUDIA has some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes, incredible heritage and culture, and first-class service. We’ve seen from post-pandemic travel trends that international travelers are looking for adventure – and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has it all.

We’re incredibly excited to be at the forefront of this development – to be able to transport travelers from across the world to the Kingdom and back; is an instrumental part of our transformation and development.

Sustainability is a big drive across the GCC, how does SAUDIA work towards it?

Sustainability is extremely important to SAUDIA, and we’re committed to aligning ourselves with the Kingdom’s efforts and goals. We’ve taken part in many initiatives that show this commitment.

100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel

Juergen T Steinmetz — Wed, 25 Jan 2023 01:54:52 +0000

eTurboNews:

In June eTurboNews reported about the first helicopter flying on sustainable fuel.

The objective of the ground testing and analysis is to demonstrate the capability of the GE90 engine to run on the specially blended 100% SAF without affecting its performance, requiring no modifications to the aircraft systems, or special maintenance procedures on the Boeing 777-300ER or GE90 engine to operate. SAF reduces carbon emissions over the fuel’s life cycle by up to 80%.

The ground test results will now pave the way for the airline’s first experimental test flight using 100% SAF in one engine, which is due for take-off this week. The testing activities involved running one engine on 100% SAF and the other on conventional jet fuel to better analyse the fuel system´s behaviour and performance under each fuel type, compare specific outputs of each engine, and ensure seamless operation of the aircraft’s engine and airframe fuel systems during the planned test flight.

During the ground testing at the state-of-the-art Emirates Engineering Centre in Dubai, the aircraft first went through its standard pre-inspection activities. After that, the stationary operating testing began by first running the Honeywell 331-500 auxiliary power unit (APU) on 100% SAF. The APU was then put under full load with SAF to start the engines. The left engine was exercised through its full power range, utilising the same settings that will be used for the experimental flight. This included idle, ‘take-off’ and ‘climb settings’ at full flight profile durations, running at maximum speed and intensity. Engines were then run at ‘cruise’ settings for 15 minutes. After the simulation ended, the engines were cooled down. Fuels were isolated in separate fuel tanks to maintain segregation of test fuels. Upon completion of the ground test, engine data was downloaded for review, comparison, and analysis.

At the Dubai Airshow 2021, Emirates, GE Aerospace and Boeing signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop a programme for conducting a test flight using 100% SAF on an Emirates 777-300ER powered by GE90 engines.

Emirates has been working with its partners GE Aerospace, Boeing, Honeywell, Neste and Virent Inc., a subsidiary of Marathon Petroleum Corp throughout 2022 on SAF fuel blend testing. The partners have developed a blend with the same qualities and performance characteristics of conventional jet fuel and have collaborated on the technical analysis and operational requirements surrounding ground testing and experimental flight activities.

The results of this initiative will provide additional data and research around synthetic fuel blend components and biofuels, supporting standardization and future approval of 100% drop-in SAF. Following the successful trial on one engine, Emirates will then continue to develop these initiatives with the engine airframe manufacturers as well as SAF providers with the goal of certifying these blends for commercial use. Currently, SAF is approved for use in blends of up to 50% with conventional jet fuel.

Emirates has long been a supporter of industry and government efforts to encourage the development of the SAF industry, and regularly participates in initiatives to contribute to SAF deployment. Its first flight powered by SAF blended with jet fuel was in 2017, operating from Chicago O’Hare airport on a Boeing 777. Emirates received its first A380 powered by SAF in December 2020, and uplifted 32 tonnes of SAF for its flights from Stockholm earlier that year, with the support of Swedavia’s Biofuel Incentive Programme. Flights from Oslo have also begun operating on SAF.

Emirates is on the Steering Committee of the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Clean Skies for Tomorrow initiative, which seeks to promote SAF deployment worldwide. The airline has also contributed to the UAE government’s work on a SAF roadmap and the WEF-supported Power-to-Liquids Roadmap for the UAE.

