Exploring sustainable accommodation choices for sport tourists

19 August 2024 Circular Lifestyles, ACR+ News

The ACCESS project has published a new scientific paper exploring the importance of sustainable accommodation in sport tourism. The research, based on a survey conducted between September and December last year with 292 respondents, highlights the growing awareness and preference for eco-friendly lodging among sports event attendees. As sport tourism continues to rise globally, the paper emphasizes the crucial role that green accommodations play in reducing environmental impact and enhancing the sustainability of host cities.

Key findings reveal that while quality, recommendations, and price remain the top priorities for sport tourists when choosing accommodation, environmental sustainability is increasingly recognised, with over 50% of respondents favouring eco-friendly options. The study also uncovers strong support for hotels with environmental certifications, sustainable food options, and robust waste management practices. Despite this, there is a gap between positive attitudes and actual booking behaviours, often due to factors like availability and cost. The paper suggests that event organisers and policymakers could bridge this gap by promoting green accommodations more effectively and offering incentives to encourage eco-conscious choices.

The full paper is available for download.