Dubai tourism to reduce carbon emissions by 20% for 2011

A new effort by the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) is planning to reduce carbon emissions throughout its travel and lodging industries by 20% come 2011, focusing on the conservation of natural resources and sensible use of energy, water and gas.

This marks the latest detail of Dubai’s sustainable tourism agenda, which it is building upon with its plans for this year’s Dubai Green Tourism Award to be presented on World Environment Day in December 2009.

The plan coincides with the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice president and prime minister of UAE and ruler of Dubai – who wants to transform Dubai into a green and environmentally responsible community.

“The programs are part of the department’s efforts to introduce best practices to improve the service standards and excellence in the tourism industry,” said Mr. Eyad Ali Abdul Rahman, DTCM executive director media relations and business development. “This is a major initiative designed to encourage and acknowledge the significant efforts of the emirate’s tourism industry towards sustainable tourism.”

Currently, the average Dubai hotel produces 6,500 tons of CO2 emissions annually and the size of the carbon footprint produced by all hotels in Dubai is estimated to be the equivalent of 60,000 round-trip flights between Dubai and London.

Accdording to Ms. Shaikha Al Mutawa, DTCM director business development, embracing sustainability initiatives will allow Dubai hotels to gain a competitive edge that would undoubtedly have a positive impact on like-minded tour operators.

The DTCM is making the call for corporate social responsibility heard loud and clear across the world in an effort to recognize and confront the challenges of global warming.  While its main focus in on reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption within the tourism industry, it also has its sights set on building environmental guidelines and best practices within the industry, as well as developing awareness about sustainable tourism.

For more information, visit www.dubaitourism.ae/.