New Luxury Spa in Stay Boulevard Nisantasi Istanbul

Harry Johnson — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 16:24:02 +0000

eTurboNews:

Istanbul’s Stay Boulevard Nisantasi, part of Türkiye’s first independent carbon-neutral hotel group The Stay Hotels, now offers guests the perfect winter wellness retreat for 2023.

The new 1220 sqm Stay Spa spans an entire floor with nine treatment rooms, an indoor spa pool, adjoining hot tub, Turkish bath, and wooden sauna, and using all vegan and organic spa products.

Treatments include the reviving Turkish hammam experience, which cleanses, refreshes and moisturizes the body with special herbal soaps and foam, enjoyed in the dedicated private Turkish bath, complete with white marble and ornate brass taps. For the ultimate indulgence, the combined hammam and massage treatment allows guests to choose from one of the spa’s massage therapies, from traditional Thai combining acupressure and stretching techniques to healing Balinese with deep strokes and energy-unblocking Shiatsu.

There’s also a couple’s massage for two to share and relax side-by-side, soothing mother-to-be massages using safely formulated massage oils and hot stone therapy, to help with sleeplessness and tension. After and in-between treatments, guests can recline on wooden day beds in softly lit relaxation areas and sip a cup of fresh mint tea.

Guests and non-guests can buy spa packages for six, 10 and 20 treatments. Each treatment is 60-minutes long and can be a combination of Traditional Thai Massage, Stay Spa Massage, Deep Tissue Asia, Shiatsu Therapy and Aromatherapy.

The soothing Stay Spa offers the ultimate urban retreat for those looking to wind down after spending a busy day exploring Istanbul’s culture and sights and the chic Nisantasi neighborhood.

It’s TIME for Bali: Where World Tourism Meets in 2023

Juergen T Steinmetz — Fri, 13 Jan 2023 01:45:26 +0000

eTurboNews:

Bali is known as the Islands of the Gods in the Hindu Religion. With a little help from TIME 2023, Bali is now moved centerstage in the World Travel and Tourism Industry.

It’s time for tourism leaders, for small- and medium-sized travel and tourism businesses, and it’s TIME 2023 for world tourism to meet on the “Islands of the Gods,” Bali, Indonesia, September 29 – October 1, 2023.

TIME 2023 is in fact 4 global summits in one.

TIME for Indonesians to travel the world

Indonesians love to travel, and they have the money to do so. At this event, Indonesian travel agents, tour operators, and interested travelers can find out what destinations are anxious to welcome them. Tourism boards and their stakeholders from around the globe will be able to network not only with Indonesians but also with the world.

TIME to travel to Indonesia

It’s TIME to travel to Indonesia, and SMEs (small- and medium-sized enterprises) matter! The largest fam trip to Bali will give travel agents and tour operators the opportunity to meet and do business with local counterparts and suppliers, and also meet tourism boards from around the globe at the WTN Global Networking Summit.

TIME for well-being:
Medical & Health Tourism

Medical tourism and health tourism are trends the world is talking about. WTN will bring this discussion to Bali inviting leaders, destinations, and stakeholders in this sector to present and generate new revenue streams while keeping the world healthy.

TIME for small Cultural tourism regions of the World

World Tourism Network is always looking out for small- and medium-sized stakeholders. This begs the question: what about small cultural tourism regions of the world?

Mayors and their representatives and local tourism boards from cities with a unique cultures will be invited to exchange these niche opportunities and find ways to cooperate and impact tourism to prosper.

TIME for Tourism to Confront Climate Change

Code red realities!

In cooperation with Malta-based SUNx, the World Tourism Network will engage in this global discussion. Indonesia is about small islands. Therefore, small islands from around the world will have an opportunity to present their cases and discuss solutions.

World-renowned Prof. Geoffrey Lipman, former WTTC CEO and former assistant Secretary General of UNWTO, will lead this discussion.

