Environmental Protection and the Impact of Tourism

• Visitor numbers vary depending on the season, location and available infrastructure.
• Demand for water and energy can rise during peak tourist seasons.
• Waste, noise and paths outside marked routes affect nature and local residents.
• Protected areas have designated access points, trails and visitor rules.
• Routes, transport and length of stay all affect the impact on a destination.

Tourist accommodation and leisure facilities use water for showers, toilets, pools, cleaning and outdoor areas. Demand is especially significant in places where many visitors rely on the same limited resources during dry periods. Planning a longer stay and choosing accommodation carefully can avoid unnecessary transfers; water consumption and competing demands become more significant during peak tourist seasons in places where visitors and local services rely on the same limited resources.

Energy is also used for getting to a destination, local transport, accommodation and leisure activities. Short distances travelled on foot, by bicycle or using existing public transport can be factored into holiday plans. When travelling sustainably, plan transport, length of stay and short journeys at your destination together.

In forests, around lakes, rivers and coasts, and in mountain areas, marked trails protect plants, soil and habitats. Trampling damage and widening paths can occur when heavily used routes spread into the surrounding area. Quiet zones and rules on drones, fires, dogs and overnight stays help manage visitor activity and protect habitats. When visiting nature and landscapes, visitors should follow marked trails; protected areas have their own locally designated rules.

Mountain trails, shorelines and wetlands have different natural conditions. Mountains and mountain landscapes, lakes and wetlands, and rivers, waterfalls and gorges each require routes suited to the environment. Mountain routes also bring the risks of sudden weather changes, erosion and a lack of alternative paths. Along rivers, at waterfalls and in gorges, keep a safe distance from the water, cliff edges and restricted areas. Check where drinking water, toilets and waste facilities are available before setting out. Dispose of waste in designated bins; where none are available, take it with you.

Peak season and certain times of day concentrate visitors at viewpoints, waterfronts and town centres. Visiting outside peak hours and staying longer can help spread visitor numbers. Transport, accommodation and behaviour at the destination all play a part; trips can be planned according to the principles of responsible travel.

Traffic, water consumption, housing and public spaces connect tourism with residents’ everyday lives; respecting local culture and communities means taking this shared use into account. Landscapes and settlements vary across Eastern Europe and Central Asia; choosing accommodation close to planned destinations reduces extra journeys.

Being considerate starts with choosing a destination and planning activities: visitors should stay on designated paths, keep their distance from animals and follow local guidance. In a water-scarce area, taking shorter showers and using water mindfully can conserve resources. In a popular natural area, choose a route that links marked trails and designated areas. This helps tailor your stay to the infrastructure available.

Which parts of the water supply system require energy?

Energy is needed to extract, treat and distribute water, as well as to treat wastewater. Heating water in particular increases the energy needs of tourist accommodation and facilities.