CLIMATE CHANGE AND SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES: A CASE STUDY OF THE RESORT INDUSTRY IN FLORIDA

Abstract

Climate change and potential global warming has become important in many forums both nationally and internationally. Though there has previously been some opposition to the existence of human caused climate change and resulting global warming as a threat to the earth’s population and survival, scientific evidence has more recently been found to be compelling. One of the key industries that may be affected by global warming and climate change is the tourism industry. This is becoming a growing concern in Florida, U.S.A. where potential rising sea levels may have a profound effect. This paper discusses the development, importance and implications of climate change, its relationship to the tourism and hospitality industry and provides a case study of the Florida lodging industry regarding mechanisms and responses that the lodging and resort sector of the industry has been taking in addressing climate change factors.