The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) have released a new report on the complex issue of disposable plastic products in tourism.
This is happening at a time when countries around the world are beginning to reopen borders, and the travel sector is recovering from the devastating effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The report is the first step in charting the impact of disposable plastic products on the entire tourism value chain, identifying important production points for these materials in the environment, and providing practical and strategic advice to businesses and policymakers, to help stakeholders.
Taking joint steps toward coordinated actions and policies that change models of waste reduction and reuse and current and future waste infrastructure.
The report’s recommendations include redefining non-essential disposable plastic products, prioritizing suppliers of reusable products, and preventive planning to use these products to prevent the spread of disease.
This review will support research and innovation in product design and service models that reduce Disposable Plastics’ use and revisions to quality policies and standards.
WTTC Executive Director Virginia Messina said the council is proud to have published this important report focusing on the sustainability and reduction of non-refundable plastic waste in tourism.
Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the sustainability program with more focused occupations and policymakers. Businesses are expected to continue to reduce the waste of disposable plastic products in the future, not only to protect people but also to protect the planet.
Researchers have found that consumers are now making more informed choices and increasingly advocating for sustainable jobs. One-use plastic products can be a threat to the environment and human health, and the tourism sector can significantly contribute to this.
The report says addressing concerns about the use of disposable plastic products required global solutions aimed at supporting informed decision-making based on the potential effects of trade and unwanted pressure shifts when considering the transition to sustainable options.