Impact of Climate Change on Tourism: Challenges, Destinations at Risk, and the Way Forward

Like other sectors, tourism is one of the world's largest industries. But currently, it is going through a rough phase of climatic change.

The weather and environment that attract massive footfall of travellers are now changing annually.

And this is an alarming factor, as much depends on where people are visiting and touring and on the activities they engage in.

Impact of Climate Change on Tourism in India

In India, there are many exciting places which are favourite spots for travellers. But in this current scenario, they are getting affected by climate change.

If we talk about beach spots, we will find they are affected by rising sea levels and violent storms.

Citing examples from coastal areas like the Maldives and Caribbean islands, they are on the verge of being submerged underwater.

This indicates that tourists will find fewer spaces on the beach and that hotels and resorts located on shore will be destroyed.

Apart from these beach destinations, mountainous regions are also suffering from climatic problems.

These destinations rely on snow, as vacationers come here to witness snowfall.

Some examples, like Ski resorts in the Alps, the Rocky Mountains, and other well-known areas, are experiencing shorter winter seasons and less snowfall.

Talking about low-altitude resorts, they are shut down because they are bereft of ample snow.

This is an alarming situation for both tourists and people who depend on winter tourism for their daily income.

Environmental Impact on Tourism

Due to extreme weather events, this has posed problems for tourists. Heat waves become intolerable in travel places during the summer.

Moreover, it has become more dangerous in Southern Europe and parts of Asia.

Wildfires are widespread in places like the Mediterranean, Australia, and California.

This forces tourists to cancel their trips and avoid the risks posed by hurricanes and typhoons.

These natural disasters have become a threat to tropical destinations, leading people to cancel their vacation plans.

Choosing Offbeat Alternatives

As climate change worsens in top travel destinations, tourists are now seeking offbeat alternatives.

They prefer these places to escape from extreme heat. Some notable examples include Canada and Scandinavia.

These countries are seeing higher footfall due to a preference for comfortable temperatures.

What needs to be noted further is the change in the travel timing. Because of extreme, unpredictable hot temperatures, traditional peak seasons are now less relevant.

Tourists, who are now increasing their visits throughout the year, will help reduce overcrowding at famous travel spots.

Challenges of Climate Change for Tourism

Climate change is becoming a crucial issue for many natural wonders that attract tourists.

They are getting damaged under its harmful impact. One example is that coral reefs are dying due to warmer ocean temperatures and ocean acidification.

One more example is the colourful coral of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, which has lost its shine. This is indeed very disappointing for snorkelers and divers.

Another negative impact of climate change is the melting of glaciers and changes in the landscapes of Alaska, Patagonia, and Iceland.

These glaciers were once a tourist attraction, but are now on the verge of disappearance.

It also hurts wildlife. Animals are now seeking new habitats by changing their migration times. This, of course, is bad for wildlife tourism.

Eco-friendly Tourism Practices

The tourism industry is taking note of this situation and implementing eco-friendly practices.

To prioritise environmental safety, some destinations have started limiting visitor numbers.

With the growing concept of ‘Last Chance Tourism’, people are rushing to enjoy the spots before they disappear.

This is indeed a positive change, as it will help prevent damage to vulnerable areas.

Bottom Line

The relationship between tourism and nature has been a long-standing one. But now this relationship is facing friction due to changes in the climatic conditions.

The situation has become worrisome for people in hill stations, as their livelihoods depend on nature, wildlife, and tourism.

If this is affected, it will hurt their livelihood. But it is not solely their problem to address weather issues.

The future of tourism depends on making sustainable and eco-friendly choices.

This indicates that more and more such practices should be encouraged.

As an eco-friendly traveller, pick destinations wisely and stay mindful of the environment wherever you are.

Taking climate change seriously will help secure the breathtaking destinations that elevate tourism.