Prepared for what lies ahead in tourism
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F.act: How does the WK Tirol Tourism Division approach the topic of sustainability in tourism?
Alexandra Kichukova: For us at the Chamber of Commerce, sustainability is one of the key strategic issues for the future. We don't see it as a short-term trend, but as a clear development for tourism and the economy as a whole. Our approach is deliberately positive: sustainability offers great opportunities - provided you think about it holistically, i.e. ecologically, socially and economically.
Our task is to provide guidance and, together with the companies, show ways that really work in practice. To this end, we offer formats that promote exchange. One example is our Sustainability Roadshow 2025, where we create an interactive environment in various regions of Tyrol in which experts and businesses can talk to each other and take away concrete ideas for their own implementation. We also use podcasts and other offers to show how diverse and feasible sustainable development is in tourism.
F.acT: When it comes to sustainability, the focus is often on the ecological dimension. How can companies also do justice to the social dimension?
Alexandra Kichukova: When we talk about sustainability, the ecological side often automatically comes to the fore. In tourism, the social dimension of sustainability plays a central role - in our industry, the focus is on people, both the dedicated employees and the guests from all over the world, who should feel welcome and valued in Tirol.
For me, social sustainability means creating an environment in which people enjoy working, can develop and feel valued. Of course, guests also feel this good cooperation, and this is exactly what characterizes the experience and quality of our tourism.
We support businesses in consciously considering this aspect - for example with the Chamber of Commerce's SDG sustainability checks. This is a practical tool that gives companies a clear overview of where they stand in all areas of sustainability. The checks show which strengths are already in place and which next steps could be useful - low-threshold, easy to understand and tailored to the respective company.
F.act: How can small businesses in tourism tackle the issue?
Alexandra Kichukova: Small businesses in particular often ask themselves how they can best approach the issue of sustainability. My experience is that many are already doing an incredible amount - often without calling it that. Small businesses have the advantage of being run very personally and being very close to their guests and employees.
In my opinion, it is important to start step by step and not to think too complicated. Many measures can be easily integrated into everyday life - from more conscious purchasing and energy savings to mindful interaction within the team or an open dialog with guests, who now greatly appreciate sustainable offerings.
And if you don't know exactly where to start, we at the Tyrolean Chamber of Commerce are on hand with personal support. For a more in-depth discussion - for example when developing a sustainability strategy or a specific implementation concept - businesses can work with our listed consultants. These consultations are subsidized by up to 80% through the Tyrolean consulting subsidy and offer very low-threshold access to competent support.