TIME for Rennaissance and Marriott to join the trend

TIME 2023 in Bali is hosted by the Renaissance Bali
Uluwatu Resort & Spa, is a Marriott-managed resort on the Islands of the Gods. It’s time for TIME2023 participants from all corners of the world to get pampered.

TIME for World Tourism Network to Shine

World Tourism Network is the long-overdue voice of small- and medium-sized travel and tourism businesses worldwide.

Starting in 2020 on the sideline of a canceled ITB trade show in Berlin, WTN started with the rebuilding.travel discussion that helped many throughout the pandemic.

By uniting efforts, WTN brings to the forefront the needs and aspirations of small- and medium-sized companies and their stakeholders by bringing together private and public sector members on regional and global platforms.

WTN advocates for its members and provides them with a voice in important tourism meetings. WTN provides opportunities and essential networking for its members in 129 countries.

WTN President and world-renowned tourism security and safety expert, Dr. Peter Tarlow, says:

“Indonesia is a land that bridges the bounties of the past with the hopes of tomorrow. The World Tourism Network is proud to host this four-in-one conference showing tourism resilience. As President of the World Tourism Network, I am glad to invite each of you to Bali, Indonesia, for a learning and networking experience that will last a lifetime.”

Mudi Astuti is the person in charge of TIME 2023.

WTN Indonesia Chairwoman Mudi Astuti says:

It’s an excellent idea for WTN to have 4 global events under one roof. It’s the most flexible and productive way of organizing today’s global travel trade business meeting, especially for SMEs. The offline business meeting should remain a strategic marketing mix for any tourism business to make sure their products and services survive and are getting branding activation. SMEs matter and there are so many new business ventures on the market – we all need to network, and TIME is the venue.”

WTN Chairman Juergen Steinmetz says:

With the support of the Bali Tourism Board, WTN Indonesia, and the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, TIME 2023 by WTN should become a very attractive event.

With members in 129 countries, I am optimistic we will turn Bali into the center of the tourism world from September 29 to October 1.

TIME for Media: Journalists Matter

World Tourism Network is inviting journalists, bloggers, and major but also not-so-major media to partner with TIME 2023.

SMEs Matter Big in Tourism – let’s not miss it!

Steinmetz added: “Anyone wanting to get involved, partner, or showcase at TIME 2023 Bali, and anyone thinking about attending, please let us know now and pre-register at time2023.com.

TIME to plan for your Participation, Input, and Sponsorship

Go to www.time2023.com

First annual Green Hydrogen Summit coming to Abu Dhabi

Harry Johnson — Tue, 03 Jan 2023 16:59:51 +0000

eTurboNews:

Global decision makers and international experts will underline the potential of green hydrogen to champion global net-zero goals in Abu Dhabi, ahead of this year’s UAE-hosted COP28.

Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW), the global initiative championed by the UAE and its clean energy powerhouse Masdar to accelerate sustainable development, will hold its first annual Green Hydrogen Summit this year, highlighting green hydrogen’s growing importance in the global drive toward net zero.

The Green Hydrogen Summit 2023, taking place on January 18, will be one of the key events taking place at ADSW 2023, which will convene heads of state, policymakers, industry leaders, investors, youth, and entrepreneurs, for a series of impactful dialogues ahead of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), to be held in the UAE from November 30-December 12.

KISS the Year 2024 by ICTP and SunX is about to start

Juergen T Steinmetz — Sat, 31 Dec 2022 21:56:10 +0000

eTurboNews:

The International Climate & Tourism Partners (ICTP) under the leadership of Brussels-based Professor Geoffrey Lipman, together with SUNx Malta are already preparing for New Year 2023/2024.

SUNx and ICTP are about to launch the New Year’s KISS fund, and are calling on Travel and Tourism Countries and Cities, and also travelers for support.

KISS stands for Keep it Simple Stupid.

