Sustainable tourism has shifted from a niche market to a mainstream priority, influencing how travellers, businesses, and destinations approach hospitality, according to Professor Lisa Wan, Associate Professor at the School of Hotel and Tourism Management at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School.
Speaking at the Economist Impact’s 4th annual Sustainability Week Asia in Bangkok, Professor Wan noted that post-pandemic travel patterns have influenced sustainability challenges.
“The sudden post-COVID tourist influx overwhelmed many destinations, revealing tourism’s hidden costs—overtourism, waste, and strain on local resources,” said Professor Wan.
“As we continue to travel, we must do so sustainably so that the environment and communities we experience today will welcome the next generation.”
The Psychology of Tourist Behaviour
One key research finding centres on what Professor Wan calls “psychological distance” in tourist settings. Her studies reveal that travellers often behave less environmentally responsibly when away from home.
“Tourists tend to misbehave and act less environmentally friendly due to psychological detachment from the destination,” said Professor Wan.
“They perceive travel destinations as ‘not their home,’ reducing their sense of responsibility.”
Tourists tend to misbehave and act less environmentally friendly due to psychological detachment from the destination.
Her research suggests that closing this psychological gap through meaningful local interactions can significantly improve tourist behaviour.
“Something as simple as residents warmly engaging with visitors through a smile can foster a sense of belonging and responsibility,” she said.
“Cultural experiences that connect tourists with local heritage and traditions also lead to greater environmental empathy.”
Professor Wan cited examples like Hong Kong’s promotion of in-depth cultural tourism and Japan’s Satoyama village experiences, where visitors participate in traditional rural lifestyles.
According to studies, participants in such immersive experiences are more likely to adopt sustainable behaviours like reducing waste and respecting natural environments.
Redefining Luxury
Contrary to perceptions that sustainability compromises luxury, the research indicates that environmental responsibility can enhance premium hospitality experiences.
“Luxury is shifting from excess to quality over quantity,” said Professor Wan. “While often associated with cost-cutting, ‘going green’ is actually about value-adding and investing in the future.”
She pointed to Six Senses Resort as an example of ultra-luxury seamlessly integrating sustainability by using locally sourced materials while maintaining world-class aesthetics. Instead of extravagance, guests enjoy organic farm-to-table dining and nature excursions powered by renewable energy.
Sustainable tourism is about achieving harmony between environmental protection, social responsibility, and economic viability.
The research also reveals that high-status consumers often prefer eco-friendly hotels to enhance their public image, creating a powerful market incentive for sustainable practices.
Cultural Differences in Eco-Messaging
Hotels seeking to attract eco-conscious guests should tailor their messaging appropriately, according to Professor Wan’s findings.
“Different types of eco-conscious travellers respond to different sustainability information,” she noted.
“Asian and younger travellers care more about actual practices adopted by hotels, while eco-certifications work better for Western and more mature travellers.”
CUHK Business School has developed the Hotel Sustainability Index for the Greater Bay Area, creating industry-wide competition for greener operations. Professor Wan reports that sustainability scores have improved over time, reflecting a growing commitment to environmental responsibility.
Cultural experiences that connect tourists with local heritage and traditions also lead to greater environmental empathy.
The Future of Sustainable Tourism
For Thailand and other Southeast Asian destinations heavily dependent on tourism, Professor Wan emphasises that sustainable approaches need not sacrifice economic benefits.
“Sustainable tourism is about achieving harmony between environmental protection, social responsibility, and economic viability,” she concluded.
“The future of tourism depends on embracing responsible practices that benefit both travellers and local communities.”
