Resource Centre

Where do I start?

Where do I start?

Achieving environmental sustainability in tourism can be complicated by the variety of programs and initiatives available. To assist operators in taking the first step, a simple process called the ‘Pathway to Sustainability’ has been developed.

The aim of the ‘Pathway to Sustainability’ is to help businesses to demystify the climate change challenge and operate in a more sustainable manner. The Pathway to Sustainability as presented here relates only to environmental sustainability and it is important to also acknowledge the economic and social impacts of your operation.
While each business will have its own unique steps to take to minimise its impact, the ‘Pathway to Sustainability’ identifies five steps that any business can follow.

Pathways to sustainability


The 'Pathway to Sustainability for Tourism Operators' is supported by a series of factsheets. Further information on each step and these factsheets can be accessed by following the links below:

Step 1: Getting Started

Step 2: Your Sustainability Action Plan

Step 3: Reduce Your Impact

Step 4: Promote Your Success

Step 5: Monitor and Evaluate

Useful Resources

  • Before you get started, you may like to read more about what other operators are doing to combat climate change. We have brought together examples of some activities being undertaken by others and you can find this in Case Studies, ideas and innovations
  • You may also be interested in reading our Buzz Words factsheet which is a glossary style factsheet on key terms related to Climate Change and Sustainability.
  • Also, References and Key Links provides useful references and links for operators on a variety of issues relating to climate change, sustainability and benchmarking and certification programs.



For more information on what else you can do and case study examples, click here.

Are you ready for the first step?
Click here for Step 1: Getting Started on the Pathway to Sustainability