Exploring Sustainable Travel: Insights from Andrew Leary, Director of Sustainable Tourism and Partnerships, Leave No Trace

By Jennifer Allen

In a recent interview, Andrew Leary, the Director of Sustainable Tourism and Partnerships, shared valuable insights about the intersection of sustainable travel and the post-pandemic travel landscape. The COVID-19 pandemic brought a fresh perspective to sustainable travel, transforming how we view outdoor spaces, communities, and the travel experience itself. Leary’s views shed light on the evolution of sustainability efforts within the United States and beyond.

During the pandemic, people worldwide embraced the outdoors like never before. Leary acknowledged the widespread increase in outdoor activities, highlighting how individuals from diverse backgrounds found solace and connection in natural settings. This surge in outdoor engagement underscored the importance of responsible recreation and stewardship. Leary noted that while positive impacts were evident, negative effects also took place due to the influx of visitors.

He emphasized the growing trend of destination communities and travel professionals taking on active roles in promoting sustainability and stewardship. This involvement aligns with the broader shift towards a more holistic understanding of sustainability, moving beyond the focus solely on outdoor spaces. Fraser explained that sustainability now encompasses considerations for communities, destinations, and various facets of travel.

Leary encouraged everyone, regardless of their level of involvement, to contribute to sustainability efforts. He emphasized that any effort, no matter how small, contributes positively to the cause. The past five years have witnessed a notable change in the sustainability landscape in the United States. The lens through which sustainability is viewed has expanded to encompass not only outdoor spaces but also the well-being of communities and destinations. Similar to making progress in disability inclusion, the key is to start talking about it, and never stop.

Diverse terms such as ecotourism and regenerative tourism have emerged, signifying different dimensions of sustainable travel. Leary introduced the concept of regenerative tourism, which places the community at the center of its focus. This approach prioritizes the well-being and development of local communities, creating a more inclusive and meaningful travel experience. This shift towards community-centered sustainability is shaping the trajectory of global sustainable tourism, including within the United States.

Leary also shed light on the role of various entities in fostering sustainability on a larger scale. He highlighted the importance of federal agencies, local governments, and organizations like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Travel and Tourism Advisory Board. These entities collaborate to promote sustainable practices across the travel industry, envisioning a future where sustainability is not only a consideration but also a core principle.

As the interview with Andrew Leary demonstrates, the pandemic acted as a catalyst for reimagining sustainable travel. It heightened awareness of the interconnectedness between outdoor spaces, communities, and the travel experience. Leary’s insights underscore the importance of a collective effort in embracing sustainability, regardless of one’s level of involvement. With the evolution towards community-centered sustainability and the collaboration of various stakeholders, the travel industry is moving towards a more inclusive, responsible, and regenerative future.

The interview with Andrew Leary provided valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of sustainable travel. His insights emphasized the significance of responsible recreation, community involvement, and the broader understanding of sustainability. As travel professionals, communities, and destinations unite in their commitment to sustainability, the vision of a barrier-free world where all individuals can partake in meaningful travel experiences becomes more achievable than ever before.

The Problem: Ever increasing need for sustainable travel

The solution:

• Destination communities and travel professionals are actively promoting sustainability beyond outdoor spaces.
• Every effort, no matter how small, contributes positively to sustainability, akin to progress in disability inclusion.
• Regenerative tourism focuses on community well-being, creating an inclusive travel experience.
• Collaboration between entities like federal agencies and local governments promotes sustainable practices in the travel industry.
• The pandemic highlighted the interconnectedness of outdoor spaces, communities, and travel experiences.
• Community-centered sustainability and stakeholder collaboration drive the industry towards inclusivity, responsibility, and regeneration.
• Andrew Leary’s insights stress responsible recreation, community involvement, and a comprehensive sustainability understanding.
• Commitment from travel professionals, communities, and destinations brings a barrier-free travel vision closer to reality.