Most people don’t realise it, but the United Nations has created a global plan called the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to improve life for people and the planet.
Tourism is in a unique position to help make these goals a reality. Many of the beautiful and remote places we visit are also home to vulnerable communities and fragile environments.
We have a real opportunity to highlight the SDGs to our guests — not just through words, but through local projects that reflect the needs of each destination. These meaningful experiences can become the most memorable parts of a trip, while also making a positive impact.
There’s also the potential to create a network of SDG Centres — linking hotels and tour operators with their communities, and with one another. This network would help us share resources, develop best practices, and build stronger, more sustainable tourism businesses together.
While reaching net zero remains crucial (that’s SDG 13 – Climate Action), there are 16 other goals that deserve our attention too. Many of them offer creative ways to support local communities — and doing so can be both fulfilling and good for business.
In fact, many operators already have fantastic initiatives that could easily align with the SDGs. The important thing is to unite under the UN’s powerful global framework, spread awareness, and drive real change.
At Tent with a View, we’re setting up SDG Centres at each of our locations. These centres highlight all 17 SDGs, with messaging integrated into staff uniforms, room décor, and other visible elements. Each centre also focuses on one of our local projects, showing how it supports specific goals.
