Green tourism: Pressure to transform clean energy from COP26 commitments and global trends

Within the framework of the Ho Chi Minh City International Tourism Fair 2025 (ITE), on September 5, the discussion "Clean energy in tourism development" raised an urgent issue: Energy conversion is no longer an option, but a mandatory key for the survival and competitiveness of Vietnam's tourism industry on the international map.

According to studies, the global tourism industry currently contributes 8-9% of total greenhouse gas emissions. However, the industry also has the potential to cut emissions by 40% if sustainable measures are applied, focusing on the energy transition. The majority of energy consumption comes from transport and the operation of resorts and hotels.

Research from Wifi Talents shows that 74% of young travelers under 30 prioritize sustainability when planning their trips. Zipdo compiled that more than 80% of travelers want to choose eco-friendly destinations, and 55-66% are willing to pay more for sustainable options. The global ecotourism market is forecast to reach 300 billion USD/year. This pressure comes from consumers themselves.

Speaking at the seminar, Ms. Nguyen Thi Thu Ha, Editor-in-Chief of Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Magazine, emphasized that this is an event that extends the unit's journey to promote sustainable tourism. The event brought together representatives from the National Tourism Administration, Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism, associations and a series of leading travel and resort businesses in Vietnam.

The tourism industry needs a smart roadmap that balances economic , environmental and social responsibility benefits to apply clean energy, save energy and pursue green standards. (Photo: PV/Vietnam+)

Vietnam is one of the countries most affected by climate change, and has made strong commitments at COP26. The goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050 and the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) signed in 2022 are creating strong momentum for the clean energy transition in all sectors, including tourism.

In fact, many businesses have quietly taken action, switching completely to using solar power instead of grid power, showing clear economic efficiency: Smart energy management systems in hotels can reduce energy consumption by 25%. Green buildings help reduce operating costs by 20%. A green-certified hotel often uses 20-30% less energy than a traditional hotel.

However, this wave of sustainable development also opens up an important debate at the forum: Is the production of solar panels, wind turbines, or the treatment of waste from them causing pressure and harm to the environment and society? Does the exploitation of raw materials for renewable energy ensure fairness and humanity? Sustainable development must be a comprehensive journey, not only stopping at replacing energy sources, but also taking into account the life cycle of green technologies and their overall impact. Synchronous solutions are needed now to promptly respond to potential consequences.

The conclusion of the discussion emphasized that applying clean energy, saving energy and pursuing green standards is the inevitable path. It not only protects the environment but also enhances the brand, reduces operating costs and attracts modern tourists. However, for that journey to be truly complete, the tourism industry needs a smart roadmap, balancing economic benefits, the environment and social responsibility in the most comprehensive way./.

(Vietnam+)

Source: https://www.vietnamplus.vn/du-lich-xanh-ap-luc-chuyen-doi-nang-luong-sach-tu-cam-ket-cop26-va-xu-huong-toan-cau-post1060129.vnp