impacts on industry

Many Travel Destinations are being permanently altered by global warming

• Skiers, climbers, and hikers are losing some of their most beloved places.
• The snows of Kilamanjaro and the glaciers of Glacier National Park will disappear by mid-century.
• Switzerland stands to lose up to 70% of its glaciers.
• Scuba divers may be left high and dry.
• The Mesoamerican and Great Barrier Reefs are dying from warming waters and other environmental impacts
• Island hoppers may find their get-aways without fresh water
• Rising sea levels in the Pacific are threatening water supplies for islands like Fiji.
• Cruise ship passengers may see wildlife in distress
• Melting arctic pack ice is threatening key wildlife species such as polar bears and disrupting Arctic ecosystems

The Threats from Global Warming on Travel Destinations are Increasing

• Beautiful small islands will lose beaches and coastline
• Flooding will destroy key tourism areas around the world
• Parks will lose their natural habitat
• Wildlife and biodiversity will be threatened

The Travel Industry Faces a Growing Challenge: Keeping Travelers Safe

• Climate change will cause an increase in extreme weather, threatening travelers who already are concerned about their safety during travel
• Climate change is expected to increase the risk of flooding, storms, mosquito borne diseases, extreme heat, drought and heat exposure
• Water shortages will be aggravated as tourists demand water precisely when their favorite destinations are in the dry season

Air Transport causes upper atmosphere impacts that are still being studied

• CO₂ is not the only cause of global warming
• Aviation emissions particularly those caused by contrails in winter may be having an especially problematic impact
• The aviation industry will need special input from the tourism industry and travelers to make certain it contributes to the alleviation of its impacts
• Companies such as Virgin Atlantic and British Air are taking a leadership position on these issues