More than three decades have passed since the introduction of sustainability in tourism, yet significant challenges remain. While initiatives such as Tourism Cares and the rise of ecolodges highlight positive strides, the harsh reality is that the travel industry still falls short of achieving critical environmental goals regarding climate change, biodiversity, and the preservation of natural landscapes.
At the recent International Conference on Sustainable Tourism held in San José, Costa Rica, industry experts underscored these challenges. Willy Legrand, a prominent professor at IU International University of Applied Sciences, shed light on a growing phenomenon known as eco-anxiety, which stems from a pervasive sense of ecological grief and mental exhaustion.
The Roots of Eco-Anxiety in the Travel Industry
Legrand emphasizes the emotional turmoil associated with environmental degradation, stating, “We are not just managing businesses; we’re dealing with human beings facing a mental health crisis that impacts employees, guests, and communities.” His observations reveal a concerning decline in enthusiasm for sustainability among students and industry professionals alike.
A notable contributor to eco-anxiety is the concept of solastalgia, a term that describes the feeling of homesickness while still inhabiting one’s environment, particularly in areas witnessing significant ecological changes, such as receding glaciers. Legrand states, “We’re feeling exhaustion from carrying environmental concerns for too long,” indicating that even the most dedicated professionals in the industry risk burnout.
Understanding Eco-Apathy
The work of researcher Per Espen Stoknes offers insight into why eco-apathy is on the rise. Stoknes identifies five defense mechanisms that discourage meaningful environmental action.
1. Distance
Many individuals view climate change as a distant issue, attributing it to someone else’s problem. Legrand notes that this detachment impedes collective action.
2. Doom
Messages of catastrophe and loss often paralyze rather than motivate action, as fear and guilt only serve to exacerbate disengagement.
3. Dissonance
Environmental contradictions, such as driving an SUV to a farmers’ market, create justifications for unsustainable behavior rather than prompting change.
4. Denial
Many individuals choose to ignore scientific findings to maintain their daily routines, inadvertently hindering progress.
5. Identity
Environmental activism is often perceived as a threat to personal values and lifestyles, leading to resistance against climate initiatives.
Enhancing Engagement and Action
To combat eco-apathy, Legrand emphasizes the power of social networks. Peer influences can effectively motivate individuals to adopt sustainable practices when they observe respected colleagues doing the same.
The framing of environmental challenges also plays a pivotal role. Legrand advises against portraying sustainability as a sacrifice. Instead, promoting the health, opportunities, and well-being that come with environmentally friendly choices can foster a more positive outlook.
Sharing success stories rather than overwhelming statistics can inspire hope. Celebrating small victories in environmental restoration encourages continued engagement. Involvement in citizen science projects, such as iNaturalist and eBird, allows individuals to participate actively in ecological healing, providing personal empowerment.
Community Support and Resilience
Organizations like Canaeco foster collaborations among sustainability-focused hospitality projects, emphasizing the importance of community in combating burnout. Their president, Hans Pfister, acknowledges the challenges of maintaining consistent commitment but highlights the reinforcement gained from like-minded peers.
As Pfister asserts, the motivation to pursue sustainability arises not from corporate policy mandates, but from the belief that these practices are essential for a better future.
