The Urgent Need for Sustainable Travel
As the climate crisis continues to reshape our world, the travel industry stands at a crucial crossroads. Last year, the planet exceeded the critical 1.5°C temperature threshold, and with President Trump vowing to “drill, baby, drill,” U.S. carbon emissions are set to rise further.
Every sector must take decisive action—and tourism is no exception.
Tourism is a vital economic driver, particularly in developing nations, where it provides jobs and income for millions. According to the ILO, 8.2% of the world’s population works in tourism, whether as guides, accommodation providers, restaurateurs, or experience hosts. When travellers choose to explore the world responsibly and sustainably, they create immense benefits for local communities.
So, before you board that cruise ship (where profits stay largely with the cruise liner and little trickles down to local economies), consider a more ethical way to travel. Commit to giving back to your host communities and leaving a positive impact wherever you go.
Why Cuba is the Perfect Destination for Sustainable Travel
A Global Leader in Sustainability
Cuba isn’t just an eco-friendly destination—it was ranked amongst the world’s most sustainable countries in the 2024 Global Sustainable Development Report, performing better than 80% of the worlds nations and outperforming the USA and many European nations. Through a unique blend of social care and environmental consciousness, Cuba proves that sustainability doesn’t require advanced technology or massive infrastructure investments.
Sustainability as a Way of Life
In Cuba, recycling and reusing aren’t trends—they’re essential. Born out of economic necessity, Cubans have perfected the art of repurposing everything, from water bottles to machinery parts. This ingrained culture of reuse has resulted in one of the lowest-emission societies in the world.
Protected by Law
Cuba’s dedication to sustainability is written into its constitution. A remarkable 25% of the country consists of protected natural parks and marine reserves, and it boasts six of the Caribbean’s 13 Biosphere Reserves—an extraordinary feat for a single nation.
An Accidental Eden
Cuba’s natural beauty has been preserved largely due to its isolation. While other Caribbean nations pursued mass tourism in the 1960s and 70s, Cuba’s political separation from the West inadvertently protected its landscapes. The result? Pristine beaches, untouched ecosystems, and an astonishing array of wildlife—nearly 80% of its animals and half of its 7,000 plant species are found nowhere else on Earth.
Economic and Energy Challenges Post-COVID
In recent years, Cuba has definitely faced mounting economic difficulties, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the tightening of U.S. embargo regulations. The tourism sector, a crucial source of income, suffered significant losses ( particularly mass tourism markets to all all-inclusive beach resorts ) , leading to fuel shortages, power outages, and supply chain disruptions. The country’s reliance on imported energy has made it vulnerable, and rationing of electricity has become common.
However, these hardships have also reinforced Cuba’s resilience, pushing the nation further towards renewable energy projects, local food production, and self-sufficiency initiatives that align with sustainable tourism efforts.
How Cubania Travel Ensures a Sustainable Experience
Supporting Local Communities, Reducing Emissions
We exclusively partner with local bed and breakfasts and small hotels. Not only does this keep tourism revenue within local communities, but it also dramatically reduces carbon footprints. Consider this: a typical European hotel generates 75kg CO2e per night, a Dubai hotel produces 99kg CO2e, but a Cuban B&B? Just 5kg CO2e.
Farm-to-Table Dining, Before It Was Trendy
Cuban cuisine isn’t just delicious—it’s inherently sustainable. Due to trade restrictions, most produce is locally grown and organic. While this means less variety, it ensures fresher, more eco-friendly meals. Our tours highlight locally owned paladares (private restaurants) that source ingredients from nearby farms, offering both authenticity and minimal food miles.
Doña Eutimia – where simplicity means perfection
Zero-Emission Adventures
Many of our experiences are entirely human-powered—cycling through Havana’s historic streets, trekking through lush valleys, or kayaking along unspoiled coastlines. These adventures aren’t just unforgettable ways to explore Cuba; they also leave no carbon footprint.
By choosing Cuba, and specifically Cubania Travel, you’re not just booking a holiday —you’re supporting a model of tourism that paves the way for a more sustainable future. Let’s redefine travel together. Book now! Email us on sales@cubaniatravel.com
