WTTC Releases New Environmental Impact Research on the Travel Industry

Image: Environmentally-friendly travel is on the rise. (photo via pcess609/iStock/Getty Images Plus)
Image: Environmentally-friendly travel is on the rise. (photo via pcess609/iStock/Getty Images Plus)
Lacey Pfalz
by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 2:10 PM ET, Thu October 26, 2023

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), in collaboration with the Sustainable Tourism Global Center (STGC) and the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia has published its latest Environment Impact Research data on the travel and tourism industry and its supply chains. 

The data covers 185 countries around the world across all major global regions and is expected to be updated each year with current figures. Like WTTC’s Economic Impact Reports, the Environmental Impact Research will feature a dedicated microsite, individualized factsheets for major global regions as well as individual countries. 

Different data points measured include greenhouse gas emissions, energy use and composition, freshwater usage, specific pollutants such as ammonia, and other information, such as wage, gender and age profiles of people in the industry. 

The travel industry’s global energy consumption was 10.9 percent in 2019, while its water usage was 0.9 percent of global water usage. 

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO said: “Today marks a pivotal moment for the global Travel & Tourism sector. Through this data, we are highlighting the sector's multi-dimensional impact — economically, environmentally, and societally.” 

“We're talking about a vision that sees beyond tourism and leans into its sustainable future,” Simpson continued. “With this data, we are not just reflecting on where we are now, but actively charting our course for a future where the sector progressively reduces its environmental footprint and boosts its social impact.”

Those interested in seeing the information on the dedicated microsite should apply for access on WTTC’s website.


For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.

Topics From This Article to Explore

More From TravelPulse

Lacey Pfalz

Lacey Pfalz

Associate Editor

Lacey Pfalz is Associate Editor at TravelPulse. She's a passionate advocate of responsible travel and believes the best travel experiences happen outside of a planned itinerary. Lacey currently lives in rural Wisconsin. She can be reached at [email protected].

Grow Your Travel Business With Certified Courses

Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Majestic Resorts Specialist ProgramDiscover all-inclusive luxury at Majestic Resorts in paradise.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Allianz Specialist ProgramProtect every journey with Allianz Partners Travel Insurance.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Los Cabos Specialist ProgramSell the magic of Los Cabos: luxury, adventure, and endless sunshine.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Majestic Resorts Specialist ProgramDiscover all-inclusive luxury at Majestic Resorts in paradise.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Allianz Specialist ProgramProtect every journey with Allianz Partners Travel Insurance.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Los Cabos Specialist ProgramSell the magic of Los Cabos: luxury, adventure, and endless sunshine.

Don't Miss These Travel Agent Events and Trainings

Watch Now!
Authentically Mediterranean: Discover Celestyal’s New Western Mediterranean Itineraries & Iconic ClassicsTuesday, July 21, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
The Mediterranean is more than just a destination, it’s our home. Join Celestyal to learn why we are...
Watch Now!
July The Travel Corporation WebinarTuesday, July 21, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Save your spot for this upcoming webinar! Details coming soon!
Upcoming Webinar
Sani/Ikos Group: Luxury Beachfront Resorts in Greece & SpainTuesday, July 28, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Join us for an exclusive webinar introducing Sani/Ikos Group, a collection of luxury beachfront...
Watch Now!
Authentically Mediterranean: Discover Celestyal’s New Western Mediterranean Itineraries & Iconic ClassicsTuesday, July 21, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
The Mediterranean is more than just a destination, it’s our home. Join Celestyal to learn why we are...
Watch Now!
July The Travel Corporation WebinarTuesday, July 21, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Save your spot for this upcoming webinar! Details coming soon!
Upcoming Webinar
Sani/Ikos Group: Luxury Beachfront Resorts in Greece & SpainTuesday, July 28, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Join us for an exclusive webinar introducing Sani/Ikos Group, a collection of luxury beachfront...