When managed responsibly, tourism becomes a powerful engine for economic growth, cultural preservation, and environmental protection. Yet, the industry’s rapid expansion has often triggered over-tourism, ecological degradation, and cultural erosion. A fundamental shift toward sustainable, resilient tourism is no longer a choice—it is a necessity.
Technology is the driving force behind this transformation. Big data and AI-powered analytics equip policymakers and businesses to track tourist movements, allocate resources efficiently, and mitigate over-tourism in fragile destinations. Smart infrastructure, IoT sensors, and blockchain-enabled transparency systems monitor carbon footprints, promote sustainable choices, and enforce accountability. Meanwhile, virtual and augmented reality provide immersive experiences that alleviate pressure on overcrowded sites while deepening cultural engagement.
Sustainable tourism thrives on community involvement and empowerment. Digital platforms bridge travelers with authentic local experiences, ensuring fair economic distribution. The rise of remote work and metaverse tourism is reshaping travel, reducing environmental strain. Green mobility solutions—including electric vehicles, AI-optimized transportation networks, and biofuel-powered aviation—are redefining sustainable travel.
By integrating technology with ethical intent, tourism can evolve beyond an industry into a force for planetary well-being, community upliftment, and long-term resilience. The future of travel must be intelligent, inclusive, and regenerative.
At the Tourism Sustainability Summit 2025, hosted by PHDCCI, Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, shared exclusive insights with The Interview World. He discussed strategies for responsible tourism, key sustainability measures, and technology’s role in driving environmental responsibility and industry resilience. He also examined the current landscape of Indian tourism and its global positioning. Here are the key takeaways from his compelling conversation.
Q: How do you define responsible tourism, and what key principles should travellers and industry stakeholders uphold to ensure sustainable and ethical travel experiences?
A: Responsible tourism goes beyond operating within a destination—it’s about giving back more than we take. We call this net positive hospitality. It sets our industry apart by positioning us as contributors rather than extractors. That distinction is crucial.
Our impact extends across people, planet, place, and prosperity. And prosperity matters. We are in a business where financial success is essential. But profit shouldn’t be a solo pursuit. Instead, we can channel wealth back into the communities we serve, making tourism an engine of shared growth. That is the essence of responsible tourism.
Q: What key measures should the tourism industry implement to ensure sustainability and resilience while balancing economic growth, environmental protection, and community well-being?
A: We must take bold, decisive action to address our energy consumption. Our industry consumes significantly more energy than other commercial entities operating within a typical building. That needs to change. We must also reduce our water usage. On average, we consume eight times more water than a local resident in the communities we serve. This demands urgent, transformative action.
Beyond environmental impact, we must also tackle human rights issues with the same level of urgency. The challenges are complex, but we cannot afford inaction. To drive real change, we have developed a clear pathway to net positive hospitality—equipping the industry with bold tools and practical resources to measure progress and implement meaningful solutions.
At its core, our industry thrives on efficiency. We turn beds, serve tables, and generate revenue. Sustainability must align with these business realities, offering a clear return on investment without unnecessary complexity. Too often, we overcomplicate the process. The key is to keep it simple, stay focused, and execute with precision.
That focus is critical. If we lose sight of this mission, we risk losing the very industry we are privileged to operate within. Without action, travellers will stop coming. Communities will no longer support us. If we want the freedom to shape the future—whether by revitalizing a hotel or investing in local infrastructure—we must earn trust. Our industry must be seen as a force for good, not as an extractive presence.
This is our moment. The opportunity to redefine our impact is right in front of us. The only question is whether we will seize it.
Q: How can technology drive sustainable tourism, and what innovative solutions are shaping the industry’s efforts toward environmental responsibility and long-term resilience?
A: Technology plays a crucial role in our industry’s future. First, we must standardize measurement. Without consistency, progress remains unclear. Simplifying how we track impact is essential. Artificial intelligence will revolutionize data collection and distribution, making insights more accessible than ever. For instance, real-time data can flow directly from a furnace into a centralized platform, allowing operators to measure energy consumption effortlessly. With this clarity, they can take swift, informed action.
Technology also drives efficiency. Smart sensors in rooms, energy-efficient LED lighting, and advanced window designs require minimal capital investment but deliver significant returns. These innovations not only reduce operational costs but also future-proof the industry. Regulators demand action. Communities expect accountability. Investors prioritize companies that demonstrate measurable impact. Meeting these expectations isn’t optional—it’s essential for long-term success.
Beyond business, sustainability strengthens our industry’s identity. The workforce of the future seeks purpose-driven employers. Our industry has a unique opportunity to lead, not just in profitability but in responsibility. Unlike many economic sectors, we have a direct stake in preserving the communities we operate in. By embracing this role, we can shift perceptions—becoming seen not as mere operators but as guardians of nature and stewards of the community. That is the true power of sustainability.
Q: What are your insights on the current state of Indian tourism, and how does it compare to global tourism in terms of growth, sustainability, and competitiveness?
A: I must say, many of our Alliance members come from this region, and India has set a remarkable example. Take ITC Hotels, for instance—they lead globally in energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste management. Their contributions deserve recognition.
India stands out for its decisive action on sustainability. Compared to other destinations, the progress here is tangible. What we see in this room today is even more inspiring—a collective effort. Industry leaders from major hotel companies have gathered to prioritize sustainability. This level of commitment is rare worldwide. India should take pride in this momentum. Real change is happening. The collaboration between the Federation and the Chamber signals meaningful action, not just conversation. When key stakeholders unite with a shared purpose, the results speak for themselves. This is a powerful step forward.
