Sophie Bernard’s research team has developed a conceptual framework for rethinking ecolabels used in the tourism sector.
Summary
The tourism industry has a multitude of eco-labels, but many lack rigor, transparency and standardization, making it difficult to choose eco-responsible tourism offers. The complexity of tourism has led to a wide variety of different labels. To address this issue, the authors draw on the concept of modularity and eco-efficiency to design a foundation for the creation of standardized, modular and measurable ecolabels, facilitating the identification of more eco-efficient alternatives.
The study proposes a method for applying a modular, multi-dimensional and multi-perspective conceptual framework to model tourism systems and assess their environmental performance according to an absolute scale of eco-efficiency. In concrete terms, these systems are broken down, according to stakeholder perspectives, into standardized modules representing the resources used in tourism offerings (natural and man-made). These modules are then evaluated using context-appropriate analysis tools. Thanks to its modularity, the method facilitates the arrangement and replacement of independent modules, making it possible to create eco-efficient scenarios and adjust the eco-efficiency factors proposed by the modular conceptual framework. For example, modules relating to energy resources, initially designed to improve the eco-efficiency of outfitter accommodation, are reused in the design of tourist packages offered by a tour operator, as an accommodation option. Tourism eco-efficiency factors, such as consumption levels, enable packages to be tailored to suit the number of overnight stays, activities and visitors.
This modular approach paves the way for more flexible, adaptable and integrated ecolabels, enabling precise assessment of the eco-efficiency of tourism offerings. The project, carried out with an industrial partner wishing to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels, also encouraged the transfer of knowledge on environmental issues in engineering between undergraduate and postgraduate students.
