Climate Change and Tourism: A Global Challenge with Regional Impacts and Responses

Abstract

Climate change is a pressing global challenge that significantly impacts the tourism sector. At the same time, it is influenced by the sector’s greenhouse gas emissions. This chapter examines the bidirectional relationship between tourism and climate change through a regional lens, analysing vulnerabilities, adaptation strategies, and mitigation efforts across Africa, the Americas, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East. Findings highlight that tourism-dependent regions, mainly coastal and nature-based destinations, face heightened risks from rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and changing precipitation patterns. Concurrently, the tourism industry—primarily through air travel, accommodation, and activities—contributes substantially to global carbon emissions. Regional disparities in climate change impacts and in policy responses are evident, with some destinations implementing proactive adaptation measures while others remain highly vulnerable. This chapter underscores the necessity for collaborative governance, industry-wide carbon reduction commitments, and innovative destination management strategies to enhance tourism resilience. Future research should explore region-specific best practices and policy frameworks to ensure sustainable tourism development amid a changing climate.