Cover Now, technological innovations are playing an important role in promoting sustainable tourism (Photo: Hurtigruten).
Now, technological innovations are playing an important role in promoting sustainable tourism (Photo: Hurtigruten).
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Technological advances are proving to be increasingly influential in supporting the sustainable tourism movement.
According to figures from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Vietnam welcomed 17.5 million international visitors in 2024—a 38.9 per cent rise compared with the same period in 2023. Tourism revenue reached approximately VND840 trillion, marking a 23.8 per cent increase year-on-year. These figures point to a flourishing travel sector that holds growing significance in Vietnam’s economic and social progress.
Yet, while tourism contributes to economic growth, it also brings about environmental challenges. Pollution and the depletion of natural resources are increasingly pressing issues at popular destinations. In response, sustainability has emerged as both a guiding principle and a necessary commitment—balancing the delivery of enriching visitor experiences with the safeguarding of the natural world and local cultural heritage.
As technology continues to evolve, innovative solutions are now being integrated into the travel sector as essential tools in the drive toward sustainable tourism.
Save energy and reduce emissions
The environmental cost of travel—particularly by air and road—has come under scrutiny in recent years. With emissions from planes and cars drawing criticism, transport companies are turning their attention to alternative fuels that promise to ease environmental impact without compromising passenger demand.
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In March 2025, French aviation start-up Beyond Aero drew global interest by unveiling a design for a private jet powered by a hydrogen fuel system that does away with traditional batteries—an effort to reduce both emissions and costs towards sustainable tourism. Airlines such as Cathay Pacific and Virgin Atlantic have already begun experimenting with sustainable fuel sources as part of plans to introduce more eco-conscious commercial flights.
The move towards cleaner fuel isn’t limited to the skies. Norwegian cruise line Hurtigruten currently holds the highest ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) rating among global cruise operators, as ranked by Morningstar Sustainalytics. Three of its seven ships are hybrid-powered, while the rest incorporate advanced technologies to cut CO₂ emissions by 25 percent and nitrogen oxide by as much as 80 percent. In 2019, its expedition arm HX Hurtigruten Expeditions debuted the MS Roald Amundsen—the world’s first hybrid-powered cruise ship.
A similar sustainable tourism transition is underway in the rail sector, with fossil fuels gradually being replaced by alternatives such as biofuels, renewable electricity and hydrogen. In 2023, Spanish rail operators Renfe, Maersk and Cepsa completed their inaugural journeys powered entirely by renewable fuels. These pilot trips collectively prevented the release of nearly 500 tonnes of CO₂, and all three companies have since begun expanding their use of cleaner energy sources across additional routes.
Manage resources efficiently and improve visitor experience
In an increasingly connected world, destinations around the globe are turning to IoT (Internet of Things) sensor technology and data management platforms to enhance both sustainability and the overall visitor journey.
These smart systems help monitor and manage key resources in real time—tracking air and water quality, observing biodiversity, and preserving cultural landmarks. By enabling data-driven decisions, IoT technology is quietly but effectively shaping a tourism model that is both thoughtful and future-facing.
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In addition, governments, local authorities and tourism bodies are increasingly turning to IoT technology to track data such as traffic flow, hotel occupancy and visitor numbers at key attractions. These insights allow for more informed, forward-thinking decisions—refining the visitor experience while managing resources more effectively.
Singapore has taken the lead in adopting IoT to manage its transport network, ease congestion and elevate the overall journey for travellers seeking sustainable tourism. The technology has also been deployed to reduce overcrowding on public transport and help drivers locate available parking spaces more quickly—cutting frustration and fuel use in equal measure.
London Heathrow remains a standout example of how IoT can be leveraged to minimise queue times at peak hours. Meanwhile, at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, sensors have been installed in restrooms to streamline operations, maintain cleanliness and enhance service maintenance.
Luxury hotels and resorts are also embracing smart solutions to conserve energy while offering seamless and bespoke guest experiences. The Marriott hotel group, for instance, has established an Innovation Lab dedicated to exploring cutting-edge technologies for future implementation. Among its innovations: IoT sensors that adjust oxygen levels in real time based on room occupancy, alongside smart room controls that allow guests to tailor their environment with ease.
Helping travellers make sustainable travel choices
Beyond on-site innovation, digital platforms are empowering travellers to make more sustainable choices from the outset.
Carbon tracking tools such as Klima and Greenly allow both individuals and businesses to select the most emissions-conscious transport for their journeys. Commons, another app, enables users to measure the environmental cost of purchases and offset their emissions as they shop.
For those seeking greener getaways, apps like EcoBnB and Fairbnb highlight eco-conscious accommodation options, while platforms such as iNaturalist encourage travellers to engage with wildlife responsibly and deepen their connection to the natural world. Culinary and cultural discovery is also supported through apps like Eatwith and Showaround, offering travellers authentic local experiences while championing small businesses.
