Nearly 7 out of 10 Singaporeans acknowledges the importance of sustainable travel

The impact of travel has topped the list of reasons for sustainable travel.

Nearly seven out of 10 Singaporeans have said they acknowledge the importance of sustainable travel, a survey by Trip.com Group revealed.

Based on a survey of 7,705 respondents across 11 markets in Asia and Europe, the report finds that the impact of travel has topped the list of reasons why travellers are increasingly drawn to sustainable travel.

Of the population surveyed, 69.3% of Singaporean respondents said they care about the impact of travel on future generations. 16.2% cited the importance of sustainability in improving the travel experience, and another 6.2% said it is trendy.

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Perception of sustainable travel varies among respondents. The report indicates a growing proportion of travellers now approach the term more holistically, emphasising the economic, cultural and biodiversity aspects in addition to the more traditional environmental considerations.

The more diversified understanding of sustainable travel manifests itself through several ways that travellers consider conducive to tourist destinations, with 39.4% of respondents from Singapore recognising the benefit of supporting local businesses and livelihoods. A striking 44.7% believe respecting the culture and heritage of local destinations is also part and parcel of sustainable travel.

The report also revealed out that over half of respondents inSingapore (63%) named COVID-19 as a catalyst for their increased appetite to choose sustainable options. Travel restrictions enhanced their appreciation for nature and spurred demand for travelling closer to home.