EasyJet Holidays chief executive, Garry Wilson, has raised concerns about the increasing cost of family holidays abroad, attributing the rising prices to green taxes imposed by certain destinations. Wilson criticised the lack of transparency in how these environmental fees are being utilised, suggesting that the absence of a clear link between the funds raised and sustainability initiatives could deter holidaymakers from booking trips.
Popular tourist spots such as Spain, Greece, and Tunisia have implemented or are considering implementing green taxes. Speaking at the annual convention of travel trade organisation Abta in Costa Navarino, Greece, Wilson highlighted that destinations heavily impacted by travel restrictions during the pandemic have resorted to passing additional costs on to tourists under different names such as ‘green tax’ or ‘climate resilience’, without clear accountability for the funds collected.
Wilson stressed the importance of demonstrating a direct connection between the levied taxes and eco-friendly projects, such as energy-saving systems in hotels, to justify the added expenses to travellers. He warned that if the revenue from these taxes is not allocated transparently, it could lead holidaymakers to perceive them merely as a means of extracting more money from them, potentially dampening demand for travel.
Amidst a continuous upward trend in travel-related taxes, Wilson emphasised the necessity of carefully considering the implications on consumer demand. He expressed concerns that the current approach taken by many destinations in imposing such charges may undermine confidence and interest in travel. A survey commissioned by Abta indicated that a significant portion of respondents believed travel companies should bear the responsibility for managing the environmental and social impact of holidays.
Mark Tanzer, CEO of Abta, highlighted the need for destinations implementing visitor charges to ensure that the funds collected are reinvested back into supporting local communities and initiatives beneficial to residents. Failure to transparently demonstrate the positive outcomes funded by these charges could result in escalating costs for consumers without effectively addressing the concerns of local residents regarding tourism impacts.
The survey, conducted among 2,000 UK adults, revealed varied perceptions regarding the responsibilities of travel companies towards environmental and local community sustainability. It identified key areas of concern among holidaymakers, including cultural preservation, waste management, plastic pollution, and animal welfare. Tanzer underscored the importance of aligning tourism practices with the goal of creating destinations that are not only appealing for visitors but also conducive to the well-being of local inhabitants.
In conclusion, the growing prominence of green taxes in travel costs necessitates a balanced approach that addresses environmental sustainability while ensuring transparency and accountability in the utilisation of funds raised from such levies. As holidaymakers weigh the increasing financial burden of travel, the industry faces the challenge of fostering a harmonious relationship between tourism development and local community welfare to sustainably support the future of travel.