Increased demand attractions which support Sustainability/Biodiversity and Conservation.

Attractions which have integrity around sustainability will no doubt benefit from this trend where visitors now are considering the ecological impact of their experience.  It is clear that this aspect of the Industry needs to reflect the current thinking, and many businesses are now responding to this need.  Large scale thinking from the major operators will no doubt start smaller operators thinking about their contribution, and that integrity of offer should be communicated through all guest facing channels.

Minimising our wasteful footprint, choosing alternatives to single-use plastics, and recycling are good examples of behaviours that support sustainability.  Buying goods from local vendors in areas that are susceptible to poaching or over farming and seeking ways to further uplift these communities are good examples of actions that support conservation.

Ideas from around the world:

• Disneyland Paris started building the solar canopy plant last year. The phased development will result in one of the biggest solar canopy plants in Europe. It will provide shelter and shade for visitors and will contribute to reducing the local territory greenhouse gas emissions by 750 tonnes of CO2 annually.
• Disney recently unveiled new solar facilities at Walt Disney World to mark Earth Day. The company has already eliminated single-use plastics at its parks, and introduced plant-based options to all dining locations at its US attractions.
• Universal Studios Singaporeboasts a photovoltaic solar farm located on the rooftop of the Revenge of the Mummy ride. The farm generated 657,445 kWh of energy in 2020.
• The London Resort Company are now continuing the major project on Kent’s Swanscombe Peninsula now has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) by Natural England as it provides a home for various wildlife. The CEO stated,  “An investment that runs into millions because we believe in sustainability and in our role as custodians of the environment,”
• The Science Museum Group has announced its target to achieve net zero by 2033, also unveiling a series of sustainability initiatives ahead of reopening.
• V&A is instilling sustainability into its culture and practices – as detailed in ‘Greenloop’ the sustainability conference for the Attractions industry.