Webinar Recap: How EMAS can support improving the sustainability of the tourism sector

On September 27, 2024, a webinar organized by the EU EMAS Helpdesk brought together stakeholders from the tourism sector to explore how the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) can help businesses transition toward more sustainable practices. The event covered a variety of topics, including practical steps for EMAS registration and case studies of organizations that have successfully integrated sustainability into their operations. 

The webinar began with a presentation from DG GROW, outlining the EU's Tourism Agenda and the Transition Pathway for Tourism. The focus was on balancing long-term competitiveness with environmental responsibility, tackling climate change, and leveraging innovation to support sustainability. EMAS was highlighted as a key tool to align tourism businesses with the EU Green Deal, helping them reduce carbon footprints, protect biodiversity, and maintain competitiveness in an increasingly eco-conscious market. 

Following this, DG Environment explained how EMAS enables businesses to systematically manage and reduce their environmental impacts. EMAS offers a structured framework for ensuring legal compliance, fostering continuous improvement, and enhancing transparency through independent verification of environmental performance. This approach not only helps companies meet sustainability targets but also builds trust with customers and stakeholders. 

Sustainability practices and initiatives in the tourism sectors 

Several organizations shared how they have leveraged EMAS and other sustainability strategies to enhance their operations: 

• Booking.com discussed its efforts to promote sustainability across its platform, focusing on making environmentally responsible options more visible to travelers. The company acknowledged challenges in consumer perceptions of cost and trust but emphasized the growing demand for sustainable choices. 
• Lastminute.com shared its target of making 50% of bookings sustainable by 2027. The company focuses on promoting eco-friendly travel packages and accommodations while addressing concerns around greenwashing and ensuring that consumers are aware of trusted certifications. 
• The Climate Pact Ambassadors emphasized strategies for reducing food waste in tourism, advocating for local sourcing and portion size adjustments. These initiatives not only reduce environmental impacts but also support the preservation of local food cultures. 

Organizations sharing their experiences with EMAS 

• Camping La Ballena Alegre in Spain shared how EMAS has helped them optimize water and energy use, reduce waste, and improve their overall sustainability. The campsite has become a popular destination for eco-conscious travelers. 
• Festspielhaus St. Pölten and Bühne im Hof in Austria discussed their success in reducing CO2 emissions by switching to LED lighting, adopting green catering, and implementing paper-free offices. The venues have also added green clauses in artists' contracts, further embedding sustainability into their cultural events. 
• Oceanário de Lisboa detailed its long-term sustainability efforts, including the use of 100% renewable energy, tracking of visitor-specific CO2 emissions, and promoting marine conservation. EMAS has been instrumental in helping the aquarium continuously improve its environmental performance. 

The steps to EMAS registration 

The webinar provided a guide to EMAS registration, starting with an initial environmental review to assess environmental impacts and legal compliance. Organizations then implement an Environmental Management System (EMS) to set goals and monitor progress using EMAS core indicators. After conducting internal audits, they prepare an environmental statement for independent verification. This process ensures continuous improvement and transparency. For more details, visit Join EMAS. 

Conclusion 

The webinar highlighted the crucial role EMAS plays in helping tourism businesses meet sustainability goals. Through a structured framework, EMAS enables organizations to reduce resource use, minimize environmental impacts, and align with broader EU Green Deal objectives. As the tourism sector continues to evolve, sustainability will be essential to maintaining competitiveness and meeting growing consumer demand for eco-friendly options.  

For those interested in learning more, the webinar recording and presentations are available on the event page below.