The tourism sector faces critical challenges due to poor labour conditions, impacting sustainable growth.
- Recent reports highlight how recruitment struggles and business risks stem from inadequate labour practices.
- Dr Anke Winchenbach stresses the need for better social sustainability in the workforce.
- The report identifies gaps between sustainability goals and actual industry practices.
- Collective action is essential for improving conditions and sustainability in tourism.
The tourism sector’s sustainability efforts are being hindered by inadequate labour conditions, leading to recruitment challenges and heightened business risks. A recent report, ‘Why the S in ESG Matters,’ underlines the serious implications of these issues. The lead author, Dr Anke Winchenbach of the University of Surrey, points out the dire need for improved social sustainability across the travel and tourism workforce.
Winchenbach highlighted a ‘chronic labour shortage’ as one of the key issues faced by the industry. She emphasised the importance of regulatory frameworks such as environmental, social, and governance (ESG) in addressing these challenges. There is a notable gap between the industry’s good intentions and its current practices. A lack of comprehensive data and insufficient reporting on social sustainability exacerbate this issue.
The report, which involved interviews with a wide array of industry representatives, trade unions, and experts, presents a detailed examination of social sustainability frameworks. It provides an array of case studies and actionable recommendations. According to Winchenbach, significant social risks are present in employment conditions, particularly affecting migrant workers, youth, and women.
A major concern addressed in the report is the lack of accountability throughout the supply chain. Issues such as diversity, equality, and inclusion, which are fundamental to sustaining a balanced workforce, are often overlooked. Furthermore, there is an evident lack of harmonisation between ESG frameworks, leaving many feeling underprepared to implement meaningful social sustainability initiatives.
Winchenbach’s stance is that social sustainability presents a strong business case, as investors increasingly scrutinise organisations’ sustainability credentials. Companies that wish to attract and retain talent, as well as meet rising consumer expectations concerning supply chain transparency, need to engage in collective action. Rob Johnston from the International Transport Workers’ Federation supports this view, acknowledging the need for profitability but warning of potential jeopardy if these issues remain unaddressed.
Improving labour conditions is crucial for advancing sustainability in the tourism sector.
