As Indians seek to explore new horizons, they are becoming increasingly aware of the potential impact of their choices. According to a survey conducted by digital travel platform Agoda, 87% of Indian travelers value more sustainable travel. Respondents highlighted that financial incentives, availability of sustainable travel packages and clearer guidance on sustainable travel practices could encourage them to make more sustainable choices on their next trip Did.
Agoda's platform surveyed over 10,000 respondents from 10 markets across Asia. Nearly 8 in 10 travelers indicate their intention to make more sustainable travel choices, and 18% of respondents always make every effort to ensure more sustainable travel is the answer. Yet 22% of travelers rarely consider sustainability in their travel decisions. Japanese travelers are the least interested (45%), while those from the Philippines have only 8%.
Financial incentives can be an important factor in making more sustainable choices
Agoda's eco-trading survey also asked respondents about the key factors that drive more sustainable travel choices. Financial incentives topped the list across all markets, with an average of 45% of respondents highlighting incentives such as discounts as an important factor. This sentiment was particularly strong in Singapore (58%), Taiwan (54%) and Indonesia (47%). 41% of Indian travelers chose incentives or discounts as their main driver.
Availability of sustainable travel packages ranked second, from guided conservation hikes to more interesting for travelers from the Philippines (28%), Vietnam (24%) and Thailand (23%) Services range from supporting local initiatives. Clear guidelines for sustainable travel practices (#3), education and awareness about environmental impact (#4), and relevant sustainability policies by local governments (#5) rounded out the top five.
Enric Casals, Associate Vice President at Agoda, said: “The message is loud and clear: Travelers want to make more sustainable choices. Agoda's Eco Deals program offers travelers a variety of deals on carefully selected accommodations, with every booking Agoda will donate $1 to World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) local conservation projects. With a total donation goal of up to $1 million, we are helping travelers explore the world more affordably. Do your part to give back to the destinations they care about.”
When asked about their preferred sustainable travel method for travelers from India, supporting local communities and conservation projects topped the list, with 29% of respondents choosing this method. This sentiment is similar across Asia, with on average more than a quarter of respondents (26%) choosing this option.
| Top 5 drivers choosing more sustainable travel
|
| Incentives or discounts for more sustainable options
41% |
| Clearly marked, more sustainable travel packages and itineraries
twenty two% |
| Clearer guidelines on sustainable and responsible travel practices
15% |
| Education/awareness regarding environmental impact
13% |
| Government incentives and policies for more sustainable travel
6% |
| Top 3 sustainable travel practices that travelers prioritize on their trips
|
| Local community support and conservation projects
29% |
| Choosing more sustainable transportation options
18% |
| Recycling, waste reduction (e.g. towel/linen reuse programs)
17% |
Across Asia, recycling and reducing waste (20%), such as reusing towels and bed linen, was the second most cited preferred behavior, followed by participating in conservation-focused activities and tours. (17%). Other important practices include choosing sustainability-certified accommodation in the fourth place and choosing more sustainable transportation options in the fifth place.
Since the start of World Wildlife Day on March 3, 2024, anyone traveling to Southeast Asia can now book an eco deal on Agoda. For every Eco Deal reservation, $1 will be donated to World Wildlife Fund (WWF) conservation projects that protect wildlife and conserve critical habitats in Southeast Asia. Additionally, travelers can receive discounts of up to 15%.