Professor Lipman explains: ” All we want is for every Country and City that has a New Year’s Fireworks Show to give 5% of next year’s budget for fireworks to a fund for Climate Friendly Travel Scholarships. This fund will benefit young graduates from the World’s poorest countries.”

“I got this idea watching the fireworks to start the New Year in New Zealand.,” Prof. Lipman explains. “I am thinking this is going to happen in so many developed countries around the world. I remembered the enormous fireworks welcoming tourism ministers and delegates to the WTTC summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia last month.

“If a tiny percentage could make such a difference to the world’s poorest countries – especially if used to build the next generation of leaders.

“We will call on the World Tourism Community to support this and target the Heads of State that will attend the 5th United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries (LDC5) in Doha, Qatar on March 5-9 to endorse the idea.”

Over five days of the LDC5 Conference in Doha, world leaders will gather with the private sector, civil society, parliamentarians, and young people to advance new ideas, raise new pledges of support, and spur delivery on agreed commitments, through the Doha Programme of Action. At the Conference, it is expected that specific initiatives and concrete deliverables will be announced that will address LDC-specific challenges.

Lipman continued: “We will provide Scholarships at ITS in Malta for these Students for our Climate Friendly Travel Diploma

“Travelers will join our Climate Friendly Travel Club and 10% of the annual fee will be put into the fund. They will get a unique carbon compensation initiative plus a clean and green rewards program.”

The International Climate & Tourism Partners (ICTP) is an initiative under the World Tourism Network (WTN) with tourism stakeholders in 129 countries as members.

WTN chairman Juergen Steinmetz said: “We’re excited to team up with Geoffrey and SunX to support such an initiative. KISS New Year 2024!”

Click here to contact ICTP to be part of KISS!

Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2023 response to Climate Change

Juergen T Steinmetz — Fri, 23 Dec 2022 09:02:03 +0000

eTurboNews:

The Gulf and the Middle East are becoming a center for climate change. The Sharm El Sheikh Green initiative by Saudi Arabia in Egypt set the tone this year, and Abu Dhabi in the UAE will continue in 2023.

Climate change also got top coverage at the just concluded WTTC Summit in Riyadh.

The largest economies such as Saudi Arabia and UAE have announced 26 percent and 31 percent reductions in their emissions by 2030 from the “business-as-usual” level. As next year’s COP28 is going to implement the first global stocktaking process (GSP), it is a great opportunity for countries across the Middle East to showcase their efforts and achievements.

Starting with the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2023, the global initiative championed by the UAE and its clean energy powerhouse Masdar to accelerate sustainable development, will feature a series of high-level sessions focused on the key priorities for sustainable development ahead of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), to be held in the UAE from November 30-December 12.

The fifteenth edition of the annual event will be held under the patronage of UAE President HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan who has championed sustainability as a key pillar of the UAE’s economic and social progress and prosperity.

ADSW, taking place from January 14 to 19, under the theme of ‘United on Climate Action Toward COP28,’ will convene heads of state, policymakers, industry leaders, investors, youth, and entrepreneurs, for a series of impactful dialogues on the transition to a net-zero future. Key stakeholders will discuss priorities for the global climate agenda at COP28, the need for all stakeholders across society to be engaged and included, and how to leverage the assessments from the first Global Stocktake of the Paris Agreement to accelerate climate progress at COP28 and beyond.

H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Special Envoy for Climate Change, and Chairman of Masdar, said, “For over 15 years, ADSW has reinforced the UAE’s commitment to addressing global challenges as a responsible leader driving climate action and sustainable economic development. ADSW 2023 will help shape the sustainability agenda and drive momentum toward COP28 in the UAE by convening the global community and facilitating meaningful dialogue to foster consensus, groundbreaking partnerships and innovative solutions.

“The world needs a just and inclusive energy transition that supports the needs of developing nations while ensuring a more sustainable future for us all. ADSW can serve as an ideal platform to accelerate the adoption of clean technologies and put partnerships together that can take them to scale around the world, leaving no one behind.”

