Guiding Principle #13:
Operate business responsibly
Incentivize and reward tourism businesses and associated enterprises that support these principles through their actions and develop strong local supply chains that allow for higher quality products and experiences.
Several ways exist to systemize responsibility throughout a destination, even an entire country. There is a range of ways that this can be influenced - both at the destination level and among individual businesses.
At its simplest, a business can post its practices and values online and invite public feedback, which is important to avoid greenwashing. Beyond this, tourism businesses have the ability to influence other actors in the tourism value chain. A single tourism business may have hundreds of different suppliers - for example, a tour operator may partner with numerous hotels, restaurants, attractions, and transportation providers. By prioritizing eco-conscious and local suppliers, travel companies can facilitate the uptake of sustainable practices even beyond their own doors.
From the government side, tax incentives, regulations/policies, training programs, and business certification schemes can help. DMOs can showcase sustainable businesses in their marketing, diversifying their product offerings and attracting the responsible tourist.
Further resources:
SECTION B: Socio-economic sustainability
B(a) Delivering local economic benefits
B3 Supporting local entrepreneurs and fair trade