2022-2032 Vistitor Experience Development Plan

7 We value and recognise the momentum that has been building behind sustainable tourism for many years, with growing awareness of the array of issues around sustainability. The pandemic has led to increased calls to re-evaluate travel and tourism, with the question of how to build resilience now a crucial consideration. TourismNI research indicates that sustainability issues are having some influence on NI and ROI residents’ holiday choices. Globally, too, travellers are nowmore focused on holidaying sustainably and, increasingly, on how community-friendly responsible tourism can deliver local benefits. An opportunity is emerging for NI tourism businesses to cater to these new appetites by providing authentic, local experiences and eco-friendly options that reassure visitors that their stay will have a positive impact on the place they are visiting. The VEDP establishes that sustainable practices should underpin our approach and commits to supporting our industry to respond to this new consumer mindset. As reiterated in the Spring/Summer 2022 edition of the Tourism 360 report from TourismNI: Momentum has been building behind this trend for many years, with growing awareness of the array of issues around sustainability. The pandemic has led to increased calls to reevaluate travel and tourism, with the question of how to build resilience now a crucial consideration. 1.3 A commitment to the future Fermanagh Lakelands & Omagh and The Sperrins 67% of consumers tried to have a positive impact on the environment through their everyday actions in 2021 77% of global travellers want to be more conscious about supporting small local businesses while travelling 67% 77% Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Sustainable Tourism is defined as “tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities” UNWorld TourismOrganisation (UNWTO) Euromonitor Voice of consumers lifestyles survey 2021