ADSW 2023 will feature for the first time a Green Hydrogen Summit, hosted by Masdar’s green hydrogen business, highlighting its potential to decarbonize key industries – helping countries to achieve their net-zero objectives.

Earlier this month, Masdar formally announced a new shareholding structure and the launch of its green hydrogen business – forming a clean energy powerhouse that will spearhead global decarbonization efforts. Masdar is now one of the largest clean energy companies of its kind and is well-positioned to lead the industry on a global scale, strengthening the UAE’s role as an energy leader.

The first international sustainability gathering of the year, ADSW 2023 will drive discussion and debate around climate action in the run-up to COP28. The ADSW Summit, hosted by Masdar and taking place on January 16, will focus on a wide range of critical topics including Food and Water Security, Energy Access, Industrial Decarbonization, Health, and Climate Adaptation.

ADSW 2023 will also seek to engage youth in climate action, with its Youth for Sustainability platform holding the Y4S Hub, which aims to attract 3,000 young people. ADSW 2023 will also feature the annual forum for Masdar’s Women in Sustainability, Environment and Renewable Energy (WiSER) platform, giving women a greater voice in the sustainability debate.

As in previous years, ADSW 2023 will also feature partner-led events and opportunities for international engagement on sustainability-related topics, including the International Renewable Energy Agency’s IRENA Assembly, the Atlantic Council Energy Forum, the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Forum, and the World Future Energy Summit.

The 2023 ADSW will also mark the 15th anniversary of the Zayed Sustainability Prize – the UAE’s pioneering global award for recognizing excellence in sustainability. With 96 winners across its categories of Health, Food, Energy, Water, and Global High Schools, the Prize has positively impacted the lives of over 378 million people around the world, including in Vietnam, Nepal, Sudan, Ethiopia, Maldives and Tuvalu.

Over the years, the Prize has provided communities across the world with access to quality education, clean food and water, quality healthcare, energy, jobs, and improved community safety.

With small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) making up roughly 90 percent of businesses worldwide, ADSW 2023 will welcome over 70 SMEs and start-ups across several sectors, including Masdar City’s global initiative Innovate, which will showcase groundbreaking international technologies.

Key dates for ADSW 2023 include:

• 14 – 15 January: IRENA Assembly, Atlantic Council Energy Forum
• 16 January: Opening Ceremony, COP28 Strategy Announcement and Zayed Sustainability Prize Awards Ceremony, ADSW Summit
• 16 – 18 January: World Future Energy Summit, Youth 4 Sustainability Hub, Innovate
• 17 January: WiSER Forum
• 18 January: Green Hydrogen Summit and Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Forum

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Indonesia Tourism Minister invites World Travel Industry SMEs to Bali

Travel & Tourism Professionals in small and medium size companies are in 129 member countries of the World Tourism Network. They are invited to meet in Bali for TIME 2023 in September.

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100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel

New Luxury Spa in Stay Boulevard Nisantasi Istanbul

It’s TIME for Bali: Where World Tourism Meets in 2023

TIME for Indonesians to travel the world

TIME to travel to Indonesia

TIME for well-being: Medical & Health Tourism

TIME for small Cultural tourism regions of the World

TIME for Tourism to Confront Climate Change

TIME for Rennaissance and Marriott to join the trend

TIME for World Tourism Network to Shine

WTN President and world-renowned tourism security and safety expert, Dr. Peter Tarlow, says:

WTN Indonesia Chairwoman Mudi Astuti says:

WTN Chairman Juergen Steinmetz says:

TIME for Media: Journalists Matter

SMEs Matter Big in Tourism – let’s not miss it!

TIME to plan for your Participation, Input, and Sponsorship

First annual Green Hydrogen Summit coming to Abu Dhabi

KISS the Year 2024 by ICTP and SunX is about to start

Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2023 response to Climate Change

TIME for well-being:
Medical & Health Tourism