Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency

Calling on the travel industry to take bold action in combating climate change, supporting local communities and protecting the planet for generations to come

Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency is a global initiative uniting tourism businesses, organizations, and individuals who acknowledge the urgent need to act on climate change. It calls on the travel and tourism sector to take meaningful responsibility by reducing carbon emissions, supporting local communities, and aligning with the goals of the Paris Agreement. By declaring a climate emergency, signatories commit to transparent climate action, sustainable practices, and regenerative approaches that protect both people and planet. This movement represents a critical shift—from extractive tourism to a model that restores, respects, and sustains the destinations we love to explore.

 

Ekathra’s Climate Emergency Declaration

We declare our shared commitment to unite all stakeholders in transforming tourism to deliver effective climate action.

We support the global commitment to halve emissions by 2030 and reach Net Zero as soon as possible before 2050.

We will consistently align our actions with the latest scientific recommendations, so as to ensure our approach remains consistent with a rise of no more than 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels by 2100.

As a signatory, we commit to:

  • Deliver a climate action plan within 12 month of signing.
  • Report publicly both progress against interim and long-term targets, as well as the actions being taken, at least annually.
  • Align our plan with five shared pathways (measure, decarbonise, regenerate, collaborate, finance) to ensure climate action is consistent across all of tourism.
  • Share information on activities connected to Tourism Declares and/or the Glasgow Declaration among contacts and networks.
  • Work in a collaborative and constructive spirit with other members of Tourism Declares and/or signatories of the Glasgow Declaration.

Ekathra’s Climate Emergency Plan

At Ekathra, we recognize that the climate emergency is one of the greatest challenges of our time. Our Climate Emergency Plan outlines clear and actionable steps to align our work with the global goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C, as stated in the Paris Agreement.

Our Commitments;
We have joined the global initiative, Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency, and are committed to:

* Developing and updating a Climate Emergency Plan that guides our operations and programs.
* Sharing our commitment publicly to foster transparency and encourage collective responsibility.
* Reducing carbon emissions by adopting low-impact travel options, sourcing locally, and minimizing waste.
* Collaborating with partners and communities to co-create solutions and promote regenerative tourism.
* Advocating for change by using our platform to spread awareness and encourage climate-conscious behavior. Focus Areas of Action

 

Ekathra integrates climate responsibility into every aspect of its work, including:

• Sustainable Travel: Promoting eco-friendly transportation and experiences.
• Community Engagement: Involving local communities in resilience building and conservation.
• Experiential Learning: Educating students and travelers on climate literacy and environmental stewardship.
• Resource Management: Minimizing plastic use and encouraging composting and circular practices.
• Biodiversity Conservation: Supporting the protection of sacred groves, backwaters, and other vulnerable ecosystems.

Monitoring and Accountability
We are committed to ongoing reflection and improvement. Our actions and progress will be tracked, evaluated, and reported annually to ensure transparency and accountability.
Our Team
Ekathra’s climate strategy is led by:
• Maj. Aneesh Gurudas – Expert in risk management, survival training, and disaster preparedness.
• Mr. George V John – Veteran trainer and researcher with extensive experience in academic engagement.
• Sreejith Payyadakath – Networker and strategist with deep connections in conservation and civil society.

Together, we are working to ensure that every journey with Ekathra becomes a step toward a more sustainable and conscious world.