Net Zero Tourism: Global Experiences and Lessons for Vietnam

The concept of Net Zero Tourism refers to the transformation of the tourism industry toward achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions, in line with global climate goals and sustainable development agendas. This study provides a comparative analysis of the experiences of the United Kingdom, Germany, and Japan in promoting Net Zero Tourism through policy frameworks, technological innovations, economic strategies, and public–private partnerships. The United Kingdom has advanced low-carbon tourism by integrating policy instruments, promoting green mobility, and supporting energy-efficient accommodations. Germany has emphasized renewable energy integration, digital innovation, and sustainable regional development, while Japan has leveraged advanced technologies, community-based tourism, and carbon-neutral infrastructure such as high-speed rail and eco-friendly hotels. From these case studies, several lessons emerge for Vietnam, including the necessity of aligning national Net Zero targets with tourism policies, fostering green technologies, developing economic incentives for sustainable tourism businesses, and strengthening collaboration between the government, private sector, and local communities. The study concludes that Net Zero Tourism not only contributes to climate change mitigation but also represents a strategic opportunity for Vietnam to enhance competitiveness, promote its international image, and achieve sustainable economic growth.