Tourism and oceans: A vital commitment

08-06-25

June 8 marks World Oceans Day, a date proclaimed by the United Nations to remind humanity of the importance of oceans in our daily lives and to promote actions that support their conservation. Oceans cover more than 70% of the planet’s surface, produce at least 50% of the oxygen we breathe, absorb a significant portion of the carbon dioxide emitted by human activity, and are home to an immeasurable wealth of biodiversity. They also provide livelihoods for millions of people, including those working directly or indirectly in the tourism sector.

Coastal and marine tourism is one of the fundamental pillars of the global tourism economy. According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), more than 40% of international tourists choose coastal destinations as part of their travel experience. In many island nations and coastal regions, tourism accounts for between 20% and 60% of GDP, making it a vital activity for economic development, job creation, and infrastructure improvement. However, this dependency on the sea and its resources also makes tourism highly vulnerable to the degradation of ocean ecosystems.

Plastic pollution, overfishing, destruction of marine habitats, uncontrolled coastal urbanization, climate change, and ocean acidification are having a devastating impact on marine resources. Eroded beaches, bleached coral reefs, biodiversity loss, and rising sea levels are alarming signs of a crisis that requires urgent and coordinated responses. Tourism not only suffers from these consequences but can also contribute to them if not managed responsibly and sustainably.

That is why, on this World Oceans Day, we must reflect on tourism’s role as a strategic ally in protecting marine ecosystems. Adopting sustainable practices, promoting environmental education among travelers, regulating tourism activity in fragile areas, and applying an ecosystem-based approach in tourism development planning are some of the actions that can make a real difference. Investment in research, technological innovation, and nature-based solutions is also key to finding new ways to align tourism with ocean health.

Furthermore, the concept of the blue economy is gaining ground as a model that seeks to sustainably harness ocean resources, integrating sectors such as tourism, fishing, marine biotechnology, and renewable energy. In this context, coastal and marine tourism must take a leadership role by committing to higher sustainability standards, reducing its ecological footprint, and supporting community initiatives that protect marine environments. The creation of marine protected areas with tourism sector involvement, promotion of eco-certifications for tour operators, responsible use of water and energy in hotel facilities, and reduction of plastic usage are concrete steps in that direction.

Tourists themselves also play a crucial role as agents of change. Choosing destinations and operators committed to sustainability, respecting local regulations, not leaving waste behind, joining beach clean-up activities, or simply learning about the importance of the ocean may seem like small actions, but they can have a significant impact when multiplied on a global scale.

World Oceans Day is not only a chance to celebrate the beauty and vitality of the sea, but also to embrace our collective responsibility. Ocean health is planet health, and tourism—being a global phenomenon—has the power to make a positive contribution if aligned with the principles of sustainability and environmental respect. Protecting the oceans today means ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy their natural, cultural, and economic wealth tomorrow.

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