In the realm of travel and tourism, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has joined forces with IC Bellagio and industry leaders to spearhead a groundbreaking initiative known as ‘Community Conscious Travel.’ This campaign, poised to launch ahead of the 2024 summer season, aims to ignite a global movement towards responsible travel practices that benefit both visitors and local communities.
Leveraging the power of video storytelling across its global social media platforms, the WTTC will showcase the transformative potential of responsible tourism. Italy, a country renowned for its rich cultural heritage and tourism industry, will serve as the inaugural case study, highlighting the positive social and economic impacts of mindful travel.
The travel and tourism sector holds immense significance for Italy’s economy, contributing significantly to its GDP and creating numerous employment opportunities. This initiative emphasizes the crucial role of tourism in preserving local traditions, arts, and crafts, while fostering fair pay and career growth for local residents.
Julia Simpson, President & CEO of WTTC, underscores the importance of responsible travel: ‘Our Community Conscious Travel campaign empowers consumers to make informed choices that positively impact local communities.’ She stresses the need for collaboration between destinations, local governments, and communities to manage visitors in a way that benefits all stakeholders.
Andrea Grisdale, CEO & Founder of IC Bellagio, echoes this sentiment: ‘At IC Bellagio, we believe travel and tourism is all about people – not just the travelers, but the communities and individuals who welcome them.’ The campaign aims to foster dialogue and inspire solutions that enhance the quality of life for residents while unlocking the opportunities presented by tourism.
The WTTC’s commitment to sustainable travel extends beyond this campaign. The organization actively promotes partnerships between the private and public sectors to advance responsible tourism practices and foster innovation. This initiative builds upon the WTTC’s previous reports on Destination Stewardship and successful destination management strategies, underscoring its dedication to balanced tourism management.
As the travel and tourism sector continues to expand globally, sustainable practices become paramount. The ‘Community Conscious Travel’ initiative empowers travelers to become advocates for responsible tourism, ensuring the long-term vitality of destinations and the well-being of local communities.
