Saving coastal destinations from climate change

The world’s coastlines are lifelines for millions, hubs of cultural exchange, and economic engines powered by tourism. But with climate change accelerating, these treasured destinations are under siege. Rising sea levels, more frequent storms, and disappearing ecosystems are reshaping the coastlines and threatening the communities that rely on them. So, the question is, how can we protect these vulnerable destinations and ensure their allure endures the changing climate? The answer lies in innovative strategies that blend sustainability, resilience, and collaboration.

Carbon footprint of coastal tourism

Coastal tourism accounts for about half of all tourism activities and carries a significant carbon footprint due to the energy-intensive nature of travel and the infrastructure that supports it. It was estimated to be 1.57 billion tonnes of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2023, which is 3% of global GHG emissions, similar to its global GDP contribution (3.2%).

Transportation is a major contributor, along with cruise ships which rely on fossil fuels for propulsion and onboard activities. Accommodation and hospitality in coastal areas also play a significant role due to consuming vast amounts of energy for lighting, air conditioning, and amenities, with additional emissions stemming from water desalination and waste management in regions with limited infrastructure.  

The construction and maintenance of coastal infrastructure, such as marinas, hotels, and ports, also emit carbon during material production and upkeep. While Scope 1 emissions (emissions from sources that a company owns or controls) accounted for 25% of total emissions, Scope 2 (emissions from purchased energy, such as electricity) accounted for 7%, Scope 3 (emissions from other indirect sources) was 49%, and international transportation 19% in 2023.

How do we mitigate the carbon footprint impact?

Coastal and marine tourism faces the dual challenges of mitigating its GHG emissions and becoming climate resilient. It is important to examine the scale of investment that may be required to mitigate these challenges. The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that investment of $4 trillion in clean energy is essential every year till 2030. When contextualised for coastal and marine tourism, an investment of around $31 billion per year is required to cover the Scope 1 footprint of the sector and $126 billion for total GHG emissions.  

1. On the other hand, the Climate Policy Initiative (CPI) estimated that $8.5 trillion per year is required for climate financing by 2030. Scaling this for coastal tourism implies an investment of $65 billion to mitigate its Scope 1 footprint, or $260 billion for the total environmental footprint.  

1. WTTC’s Net Zero Roadmap for Travel & Tourism suggests that mitigation and adaptation funding should total 2-3% of companies’ revenues. For coastal tourism, it means funding of $120 to $180 billion, including all scopes of its footprint. Therefore, to address Scope 1 footprint, coastal tourism will require investment between approximately $30 billion (mitigation alone) and $65 billion per year (mitigation and adaptation).

2. The road ahead

While mitigation takes time, the effects of climate change demand immediate action to sustain tourism's economic value and protect vulnerable areas. Adaptation requires diverse strategies such as resilient infrastructure, coastal defenses, and early warning systems. Nature-based solutions, like restoring mangroves, can shield coastlines from climate impacts while enhancing ecosystems and attracting tourists.  

The Mangrove Action Project in Nai Nang, Thailand, combines mangrove protection with community-led beekeeping, which supports biodiversity and provides alternative incomes. Urban coastal areas like Miami, where tourism contributes $30 billion annually (9% of the local economy), also demonstrate the importance of adaptation of climate action plans as they cover a wide range of risks such as coastal flooding and extreme heat.  

Mitigating the impact of climate change on coastal tourism requires a proactive, multi-faceted approach that balances environmental sustainability with economic resilience. Collaboration between governments, industries, and local communities is essential to develop innovative strategies and secure funding for adaptation efforts. By embracing sustainable tourism practices and prioritising climate resilience, coastal regions can preserve their natural beauty, protect livelihoods, and ensure that these cherished destinations continue to thrive.

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