The Water Roadmap report, developed by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) in partnership with Accenture, underscores the urgent global challenges of water scarcity and resilience. As water-related issues intensify due to climate change, population growth, and economic activity, the report highlights the critical role that the Travel & Tourism sector can play in addressing the global water crisis.
By leveraging data, innovative practices, and multi-stakeholder collaboration, the Water Roadmap serves as both a diagnostic tool and a practical guide for the industry to reduce its water footprint and enhance long-term resilience.
Key Features of the Water Roadmap Report
- Exclusive data: The report provides first-of-its-kind insights into water use, intensity, and stress across the Travel & Tourism sector—analyzed globally and regionally between 2010 and 2021.
- Understanding water-related risks: It explains how water challenges impact businesses, communities, and ecosystems, and stresses the importance of aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).
- Water Management Action Framework: A clear, four-step action plan guides Travel & Tourism businesses in measuring, managing, and mitigating water-related risks.
- Real-world case studies: The report includes best practice initiatives from Travel & Tourism businesses already making strides in water conservation and stewardship.
- Role of digital innovation: It explores how technology and data solutions can support water monitoring, predictive risk assessment, and operational efficiency.
- Calls to action:
- To Travel & Tourism businesses: Set measurable water targets, allocate resources, foster collaboration, and monitor and report progress.
- To public sector actors—including governments, water authorities, and regulators: Support and enable coordinated, collective water action.
- Further resources: The report also includes links to additional tools and guidance to help industry stakeholders take immediate and meaningful steps.
A Collaborative Effort with Global Insight
The unique data insights presented in the Water Roadmap were made possible through a collaborative effort between WTTC and the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, with analytical support from Oxford Economics.
This report forms a key part of WTTC’s broader environmental and social impact research, aiming to help the global Travel & Tourism industry become more sustainable, resilient, and aligned with global development goals.