Next UK govt should help destinations become more sustainable, public say
More than seven in 10 adults think the next UK government should prioritise sustainable travel initiatives, including partnerships with other countries to help them become more sustainable.
A poll of 2,099 adults by InsureandGo found 73% were in favour of government action to promote sustainable travel, with 32% saying the UK should partner with other countries to promote green tourism.
The issue chimed with the 25-34 year age group, 88% of whom said the UK should prioritise sustainable travel.
The poll found 80% acknowledged recent shifts in global weather patterns have influenced travel plans.
Among those that have directly experienced the effects of climate change on holiday abroad, 91% said their experiences of extreme weather have shaped their holiday decisions.
InsureandGo found 30% wanted to see a new government provide tax incentives for airlines to invest in fuel-efficient aircraft and carbon offsets.
The same proportion called for a public awareness campaign on eco-friendly travel options and to highlight the environmental impact of the choices people made.
More than one in four people (27%) want to see the next government work with other countries on establishing sustainable travel certifications, while 24% want politicians to promote and incentivise eco-friendly hotels and resorts abroad.
Carbon offset programmes were called for by 22% of respondents to compensate for travel-related emissions. The same proportion wanted a new government to subsidise “sustainable” airlines.
’Clear message’
Garry Nelson, InsureandGo’s head of corporate affairs, said: “As the various general election manifestos emerge, climate change and the environment is mentioned domestically in terms of energy efficient homes, planting trees, business taxes, but there is very little mention from any party about overseas travel.
"The message from our latest survey is clear. While summer holidays abroad are important to most British households, many people are mindful of doing it responsibly and they would like to see the next government set an example.
“If the government makes sustainable travel a bigger priority then people will follow and, together, we can all support a plan that invests in the future of the travel sector, whilst also protecting the environment."
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