An Exploratory Study of Corporate Social Responsibility in the U.S. Travel Industry

Abstract

The travel industry depends heavily on environmental and cultural resources, making responsible business practices essential to achieve sustainable tourism. This study aims to understand the U.S. travel industry’s opinions about and engagement in corporate social responsibility (CSR) by surveying the membership of Travel Industry Association of America (TIA). It examines the most common CSR activities and identifies drivers and inhibitors in achieving CSR. Results show an agreement among TIA members about the importance of CSR for the travel industry, now more than ever. The majority of respondents currently engage in some CSR and 24% have a person dedicated to CSR activities. The main drivers of CSR activities are enhanced reputation, and community-based issues. The main inhibitors are lack of resources and lack of understanding. The results show a predominance of environmental (rather than sociocultural) CSR projects. The findings imply an urgent need for clear conceptualization and directions for CSR engagement by the travel industry.