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What We Did
UC researchers conducted a multi- phase study to better understand how much importance international visitors placed on sustainable behaviours during their travels and the sustainability practices they adopted while visiting the Canterbury region. This research was led by Professor Girish Prayag of the UC Business School in collaboration with other researchers and external partners. They analysed more than 750,000 visitor reviews on websites like Trip Advisor and Expedia to see if, unprompted, visitors acknowledged or commented on sustainability practices. They found that international visitors did not mention sustainability as a key concern during their travels.
However, a survey of international visitors departing from the Christchurch Airport showed that they placed high value on tourist behaviour that protects and shows respect for the environment. Furthermore, when promoted about sustainability practices they adopted, the results showed that international visitors mainly engage in environmentally friendly practices that were accessible or easy to do. Practices that were less likely to be adopted included taking part in a carbon-offset scheme, using electric vehicles or other eco-friendly transport such as bikes, or buying eco-friendly products.
Who Was Involved
ChristchurchNZ, Tourism Industry New Zealand Trust (TINZT), Christchurch International Airport.
Why It Matters
New research shows that international visitors to New Zealand value sustainability and protecting the environment but there are gaps and opportunities for local tourism service providers to do more to promote eco-friendly practices. Prof Prayag says, “for example there may be an opportunity for more carbon-offsetting options or to promote the use of electric vehicles or offer more eco-friendly transport options. There’s an opportunity for the local tourism industry and related service providers to raise awareness of any sustainable features of their product or service.”
Learn More
To find out more, check out an article at UC News: www.canterbury.ac.nz/news/2019/sustainability-important-to-international-tourists--new-research.html
Photo Caption:
Professor Girish Prayag at the Christchurch International Airport
