Why foreign sailors are increasingly choosing to support charter companies that measure their impact on the environment
By Ornela Krezić, Manager of Green Sail
Today, travellers are increasingly aware of their environmental impact and are looking for ways to minimise their footprint, even while on vacation.
Eco-conscious consumers prefer to support companies that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, and this consumer support helps to ensure that beautiful destinations remain intact for future generations. And for the tourism industry, preserving the oceans and seas that continue to attract visitors each year, is not just an ethical consideration; it’s also an economic necessity.
Green Sail Partners
In response to this growing demand, the Green Sail organisation, based in Split, Croatia, works on measuring the ecological footprint of the Yacht Charter industry with its Green Sail Footprint system. The Green Sail Footprint has been created for Yacht Charter partners to accurately calculate their impact on the environment, enabling them to develop a roadmap towards sustainability.
Through on-the-ground support and education programs, Green Sail’s network of partners including marinas and eco-friendly businesses, as well as charter companies promote sustainable eco-tourism to protect the seas and oceans their businesses rely on.
Meeting Demands: The Rise of Eco-Conscious Travelers
Today’s travellers are not just looking for picturesque landscapes and memorable experiences; they are also considering the environmental impact of their journeys.
This new type of eco-conscious consumers prefers to support companies that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. With 71% of travellers reportedly expressing a desire to leave the places they visit better than they found them, it seems there is a growing awareness that their choices can either contribute to environmental degradation or help preserve natural beauty. By choosing environmentally responsible companies, these travellers hope to ensure that future generations can enjoy the same pristine environments they cherish.
In an increasingly saturated market, embracing sustainability becomes a key differentiator, allowing you to distinguish yourself from the competition. Yet for nautical tourism providers, navigating sustainability, along with shifts in developing policies can be challenging. By adopting the Green Sail Footprint system, charter companies are enhancing sustainable efforts by measuring their impact and setting practical goals to meet customer demands.
Yacht Charter companies that calculate their ecological footprint are transparent about their environmental impact, demonstrating their commitment to sustainability. Transparent reporting of a company’s environmental impact builds trust with clients, who greatly appreciate transparency when choosing between competitor companies.
The Critical Role of Sustainability in Shaping Tourism’s Future
For the nautical tourism industry, preserving our oceans and seas is not just an ethical consideration; it’s also an economic necessity. The health of marine environments directly influences the quality of experiences offered to tourists. Degraded environments can lead to a decline in visitor numbers, which in turn affects the economic stability of regions dependent on tourism.
Croatia serves as a compelling case study in this regard. The country’s coastal landscapes are a significant draw for tourists, contributing nearly 20% of its GDP. In 2023, Croatia saw 20.6 million arrivals, reflecting a 9% growth compared to 2022. This increase underscores the popularity of its natural beauty, which must be preserved to maintain this upward trend. For tourism providers, this means that adopting sustainable practices is not just a moral imperative but also critical for long-term economic sustainability.
Commitment from Industry Leaders
Several leading charter companies, including NCP & Mare, Orvas Yachting, More Yacht Club, and Sail Croatia, have already committed to the Green Sail Footprint program for 2024. By verifying their vessels and providing the necessary data, these companies are taking proactive steps towards sustainability. Their data contributions to the Green Sail Footprint system will be crucial for the future development of sustainable nautical tourism in Croatia. This commitment is essential not only for reducing their environmental impact but also for setting a positive example within the industry.
These companies understand that by choosing environmentally friendly options, they are helping to set a trend towards sustainable tourism. This leadership is crucial for the industry’s long-term sustainability, as it encourages other companies to adopt similar practices. Furthermore, it empowers local communities by preserving natural resources and providing high-quality, meaningful visitor experiences.
The Future of Sustainable Nautical Tourism
The future of the nautical tourism industry depends on its ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences and environmental challenges. As more travellers prioritize sustainability, companies that fail to implement eco-friendly practices may find themselves at a competitive disadvantage. In contrast, those who embrace sustainability can differentiate themselves in the market, attracting a loyal customer base that values responsible tourism.
The Green Sail Footprint program is an excellent example of how the industry can move towards sustainability. By providing a clear framework for measuring and reducing environmental impact, the program helps companies align their operations with the values of eco-conscious travellers. This alignment is crucial for the industry’s future, as it ensures that beautiful destinations remain preserved for future generations to enjoy.
Conclusion
The rise of eco-conscious consumers represents a significant shift in the tourism industry. As travellers become more aware of their environmental impact, they are seeking companies that prioritize sustainability. The Green Sail Footprint program exemplifies how the nautical tourism industry can meet this demand by providing a transparent and reliable measure of environmental impact.
For companies, participating in such initiatives is both a moral and economic necessity. It helps build trust with customers, ensures the long-term sustainability of the industry, and preserves the natural beauty that is central to the appeal of many destinations. As the industry continues to evolve, sustainability will undoubtedly become a cornerstone of its future success.
For more information about the Green Sail Footprint program and how to participate, visit Green Sail’s official website.
