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INTERVIEW
Ethical travel involves making responsible choices that minimise negative impacts on the environment, support local communities, and respect the cultural and social norms of the destination. It is not an overnight change, but is not an impossible mission.
In the heart of the Swiss Alps lies Andermatt, a fairytale destination where sustainability meets luxury- Andermatt Swiss Alps AG, is an example of this commitment to sustainability. The stunning mountain village in Urseren Valley of the Swiss Alps is a haven boasting majestic peaks, pristine nature, charming traditional Swiss chalets, and a tranquil atmosphere. An unparalleled escape into nature to be preserved and protected, the journey of the company began in 2005 when Egyptian investor Samih Sawiris envisioned transforming Andermatt into a premier Swiss holiday destination. Today, under the guidance of Carmen Carfora, Head of Sustainability, Andermatt champions eco-friendly initiatives. From building energy-efficient properties to sourcing local produce and ensuring a CO2-neutral energy supply, Andermatt is dedicated to creating a sustainable, year-round resort that harmonizes with its pristine alpine environment. Join us as we speak to Carfora about Andermatt's journey towards sustainability to discover how this mystical mountain destination is redefining the future of travel.
1) How would you define sustainability in travel?
Sustainability in tourism and travelling can be understood as an approach that seeks to minimise the environmental impact of tourism activities while enhancing the positive contributions to the destinations visited. This involves making travel choices that are respectful of natural resources, support the well-being of local communities, and are economically viable for all stakeholders involved.
Sustainability in tourism is not merely about reducing carbon emissions or conserving water, although these are important elements. It encompasses a broader spectrum of practices including ethical business operations, cultural preservation, and the empowerment of local communities through sustainable economic opportunities. It also involves educating travellers about responsible tourism practices, encouraging them to engage in activities that contribute positively to the environment and the community.
In the context of Andermatt, for example, we place sustainability as our priority. Through the Andermatt Responsible initiative, we have implemented many sustainable practices such as installing a cooling centre to cool the hotels, restaurants, and retail areas from the groundwater. This has paved the way for sustainable refrigeration. Additionally, we encourage our visitors to be more climate-friendly by increasing choices for vegetarian and vegan dishes; launching the "Klimalieblinge", dishes with a lower greenhouse gas footprint than comparable dishes. This holistic approach ensures that our operations not only adhere to sustainability principles but also contribute to the overall sustainability of the tourism sector.
2) What qualifies as an “ethical and sustainable destination"?
An "ethical and sustainable destination" integrates several key aspects to balance environmental conservation with the socio-economic benefits of tourism. This is what we have set out to achieve and we have made sustainability a core pillar in our corporate strategy.
To become an ethical and sustainable destination, a place must actively protect natural resources and biodiversity, and employ measures to minimise pollution and environmental degradation. It supports local communities by ensuring fair employment practices, boosting local businesses, and fostering economic opportunities that do not exploit local resources.
Culturally, these destinations should promote engagements that are respectful and authentic rather than commodifying local cultures. Encouraging tourists to learn local customs and values is crucial, as it fosters a respectful interaction between visitors and host communities, enriching the experience while preserving the destination’s unique cultural identity.
Sustainable infrastructure development is prioritised, utilising renewable energy and eco-friendly materials to lessen the ecological footprint. That’s why our ESG impact is measured from construction to operation. All of these adhere to the strict Minergie low-energy standard, a Swiss construction standard for new and upgraded buildings.
Ethical destinations also focus on low-impact tourism activities that encourage conservation and minimise visitor impact on natural sites. Education plays a vital role, with efforts to raise awareness among both tourists and residents about sustainable practices. Adherence to recognised sustainability standards through certifications highlights a destination’s commitment to maintaining ethical and sustainable tourism practices.
3) What are some of the biggest challenges you face in implementing sustainable practices in Andermatt’s properties?
A lot is currently happening in the field of sustainability. There is innovation in areas such as energy generation, ecological building materials and methods, reduction of resource use, etc. It's practically impossible to keep track of everything. At the same time, requirements regarding ESG reporting are rising constantly, binding resources that could be used to further drive sustainability initiatives.
4) What personally motivates you to work in sustainability, and how do you envision the future of sustainable tourism with Andermatt Swiss Alps?
My motivation for sustainability stems from my hobbies. I am an avid skier and mountaineer, and my playground has notably changed within the last few years. Seeing firsthand how glaciers are melting, and seasons have become unpredictable, it became clear to me that things have to change. Living among the Alps and soaking in their natural landscapes drive my dedication to fostering sustainable development within the tourism sector. My work is inspired by the belief that we can make a positive difference through responsible actions and forward-thinking strategies.
At Andermatt Swiss Alps, I envision a future where sustainable tourism is not just a niche market but a fundamental aspect of all our operations. We aim to be leaders in this area. Our strategy involves integrating eco-friendly technologies and practices into every facet of our operations—from energy-efficient buildings and waste reduction initiatives to supporting local economies and preserving cultural heritage.
As we move forward, I see Andermatt Swiss Alps continuing to innovate and set new standards for sustainable tourism, proving that environmental stewardship and business success are mutually supportive. This commitment is central to our mission and key to our long-term success in a rapidly changing world.
"My work is inspired by the belief that we can make a positive difference through responsible actions and forward-thinking strategies."
- Carmen Carfora, Head of Sustainability at Andermatt Swiss Alps AG
5) How can we be more conscious about our travels?
Sustainable travel used to be a luxury. Luckily, now, there are many ways travellers can choose to make their journey greener.
Choosing ethical destinations that are recognised for their efforts in conservation, community engagement, and sustainable tourism operations. By choosing such destinations, travellers can ensure their visits contribute positively to environmental preservation and local well-being.
Another important aspect is minimizing air travel, which is one of the largest contributors to carbon emissions in the tourism sector. Whenever possible, opting for alternative transportation methods such as trains or buses can significantly reduce one's carbon footprint. For those instances where flying is unavoidable, considering purchasing sustainable aviation fuel to lower carbon emissions can help mitigate the impact.
Supporting local economies is essential; this means dining at local restaurants and buying local products to help ensure economic benefits are shared within the community. Respecting local cultures and environments is also vital; travellers should adhere to responsible practices such as minimising waste, staying on established paths, and respecting cultural norms.
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All imagery is provided by Andermatt Swiss Alps AG.
Website: andermatt-realestate.ch | Phone: +41 41 874 88 88 | Email: info@andermatt-swissalps.ch | Instagram: @andermatt_swiss_alps | Facebook: @AndermattSwissAlpsAG
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